Lanikai Beach Kailua | A stunning must-visit beach on Oahu

Lanikai Beach Kailua – Worth a visit?

I’m surprised each time my toes touch the sand at Lanikai Beach Kailua. Typically, I ditch my slippers at the car and navigate the way to the beach access over hot, rough asphalt so the sandy beach path is a luxurious welcome. The sand is so powder-y soft and inviting. Unlike any beach I’ve visited.

As you make your way down the narrow path, you get your first glimpse of the stunning turquoise waters and iconic twin Mokulua islands that make Lanikai famous. It’s a breathtaking scene, especially at sunrise. Although you could easily spend a day relaxing on the warm sand, you can choose to up your adventure level by kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or making epic sand castles. All are great ways to enjoy this family-friendly beach.

Lanikai Beach: When to visit

As an Oahu family photographer, my favorite time to visit Lanikai beach is at sunrise when the sun rises over the water in a glowing orange spectacle. But don’t leave when the show is over. Morning crowds thin out and you’re often left with an empty swath of beach and welcoming turquoise waters.

Getting to Lanikai Beach Kailua

Directions from Waikiki

LANIKAI BEACH ADDRESS : 988 Mokulua Dr, Lanikai

Lanikai is located on windward Oahu, about 17 miles northeast of Waikiki. To get there, drive over the pali via H-61 (Pali Highway), emerging from one of 3 tunnels through the mountain to access the windward coast. It takes about 45 minutes of drive time.

Alternatively, you can cruise around the southeast tip of Oahu and make your way up the scenic windward coast. The longer route will add about 15 minutes to your drive time.

Where to Park for Lanikai Beach / parking restrictions

Lanikai Beach is an isolated segment of Kailua tucked between ka’iwa ridge and the ocean. Access is via Mokulua Drive which is a one-way in and out loop through a quiet beach-side community.

Parking is limited to street parking that you will share with residents and hikers for the popular Lanikai pillbox trail. As a result, parking can be very challenging to find, especially on weekends. Go early or late or better yet, park further away in Kailua and walk, bike, or take a bus to the beach.

Note: Street parking is not allowed in Lanikai on holiday weekends.

Public Access

Public access points for Lanikai Beach are well-marked along Mokulua drive. Beyond Onekea Drive, there is no sand. It’s more of a launching point for kayaks and paddleboards, or a spot for a quick swim.

Bathrooms at Lanikai Beach Kailua

This is a tricky one. There are no public restrooms in Lanikai. The closest are near the boat ramp at Kailua Beach Park. Although it’s a super short drive to get there, parking is so precious that you may be better off walking the half mile. Please be respectful of residents and don’t leave dirty diapers or other “gifts” in the bushes or their lawn (it happens more often than you’d think).

Jellyfish and other dangers

Jellyfish, or more accurately, Portuguese man-o-war can be present along windward beaches after several days of wind. These bluish-purple blobs are roughly quarter-sized but have long, stringy tentacles. If any part touches your skin, it will burn. No amount of pee will help you here. The only solution is to gently remove any of the bits from the skin – a credit card works well. Then rinse with salt water – not fresh. The pain is typically mild (but expect tears form kids) and wanes after 15 minutes. Benadryll is helpful for any puffiness or itchiness.

Sunburn is the other real threat out here. Cover up as much as possible and don’t forget the (reef-safe!) sunscreen.

Weather conditions

Lanikai Beach Kailua is located on windward Oahu, which tends to be well, windy. The tradewinds regularly blow bringing clouds which accumulate over the mountains and purge themselves before heading to Waikiki. As a result, the windward side of Oahu is often cooler and cloudier than south and west shores. Highly appreciated on a hot day but not as nice if you’re planning to paddlelboard, snorkel, or kayak.

Lanikai Beach Activities

Sure, you could happily lounge on the warm sand all day, but if you’re looking for more adventure, you have options. Grab and snorkel on a calm day and visit the coral heads sprinkled around the bay. The further out you go, the more fish you will find. If you’re lucky, you can spot a foraging sea turtle.

