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Things To Do Kailua Beach & Lanikai

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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.

Top-Rated Activities for Oahu

Latest reviews of Things To Do Kailua Beach & Lanikai

Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

Kayaking trip

2024/03/09 Families Jennifer

Lots of fun. Nice staff. Beautiful area! Was a great adventure for a family! Would highly recommend. You can Kayak, snorkel and go on a nice bike ride all in one day.

Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

Kayak

2023/10/31 Couples Jeff

The Moke islands were unfortunately closed without a tour guide due to the wind/currents but we were still able to kayak to the flat island. It was so much fun to walk around the island and check out the wildlife there. ... more

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Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

Too much fun!

2023/03/13 Families Max family

Great staff, explained everything properly, I’ve been here before and came back with family, because I had great memories from being here before - best kayak rental place on Oahu in my opinion. We did not take any pictur... more

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Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

Amazing time had

2023/03/09 Couples Matt

Was a great day and the team were amazing and really looked after us

Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

LOVE IT!

2022/07/20 Friends Quynh Le

Our tour guide was super nice! Even the weather wasn’t really nice but we enjoyed so much! We learned a lot about the small island that we kayaked to. The view was stunning! Love it :)

Kailua Beach Kayak Rentals & Guided Kayaking Tours with Snorkeling & Lunch

Self guided kayak trip

2022/07/04 Couples Mitch D

Awesome trip! Really helpful guides and great location.

Kailua Beach | Book Oahu Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
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.