Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach Park
4.5
About
Located on the southeast end of Kailua Beach, this pristine shoreline on Oahu's Windward side is popular for water sports and scenic strolls.
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- Emma WAuckland, New Zealand761 contributionsNice beach but poor facilitiesWe chose Kailua Beach over Lanikai Beach, as we heard it can be impossible to get parking there. It was a bit difficult getting to Kailua with lots of roadworks in the area. Got a park straight away at Kailua, although it was a weekday afternoon. Lovely big beach and partner even thought he saw a turtle swimming. The beach facilities could use some upgrades. We changed as quickly as possible as the changing rooms looked really dirty and smelt disgusting. The beach shower was surrounded by sand so it was difficult to wash your feet. Some workmen were moving sand from a footpath, which seemed like a waste of time as it just blew straight back. Would have been better to clean around the beach shower.Visited November 2023Written 4 February 2024
- とらTokyo Prefecture, Japan150 contributionsIt's a lovely beach.From Ala Moana, we took a bus to Kailua Town and walked to the beach. It takes about 20 minutes to get there if you walk like you are walking. There are many tourists who rent a bicycle. I walk every time because I don't feel like I can follow the traffic rules. The beach is beautiful and just looking at it makes you feel good, but floating around makes you feel better.Visited November 2024Travelled with familyWritten 11 November 2024
- blue_slinkieSan Marcos, Texas10 contributionsKailua BeachI grew up here. There used to be more sand than ocean but that’s the effect of the currents. Still an awesome beach!! The bird man is great to watch! Lovely water and great little waves to body surfVisited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 10 December 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Montreal292 contributions
Nov 2019
Kailua Beach is a nice place to spend a few hours if not the whole day. We arrived just before noon, so before heading to the beach we had our picnic under a tree in the park. There were several picnic tables but the ones around us were looking a bit worse for wear in my opinion. That didn’t really bother us because we had our straw mat anyways.
The beach has a lot of natural shade so it’s a great spot for those who can’t spend too much time under the sun and makes the beach look more beautiful too! It’s a safe place to swim but the waves were still big enough for the kids to enjoy their boogie boards. I also enjoyed taking a nice, long walk up along the beach. It was pretty neat seeing all of the kite boarders, including one person who was in her fifties having a blast out there. There were also a few people heading out in their kayaks.
One strange thing we saw was this older man who we could really only describe as the bird whisperer or maybe even the bird man. He would manage (probably with some food) to attract most of the birds on the beach to come land before him. He would also run up and down the beach with all of the birds following him. It was kind of neat and a bit annoying at the same time! There were a few people who didn’t seem too thrilled to have all of the birds hanging around where they were. And at the same time, I had to dodge some of the birds when he started running down the beach with him. Yet, there was still something fascinating about the whole thing.
For amenities, there are showers, changing rooms and bathrooms. There are also three parking lots, we used the middle one. If you want to do the Pill Box Hike, a good parking option is the eastern most lot. You’ll need to walk around 10 minutes or so to get to the start of the trail but parking anywhere closer can get tricky from some of the “no parking” restrictions in Lanikai. It would also be a good combination for the day. Come early, get a parking spot, do the hike and then spend the rest of the day on the beach!
If you are in the mood for shave ice, we headed to Island Snow Hawaii which is close by. Don’t be surprised if you first think it’s a clothing store because half the place is one! It was one of the two places for shave ice recommended on this travel tips video we saw on YouTube. And it was really good!
And right next door is Kailua Beach Adventures, where you can rent things like paddle boards and kayaks. We didn’t rent from them but we saw people pulling their kayaks to the beach on these little trolleys. It’s only about 250 meters away so not far at all!
The beach has a lot of natural shade so it’s a great spot for those who can’t spend too much time under the sun and makes the beach look more beautiful too! It’s a safe place to swim but the waves were still big enough for the kids to enjoy their boogie boards. I also enjoyed taking a nice, long walk up along the beach. It was pretty neat seeing all of the kite boarders, including one person who was in her fifties having a blast out there. There were also a few people heading out in their kayaks.
One strange thing we saw was this older man who we could really only describe as the bird whisperer or maybe even the bird man. He would manage (probably with some food) to attract most of the birds on the beach to come land before him. He would also run up and down the beach with all of the birds following him. It was kind of neat and a bit annoying at the same time! There were a few people who didn’t seem too thrilled to have all of the birds hanging around where they were. And at the same time, I had to dodge some of the birds when he started running down the beach with him. Yet, there was still something fascinating about the whole thing.
