Our
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. Also consider our 8
Kailua luxury rentals.
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.
Latest Kailua Articles
Current blog posts about Kailua or visit our
complete archive.
- The Best Museums on Oahu - 7.29.10
Oahu has a variety of great museums that provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich historical and cultural past of the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. Here are some of Oahu’s best museums. - Skydiving in Hawaii - 11.30.-1
A new and exciting way to experience Hawaii
Few thrills are exciting as skydiving, and doing it over the Hawaiian Islands makes the experience even more exhilarating. Enjoy expansive views from the airplane and then leap into the Hawaiian sky to enjoy an exciting free-fall while attached to an instructor. - Three Incredible Kailua Beachfront Rentals Provide Ultimate Hawaii Vacation Experience - 7.26.10
One of Hawaii's finest beaches
Kailua Beach is one of Hawaii’s finest beaches and a favorite place to enjoy water sports such as sailing and kayaking as well as just relaxing on the golden sand. A past winner of “America’s Best Beach,” Kailua is set beneath the deeply furrowed Koolau Mountains providing an ideal setting for an inspiring Hawaii vacation. - Hanauma Bay - Nature Preserve Provides Exciting Underwater Experience - 7.26.10
Hanauma means “Curved Bay”
About
The large, protected bay at Hanauma on the southeast shore of Oahu is one of Hawaii’s most scenic locations. It is also one of the safest snorkeling areas, with lifeguard on duty and the nearshore waters relatively well-protected from the open ocean. - Oahu’s Best Dive Sites - 7.24.10
Oahu’s underwater world is a kaleidoscope of colors with rich coral reefs alive with a diverse array of interesting fish and other marine life. Here is a description of some of Oahu’s very best diving sites where you can see Oahu’s abundant sea creatures.