Kailua Beach Oʻahu – A Local’s Guide to the Best Family Beach in Hawaiʻi

With its powder-soft sand, calm turquoise water, and family-friendly vibe, Kailua Beach on Oʻahu’s windward coast is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. This guide shares how to get there, where to park, what to pack, and why locals (and Dr. Beach) love it year-round.

About Kailua Beach

Yes, it really is that good. And okay — I might be a little biased since I get to call Kailua home, but I’m in good company. Even Dr. Beach named Kailua Beach on Oʻahu the best beach in the United States back in 2019 — and honestly, beaches like this don’t change much over time.

Crescent-shaped Kailua Beach stretches for more than two miles, with fine white sand, a gentle slope, and calm, turquoise water that stays shallow near shore. It’s the kind of beach where kids can splash safely, parents can actually relax, and everyone leaves with sand in their hair and a smile on their face.

Still, “family-friendly” doesn’t mean boring. Kailua is also a playground for ocean lovers — you’ll find surfers catching small rollers, kiteboarders dancing in the trade winds, and my personal favorite, outrigger canoe crews gliding across the bay.

Even better, the beach sits just a short walk from Kailua Town, a laid-back community with cozy cafés, local boutiques, and enough poke spots to make indecision a sport. Read on to plan the perfect family day on Oʻahu’s windward coast.

How to Get to Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach Park is located on windward Oʻahu about a half hour drive from Waikiki. The easiest way to get there is by car, but you can also take the City Bus. If you go this route, you might want to rent a bike in Kailua town giving you freedom to explore.

Popular Beach Access Points for Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach stretches over two miles, and each section offers something a little different. Here’s how to find your perfect spot:

• North end (Castles Beach)
  The north end of Kailua Beach is the least crowded. Primarily because it’s more difficult to access and lacks amenities. However, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the bay and this is the best spot to surf (when it exists). There is a stream outlet just beyond the north end of the beach so the water can get murky here after heavy rains.
  
• Middle of Kailua Beach
  Most beach-goers cluster around Kalama Beach Park which has bathrooms, showers, and a small parking lot. It also has nice shade and the best waves for body boarding. If you want to avoid crowds, walk 5 minutes in either direction.
  
• South end
  At the southern end of Kailua Beach, you will find Kailua Beach Park and all the crowds. There are 3 bathrooms along this stretch of shoreline with showers, lots of parking, picnic benches, a boat ramp and a large park connecting everything. This is the best option for those uncomfortable in the water as it’s the only part of the beach with lifeguards. Additionally, you will find a designated swimming area and entry point for wind surfers and kite boarders.
  
• Going further
  Although not technically part of Kailua Beach, you will find stunning Lanikai Beach just around a rocky outcropping at the south end. It’s definitely worth a visit (another Dr. Beach favorite) as it has even bluer water and softer sand (and snorkeling opportunities).

What to do on Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach has options for every level of beach-goer. The best activity depends on the season, conditions, and your mood.

On a calm day, grab a paddleboard and cruise the bay searching for sea turtles. More adventurous souls can take advantage of the steady tradewinds with a kite-boarding lesson. And when the day winds down, few things beat a quiet sunset stroll along the shoreline.

Water Activities

Whether you’re into paddling, surfing, or simply floating, Kailua’s calm waters have something for every level of beach-goer.

• Surfing. Big winter swells occasionally wrap around the island to meet Kailua Beach bringing surf to the north end of Kailua Beach (Castle’s). However, those waves only appear in winter.
  
• Bodyboarding. Dependable baby shorebreak means you can have fun bodyboarding any day at Kailua Beach. For younger kids, the smaller waves near Kalama Beach Park are perfect.
  
• Paddleboarding. Winds and swells usually dominate the forecast making paddleboarding a chore except on rare, calm days. On those mornings, the water turns glassy and irresistible.
  
• Kayaking. Kayaking is a fun way to explore the bay searching for sea turtles and enjoying a unique Kailua view. Meanwhile, more adventurous paddlers can continue toward Moku Nui if the weather allows with a stop at Flat (Popia) Island. If you’re lucky, you might share the beach there with an endangered monk seal.
  
• Swimming. There is a designated swimming area around Kailua Beach Park but most of Kailua Bay is shallow (less than 20ft deep) making it ideal for open ocean swimming.
  
• Wind sports. Tradewinds regularly grace Kailua’s coastline making it a popular area for wind sports. There is an official entry behind Kalapawai market.
  
• Snorkeling. Coral is found in deeper waters further offshore in Kailua Bay, but Lanikai is a fun, easy option if the weather is calm.

Relax and Explore

Not everything here involves getting wet. From morning walks to pastel sunsets, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Kailua Beach at a slower pace.

• Walk/run. I have a beach-loving dog so you’ll often find me walking him the length of the 2 mile beach.
  
• Sunrise. You see the sun rise over the water at Kailua Beach and many visitors and locals alike come out to enjoy the spectacle over a cup of coffee.
  
• Fireworks. If you happen to be visiting Oʻahu over the Fourth of July you can enjoy a fireworks show just off the beach.

Preparing for a visit to Kailua Beach in Oahu

When to visit Kailua Beach

The best time to visit Kailua Beach is in the morning, when the water is calmest and parking is easy. However, Kailua Beach is fabulous at anytime. The weather is lovely year-round in Oʻahu (rarely dipping below 70F degrees, but with more rain in winter months). Personally, my favorite days are those with low wind when the waves break crisply and the tumble of sand shows beneath the clear blue water. Low tide makes the spectacle all the better adding reflections of sky to the shoreline.

