17 Fun Things to do in Kailua, Oahu (And Nearby!)

Kailua, Hawaii is one of Oahu’s most underrated towns! While the town’s postcard-worthy Lanikai Beach and iconic ‘Twin Islands‘ certainly draw plenty of vacationers, few people actually take time to explore this charming little town beyond the beach.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kailua, you’re in for a treat! Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of spending nearly a month house sitting (and adventuring) in Kailua, and I’ve fallen in love with this part of the island. Kailua is home to some of the island’s most beautiful ridge hikes, lively farmer’s markets, local breweries, and more.

Besides Lanikai Beach, Kailua is not touristy. Spending a day (or more) here will give you a sense of what it’s like to live in Hawaii as you explore all the local spots. If you enjoy exploring off the beaten path, Kailua is definitely for you!

Sunrise at Lanikai Pillbox trail, a Kailua farmers market, and Lanikai Brewing Company

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The Best Things to do in Kailua, Hawaii

1. Snorkel and Sunbathe at Lanikai Beach

Ranked the #14 best beach in the world, and consistency named one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, Laniaki Beach is a place you must visit!

The sand is golden; the water is calm and turquoise blue. The protection of Lanikai’s expansive coral reef makes it a great place for snorkeling. Less than 50 feet from the shore, you’ll find an abundance of tropical fish, coral, and other marine life.

From the beach, you can see the iconic Mokulua Islands, also called the Mokes, Na Mokulua, or the Twin Islands. Later on in this article I recommend an adventurous kayaking tour that you can take to these islands!

There are no bathrooms or restaurants anywhere near Lanikai Beach. Be sure to bring your own beach towels, snorkeling gear (plus water shoes), snacks, water, reef-safe sunscreen, and beach umbrella.

Also, there is no parking lot at Lanikai Beach. You have to street park in a residential neighborhood (which quickly fills up with cars by around 10am daily). If you’re unfamiliar with parking laws/regulations in Hawaii, check out this resource from the City of Honolulu.

2. Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Ka’iwa Ridge Hike)

Hiking the Ka’iwa Ridge Trail (commonly referred to as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail) is another one of the best things to do in Kailua. The hike is only 1.6 miles round trip, and at the top you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Mokulua Islands, Lanikai Beach, the Ko’olau Mountains, Kailua, and beyond.

This hike is the perfect way to start a day in Kailua! Head out early and watch the sunrise above the Twin Islands as the surrounding mountains glow in the morning light.

As a bonus, you’ll have your choice of coveted parking spots in the Lanikai neighborhood if you hike at sunrise (yes, the spots usually fill up by 10am every day). After your sunrise hike you can head straight to Lanikai Beach, or go into Kailua town for a well-deserved breakfast.

It is worth mentioning that this 1.6 mile hike is not for the faint of heart. The terrain is rough, elevation gain is rapid, and there are steep drop offs along the side of the trail. While it is not as dangerous or challenging as the Olomana Ridge Trail (later in this guide), you still want to come prepared with the proper footwear, clothing, and plenty of water.

Read my full Lanikai Pillbox Trail guide for all the details on this breathtaking Oahu hike!

Also See: 5 Short But Breathtaking Oahu Hikes, 2 Miles or Less

3. Kayak to the Mokulua Islands

Yes! You can visit those cute little islands off of Lanikai Beach.

The 5-mile kayak journey is a little more tricky than it looks as you have to launch a kayak at Kailua Beach Park, safely navigate shallow reefs, and skillfully land on the island without capsizing in the waves.

That’s why I recommend Kailua Beach Adventure’s incredible guided kayak tour. Their local guides kayak to the Mokes almost daily, so they’re able to help you to navigate the reefs without getting stuck, and land on the island without tipping over. Once you’re on the little island, they’ll show you all the best spots, including a gorgeous tide pool!

If you’re confident in your sea kayaking abilities, you can also reserve a kayak for self-guided exploration.

4. Dare to Hike the Olomana Ridge Trail (Three Peaks Hike)

The Three Peaks Trail along the ridge of Mt. Olomana is one of my favorite hikes in Hawaii, and it’s located on the edge of Kailua and nearby Maunawili. As the name suggests, this ridge trail features three different peaks — the third of which is considered to be very dangerous, however, you can get some of the hike’s best views by just hiking to the first peak, which is the safest way to do this hike.

