Oahu] 10 recommended places to visit in Kailua! Introducing Oahu's two most popular beaches and recommended tours!

Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island

Have you heard about the island of Oahu, a paradise of everlasting summer?

Oahu is the center of the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean and the core of Hawaii's tourism.

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, is also located on the island of Oahu, and most of the locations introduced as Hawaii in the Japanese media are on Oahu.

From developed cities to magnificent nature, the island has become a popular destination where visitors can encounter a variety of attractions.

This time, we would like to introduce Kailua, a popular area that stretches across the eastern part of the island of Oahu.

We hope you will find it useful when you visit Oahu, as we will provide you with a wide variety of information from natural spots to popular restaurants!

 

What is Oahu like?

First, let's look at what kind of island Oahu is.

Oahu has an area of 1,545 km² and a population of 980,000.

It is one of the larger islands, and it may be easier to understand if you imagine it to be one size larger than the main island of Okinawa.

Hawaii is now part of the United States of America, but until 1893 it was an independent nation as the Kingdom of Hawaii.

There are many spots and historic sites that offer a glimpse into the past, making it more than just a tourist destination, but a place where one can feel the accumulation of a deep history.

 

How to get to Oahu

Access to the Pacific island of Oahu must always be by plane.

From Japan, there are direct flights to Honolulu Airport from six airports: Narita, Haneda, Chubu International, Kansai International, Fukuoka, and Shin-Chitose.

The airline selection is wide, with a wide variety of flights to choose from, not only major airlines like ANA and JAL, but also LCCs and local airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines.

Accessibility is better for foreign countries, as they have some freedom to choose their price range and time frame.

The approximate time required is 7 hours for the trip to Japan and 9 hours for the return trip, and the time difference with Japan is 19 hours.

 

Attractions of Oahu

Oahu has a very mild climate, with average high temperatures of 25°C (77°F) even in the middle of winter.

The average annual temperature is a warm 24°C (72°F), and light clothing with short sleeves and short pants can be worn at any time of the year.

The climate is one of the island's major attractions, as people from all over the world who do not like the cold come here incessantly to avoid the cold.

The mild climate also makes the area renowned for its leisure and activities by the sea.

 

Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness

I want to enjoy the beauty of the sea! This is a feeling shared by people all over the world, isn't it?

Oahu's beautiful ocean and beaches are the answer to this desire.

The contrast between the blue ocean and the white beach and the palm trees, the symbol of Hawaii, are well contrasted, and the photogenic scenery attracts many tourists.

Underwater, coral, tropical fish, sea turtles, and other creatures weave through a variety of locations, and their beauty is among the most beautiful in the world.

The topography of the island is rich in ups and downs, with mountains and hills in various places.

One particularly unusual feature of the island is that even jungles, derived from the warm climate, are spread throughout the island, and simply looking around at the nature on land can be a great pleasure.

 

One of the world's leading resorts

The number of resort-seeking visitors to Oahu, which offers a variety of favorable environments, reaches 10 million a year in most years.

Since the island welcomes such a large number of people, the tourism or service industry, centering on accommodations, is maintained at an extremely high level!

For example, Waikiki, home to Waikiki Beach, is lined with numerous stores and facilities, with Kalakaua Avenue, the main street, at its center.

From there, there are countless attractive stores in Honolulu and other surrounding cities, and Oahu's environment is arguably the best in the resort world.

 

Shopping and restaurants are also recommended

In addition, one of the most important features of Oahu is its excellent shopping environment.

There are many large shopping centers on the island, including the Ala Moana Shopping Center and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.

Each facility has its own unique characteristics, and many of them hold events such as traditional performing arts, music, and local markets at different times of the year.

Some people spend their entire itinerary just going through the shopping centers in order, because they can enjoy themselves so much.

In terms of dining, Oahu is home to a number of popular restaurants, creating an environment of rivalry between the best of the best.

There are stores where you can enjoy B-class gourmet local food such as garlic shrimp and malasadas, and cafes dotted throughout the area where you can enjoy the stylish atmosphere!

In addition, you will be able to enjoy a variety of culinary delights as you dine at the restaurants of very prestigious and well-established hotels.

 

What is Kailua like?

One of the most popular areas on Oahu is the Kailua district, which stretches across the eastern part of the island.

This area was originally more of an upscale residential area than a tourist oriented district.

However, the area has also become a popular tourist destination because of the tranquil mood that can be enjoyed due to its origins.

 

About Access

To get to Kailua, on the east side of the island, you will need to rent a car or take a bus.

If you are renting a car, take the H1 Freeway (West) from Waikiki to the Pali Highway exit on 61.

You can get to Kailua by entering a single road that will take you out toward the mountains and continuing straight on that road.

If traveling by bus, first go to the Ala Moana Center on the west side of Waikiki Beach.