Most people, however, just want to be able to park. If that’s a more realistic concern try to arrive before 10 am and avoid weekends (especially holiday weekends) when possible.

What to pack for a visit to Kailua Beach

I’ve always been a minimalist when packing for the beach – put sunscreen and swimsuit on at home and bring a towel – but it’s because I’m lazy. Here’s what I deem “nice to have” if you have the energy –

1. Reef-safe Sunscreen – Does your current sunscreen kill coral? Does it contained chemicals banned in Europe and other parts of the world? Not all sunscreen is created equal. Keep yourself covered with UV protective clothing and use reef safe sunscreen.
   
   And can we all agree that it’s obnoxious and anti-social to spray on your sunscreen on a windy beach? I don’t want that it my lungs and you shouldn’t either.
   
2. A trusty Dry Bag – Keep your valuables and electronics snug, dry, and sand-free. The dry bag’s low key cousin – Ziploc bag – also does the same job. Either way, wrap valuables in a towel and tuck under a rock to keep gear out of the sun.
   
3. Body board. Not just for kids. Grab a board at Costco or Target and hit the waves! Alternatively, if it’s calm I would bring a standup paddleboard and/or kayak.
   
4. Sand toys. The sand at Kailua Beach is fine and soft – perfect for building elaborate sand castles. Sticks and hands will do the job in a pinch ;)
   
5. Snacks and water. With the exception of Kalapawai Market a short walk from Kailua Beach Park, there are no vendors close to the beach. Bring everything you need for a day of fun.
   
6. Benadryl. I sometimes have a rare allergic reaction to Portugese man-o-war stings. Benadryl helps if things get dicey.
   
7. Hammock. There are some great hammock trees in Kailua Beach Park if you want the perfect beach nap.

Dangers to consider when visiting Kailua Beach

Is Kailua Beach safe? Generally yes — it’s one of Oʻahu’s safest beaches for families, but there are a few things to watch for –

1. Portugese man-o-war
   The bluish-purple blobs with long, trailing tentacles frequently show up along Kailua Beach after several days of heavy tradewinds. Mostly, they sting where they contact your skin. The pain lasts about 20 minutes before leaving an itchy welt behind. Although it’s not typically too painful, it can end your beach day quickly. The best remedy is to remove any bits from the skin (you can scrape gently with a credit card) and rinse with salt water (not fresh). Benadryl helps with itching and swelling.
   
2. Water quality
   After heavy rains, the waters around Kailua Beach can take on a disturbing brown tinge. That’s a good time to check for water quality warnings to make sure it’s safe.
   
3. Sunburn
   Don’t let sunburn ruin your trip. Even in winter – Even when it’s cloudy – Even when it’s late in the day.

FAQs for Kailua Beach

Where is Kailua Beach located?

Kailua Beach sits on Oʻahu’s windward (east) coast, about 30 minutes from Waikīkī via the Pali Highway (H-61). It’s easily reached by car, bus, or bike.

Why is Kailua Beach famous?

It’s a 2-mile crescent of soft white sand, gentle waves, and mountain views. In 2019, Dr. Beach ranked Kailua Beach the number one beach in the U.S.—and locals have agreed for decades.

Is Kailua Beach good for families?

Yes! The shallow entry, sandy bottom, and calm water make it ideal for swimming, boogie boarding, and sand-castle building. Lifeguards patrol the south end near Kailua Beach Park and the middle at Kalama Beach Park.

What’s the best part of Kailua Beach to visit?

The north end (Castles) is quiet and scenic, Kalama Beach Park offers shade and small waves for kids, and Kailua Beach Park has lifeguards, facilities, and plenty of parking.

When is the best time to visit Kailua Beach?

Go early to find parking and calm conditions. Mornings offer gentle winds and fewer crowds; late afternoons are best for golden light and sunset strolls.

What should I bring to Kailua Beach?

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, towels, snacks, water, and a discrete bag for valuables. Add bodyboards, sand toys, or a hammock if you plan to stay all day.

Are there dangers or hazards to watch for?

Portuguese man-o-war sometimes appear after windy days and can sting. After heavy rain, check for brown-water advisories. And, as always, protect yourself from the strong Hawaiian sun.

Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards?

Yes. Several shops in Kailua rent kayaks and SUPs so you can paddle to Flat (Popoia) Island or the Mokulua Islands. Conditions vary—check wind forecasts before going.

What are nearby things to do after the beach?

Grab a burger at Kalapawai Market, brunch at Over Easy, or coffee at ChadLou’s. Then explore boutiques on Hekili Street, hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, or cool off with shave ice at Island Snow.

Can I book a family photo session at Kailua Beach?

Yes! Little Bird Photography offers fun, relaxed family sessions here. We’ll play, splash, and create joyful memories in one of Oʻahu’s most iconic settings.

After Kailua Beach – Make the Memories Last

After a morning of salt water and sandcastles, there’s no need to rush off. Grab a burger or acai bowl at Kalapawai Market, browse boutiques along Hekili Street, or cool off with shave ice from Island Snow. If you have energy for more consider seeing Kailua from above with this family-friendly Kailua hike.

If Kailua Beach ends up stealing your heart (and it probably will), you’ll understand why I love photographing families here. The calm water, soft light, and wide-open shoreline make it one of Oʻahu’s most family-friendly beaches — perfect for playful, joy-filled photos that feel like your vacation, not a photoshoot.

I’ll help you find the best time and spot so the experience feels like pure island ease — barefoot, bright, and full of aloha.

👉 See what family photos at Kailua Beach look like here.

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