The hike to Olomana’s First Peak is about 1.4 miles with 1,550 feet of elevation gain, and it is certainly a challenging trek. Parts of the trail guide you along the ridge with drop offs on both your left and right. At other points you have to do a little rock climbing (assisted by ropes) and scramble your way up to the top.

That said, the unique landscape of Mt. Olomana’s peaks, and the views you get of the second and third ridges from the first peak, make it a worthwhile adventure for experienced hikers.

As with all Hawaii hikes, proper footwear and plenty of water are a must, snacks are recommended too. And this is not the type of hike you should attempt alone. Also, I would not attempt this hike if it rained recently, or if there is rain on the forecast.

It’s worth noting that the parking situation at Olomana is a bit tricky. The trailhead is inside of a golf course and there is no parking nearby. You have to park on the road or in a nearby neighborhood, and then walk to the trailhead. I recommend checking out recent trail reports on Alltrails for more info.

5. Explore Kailua’s Farmers Markets

Kailua’s farmers markets are a healthy foodie’s dream! There are three markets in Kailua each week, and I’ve been to all of them once or twice.

A few of the goodies I’ve found the markets include a GIANT green smoothie (served in a quart size mason jar), locally made vegan truffle cheese, traditional Hawaiian mamikai tea, homemade seek crackers (for the cheese), a perfectly fluffy bao bun, macadamia nut cream cheese, delicious coffee, and an abundance of tropical produce.

Here’s a quick overview of Kailua’s farmers’ markets:

⛰️ KailuaTown Farmers Market (640 Ulukahiki St): My favorite farmers market, with plenty of vendors ranging from grab-and-go food, artisan coffee, local produce and more. Plus, you have a view of the Koʻolau mountains! It happens each Sunday morning.

🎶 Kailua Farmers’ Market (609 Kailua Rd): Hosted on Thursday evenings, this small market often has food, live music, and local art. It is a lively evening market that you should definitely stop by if you’re in Kailua on a Thursday!

🎨 Lokahi Kailua Market (340 Uluniu St): Hosted on Sunday mornings, this technically might not be a “farmers” market as there are no produce vendors, mostly local artists. However, it is a great place to explore if you’re looking for out-of-the-box souvenirs made my locals.

6. Try Local Craft Beer at Lanikai Brewing Company

Lanikai Brewing Company is the type of place you’ll really feel like a local, because its where all the Kailua locals go! They brew their own “Island Inspired” beers, and serve up some delicious cocktails, too. You can also order pizza here if you’re hungry!

I’m not much of a beer drinker (my husband is) but the local feel, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent Mai Tais keep me coming back. Throughout our several Hawaii vacations, we’ve probably been to Lanikai Brewing Co. at least six times. (We’ve also been to Maui Brewing’s Kailua location and we much prefer Lanikai Brewing Co.)

I really appreciate Lanikai Brewing Co.’s commitment to sustainability and their dedication to creating drinks made with local Hawaiian ingredients and flavors. I’m excited to see how this local Kailua business grows as they open up a taproom on Oahu’s North Shore and other islands soon!

7. Kayak to Popoia Island

One of the most unique things to do in Kailua is swimming in the tide pools and explore the tiny beaches at Popoia (Flat Island)!

This small island is a bird sanctuary only .25 miles off the coast of Kailua Beach Park. Although it doesn’t look like much from the beach, the short 10-15 minute kayak journey to the little island is the perfect easy adventure!

The short trip to Popoia is less challenging than the longer kayak to the Mokulua Islands but you still get to cross ‘kayak to a Hawaiian island’ off of your bucket list. Plus, you do get a good view of the Mokes from Popoia.

My husband I and kayaked to Popoia on our most recent Oahu trip and had so much fun! We rented a kayak from Kailua Beach Adventures and journeyed to the island on our own, but you can also go on a guided kayak adventure if you prefer!

You can read all about our experience kayaking to Popoia (plus my tips) in my Flat Island guide.

8. Do a Free Chocolate Tasting at Manoa Chocolate (Local Recommendation)

Tasting chocolate might not be the first thing on your Hawaii bucket list, but hear me out!

