02-28-2025
Kailua Beach Park
Located within the East Region on Oahu
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Aloha! This article may link to trusted Hawaii resources (like Discount Hawaii Car Rentals) at no extra cost to you. Mahalo for your support!
Best Oahu Beaches
East Oahu Beaches
Kailua Beach Park has it all—windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddling, volleyball, and miles of soft, powdery-white sand. Whether you’re looking to ride the waves, soak up the sun, or explore the park’s stunning natural surroundings, this beach is one of Oahu’s top destinations.
Overview of Kailua Beach Park
Located on Oahu’s eastern (Windward) shoreline, Kailua Beach Park is one of the island’s most beautiful coastal gems. Its fine white sand, swaying ironwood trees, and calm turquoise-blue waters make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
The beach stretches for about 2.5 miles and sits between Lanikai Beach to the south and Kalama Beach Park to the north. Kailua Beach is particularly popular for water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing, with the center and north end of the shore being the best entry points for these activities.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Conditions
- Morning visits are ideal, as the waters are calmer, the crowds are smaller, and trade winds tend to pick up in the afternoon.
- The Windward side of Oahu experiences more frequent rainfall, but showers are typically short-lived and followed by sunny skies.
Amenities at Kailua Beach Park
This beach supplies several facilities and amenities like:
- Several parking lots
- Public bathroom facilities
- Beach showers
- Picnic tables and picnic shelters
- Volleyball courts
- BBQ pits
- Lifeguard stands
Directions to Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach Park is about 12 miles from Waikiki, and the best way to reach it is by car:
- Drive 30 minutes via the Pali Highway (HI-61) for a scenic route through the Koʻolau Mountains.
- Commercial drop-offs (e.g., tour buses, shuttles) are not allowed at the park, so renting a car is recommended.
- Parking is available, but spaces fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Fun times at Kailua Beach Park
Family-Friendly Activities
Kailua Beach is great for families, thanks to its gentle waves and calm areas near the boat ramp and stream outlet on the southern end, where lifeguards are on duty. Activities include:
- Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – Perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers.
- Kite Surfing – Trade winds make Kailua a prime spot for this exciting sport.
- Beach Play & Picnicking – The soft sand and grassy areas are ideal for kids and families.
Beach Activities
Water Sports & Adventure
- Kayaking – One of the best places on Oahu to launch a kayak. Paddle to Flat Island or venture further to the Mokulua Islands.
- Kiteboarding & Windsurfing – The steady tradewinds make Kailua a world-class spot for these sports.
- Bodysurfing & Boogie Boarding – Popular among locals who enjoy the small, fun waves.
- Sunrise Viewing – Since Kailua Beach is on Oahu’s Windward side, it offers breathtaking sunrises over the Pacific.
- Canoe Watching – Kailua Bay is home to one of Hawaii's most competitive canoe racing clubs. You might catch them training or racing!
Safety Tips & Ocean Conditions
- The waves are usually gentle, but trade winds can create strong currents.
- Always check ocean conditions before swimming or paddling out, especially if you’re inexperienced.
- Lifeguards are on duty, but avoid offshore winds when kayaking or paddleboarding.
Nearby Attractions and Sights
Hike to Lanikai Pillbox: Enjoy this popular and exciting hike that offers stunning views of Lanikai Beach, Kailua Town, and the Koʻolau coast. History buffs will enjoy the set of leftover army bunkers at the top. The one-mile trek to the pillboxes is short but steep, making it a great hiking experience for everyone. The trailhead begins behind the Lanikai neighborhood.
Visit Lanikai Beach: If you're looking for a stunning beach to relax on, Lanikai Beach is the place to go! It is rated among the best beaches in the world, and it's located next door to Kailua Beach, less than a mile down the road.
Stroll downtown Kailua area: Kailua is great for its charming architecture, good restaurants, and easy access to the beach. The area has several lovely shops and some great restaurants you'll enjoy. It is only a five-minute drive from Lanikai Beach.
Where to Eat Near Kailua Beach
If you’re hungry after a long beach day, check out these top spots:
- Boots & Kimo’s – Famous for macadamia nut pancakes.
- Over Easy – A popular brunch spot with a local twist.
- Lanikai Juice – The perfect place for a refreshing acai bowl or smoothie.
- Buzz’s Original Steakhouse – Right across from Kailua Beach, serving great seafood and steaks.
Grab Your Free Travel Guides!
Oahu Intro Visitor Guide
+ Our Summary Guidesheet!
Includes the top must-see & do attractions, best times to visit, a monthly weather & visitor summary, and our tips on how to save when booking your car rental, tours, and activities. Plus, grab our free Oahu Summary Guidesheets. Check out our Updated Oahu Visitor Guides.
Published by: John C. Derrick
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Hawaii Safety Information
Location
beach_access
Lifeguard
Yes, closer to the boat ramp
multiple_stop
Length
2.5 miles long
bathtub
Facilities
Bathrooms and Showers available
outdoor_grill
Dining
Picnic Areas
pool
Activities
Swimming
Sunbathing
Kayaking
Wind Surfing
Sunbathing
Kayaking
Wind Surfing
Recommended Tours Nearby
Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn commissions from some travel partners (like Amazon or Expedia) which helps us maintain this site. These links are at no extra cost to you and don't impact our honest & unbiased recommendations. Remove all the ads →
