What to Do in Kailua: Hidden Gems and Must Sees
About Kailua
Kailua is a beach town located on the Windward side of Oahu, about a 30 minute drive from Waikiki. Whether you arrive by car, take the city bus, or hop in a rideshare, the drive itself is scenic and full of postcard worthy views. With its shop-lined streets, amazing restaurants, incredible beaches, hikes, and local hidden gems, it’s the ultimate adventure hub and should definitely earn a place on your itinerary for your trip to the island. Whether you are planning a quick day-trip or are looking to make Kailua your home base for a few days, there is something for everyone to enjoy with it’s variety of activities and adventures.
The Best Beaches
Kailua is home to world-famous beaches that you’ll want to spend all day soaking up the sun and playing in the water. Each beach offers unique water activities and vibe, making it a perfect place to beach hop and explore. Here are some of the best beaches in Kailua:
- Lanikai Beach: Known for its powder-soft white sand, turquoise blue waters, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands, Lanikai Beach is definitely a must-stop on any trip itinerary. Lanikai Beach is very family friendly with calmer conditions and beginner snorkeling. Parking can be tricky for Lanikai Beach due to the access points being in a neighborhood. We advise going early to get a parking spot or renting electric bikes from us at Active Oahu to avoid the hassle of parking altogether! Learn more about Lanikai Beach here: Ultimate Guide to Lanikai Beach
- Kailua Beach: Kailua beach neighbors Lanikai Beach and also offers stunning scenery and family friendly conditions with a lifeguard stand for peace of mind. Kailua Beach is the launch point for kayak and paddleboard adventures. From Kailua Beach you can paddle to offshore islands and experience the beauty up close! Learn more about Kailua Beach here: Ultimate Guide for Kailua Beach
- Kalama Beach: Kalama Beach is known for being one of the best spots for beginning bodyboarding, with waves that are family friendly. There is also a life guard stand at this beach to give you peace of mind as you play in the waves. Learn more about bodyboarding at Kalama Beach here: Kalama Beach Bodyboarding Adventure
Paddle Adventures
Kailua is the perfect place to explore the crystal clear waters of Oahu on a kayak or paddleboard. At Active Oahu, we offer both self-guided and guided tours to these islands to best fit the needs of your group! Here are some of our favorite paddling adventures you can do in Kailua:
- Paddle to Popoia Island: This small island is just a 20 minute paddle from Kailua Beach, making it perfect for families or beginners. This island is a seabird sanctuary and when you land on the island you can walk around the perimeter of the island and observe the birds. Afterwards you can paddle around the bay or over to Lanikai Beach or the Mokulua Islands. Click here to learn more about our tours to Popoia Island: Popoia Island Kayaking Adventure
- Kayak to the Mokulua Islands: Known as Kailua’s twin islands, this is a great adventure for those looking for a longer paddle. These offshore islands take about one hour to paddle to, and once you arrive you’ll be awarded with stunning views and the opportunity to explore tide pools and even take a dip in the Queen’s Bath. Learn more about our tours to the Mokulua Islands here: Mokulua Islands Self Guided Kayak Adventure
Hidden Gems
In addition to the abundant water activities available in Kailua, there are also some off-the-beaten path adventures you’ll want to consider for your itinerary:
- Visit the Manoa Chocolate Factory: Stop by for a complimentary chocolate tasting of locally sourced and made in-shop chocolate! Featuring hawaiian inspired flavors, this is a fun stop in the heart of Kailua Town.
- Ulupo Heiau: The Heiau is an ancient Hawaiian temple made of stones that measures an impressive 140 feet by 180 feet and in some places it reaches 30 feet high. Visiting the Heiau is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and appreciate its history.
- Hamakua Marsh Trail: This scenic trail is the perfect place for e-biking with stunning views of the mountain ranges. You’ll also have the opportunity to observe the unique wildlife that live in the Marsh as you cruise down the path.
Unique Experiences
- Kailua E-Bike Kau Kau Guided Adventure: Visit all the above hidden gems and more with an expert guide who will take you to all the best spots in town as you cruise around on one of our electric bike rentals. Learn more about the guided adventure here: Kailua E-Bike Kau Kau Guided Adventure
- Lanikai E-Bike, Snorkel, and Pillbox Hike Self Guided Adventure: Experience the best Kailua has to offer on land and in the water with this ultimate adventure. Begin by e-biking to the pillbox hike trailhead, hike to the pillboxes where you’ll have some of the most epic views on the island, and finish by cooling off and snorkeling in Lanikai Beach. Learn more and make a booking here: Lanikai E-bike, Snorkel, and Pillbox Hike Self Guided Adventure
Places to Eat
- Kono’s: The perfect place for mouthwatering kalua pork dishes including burritos and sandwiches. Top it off with one of their unique milkshake flavors and you’ve got a meal you’ll be talking about long after you leave Hawaii!
- Steak Rave: A local favorite and hole-in-the-wall option. At Steak Rave you can get steak, rice, and salad plates for takeout and enjoy it as a picnic on the beach. Does it get better than that?
- Please Come Again: Satisfy your sweet tooth and cool off by visiting this beloved local ice cream shop. Featuring unique and island inspired flavors, this is a stop you won’t want to miss after a day at the beach!
Rent Gear From Active Oahu
At Active Oahu, we are here to provide all of your beach-day needs. Rent a variety of beach gear including beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, snorkel gear, e-bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and more! We also offer free delivery to any hotel or vacation rental on the island for multi-day rentals. Click the link below to make your booking.