A quintessential beach town with gorgeous beaches, natural beauty, and an easygoing lifestyle
Once a sleepy community on Oahu's eastern shores, Kailua is often associated with world-renowned beaches. But the allure of this beach town, surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of the Koolau Mountains and the crescent-shaped Kailua Bay, extends beyond its stretches of sand. Kailua is home to some of the best restaurants and boutiques on the island. There are historic sites and hiking trails, as well as surf breaks, farmer’s markets, and other attractions.
Kailua offers a diverse range of property types. Condos are primarily limited to options in Kailua Town, with those above the ninth floor providing ocean views. Single-family homes range from historic cottages to multi-million dollar luxury beachfront estates in Lanikai and Beachside.
Kailua is home to active residents, conscious of what they eat and where it comes from and value the mind, body, and soul. The abundance of boutique gyms, yoga and pilates studios, and outdoor activities make it easy to stay in shape. Local establishments offer healthy food options, including made-to-order salads, fresh juices, and acai bowls. Moreover, the community association ensures that there's always a neighborhood activity or event to enjoy.
Located right across from Kailua Beach, Buzz's Original Steakhouse is a local staple that serves delicious steaks and seafood. There is also a great selection of tropical cocktails to go with your meal. Experience brewer-to-table dining at Maui Brewing Company. Located in Kailua's Lau Hala Shops, this restaurant features an open-air interior and a friendly vibe. It celebrates the history and passion for the craft beer way of life and the love for Hawaii. Nico's Kailua offers the freshest fish hand-selected from the Honolulu Fish Auction every morning. Their daily and regional specials are delicious, as is their dessert.
The original Kalapawai Market is next to Kailua Beach and sells locally-made sundries. Order Island Bee Honey, Manoa Chocolate, and bags of Hawaii Cookie Kitchen cookies. You can also get beach gear like snorkeling masks and reef-safe sunscreen. Located in the heart of Kailua, Kalapawai Café & Deli is famous for its sandwiches, housemade lilikoi bars, and cookies. If you get there early enough, you might be able to get the vegan muffins, which sell out quickly.
Kailua Beach Park is home to Kailua Beach, which runs one-and-a-half miles along Kailua Bay. It has two entrances, ample parking, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty. It's a favorite destination for kayakers, kite surfers, paddleboarders, and surfers. There's a buoy-marked swimming area where boats and boards are prohibited, and there's plenty of fun to be had on the shore break along the beach. Lanikai Beach is a smaller stretch of sand just south of here. Its calm water makes it an excellent place for snorkeling, swimming, or sunbathing. You can kayak to the Na Mokulua Twin Islands to explore the wildlife sanctuary.
Away from the water, Kailua offers excellent hikes. The Pillbox Hike takes you along the ridge behind the exclusive Lanikai neighborhood. It provides some of the most breathtaking views of the Ko'olau Mountain Range, the iconic Mokulua Twin Islands, and the Pacific Ocean. The Maunawili Falls Trail takes you through shaded jungle-like terrain deep in the valley to a secluded waterfall.
The Kailua Farmers’ Market in the Kailua Town Center parking lot is an excellent place to spend Thursday evenings. It boasts a variety of fresh produce and prepared food. Various food booths and food trucks serve delicacies prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Sample everything from hummus to authentic Argentinian empanadas.
Kailua is zoned within the Kailua-Kalaheo Complex Area. Schools in this area include:
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