From there, take bus #67 and get off at the "Kailua Rd + Hamakua Dr" stop to reach Kailua.

Since it takes longer to get there by bus than by rental car, we recommend that you rather rent a car to get there.

 

Kailua Attractions

Kailua's appeal lies in the fact that it is less touristy than Honolulu and Waikiki.

Areas such as Waikiki, which have been developed as a resort area, offer a lively sense of fun, but can sometimes feel cumbersome.

When that's the case, a trip to Kailua is a great way to immerse yourself in the calming, locally rooted mood of the city.

 

Shining blue beaches

Kailua's two connected beaches, Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach, are another major attraction of Kailua.

Both have spectacular blue ocean locations and have been awarded the best beaches in the U.S., making them the best places to visit.

We will discuss these two beaches in more detail below.

 

Enjoy the local atmosphere!

The city of Kailua is basically a residential area, so it is characterized by quiet streets assembled for local residents.

It is a perfect place to visit from Waikiki and enjoy local sightseeing.

With many popular restaurants, it is a great place to stop for a break between strolls!

 

Enjoy shopping at local markets!

The city of Kailua is also a great place to enjoy shopping!

There is a large shopping center in town, so you can do all kinds of shopping in addition to strolling around.

In addition, the Kailua Town Farmers Market is held every Sunday morning.

You can enjoy a lineup of various organic foods, including breads and sweets, as well as locally grown fruits and vegetables.

 

10 recommended tourist spots in Kailua

Let's check out some of the best places to visit in the city of Kailua.

We have selected 10 of the most popular places to visit, so please take the time to visit them!

 

Lanikai Beach

First, let me introduce you to Lanikai Beach, which I mentioned briefly above.

Lanikai Beach, whose name in Hawaiian means "heaven" (lani) and "kai" (kai), or "heavenly ocean," lives up to its name, boasting a jewel-like location adorned with blue ocean and white sand.

It has been ranked the best beach in the United States every year and is often called the most beautiful spot in Hawaii!

 

Recommendations

Oahu is, in any case, a crowded tourist destination, and its tourist beaches attract an especially large number of people.

The bustling liveliness creates a fun and enthusiastic atmosphere that is unique to the resort, but you may also become weary of the crowds of people who are waiting for a spot or looking around you.

However, Lanikai Beach is unique in its secluded location through a residential area of Kailua.

The fact that accessibility by bus from Waikiki is somewhat poor also helps, and there are not as many people.

It is highly recommended as the first stop in Kailua, where you can relax and unwind in a beautiful location!

 

Access

After arriving in the town of Kailua via the route described above, follow the road along Kailua Road, the main street of the town.

You will then come to a spot called Kailua Beach Park, where you can park your car.

You can reach Lanikai Beach by walking down a straight road that leads from Kailua Beach to the back of the island.

 

Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach, which is a beach connected to Lanikai Beach, is the next beach I would like to introduce.

This beach has also been voted one of the top best beaches in the U.S., and because of its location, you will pass through it whenever you visit Lanikai Beach.

A renowned American geologist has called Kailua Beach the best beach in the United States, and it is a very well-known and popular spot.

 

Recommendations

Kailua Beach is characterized by its crescent-shaped topography.

Not only is the ocean and sandy beaches beautiful, but the trade winds blow year-round, making the environment suitable for surfing and other marine activities.

It is also a popular beach and is well equipped with well-maintained showers, toilets, and changing rooms.

This beach is a comfortable base for playing at Lanikai Beach and is very convenient!

 

Access

As mentioned above, Kailua Beach is the entry point to Lanikai Beach.

For access, please refer to the Lanikai Beach section.

 

Boots & Kimos

Next, check out Boots & Kimos, the most iconic sweet spot in the city of Kailua and, by extension, all of Oahu.

Boots & Kimos is a popular restaurant for its hearty, meat-filled meals, but its true heart is in its Hawaiian pancakes!

Hawaiian pancakes filled with sauce and cream have become popular in Japan, and many of you may have had them before, but at Boots & Kimos, you will find the best of the best!

 

Recommendations

Boots & Kimos' signature menu item is macadamia nut pancakes, a Hawaiian specialty with a macadamia nut-infused sauce that covers the pancakes.

The sauce is extremely creamy with the richness of macadamia nuts, and has an exquisite flavor that is neither too sweet nor too cloying.

One bite is guaranteed to fill your mouth with a mild sense of happiness.

It is not extremely sweet, as is often the case with sweets from overseas, and is a must-visit restaurant.

 

Access

Boots & Kimos, one of Kailua's best-known stores, is actually closed as of April 2021, when this article was written, to prepare for a move.

They are planning to relocate in the city of Kailua by August 2021.

If you want to visit, please check the address again after that time of year.