For amenities, there are showers, changing rooms and bathrooms. There are also three parking lots, we used the middle one. If you want to do the Pill Box Hike, a good parking option is the eastern most lot. You’ll need to walk around 10 minutes or so to get to the start of the trail but parking anywhere closer can get tricky from some of the “no parking” restrictions in Lanikai. It would also be a good combination for the day. Come early, get a parking spot, do the hike and then spend the rest of the day on the beach!
If you are in the mood for shave ice, we headed to Island Snow Hawaii which is close by. Don’t be surprised if you first think it’s a clothing store because half the place is one! It was one of the two places for shave ice recommended on this travel tips video we saw on YouTube. And it was really good!
And right next door is Kailua Beach Adventures, where you can rent things like paddle boards and kayaks. We didn’t rent from them but we saw people pulling their kayaks to the beach on these little trolleys. It’s only about 250 meters away so not far at all!
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kjtobe
Parkersburg, IA18 contributions
Feb 2020
We usually stay in Waikiki, but on this trip to Oahu we stayed Kailua side. Our bungalow was only 50 yards from Kailua Beach and just minutes from the park. We spent hours enjoying the water, walking the beach, watching people with their dogs. The sand is incredible and the beach is so flat - perfect for long walks!
Written 6 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Only1CochiseBrown
Tampa, FL540 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
These photos do absolutely no justice to this beautiful beach that offers trees for shade, a nice scenery, and full for all. Like many tourist, I came to snap a few photos, but after my wife insisted that the water was nice and warm and that I should join her, I did and ended up having more fun in the water than the kids I was surrounded by.
I highly recommend this beach so come visit, enjoy the peace, take some nice photos, but if course you have to get in to truly enjoy it :)
I highly recommend this beach so come visit, enjoy the peace, take some nice photos, but if course you have to get in to truly enjoy it :)
Written 17 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amitava Michael K
Lake Stevens, WA577 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
The beach was beautiful, the water was warm and wonderful, and even with a bit of a rain squall approaching from Coco head, the scenery was absolutely gorgeous!
There was enough space on the beach, and ample access points, to make this easy to bring out a sit on top kayak, although parking did leave a little bit to be desired, the only really bad thing about this particular location where the washrooms, which were in pretty bad condition, but that’s probably more of a testimony to the people using the beach than anything else.
Washing stations with freshwater were adequate and ample, and reasonably well-maintained. The beach was clean and there wasn’t any garbage visible, so that was an added benefit. It was also nice to watch the kite surfers in the odd helicopter passing overhead.
There was enough space on the beach, and ample access points, to make this easy to bring out a sit on top kayak, although parking did leave a little bit to be desired, the only really bad thing about this particular location where the washrooms, which were in pretty bad condition, but that’s probably more of a testimony to the people using the beach than anything else.
Washing stations with freshwater were adequate and ample, and reasonably well-maintained. The beach was clean and there wasn’t any garbage visible, so that was an added benefit. It was also nice to watch the kite surfers in the odd helicopter passing overhead.
Written 14 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SolarSoar
Half Moon Bay, CA125 contributions
Nov 2020
This is my favorite beach, so it can get quite crowded. I've tried going there at sunrise and there were already people there. The sand is quite clean. Waters are calm so you can stand-up paddle board with ease. For parking you need to hit the round-about in front of Kalapawai Market, go down Kailua Road. Don't necessarily take the first spot you see, sometimes there are more spots empty further down.
Written 19 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MNO
United States104 contributions
Jun 2021
This is the type of beach that comes to mind when you imagine Hawaii. White sand, blue water, and, if you're willing to paddle, great snorkeling. Arrive early to guarantee parking; we got there around 9:15 and it was filling up. The beach gets crowded near the entrance but it thins out if you walk down a little bit. However, there are few trees further down so bring an umbrella or be ready to sit in the sun if you want to set up in a secluded spot. The water was great for swimming when we went, with calm waves and a great temperature. I would definitely recommend renting a kayak or doing a tour if you want to snorkel because the best areas are a little bit off shore. Overall, this is a great beach that does get a little crowded, albeit not nearly as badly as Waikiki.
Written 30 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
maitaimike2015
Laguna Hills, CA279 contributions
Dec 2021
This very popular beach on the windward side, has two parking areas. The north side of the bridge, is the main section. The south side (across from Buzz’s steakhouse), has restroom and shower facilities as well. Not crowded on a very windy, cold, and drizzly day. There were a lot of windsurfers taking advantage of the favorable conditions, and providing us with many excellent video and photo opps. With the small Popoia Island in the background, they flew high with dazzling acrobatics. The beach extends north for some distance and would have walked up to explore more, but it was later in the day, and the wind was getting worse.
