15 Fun Things to Do in Kailua Hawaii

There are lots of fun things to do in Kailua Hawaii! Kailua is a great place to check out if you’re looking to escape the bustle of Honolulu but aren’t up for a big North Shore adventure. Plus, it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

Let’s take a look at the beauty and experiences waiting for you in Kailua, Hawaii – whether you’re looking for an outdoor excursion, a family-friendly activity, or a unique meal in the area. 

Fast Facts About Kailua 

Have you ever heard of Kailua, Hawaii? Kailua is a town on the island of Oahu with a little bit of everything. There are some trendy shops and restaurants, a fun local vibe, a couple of world-famous beaches, and a top-rated hike – all just a half hour’s drive from Waikiki. 

But lots of Hawaii visitors aren’t familiar with Kailua or its many things to do. So here’s a quick briefing to get you all up to speed on this fun Hawaii town. 

• Kailua is located on the windward (eastern) side of Oahu, north of Waimanalo. 
• It takes about 30 minutes to get to Kailua from Honolulu. TheBus has a route connecting the two areas.
• Kailua has a population of about 40,000 people 
• This is where you’ll catch views of Na Mokulua, the two islets that sit just off the coast. 
• Kailua is also where you’ll find Lanikai Beach, which is often named among the most beautiful beaches in the world. 
• Most shops and restaurants in Kailua have dedicated parking lots, so you don’t have to worry about navigating a big city and planning walking routes. 

One more fast fact: Kailua is NOT the same as Kailua-Kona. Kailua (which we are talking about today) is a town on Oahu. Kailua-Kona is a town on Hawaii Island (aka the Big Island). Despite their similar names, they are two totally different places that are separated by miles of ocean. Just an important thing to keep in mind as you plan your Hawaii vacation!

Getting to Kailua

If you’re vacationing in Waikiki or Honolulu, it’s definitely worth the trip to Kailua town. In fact, the drive there alone is worth the trip. 

The Pali Highway is a fast route that goes through the mountains, and it’s just a 20-minute drive from Honolulu without traffic. Along the way, you can make the following stops:

• Queen Emma Summer Palace
• Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout
• Likeke Falls

Alternatively, you can take the hour+ journey along the southeastern Oahu coast, which will take you by Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail, Sea Life Park, and Waimanalo town. This is a fun oceanside drive, but a much longer way to access Kailua. 

Top Things to Do in Kailua, Hawaii

Now that you’ve made it to Kailua, you’re ready to take advantage of its many activities and adventures. Read on to discover our favorite things to do in this charming Honolulu suburb. 

Enjoy a Lanikai Sunrise

Lanikai Beach is beautiful anytime of day. But if you’re willing to begin your Kailua adventure early, you take advantage of the quiet atmosphere, beautiful views, and easier access.

Lanikai Beach is located in a residential area, without a dedicated parking lot. A few street spots may be available in the morning (make sure you’re parking legally and not blocking any driveways!). Stick around for a full beach day, or watch the sunrise and then head off on your next adventure!

Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail

This is another top reason people visit Kailua. The Lanikai Pillbox Trail takes hikers up to a sweeping view of Oahu’s windward coast. The 1.8-mile trek is challenging enough to offer a sense of accomplishment, but quick enough to not take up your entire day. After all, you’ve got lots of things to do in Kailua, Hawaii, and beyond!

Time it right to watch the sun rise or set from the vista. Otherwise, plan to hike in full-sun. 

Eat World-Famous Macadamia Nut Pancake at Boot’s & Kimo’s

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen is a longtime favorite in Kailua. The simple diner serves up a full menu through breakfast and lunch. They’ve got all kinds of offerings that will fill you up, but most visitors flock here for the macadamia nut pancakes, which are so decadent you may never be able to look at pancakes the same way again!

Shop at Local Boutiques & Stores

I used to think that North Shore Oahu was the best place to find local Hawaii boutiques. Turns out, Kailua is an excellent place to support local business and discover unique finds. 

Most of Kailua’s best shops lie between Whole Foods and Target, along Hekili St and a few blocks out from that road. Some of my favorite places to shop are Mahina Clothing, HIC Hawaiian Island Creations, and SoHa Living Kailua.

Like we mentioned, Kailua is designed for car traffic (as opposed to walking), but the area is still quite walkable. It’s nice because if you take TheBus here, you can walk around this core shopping area, but it’s also commuter-friendly if you drive your rental car here. 

Kayak to a Remote Islet (Adventurous Thing to Do in Kailua, Hawaii)

Have you ever seen pictures of the Mokulua Islands on Oahu? These two islets sit right off Kailua and Lanikai beaches. They’re a sight to behold from afar, but you can also paddle to one of them and rest on the serene shores. 