 

Kailua Town Farmers Market

The Kailua Town Farmer's Market, which I mentioned briefly above, is one of the main contents of Kailua tourism.

The timing of the event is limited to Sunday mornings only, making it slightly more difficult to visit, but it is a must-see spot!

The organic food is healthy for your body, making it a great spot for those who are traveling and eating out continuously.

 

Recommendations

The main products of the farmers' market are vegetables and fruits.

It may seem like a less-than-ideal place to visit for tourists who cannot leave with much food, but that is actually not true.

From freshly baked pizzas and dine-in crepes to fresh smoothies and gluten-free breads, there are plenty of delicious foods to savor right where you buy them!

This is a very attractive spot for health-conscious people to enjoy themselves without worrying about their health!

 

Access

When you get to Kailua by the method described above, aim for the Whole Foods Market near Bus Stop C in the center of the city.

There is a large supermarket called Whole Foods Market just around the corner, so go through the side street there and cross the road ahead.

Continue to follow the sidewalk down the road and you will see a row of tents and reach the farmer's market!

 

Whole Foods Market

Kailua is a city with a lovely location, and spots such as beaches and parks make it a great place to dine alfresco!

In such cases, you should definitely take advantage of Whole Foods Market, a large supermarket located in the center of town.

Why go all the way to a supermarket in a tourist area? You may wonder why you would bother to go to a supermarket in a tourist area, but it is a fun spot with a wide selection of goods that can only be found in Kailua, an upscale residential area.

 

Recommendations

Whole Foods Market sells groceries and daily necessities for the neighborhood's residents to use on a daily basis, of course, but it also offers a delicious deli and other items.

The variety of products sold by weight is also attractive, and the lineup is just as diverse, including candy, cereals, nuts, dried fruits, coffee beans, and more.

The style of self-service pouring and purchasing of a wide variety of products from special utensils is rarely seen in Japan, and provides an outstanding overseas travel experience even though it is a supermarket.

The cakes and other items are so varied and varied that they will take your breath away, and you will enjoy just looking at them without buying them.

 

Access

Whole Foods Market is located in the heart of the city of Kailua.

It is right next to Bus Stop C, so whether you are visiting by rental car or bus, you should aim for this stop.

 

Kailua Beach Park

Now, let's turn our attention back to Kailua Beach, which I have already mentioned.

While we covered the ocean and sandy beaches of Kailua Beach earlier, Kailua Beach actually has an attractive park area associated with the sandy beaches.

The park, lined with palm trees and with grass all around, would be a very attractive spot to relax and feel the ocean breeze of Kailua.

 

Recommendations

After purchasing food at the farmer's market mentioned above or at Whole Foods Market, a visit to Kailua Beach is highly recommended.

The comfortable and spacious grassy area is perfect for sitting down, and is one of the most peaceful places on the large island of Oahu!

Another attraction of this spot is its large parking lot, which makes it easy to park.

It is a good base for exploring Kailua, especially if you are visiting with a rental car, so you can park your car here first and then move on to sightseeing.

 

Access

For access, please refer to the Lanikai Beach section.

 

Lanikai Ridge Trail

Let us introduce you to the Lanikai Ridge Trail, one of Kailua's most active tourist attractions.

This is a trail course where you can enjoy trekking, a popular pastime on Oahu.

The round-trip time from the start of the climb to the descent is about one hour, and the level of difficulty is appealing enough to challenge even those who are not hobby climbers!

 

Recommendations

The activity of trekking is almost synonymous with mountaineering in Japan, but the difference is that one does not necessarily aim for the summit.

The purpose of trekking is to enjoy mountain hiking itself to the extent that it is not too strenuous.

If you are not confident about your physical fitness, you can go a little further up the mountain path, enjoy the scenery, and then turn around and go back!

The Lanikai Ridge Trail overlooks Lanikai Beach and offers a great view, and although you need to be careful not to get tired and sunburned from the direct sun, it is an enjoyable trek.

 

Access

If you are going to the Lanikai Ridge Trail, head to Kailua Beach first.

Walk for about 15 minutes toward the golf course called Mid-Pacific Country Club, and you will see a sign for the Lanikai Ridge Trail.

 

Lanikai Pillbox

I mentioned that trekking is not necessarily about reaching the summit, but you still care about the summit because you are taking on a challenge.

The Lanikai Ridge Trail is set as a destination for the Lanikai Pillbox, a small hut.

This is a watchtower once used by the military and offers a great vantage point.

 

Recommendations

The Lanikai Ridge Trail course will take you through two pillboxes in sequence.

The best view is at Pilbox, which we will visit later, and this one is located at the tip of the cape, so the location could not be better!

The pillbox itself is also a unique building. At first glance, it appears to be an ordinary concrete shed, but once inside, it is covered in street-style spray art.

The appearance of a modern artistic space in the middle of a mountain road is very interesting and extremely photogenic, so it will surely be a good memory!