Mahalo
Mahalo
Written 26 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zoom_Gotti
Henderson, NV1,525 contributions
Mar 2023
Really nice stretch of beach along Oahu's east side. But this is not a quiet, secluded spot. There're actually three parking lots that pretty much stay on full during peak day times. But locals and visitors alike enjoy it here because of the many recreational opportunities. Swim, surf, kayak, boogie, etc. Restroom facilities, picnic shelters, a small market and a steak house are nearby. If you do kayak, note the Mokulua Islands out at sea about 2 miles. They currently serve as bird sanctuaries and a paddle out is well worth it. Otherwise, if you're on foot, follow the beach south to the boat ramp parking and continue walking on Mokulua Drive a bit. At your first sight of beach through the private residences, take the alley and make your way to Lanakai Beach. No facilities here and no parking, but a truly spectacular spot. If there's road construction going on, access to the beachfront might be a little difficult. So follow the locals along Kalaheo and Lihiwai Roads into Mokulua. If you don't have your own vehicle, the efficient island bus system will get you here though you'll need to walk a bit. Take Kamahele street through to the beach or opt on the way for the Pillbox trail.
Written 29 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Y K
Toronto, Canada464 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
We took the bus but noted many areas available for parking (beware of construction though and go early).
We only spent a small amount of time here as we spent the majority of the day at Lanikai beach (10 min further walk). Kailua is more family friendly and has facilities. It has more shade as well and generally not as busy.
Water is calm and sand is very soft. It's a long beach so lots of areas to spread out.
For us, we preferred Lanikai. The water and views were unbeatable. Check both out while you're in the area, both beautiful and worth a visit.
We only spent a small amount of time here as we spent the majority of the day at Lanikai beach (10 min further walk). Kailua is more family friendly and has facilities. It has more shade as well and generally not as busy.
Water is calm and sand is very soft. It's a long beach so lots of areas to spread out.
For us, we preferred Lanikai. The water and views were unbeatable. Check both out while you're in the area, both beautiful and worth a visit.
Written 4 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hjacoby2424
Syracuse, NY13 contributions
Jul 2022
Large sandy beach, great for swimming. Showers and bathrooms available. Plenty of parking. Lots of wind surfers to watch. We spent 2 happy half-days here. There were occasional passing rain showers, but the rain never lasted
Written 6 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I have a bad foot and cannot walk in sand how far is it from the sidewalk to the packed sand? I am fine on packed sand And I think I will be fine once I'm in the water. Nothing is named as Alec. That's knowledges I don't remember he
Written 23 June 2024
Please ignore that last part the TV got picked up on my post
Written 23 June 2024
Alejandra F
Beccar, Argentina
Hola Fernanda, gracias por el post. Te querìa consultar, por si me podès pasar algùn dato... Estamos por viajar con mi marido para agosto, todo el mes, pero nos està costando conseguir alojamiento a un buen precio (departamento) cerca de esta playa.. ya que nos dijeron que para hacer windsurf era buena. Tendràs algùn dato para pasarme? Desde ya, muchas gracias y que tengas un excelente dìa!
Written 8 July 2022
I won’t have a rental car, can I take The Bus from Waikiki to Kailua Beach?
Is it ok to hitch hike?
Written 30 August 2021
The public transport system in Oahu is awesome. Definitely can make it there. I think its about a hour or 2 on the bus. Hitch hiking sounds like the bad start to a horror movie.
Written 30 August 2021
Are there any stores nearby where you can rent an umbrella and chairs?
Written 2 July 2021
I wouldn't count on it. The only facilities are the restrooms; for anything else you would have to search around in Kailua. There are probably stores where you can buy those items but I did not see anywhere where they could be rented.
Written 13 July 2021
Are the bathrooms currently open in May 2021?
Written 17 May 2021
Yes you ‘can’ do all of the above. But the only surfing to be done is off of flat island 1/4 mile off of the beach. Snorkeling is better at other beaches, sharks cove and electric beach are a couple good ones. Swimming is decent, the ocean floor is rocky but not brutal like some reefy beaches.
Written 26 June 2018
taren2014
Seattle, Washington
Hi. Are there any group friendly restaurants nearby Kailua beach?
Written 23 June 2018
There a restaurant across the street and some more less than a mile away. The name of the place is buzz’s steak house they serve good food. Every thing is close by. Enjoy aloha.
Written 23 June 2018
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