We tell you all about kayaking to Na Mokulua here. Check it out and see if you want to include it in your adventurous Hawaii vacation!

Dine in Style at Goen 

Goen is a trendy Japanese-fusion restaurant from chef Roy Yamaguchi. It’s the kind of place where you settle in to eat, drink, and be merry, and the fresh flavors are unbeatable. 

Catch a Kailua happy hour here from 4-5:30pm daily. Goen is also a great place for a date night or to gather the girls for a treat-yourself meal. 

Step into History at Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site in Kailua, Hawaii

For a quick experience rich with history and culture, visit Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site in Kailua. This site dates back to early Hawaiians, who likely used the temple for agricultural ceremonies. 

You can learn all about Ulupo Heiau here, and experience it for yourself during your visit to Kailua. 

Book a Kailua Bed & Breakfast

Kailua is a residential area of Oahu, so it doesn’t have any hotels or resorts. There are a few permitted bed & breakfasts where you can book a stay and fully enjoy the town’s sights and sounds. 

You can reach out to our team at Hawaii Aloha Travel for help finding a permitted bed & breakfast on Oahu. We can also help you decide which area of the island is best for your stay, whether that’s Kailua, Waikiki, or other areas like Ko Olina or Turtle Bay. 

Spend the Day at Kailua Beach (a Top Hawaii Beach!)

Here’s a reason to drive out to Kailua: a fun day at an expansive, lively Hawaii beach. Kailua beach is one of the best beaches in the world, and it’s got something to do for everyone. Soft sand, clear waters, handy amenities, lots of parking, fun water sports, and even snorkel spots. 

You can easily spend a full day at Kailua Beach, and it’s one of our top spots for anyone wanting to enjoy the ocean away from Waikiki.

Shop at a Farmer’s Market

The farmer’s markets in Kailua are also reason enough to visit the area. KailuaTown Farmer’s Market is a fun and funky market that opens up on Sunday mornings and features local produce, fresh coffee, unique souvenirs, and tasty treats. 

Kailua Farmers’ Market is a separate event on Thursday evenings at Kailua Town Center. 

Or, check out Lokahi Kailua Market on Sunday mornings on Uluniu Street. 

Bring along a reusable shopping bag and see what kinds of treasures you find. 

Stroll Through Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary

Not all hikes have to be big, exerting events. When I’m on vacation, I typically enjoy relaxed strolls in quiet environments. One of the best places for that is at the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Kailua. 

Flat, paved paths take you through some of the expansive preserve. See what kinds of birds and wildlife you see along the way, and take in the unique quiet of a Hawaiian marsh. 

Indulge in Wine & Chocolate

Have you ever been to a wine and chocolate bar? Kailua, Hawaii is a great place for this unique (and tasty) experience. Manoa Chocolate Wine Bar has an excellent selection of wines and beers, served alongside curated chocolates and small bites. 

Stop by Thursday through Saturday evenings (5-7pm) at 333 Uluniu Street. They’re also open Sunday 9am – 5pm. 

Eat & Drink in a Speakeasy (Hidden Gem Thing to Do in Kailua, Hawaii)

How about something sophisticated? Head to Kailua, Hawaii, and find the hidden telephone booth that doubles as an entrance to a secret restaurant. This is Gaslamp. Here, classiness reigns supreme, and the jazz music goes down as smooth as the craft cocktails. 

This is certainly an Oahu hidden gem, and reservations are a must. Abide by the dress code and come prepared for an exceptional dining experience in Kailua. 

Relax at a Movie

Nobody goes to Hawaii to sit in a cool, dark movie theater. Still, you may find yourself sun-soaked and ready to unwind. Kailua Cinemas is a great place to watch the latest releases in a cool, easy-to-get-to theater. Sit back and relax, then get back in the sun for more adventures. 

Explore Kaneohe, Hawaii

There’s another fun town just up the road from Kailua, Hawaii. If you’ve made it this far, you should continue on to Kaneohe, where there are even more fun things to do. Check out Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, the Byodo-In Temple, and Ko’olau Distillery. 

Planning a Trip to Kailua, Hawaii

You may head up to Kailua just to explore, or maybe you’re there for a specific activity. Whether you’re checking out the beach, dining at a local restaurant, or hiking to a scenic lookout, there’s always a good reason to go to Kailua. 

And if you want a Hawaii vacation itinerary full of the best things to do, you’ll want to work with true experts. At Hawaii Aloha Travel, we’re ready to be your go-to travel agents for all your Hawaii vacation plans!