Kailua Beach Park — Attraction in Oʻahu

Kailua Beach Review

Rating: ★★★★★

Kailua Beach, located on the windward coast of Oahu, is nothing short of a tropical paradise. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by its stunning beauty—clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and a backdrop of lush green mountains create a postcard-perfect setting.

Beach Experience: The first thing that struck me was the beach’s spaciousness. Unlike some of the more crowded beaches on the island, Kailua Beach offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun. The sand is incredibly fine and soft, making it perfect for lounging or building sandcastles. The gentle waves are ideal for swimming and even for beginners looking to try their hand at paddleboarding or kayaking.

Activities: Kailua Beach is a hub for outdoor activities. I rented a kayak and explored the nearby Mokulua Islands, which are easily accessible and a great spot for a picnic or some snorkeling. The calm waters make it perfect for both families and those looking for a bit of adventure. The beach also has designated areas for windsurfing and kitesurfing, making it a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts.

Amenities: The beach is well-equipped with facilities including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. There are also lifeguards on duty, which adds an extra layer of safety for families. Parking can be a bit tricky during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended.

Atmosphere: Kailua Beach offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the bustling beaches of Waikiki. It’s a fantastic spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of Hawaii. The picturesque sunsets are a highlight—make sure to stick around for the evening to witness the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors.

Dining: After a day of fun in the sun, I headed into nearby Kailua town for a bite to eat. There are plenty of options, from casual cafes to more upscale dining. I highly recommend trying a local plate lunch or grabbing a refreshing acai bowl to refuel after a day of beach activities.

Conclusion: Overall, Kailua Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Oahu. Its natural beauty, range of activities, and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking to lounge on the beach, explore the water, or enjoy a stunning sunset, Kailua Beach has it all. I can’t...

Very nice beach access! The park has grass and ironwood trees for shade, paved paths including a locally-rare bike path that sadly ends too soon, restrooms with freshwater shower heads, benches facing the water, a reasonable amount of parking, and an old pier you can use for launching small water craft. The excellent Kalapawai Market is right there within walking distance if you need some food.

There’s also a canoe clubhouse on the Ka-elepulu canal which débouches at the park, and the off shore area is popular with paddlers and kite surfers.

The strand itself is a pleasant white sand beach with a gentle break that makes it great for kids and for strolling along getting a sand pedicure. If you want bigger surf, you can paddle a ways out to the tiny Popoi’a Island where there’s a consistent break that is popular with surfers and outriggers. Beyond the pier at the end of the beach is a small rocky headland with some minor tide pools that sometimes harbor small fishes and invertebrates at low tide.

There are only two problems with this place. First, you want to pay attention to that canal: when it’s been raining (usually in winter), the runoff reaches the ocean and it’s pretty foul—you don’t want to be swimming around in that soup, especially if you have any open wounds. The prevailing breeze will usually send that ugly water NW and out of the south half of the park but not always. I would never jump in when the water is brown!

The second issue may not bother you as much as it does me, but the snorkeling here is pretty lame. There are usually turtles around, but the water really just isn’t deep enough to maintain good visibility and protect coral until you get out past the island, and then you have swell to worry about. But a lot of the island is like this: Hanauma Bay is popular for a reason. As a volcanic crater, it’s a rare bit of...

Kailua Beach Park is a stunning destination on Oahu's eastern shore, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

Kailua Beach Park is a true gem on Oahu, boasting powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters that make it one of the island's most beautiful beaches. The park is spacious and well-maintained, providing ample room for visitors to spread out and enjoy the serene environment. Whether you're looking to relax under the shade of tall ironwood trees or engage in exciting water activities, Kailua Beach Park has something for everyone.

Water Sports: The calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing. Equipment rentals are available nearby, making it easy for visitors to explore the coastline or venture out to nearby islands like the Mokulua Islands.

Facilities: The park is equipped with picnic tables, BBQ grills, restrooms, and outdoor showers, ensuring a comfortable visit. Lifeguards are on duty, providing an added sense of security for families with children.

Family-Friendly: The gentle waves and shallow waters make it a perfect spot for families with young children. The beach is also great for building sandcastles or simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the shoreline.

Accessibility and Parking: Kailua Beach Park offers free parking, although it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. The park's location is easily accessible by car, and public transportation options are available from Honolulu.

Kailua Beach Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Oahu. Its breathtaking scenery, combined with a wide range of activities and amenities, ensures a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Kailua Beach Park delivers an unforgettable day...