Kailua, Oahu, is one of the best places in Oahu and is located only 30 minutes away from Honolulu. It is one of my favorite places because there are various fun things to do at its beautiful beaches, islands, hiking spots, lush mountains, busy markets, local breweries, and multiple shopping spots.
If you are planning to go to Oahu, must visit Kailua and keep this carefully curated list of activities with you for a fun filled time.
My Oahu Favorites
- Swimming with Dolphins and Sharks: I always dreamt of swimming in the water with dolphins and sharks it’s a true adventure. If you are a good swimmer and do not afraid of sharks and dolphins then must try it, you will definitely enjoy the activity.
- Byodo In Temple and Lanikai Beach: Byodo-In, a fabulous temple is located nearby that is built in Japanese style. Lanikai is one of the most wonderful beaches in Oahu. Both these places are located nearby and you can visit in a single day.
- Day Trip to North Shore: If you have not seen north shore you missed the gem of Kailua, Oahu so, must visit this place and enjoy snorkeling and surfing.
- Attractive Helicopter Ride: A 45-minute helicopter’s ride will pass you over Lanikai, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Sacred Falls. All these are spectacular sites and can only be enjoyed from above.
- Where to Stay in Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii: you may stay at a private resort at Honolulu, a suite at The Kahala, a terrace suite at Halekulani, a cottage at Turtle Bay, or a beautiful affordable room at cool Wayfinder Waikiki.
Best Things to do in Kailua, Oahu, Hawaii
1. Sunbath and Snorkel at Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful snorkeling spot! You can peacefully swim in the serene, turquoise water and see a lot of corals, tropical fish and other sea creatures. There are iconic islands near the Lanikai beach, Mokulua islands also known as Twin islands where you can have sailing tours. You can also explore other beautiful places on your own and lets us know about your experience.
One of the most important things to keep in mind is that Lanikai Beach does not offer parking facility and you have to park your vehicle in the Lanikai neighborhood or Kailua Boat Launch (15 minutes away from Lanikai Beach). In addition, there is no food and washroom facility so must bring your towels, sunscreen, water bottle, shoes, snorkeling gear, umbrella and other necessary items with you.
2. Walk Along the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (Local Favorite)
This is the hidden gem of Kailua that is mostly neglected by the tourists because they do not know about the place. It is the favorite place of locals and mine as well!
You will find a perfect trail via marshland near wildlife sanctuary. After 1.4-mile of walk, you will observe the beautiful mountains, wildlife diversity and the marsh.
Trial starts near the Kaha and Kaipii street and ends at Kailua road at 61 Highway. A good thing is that parking is available adjacent to the track and view is almost same along the way so you do not need to complete the round. The view is most charming at the sunset however, you may visit any time.
3. Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Ka’iwa Ridge Hike)
Another interesting activity at Kailua is a 1.3-mile hike at Lanikai Pillbox Trail. Trail starts near the Lanikai Beach and you will get the superb panoramic views of the Lanikai Beach, Kailua, Ko’olau Mountains, and Mokulua Islands.
The walk is more appealing in the morning (sunrise) and do not forget to bring your trail guide with you to get best experience. Plus, point is that you will easily get a parking at Lanikai neighborhood in the morning. Apart from the parking issue, there a few other minor problems such as the trail is a bit rough with rapid elevation at certain points and there are few steep drop-offs, so be careful at the trail but believe me, in spite of all these obstacles you will definitely like the hike! Also bring your food and other necessary travel items with you.
4. Explore Kailua’s Farmers Markets
Locals of the Kailua set up farmer markets in different days of the week. I liked Sunday market that is known as Kailua Town Farmer’s Market on 640 Ulukahiki Street, the most. Parking lot is located at a very beautiful place and covered by the mountains. I enjoyed traditional Mexican coffee over there and bought groceries, art pieces, gifts and tropical fruits. These things are available here at a very reasonable price and along with these we have also tried some local food products (truffle cheese, smoothies, seed crackers, mamaki tea, and vegan bao bun) that were simply awesome!
Other local market I found worth visiting are;
Kailua Farmers’ Market (609 Kailua Road): You can visit it on Thursday evenings, it is a small and beautifully organized market that offers live music, local art and food. The environment is lively yet peaceful and I would suggest you to spend some time here, if you are in Kailua on a Thursday.
Lokahi Kailua Market (340 Uluniu Street): Locals set up this market on Sunday mornings and it is a bit different from other weekly markets as you will not find vegan products over here. You can find art pieces and souvenirs made by local artists at an affordable price.
5. Kayak to the Mokulua Islands
Once you are in Kailua or its neighborhood you can also visit beautiful Mokulua Islands. It offers a tremendous 5-mile sailing experience via kayak (sailboat). But one important thing is to book your kayak before hand or go there in week days to easily catch one. I would recommend to book a kayak with local tour guide to get the best experience through Kailua Bay.
Here you would get a chance to snorkel with sea turtles and fish in a clean water. So, pack your bags for this unforgettable kayak trip.
6. Free Chocolate Tasting at Manoa Chocolate
There is an awesome chocolate bar company in Kailua (Mānoa Chocolate Factory) and I came to know about it from a local friend. The company allows to taste its chocolates freely and believe me this is an ultimate fun!
