Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is one of the finest beaches in the United States — a 3-kilometre arc of powder-white sand on the Windward (northeast) coast of Oahu, facing the prevailing trade winds across Kailua Bay. The water is a remarkable succession of turquoise, aquamarine, and green-blue hues that shifts with the angle of the light, exceptionally clear even by Hawaiian standards. Offshore, the flat Mokulua Islands (shared with neighbouring Lanikai Beach) sit on the horizon like sentinels, and the offshore Flat Island (Popoia) provides a short kayak destination. Former President Barack Obama famously chose Kailua for his annual Hawaii holiday — strong endorsement for a beach that locals have long regarded as their finest.

The steady trade winds that define the Windward coast make Kailua Bay one of the best kiteboarding and windsurfing destinations in all of Hawaii, and some would argue in the world. The wide, open bay, consistent wind direction, and clean water conditions draw kiteboarders from every professional circuit. A designated kite launch and landing zone on the northern section of the beach keeps the activity safely separate from swimmers. For non-kiteboarding visitors, the winds have the virtue of making hot days comfortable and keeping the beach from feeling oppressive even in peak summer.

Kailua Beach Park (the main public access point) occupies the northern section of the bay and offers a full range of facilities in a park setting with palm trees and grassy areas. The surrounding area — Kailua town — is one of the most pleasant small towns on Oahu, with an exceptional concentration of good cafes, restaurants, a Saturday farmers market, and boutique shopping along Kailua Road. Combining a morning at Kailua Beach with lunch in the town is one of the classic Oahu day experiences.