Kailua 4th July | Parade, beach, and fireworks for a full day of family fun

Kailua 4th July Tradition

Looking for some family fun in Kailua 4th July? Well you’re in luck because the Kailua Beach fireworks are on for 2024! The highly-anticipated Kailua Fireworks show is largely a community effort with residents and local businesses helping to keep the tradition going.

It’s wonderful to feel the community come together alongside visitors to celebrate this family-friendly event that has been a favorite event for 6 decades.

But First the Kailua Parade …

If you’re up for a full day of celebrating you can start your day with the beloved Independence Day parade. Enjoy various marching bands, clubs, dancers, performers and fancy cars pass by as they hand out treats and trinkets. During election years it tends to overflow with politicians as well.

The parade runs along the length of Kainalu Road starting near Kainalu Elementary and ending at Kailua Intermediate. It starts at 10 am and typically last 2 hours.

Arrive early to claim your space. You’ll find that Kailua locals set out chairs and rope off areas the night before the parade. Others arrive early in the morning with a coffee, a friend, and a comfortable chair. If you’re not that ambitious, you can usually find more parking options around Kailua District Park near the end of the parade route.

Prepare for what always feels like the hottest day of the year –

• Sunscreen – it’s usually sunny and bright.
• Wearing a hat or sunglasses alleviates squinting and headaches
• Cold water or drinks. Although someone is usually selling supplies.
• Chairs or a blanket to get comfortable.
• Scissors – a strange one, but parade marchers often hand out ice pops and your teeth will thank you
• A wagon to carry it all or at least a bag to carry all your parade goodies back home.

Cool off at Kailua Beach

When the 4th July parade ends, walk a couple of blocks over to cool off at Kailua beach. Pack a hefty picnic, find a shady spot on the beach, and you’re set for the day. If you’re unsure where to plant yourself for the day, Kalama Beach Park is a good options for some fun body-boarding waves and bathroom access.

When the sun begins to sink and the heat starts to dissipate, you can usually enjoy an air show from the Kaneohe Marine Corp Base. Check the Kailua Event schedule for the most recent update.

Kailua 4th July Fireworks – The big show!

The beach starts to flood with revelers after dark. If you arrive earlier in the day you can easily claim a nice spot. Although, there is always space so it’s not critical.

Where to watch the Kailua fireworks

You can see the show from anywhere along Kailua Beach but the area near Kailua Beach Park and Flat Island is where the barge anchors to launch fireworks. It’s also where you have more parking options. If you’re arriving later in the day (and don’t have a bike), your best bet is to park in Kailua town and take the free beach shuttle. Longs/CVS parking lot bus stop and the Kailua Beach Center between 4:30 PM and 10:30 PM

What to bring for the Kailua fireworks show

• A swimsuit and towels if you want to watch from the water
• Warm clothes – it can get cool in the evening
• Glow sticks are always fun and help you keep track of your family
• A beach blanket and/or chairs for viewing comfort
• A wagon helps transport everything if you’re on foot
• Biking to the beach is a good way to deal with limited parking but don’t forget lights for your ride back.

The fireworks show begins at 8:00 pm and last about 20 minutes.

Bonus: Want to see the fireworks but avoid the crowds? You can grab a higher perspective with an evening hike to the Lanikai Pillbox or Kalaheo hillside trails. Don’t forget your flashlight or headlamp and sweater. Have fun!