The people there are friendly and supportive and offer variety of delicious chocolates prepared from Hawaiian cacao. Moreover, they also tell about the taste, origin and making of the chocolates and serve you in a very professional way. I really enjoyed tasting diversity of chocolates for free and then after the session we bought some chocolates for our friends and family.
Apart from free tasting you can also have a “$25 chocolate experience” where you can learn about the making process of chocolates in depth. More details about the Manoa Chocolate Factory are available on their website.
7. Hike the Olomana Ridge Trail
If you are an experienced hiker, I would highly recommend you to visit Olomana Ridge Hike, also called the Three Peaks Hike. And please do not forget to bring good hiking shoes. I did not hike at this place because I was a bit scared but I plan to do it during my next trip till first peak.
The view from the first peak is stunning and a very few people go to the second and third peaks because these are so dangerous and injuries are common. If you to hike, please do not do it alone and get AllTrails Pro with you, it will help you to keep on track.
8. Drink for Charity at Grace in Growlers
Grace in Growlers is a well-designed tasting room where you can taste beer and support local charities. It has variety of options available from beer, mead and Kombucha to cold coffee.
I loved to be at this place because it was fun and I became the part of community service.
9. Swim with Turtles at the Kailua Boat Launch
Kailua Boat Launch is located at the walking distance from the Lanikai beach and is one of my favorite places. Snorkeling at this place is one of the most underrated things to do in Kailua, Oahu!
I always enjoyed doing this and especially the turtles swimming near increase my excitement and joy. But the clarity of the water varies from day to day and sometimes water is not clear enough to see the turtles from the boat.
One important thing to remember is that always carry your snorkel equipment with you because you cannot buy it from this place.
This exclusive sailing trip is available on weekdays only. So, please book ahead and check prices for the trips and book before.
10. Go Shopping
There are a lot of shopping opportunities in Kailua, you will find various shops in downtown and near Grace in Growlers. Whether you are looking for jewelry, souvenirs, trendy clothes etc. you can easily find in the local markets.
11. Wander Through the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
I am fond of mountains and lush green fields so one of my friends recommended me to visit Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. The entry is free for everyone and there are no additional charges as well so you can enjoy the 200 acres of beautiful garden without spending money. The parking is also free and provides you with the best view at the entrance. You can take pictures on the drive way while driving but take care that it does not cause delay for others. You can capture the scenic beauty and post it on Instagram with lovely couple travel quotes!
12. Taste Kailua’s Best Food
If you are a food lover then the good news is that there are plenty of good and cost-effective dining options in Kailua.
Here are a few best places to eat at in Kailua:
The Beet Box Cafe: A small and friendly restaurant, mainly for vegans.
Kailua Town Farmers Market: Here you will find a variety of food options both for vegans and meat lovers on Sundays.
Ganesh Dosa: Lovely dosas (similar to crepes but this is an Indian dish) are a perfect option for lunch.
Over Easy: It offers delicious lunch and breakfast options and connected with American/Hawaiian fare.
Valentina’s Pizza: It serves tasty pizza that is equally popular among locals and tourists.
Cinnamon’s Restaurant: It is a popular place for brunch and have diversity of food options including guava pancakes.
Kalapawai Cafe & Deli: These two cafes are very famous food options in Kailua.
Kailua Oahu FAQs
Is Kailua, Oahu worth visiting?
Yes! It is the place full of scenic beauty in the form of mountains, beaches, parks and gardens. It is a thrilling place and you would definitely love it, if you like adventures. Moreover, it has good dining and shopping options.
How many days do you need for Kailua, Oahu?
If you have short time then stay at Kailua for at least 2 days to explore the beach, kayak at the Mokulua Islands. But if you want to explore the Kailua in detail then have a 5 to 6 days trip.
Can you take the bus to Kailua from Honolulu?
Yes, Oahu’s public transportation system is very good and it connects Honolulu to Kailua. If you are avoiding cars due to parking difficulties then you must take bus and it is a good and cheap option.
Is Kailua a good place to stay on Oahu?
It is a good place to stay but options are limited because hotels are less, so book ahead.
Where to Stay on Oahu?
The Kahala: I found it a best place to stay because of the peaceful environment and it is close to various famous destinations.
Turtle Bay: It is located on Turtle Bay on Oahu’s North Shore and a very famous place in Oahu.
Halekulani: A comfy place in the center of Waikiki with wonderful ocean and mountain views.
Wayfinder Waikiki: A lively and reasonably priced hotel in Waikiki.
Getting Around Oahu
Getting around Oahu is easy and you have many options like rent a car, uber or bus. Car parking’s are usually costly and if you want to avoid risks of car break ins then uber is an alternate. Buses are also available and get you to many places around Island.
You can also book an island circle tour, its affordable and will get you around the island with many stops at different places.
Final Words
Kailua, Ohio is a best place to visit with variety of outing options like bars, restaurants, shopping malls, beaches, hiking spots, mountains and casinos. If you love nature then it’s a perfect stop for you, so book your tickets and wander this beautiful place.