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Kailua vacation rentals, located northeast of Honolulu in Windward Oahu, offer an escape from congested and commercialized areas of Oahu without complete isolation from conveniences. In the Hawaiian language, the town's name means two seas and is named for the currents that run through Kailua Bay.
Kailua Beach Park, Lanikai Beach, Kawai Nui Marsh are all nearby to our
Kailua vacation homes. Local legends include the Menehune, who are believed to have fished in Kaiwainui Marsh and built temples (heiau). Also a part of the history are the mo'o, guardian gecko spirits that reside in fish ponds, of which there are many near our
Kailua house rentals.
Previous visitors to the area include Elvis and President Obama, likely for the privacy and serenity of this seaside area.
Things To Do
Boogie boarding, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, windsurfing, and surfing are some of the activities available. Kailua Beach Park (named America's Best Beach by Dr.Beach) and Lanikai Beach are world famous. Both beaches are noteworthy for their atmosphere, scenic beauty, and plentiful water sports. Lanikai Beach does not offer restrooms, showers, water fountains, lifeguards, handicap parking, or ramps, so for a longer day at the beach, opt for the Beach Park. The Twin Islands, Moku Nui and Moku Iki, are seabird sanctuaries near the Beach Park, great for kayaking and are visible from the beach. Kawai Nui Marsh is the largest wetlands area in Hawaii and is a Ramsar Convention nomination site (organization that recognizes wetlands for their economic, cultural, scientific, and recreational value).
Eat and Shop
A myriad of eateries appeal to all tastes—Indian, Italian, pizza, bakeries, Thai, Sushi, steakhouses, barbecue, crepes, tropical juices, Portuguese sweets, Moroccan, Vietnamese, and more. Many restaurants offer plate lunches and meals that are ideal to enjoy for a day at the beach. Wally Amos, Famous Amos, is often found at his store, Chip & Cookie, where he does book events. Two Thursday Farmers' Markets also offer plenty of good eats and local items. Everything from necessities to souvenirs to luxury items are available as Kailua has convenience stores, locally-owned shops, grocery and health food stores, pharmacies, apparel and department stores, and sports shops.
Getting Around
TheBus is an affordable, scenic way to get around town. Bicycles are okay to bring on board, but not surfboards. TheBus stops at Lanikai and Kailua beaches, and Ala Moana Center, among others. Taxis are available as are rental cars.
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- Enjoying Kailua Beach and Town at Hale Manu Vacation Rental - 10.12.12
Idyllic and Affordable Hawaii Vacation Awaits You in Beautiful Kailua
Looking to stay on the ocean in Kailua and not break the bank? Search no further, Hale Manu is it! This is definitely the best value cottage on the beach in Kailua.
My Mother and I spent an unforgettable week here over Mother’s Day. - Best Oahu North Shore Snorkeling - Shark’s Cove - 10.1.12
Snorkeling on Oahu's North Shore - An Abundance of Fish and other Marine Life!
I have often been asked by visitors staying on the North shore of Oahu: Where is the best snorkeling?
Sharks Cove is about a five minute drive from Sunset Beach and is one of the north shore’s finest snorkeling and scuba diving locations. With an extensive coral reef, Shark’s Cove exhibits a variety of marine life in its natural environment. - Spiritual Oahu - 7.12.12
Wellness, relaxation and exploration are often high on the lists of travelers seeking island escapes. The Hawaiian islands are more than just getaways; rather, most visitors are looking for sights and a genuine experience beyond the beach. - Staying Near Oahu Culture + Scenery - 7.1.12
Beaches, golf, surfing, shrimp trucks and shave ice are a few of Oahu’s most popular sights and activities for first-time visitors. Sometimes overlooked, due to an understandable need to spend most of the time at the beach, the museums on Oahu are worth exploring. - Hawaiian Regional Cuisines, Foodies Unite - 5.18.12
Oahu is one of the most visited islands, especially for first-time guests. Travelers seeking a vacation beyond the conventional sights of Oahu can discover new places to explore.