Kailua’s award-winning Mānoa Chocolate Factory makes a diversity of creamy chocolates from Hawaiian cacao, infused with tropical flavors. Have you ever tried banana chocolate? Or coconut milk chocolate with Hawaiian mango, or perhaps a dark chocolate bar made with cacao soaked in local Oahu rum? Yum!

Mānoa Chocolate Factory generously offers free tastings daily, and it transforms into a wine bar at night! After being recommended this place by a dear friend who grew up on Oahu, my husband and I stopped in for a tasting last October.

Their team is incredibly friendly and told us all about Hawaiian cacao and the process used to make chocolate here. They let us taste everything that piqued our interest, plus some chocolate tea, all for free! Of course, we ended up buying a few bars to take home.

You can do a free chocolate tasting like I did, or sign up for a $25 ‘chocolate experience’ where you get to see the chocolate making process. Check for prices and details on Manoa Chocolate’s website!

9. See Mt. Olomana from the Sky on a Helicopter Ride

This Kailua adventure actually starts in Honolulu, but it is too epic to leave off this list!

Soaring over Oahu on a helicopter tour is one of the best things to do in Oahu, and some of the most breathtaking sites on the island are in Kailua!

There are a variety of helicopter tours to choose from, but if you’re keen on flying over the unique landscapes of Kailua’s Mt. Olomana, Lanikai Beach, and beyond, this 30 minute ‘Path to Pali’ helicopter ride is the one to choose!

You can choose doors on or doors off, and my recommendation is always DOORS OFF! It’s thrilling (in a good way) and you’ll get the best photos, plus fresh air is essential if you suffer from motion sickness.

10. Travel to Japan at the Byodo In Temple

If you’re already visiting Oahu’s eastern side, you might as well take a little trip to a place that feels just like Japan, and is only a 20-minute drive from Kailua.

Located in nearby Kaneohe, the Byodo-In Temple is a stunning replica of a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. This regal, yet peaceful temple is situated beneath towering lush mountains, and is one of the top to visit on Oahu.

Be sure to read my full guide to visiting Byodo In Temple, which includes details on what you can and cannot wear and other insider tips.

11. Wander Through the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is another place to visit near Kailua for lush jungle and mountain views. It is free to visit and the perfect place for a long walk with some essential photo ops!

You may recognize the scenery from your Instagram feed as you drive through the entrance. The road leading into the park has arguably the best views (and most famous), but you are no longer allowed to take pictures there because of the traffic backup it creates.

Once you’re in the garden, you can walk, hike, and explore tropical flora and fauna from Hawaii and several other tropical regions, or just gaze up at those breathtaking mountains! There is also a beautiful pond, which is a perfect spot for a picnic.

That said, it can be difficult to find spots with a view of the mountains. It wasn’t until my third trip to Oahu that I found the spot where I took the photo above since Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a little confusing to navigate. My favorite spots in Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden are pinned on my Oahu map if you want to find them more easily.

12. Walk Along the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (Local Favorite)

The trail along Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best recommendations I’ve gotten from locals in Kailua! This well-maintained 1.4-mile trail leads you through marshland on the edge of the wildlife sanctuary, with unobstructed views of the Koolau mountain range.

With no incline and a decently sized parking lot just a few minutes away from downtown Kailua, this trail is an easy addition to any Kailua itinerary. Just keep in mind that this is a local place where people from the neighborhood walk their dogs and go on morning runs. Be respectful and enjoy this beautiful place!

The trail starts next to Kaha Park near the corner of Kaha St and Kaipii St and ends at Kailua Rd (Highway 61). I recommend parking in the lot Kaha Park and walking the trail at sunset.

13. Go Shopping in Downtown Kailua

Downtown Kailua has a variety of small businesses and boutiques with trinkets, clothes, and other goodies. It’s one of the best areas on the island to shop if you’re looking for unique souvenirs.

Within a few blocks, you’ll be able to explore a handful of cute shops (mostly along Hekili street near Target) like Sugar Sugar, Coco’s Trading Post, and Protea. You’ll also have access to big stores like Target, Ulta, and Whole Foods, plus Hawaii’s natural goods store, Down to Earth.

The colorful shops lining Hekili street in downtown Kailua, and Protea, one of my favorite Kailua shops

My favorite shop in Kailua is Protea, which is an incredible thrift boutique filled with high quality secondhand clothing. The majority of their pieces feature island-inspired designs, and it’s the perfect place to buy some sustainable vacation clothing that will always remind you of Kailua!

