Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(off Kawailoa Rd;
) A wide arc of white sand drapes around the jewel-colored waters of
Kailua Bay, with formidable volcanic headlands pinning either side and islets rising off-
shore. The beach has a gently sloping sandy bottom with usually calm waters, good for
swimming year-round, especially in the morning. In the afternoons, winds pick up and
transform the bay into a windsurfing and kiteboarding rink.
Sea turtles poke their heads above the gentle waves, while back on land residents swap
gossip during daily dog walks. The beach park has the usual public facilities, including
lifeguard towers, drinking water, restrooms and outdoor showers. On weekdays, beach
wheelchairs for visitors with mobility issues are freely available to borrow, but only with
advance reservations (call
233-7300).
Lanikai Beach
BEACH
MAP
(off Mokolua Dr)
Southeast of Kailua Beach Park, Lanikai is fronted by what was once one
of Hawaii's prettiest stretches of powdery white sand. Today the beach is shrinking, as
nearly half of the sand has washed away as a result of retaining walls built to protect the
neighborhood's multimillion-dollar mansions. Still, it's a rare beauty, at its best during
full-moon phases.
Beyond Kailua Beach Park, the coastal road turns into one-way Aʻalapapa Dr, which
loops back around as Mokulua Dr, passing almost a dozen narrow public-access walk-
ways to the beach. On weekends, parking on the road's shoulders fills up fast.
Kalama Beach Park
BEACH
MAP
(248 N Kalaheo Ave)
On the northern side of Kailua Bay, this beach has a rougher
shorebreak, making it popular with experienced bodyboarders. When waters are calm,
you'll find families with kids sunning themselves and splashing around here, while locals
run along the soft sands. The park has restrooms and outdoor showers, but no lifeguards
or drinking water. Access the beach by walking across the grassy lawn.
Sights
Ulupo Heiau State Monument
TEMPLE