If you’re okay hauling heavy gear (worth it!), the water is generally calmer here to attempt standup paddleboarding. Alternatively, you can stay seated and kayak around the bay or out to the islands offshore: Flat Island and the Mokulua Islands.

Lanikai Beach Kailua Must-Have Packing List:

Lanikai lacks amenities so make sure you’re prepared with essentials for a perfect beach day.

1. Reef-safe Sunscreen – Did you know that some sunscreen ingredients are highly damaging to coral reef ecosystems and exposure has been linked to coral bleaching and coral DNA damage? That’s why Hawaii banned the use of sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone and octocrylene in 2021. P.S., most of these chemicals are bad for humans as well and have been banned in other countries. What to do? Keep yourself covered with UV protective clothing and use reef safe sunscreen.
2. Snacks and Water. Parking can be hard to find and there is no food within walking distance so bring supplies and keep the fun going.
3. A trusty Dry Bag – Keep your valuables and electronics snug, dry, and sand-free. A dry bag ensures peace of mind while you dive into the ocean. The dry bags low key cousin – Ziploc bag – also does the same job. Either way, wrap valuables in a towel and tuck under a bush to keep gear out of the sun.
4. Water-resistant Smartphone Case – Capture your family’s aquatic adventures without worrying about the water gods claiming your phone.
5. A shovel and bucket. – If you have little kids who love to play in the sand, they will delight in creating sand castles at Lanikai Beach Kailua.
6. And don’t forget the most underrated beach essential of all—your favorite Oahu Family photographer. So you can stop stressing about taking the perfect shot, be in the photos for once, and take home beautiful memories instead of blurry phone pics.
   

Oahu Family Photos

Lanikai isn’t just a beach—it’s the kind of place that makes your heart do a little cartwheel. Powdery-soft sand, water so clear it feels like a trick of the light, and those picture-perfect Mokulua Islands just sitting there like they’re posing for their own vacation photos. The best part? This is my backyard (not literally, but close enough to pop down barefoot with a camera and a coffee). I’ve spent years learning Lanikai’s moods—from sunrise magic to trade wind hairdos—and it’s hands-down one of my favorite places to photograph families, couples, and the occasional flying toddler. If you’re visiting, bring your sunscreen, but maybe also bring me. Let’s make some memories while your hair is still salty and your heart’s still full.

See family photo sessions from Lanikai beach here, here, and here to get an idea of what to expect. Reach out today so I can start planning something fun and perfect just for your family!

Beyond Lanikai Beach Kailua

This beautiful part of Oahu has more to offer from great hikes, cute boutiques, farmer’s markets, lush parks and more great beaches.

Explore more

• Start or end your day with a hike up the Lanikai beach pillbox trail for stunning ocean views.
• Go for a stroll, drive or picnic at Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens for gorgeous mountain views.
• Too crowded at Lanikai? Try these great alternatives – Waimanalo Beach and Kailua Beach
• Need an antidote for too much beach? Visit boutique shops in Kailua town along Hekili street.

Tasty Eats After Your Visit to Lanikai Beach

There aren’t any food options in Lanikai itself so pack yourself a small picnic or try one of these nearby options –

• For breakfast (or lunch), Over Easy with its fresh, local offerings tops my list (closed Monday + Tuesday).
• ChadLou’s has superior, local coffee.
• Beach burgers, sandwiches, coffee and snacks can be found near Kailua Beach Park at Kalapawai Market.
• More casual options across the roundabout include Bob’s pizza, the Sunrise Shack and don’t forget to try the tasty shave ice at Island Snow. Yes, it’s in a local clothing store and yes, it’s worth it to splurge on the natural flavorings.
• If you’re looking for super low-key, eat like a local – head to Foodland Farms grocery store for poke bowls, bentos, sushi, and musubis. They have lots of local snacks and locally grown fruits as well (and the cutest shopping bags).
• For cocktails or a fancier meal, head to Buzz’s steakhouse just across from Kailua Beach Park (an Obama favorite) or Kalapawai Cafe in Kailua town (Kalapawai Market’s fancy cousin).