Kailua

 

Located on the eastern shore of Oahu and beneath the breathtaking Koolau Mountain range lies the quaint community of Kailua. It's famous for its outdoor lifestyle and beaches, perfect for swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, and more.

 

Even though it's only 20 minutes from Downtown Honolulu, Kailua feels like a different world. It has its own infrastructure and lots of amenities, including movie theaters, shopping centers, small shops, a bowling alley, grocery stores, and more. It's perfect for homebuyers and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

 

Neighborhoods in this community can be idyllic and eye-pleasing, with beach bungalows and sprawling plantation-style homes very close to the beach. Single-family homes range from hillside homes to beach bungalows to beach front homes to condos and townhouses.

 

 

Kailua residents appreciate the laid-back beachy lifestyle that comes with living in this community. They love watching the sun rise over the blue horizon and set over the western peaks and valleys. Life seemingly revolves around the beach, with many indulging in calm water activities. Away from the beach, people like exploring island-centric boutiques, dining at delicious eateries, or picking fresh produce at local farmer's markets.

 

Start your day at Moke's Bread & Breakfast, a laid-back joint with a beachy vibe. The breakfast menu features staples like lilikoi pancakes, loco moco, and omelets. Cinnamon's is another breakfast spot in Kailua you'll fall in love with. Their guava pancakes topped with whipped cream and some kind of guava sauce are to die for. You can also order numerous variations of eggs benedict, omelets, skillets, and other breakfast classics with a twist.

 

Head to Easy 'Que if you are in the mood for a barbecue. Everything is packed with flavor, including the sides. They also offer fun cocktails, bourbon, whiskey, and rye options. You can even get alcoholic slushies and bourbon flights.

 

The Kalapawai Café and Deli located at Kalapawai Market opened in 2006 and serves food inspired by backyard barbecues, home-cooked meals, and beachside picnics. You can pick up coffee and pastries or sit down in the café for a hearty meal. In the evenings, the eatery has a more upscale feel than during the day and some outdoor seating.

 

Lanikai Beach is consistently voted as one of the best beaches in the world, and it's easy to understand why when you see the glimmering waters, the lush vegetation behind it, and the Mokulua Islands on the horizon. You can make an adventure out of kayaking to the two islets. Kailua Beach Park is just a short distance from here and features silky white sands, lagoon-like waters, tall ironwood trees, and coconut palms. The ocean breezes are quite consistent, making Kailua Beach a favorite destination for kite surfers and windsurfers. 

 

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is short but scenic and traces the coastline for 1.8 miles along Kaiwa Ridge.