Famous Kailua Beach (Top Oahu Attractions & Sights), Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu

Overall Rating

Rated as one of the best beaches in the world, Kailua Beach can be found on Oahu's south east side. The Kailua area is known for being a peaceful suburban neighborhood, far away from the bustle of town and without a single high-rise in sight. From the shore you can see the Mokulua Islands, a seabird sanctuary featuring volcanic cones and a common hang out for sea turtles, most accessible by kayak. Explore the nearby beach town and its unique boutiques and popular local dining spots.

History

In the Hawaiian language Kailua means "two seas" or "two currents", a contraction of the words kai (meaning "sea" or "sea water") and ʻelua (meaning "two"); it is so named because of the two lagoons in the district or the two currents which run through Kailua Bay.  During the reign of King Kākuhihewa and his successors, Kailua replaced Waikiki as the residential seat of the Oʻahu Rulers (aliʻi nui of Oʻahu). Many ancient temple ruins, such as those at Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site, are in the area.

Highlights

Kailua Beach is crescent-shaped, about 2.5 miles (4.0 km) long, and ranging between 50 and 150 feet (15 and 46 m) wide. The ocean bottom fronting the beach slopes gently to overhead depths without any coral heads. Light to medium waves support surfing and bodysurfing. The steady trade winds make Kailua Beach a top windsurfing and kitesurfing destination. Robby Naish, first World Champion of windsurfing and Professional Windsurfers Association Hall of Fame inductee, grew up in Kailua.  Sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to the protected seabird sanctuaries Flat Island and the Nā Mokulua, popularly known as "the Mokes", have become increasingly popular water activities at the beach.

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8Activities

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Availability varies by date for all activities.

Kailua & Lanikai Beach Kayak Adventure Tour
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Escape the bustle of Waikiki for some kayaking and snorkeling while paddling in the waters surrounding famous white sands of Kailua and Lanikai Beach.

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From USD103.66

5%
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(56 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

5 - 8.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Kailua & Lanikai Beach Day Tour - Snorkel, Boogie Board & Lunch
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Escape Waikiki for a fun-filled day of snorkeling, swimming and boogie boarding at Oahu's Kailua Beach, voted the best beach in Hawaii!

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USD82.72

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(18 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

5.5 - 8.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Kailua & Lanikai Beach Segway Tours (with Waikiki Pick-up)
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Tour Kailua's finest sights by Segway and the beauty of the Windward side of Oahu! Cruise around this picturesque beach town on these unique tour vehicles.

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USD188.00

(11 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

4 - 5.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Kailua Private Sailing Canoe - Morning Twin Islands Landing, Snorkel & Swim
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Cruise on an authentic Hawaiian Sailing Canoe along Kailua & Lanikai beach and land at the twin islands, Mokulua. Snorkel, explore Moku Nui & swim in the Queen’s Bath Tide Pools.

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From USD80.78

50%
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(2 reviews)

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Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

3.5 - 6.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Island Photo Tours - Sunrise, Sunset, Rainforest & Waterfalls
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See the beauty of Oahu from behind the lens of camera and learn to take stunning photos to last a lifetime from your expert guide and photography instructor.

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From USD89.71

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(9 reviews)

Daily

5 - 8.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, night)
Kailua & Lanikai Beach Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Lesson
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Stand-Up Paddling is a great work out and relaxing way to paddle atop the crystal clear waters of Kailua. Learn how to get up and paddle, and SUP on your own!

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USD145.55

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(3 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

5.5 - 8.5 hour(s) (morning)
Kailua Bay Twin Islands Kayaking & Snorkel Tour with Landing
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Escape to the cool, refreshing waters and soothing sun rays of Kailua on a kayaking adventure. Add snorkel lessons to create the perfect day in paradise!

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USD167.63

11%
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(2 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

7 - 9 hour(s) (morning)
Kailua Beach Stand-Up Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals

Looking for an independent ocean adventure in Kailua? Rent a SUP board or kayak for the morning to explore the Mokes on your own or in a tandem kayak!

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From USD61.78

5%
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Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

(morning, afternoon)