 

Access

Access is the same as for the Lanikai Ridge Trail.

 

Ulupo Heiau

One of the characteristics of Hawaii, with its long history and unique beliefs dating back to the Hawaiian Kingdom, is that there are numerous power spots scattered throughout the state.

One such spot that offers a particularly magical atmosphere is the Ulupo Heiau in Kailua.

Legend has it that Ulupo Heiau was created by Hawaiian fairies called Menehune.

 

Recommendations

This land was once a sacred site where the ancient Hawaiians held numerous rituals.

From there, it has undergone various historical changes, and is said to have been the site of animal and human sacrifices during the period of intense wars for dominance in the Kingdom of Hawaii.

It is still treated as sacred land by the people of Hawaii and Oahu, and was designated as a National Historic and Cultural Landmark in 1962.

It is a very worthwhile spot to visit, not just for sightseeing, but also for experiencing the history of Oahu.

 

Access

Once you arrive in Kailua, follow Ulu'oa Street, Manu Aloha Street, and Manu Oo Street.

Go to the YMCA at the end of Manu Oo Street and park your car in the parking lot here if you are renting a car.

You can reach Ulupo Heiau by walking a short distance from the gate at the entrance to the parking lot in the direction to your left.

 

Bean to Bar

Do you like chocolate?

Chocolate is probably one of the most popular souvenirs from Oahu, Hawaii.

It is a bean-to-bar spot where you can enjoy Manoa Chocolate, which offers such a distinguished and high quality product among Oahu's chocolates.

 

Recommendations

Chocolate, such as macadamia nut chocolate, has a strong impression of Hawaii as a souvenir, but pure Hawaiian chocolate has only been available for a little over a decade.

Manoa Chocolate, which popularized such Hawaiian chocolates, has a factory and a store in Bean To Bar, where you can purchase high-quality organic chocolates in a fashionable store!

In addition to simply being able to purchase chocolate, a unique feature of the program is the opportunity to learn about the wine and whiskey that go well with each type of chocolate and its region of origin!

You can also take a tour of the chocolate factory, making this a spot where you can enjoy a lot of fun!

 

Access

Look for the Kailua Shopping Center along Kailua Road and continue north from there.

You can reach Beantubar in a few minutes by car or 10 minutes on foot!

 

Recommended Tours in Kailua

We have selected 10 of the most attractive spots in Kailua to introduce to you.

We would like to encourage visitors to visit more than one spot if possible, but given time and travel constraints, that is not easy to do.

Therefore, we recommend a sightseeing tour that allows you to explore Kailua efficiently.

You will definitely be able to enjoy sightseeing without various hassles and efficiently enjoy the city of Kailua!

Because you are traveling abroad with no familiarity with the land, it is recommended that you actively use sightseeing tours.

We have included a brief description of the tours and links to detailed information below, so please take a look together!

 

Kailua Sightseeing with Boots & Kimos pancakes and beach photo
Diamond Head Climbing Tour with a choice of one-day tours

Boots & Kimos, introduced above, is a popular restaurant where lines are a must, depending on the time of year and time of day.

This restaurant does not accept reservations and is basically first-come, first-served on site each day.

It is quite a hurdle for tourists, but if you join this tour, you can enter the restaurant without waiting.

Some plans include a photo shoot on the beach and a climb to Diamond Head in Waikiki, so you are sure to be very satisfied with this tour!

 

Kailua + North Shore Sightseeing Tour with Sunset & Starry Sky Viewing

In addition to Kailua, this tour also includes a visit to the North Shore, a popular area in the northern part of the island!

The North Shore is also an area known for its seaside beauty, so you can enjoy Oahu's beaches to the fullest.

In addition, as the tour title suggests, you can also enjoy sunset and star gazing, making it a great location to enjoy the best of both worlds.

We invite you to visit us to create memories with your family, friends, lovers, and other loved ones.

 

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling & Kailua Town Walk

On this tour, you will first enjoy snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, which is considered one of the most beautiful bays on Oahu.

Hanauma Bay is characterized by the blue of the ocean and its outstanding clarity, and is sure to offer the best underwater scenery!

Afterwards, you can enjoy a walk around Kailua Town and enjoy snorkeling and a full three hours each in this attractive schedule.

The set also includes a light lunch, so there is no need to worry about meals!

This tour will allow you to immerse yourself in as many activities and walks as you wish!

 

summary

We have introduced you to the town of Kailua, a popular spot on the eastern side of Oahu.

In any case, Kailua, a grown-up town full of diverse attractions, will surely satisfy your heart!

Compared to Waikiki and the North Shore, this location is a little more difficult to access by bus, but it can be enjoyed without any problems if you rent a car!

We hope you will visit Kailua when you come to Oahu!

Thank you for reading to the end.