It is worth mentioning that the prices at Protea are a little higher than you might expect at a thrift store, but everything they sell is very high quality. I don’t know about you, but I don’t paying a little extra to support a small local business that is promoting sustainability and reducing textile waste!

14. Swim with Turtles at the Kailua Boat Launch

One of my Kailua travel tips is to park at the Kailua Boat Launch (pinned on my Oahu map) and then walk to Lanikai Beach, because its the closest public parking lot. However, the Kailua Boat Launch is actually a lovely place to snorkel and spot sea turtles!

I’ve seen more turtles here than anywhere on the island. Of course, there is no guarantee that there will be a turtle in the area, but it’s worth checking out! Just remember to always stay at least 10 feet away from sea turtles.

Searching for sea turtles on the road above Kailua Beach Park

Keep in mind that visibility in the water differs day by day and hour by hour. Sometimes it can be very difficult to see underwater, so you actually get a better view from above the water on the road.

Moments like this are the reason I recommending buying your own snorkel gear in my Hawaii packing list. There isn’t anywhere to rent a goggle or snorkel equipment nearby, so be sure to bring your own!

15. Dine in Paradise at Haleiwa Joe’s

Just outside of Kailua, you’ll find one of the most beautiful restaurants on the island: Haleiwa Joe’s at the Haiku Gardens.

Situated in a lush valley, Haleiwa Joe’s has incredible views in every direction. The property itself is a beautiful garden that is worth exploring before or after you meal, and the restaurant overlooks a small pond with misty mountains towering about the dense tropical foliage.

It’s best sure to show up early and request a table by the gardens. They don’t take reservations, and there is almost always a long wait, but you can wander through their beautiful gardens as you wait.

16. Visit Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site

Kailua is home to one of Oahu’s few publicly accessible Hawaiian temples, called heiau.

Although most of these Hawaiian historic sites are remnants of pre-colonial times, they are still connected to a living culture. With that in mind, it is essential to treat these sites with the utmost care and respect. This helpful article about Oahu’s heiau reminds us that heiau still hold personal and cultural significance for many Hawaiian natives.

Ulupo Heiau in Kailua is managed by Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources and you can read more about it on their website. If you do decide to visit this historic site, do not touch, climb or disturb any of the structures.

17. Go on a Scenic Drive with an Audio Tour

Explore the eastern side of Oahu with this easy-to-use audio tour that syncs with your GPS location.

As you drive from Waikiki along the eastern coast toward Kailua, the entertaining narrator guide will tell you about each site you see out your car window. You’ll learn stories about Oahu’s history and culture, and the narrator will give you some insider tips on the best places to stop for photos, hikes, and more.

I can’t recommend this audio tour enough—it is the best way to explore the scenic drives in and around Kailua on your own time while still learning from a highly-rated professional guide as you go.

If you want an audio tour of the whole island, purchase the Oahu audio bundle, which includes six tours along different parts of the island.

Kailua Travel Guide: FAQs

Is Kailua Oahu worth visiting?

Yes! With one of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches, incredible hikes, and a charming downtown area, Kailua is certainly worth visiting on any Oahu vacation. Kailua is perfect for travelers who are looking a little bit of adventure, and also for nature lovers.

How many days do you need for Kailua, Oahu?

If you’re vacationing in Honolulu, I recommending visiting Kailua for at least one or two days. If you want to go on a hike in Kailua, kayak to one of the islands, explore the town, and still have time to relax at Lanikai Beach, you’ll probably need two days. If you plan to stay in Kailua, I recommend a 5-10 day vacation.

Can you take the bus to Kailua from Honolulu?

Yes, Oahu’s public transportation system connects Honolulu to Kailua. If you’re not renting a car on Oahu or want to want to avoid difficult parking situations at Lanikai Beach, Oahu’s bus is the best option.

Is Kailua a good place to stay in Oahu?

Oahu is a wonderful place to stay in Oahu, and I personally prefer it much over Waikiki, However, accommodations in Kailua are extremely limited and the town has no hotels. Browse Kailua accommodations here.

Thanks for reading!

• Browse my favorite Oahu tours and experiences.
• See the best hotels on Oahu.
• Check out my other Hawaii travel guides.

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