Kailua, HI

Travel Guide

A couple sitting on a beach with clear blue water and small islands in the distance.
A couple walking on a beach with calm waters and distant islands.
A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and several boats lined up on the right.
A coastal residential area with a clear view of the ocean and two small islands in the distance.
A coastal residential area with houses, a beach, and clear turquoise waters.

Where to stay in Kailua

Find the best Kailua areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kailua
Learn more about Kailua
A sandy beach with footprints, calm turquoise waters, and distant mountains under a clear sky.
Photo by John
Open Photo by John

Kalama Tract

While Kalama Tract might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Kailua Bay Beach and Kailua Beach.

A couple walking on a beach with two prominent mountains in the background.

Coconut Grove

While Coconut Grove isn't home to many top sights, Kailua Bay Beach and Kailua Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

A sign at Maunawili Falls Trail warning against littering, using drugs, and other prohibited activities.
Photo by Michael Downs
Open Photo by Michael Downs

Maunawili

Travelers like the golf courses in Maunawili, and Olomana Three Peaks Trail is a top attraction you might want to visit.

A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, two small islands, and a dense palm tree line.

Lanikai

While Lanikai isn't home to many top sights, Lanikai Beach and Lanikai Pillboxes Trailhead are some notable places to visit nearby.

A coastal town with a clear view of the ocean, a hilly landscape, and a distant mountain range.

Beachside

Though Beachside might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Kailua Beach and Lanikai Pillboxes Trailhead.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
2005 Kalia Rd Honolulu HI
$292 nightly
The price is $346 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$346 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Honolulu. Enjoy 5 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and 9 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
2424 Kalakaua Ave Honolulu HI
$314 nightly
The price is $373 total per night from Sep 20 to Sep 21
$373 total
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in Honolulu. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (5,406 reviews)
"Everything you needed was walking distance. They offer lawn chairs and towels for the beach. Family friendly and staff super kind."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
2255 Kalakaua Ave Honolulu HI
$324 nightly
The price is $385 total per night from Sep 27 to Sep 28
$385 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Honolulu. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (3,556 reviews)
"Beach view was unforgettable"

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
See all 5,997 properties in Kailua
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Less than 1 min walk to Kailua Beach- NUC#1990/NUC-1760

Less than 1 min walk to Kailua Beach- NUC#1990/NUC-1760

Kailua HI
Book a stay at this beach cottage in Kailua. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (163 reviews)
"So nice to have a pool and to be right across the street from the beach. Not to mention Buzz’s is within walking distance."

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2026

Less than 1 min walk to Kailua Beach- NUC#1990/NUC-1760
BEACH FRONT KAILUA ESTATE, OCEAN VIEWS, HUGE LUSH PRIVATE HISTORIC PROPERTY

BEACH FRONT KAILUA ESTATE, OCEAN VIEWS, HUGE LUSH PRIVATE HISTORIC PROPERTY

Kailua HI
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Kailua. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (159 reviews)
"Very attentive host and a nicely clean home. Great location, short walk to the beach."

Reviewed on Aug 29, 2026

BEACH FRONT KAILUA ESTATE, OCEAN VIEWS, HUGE LUSH PRIVATE HISTORIC PROPERTY
Less than a one minute walk to Kailua Beach, Pool, Bikes, BBQ, A/C, and more

Less than a one minute walk to Kailua Beach, Pool, Bikes, BBQ, A/C, and more

Kailua HI
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Kailua. Enjoy laundry facilities, balconies, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Kailua Beach and Lanikai ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (165 reviews)
"Great location, check-in process, and communication was very goodThe unit wasn’t really a one bedroom. It was more of a studio that had a very old AC window unit that struggled to keep the unit coolThe furniture and amenities were very old and dated. The pool area was nice but again very worn."

Reviewed on Sep 8, 2026

Less than a one minute walk to Kailua Beach, Pool, Bikes, BBQ, A/C, and more
See all properties in Kailua
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Kailua attractions

A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and several boats lined up on the right.

Lanikai Beach

9.2/10 (3,293 reviews)
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Lanikai Beach during your travels in Kailua? You can seek out the snorkeling spots while in the area.
See properties

Things to do

Waikiki Turtle Snorkel Catamaran Sail

Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel Catamaran Sail (Turtles Guaranteed)

$84
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel Catamaran Sail (Turtles Guaranteed)
Ultimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island

Ultimate Circle Island Tour with Pearl Harbor Dole Plantation & USS Arizona

$131
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Ultimate Circle Island Tour with Pearl Harbor Dole Plantation & USS Arizona
Majestic Circle Island Tour

Circle Island Tour including Lunch, Waimea Falls & Byodo-in Admissions

$136
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Circle Island Tour including Lunch, Waimea Falls & Byodo-in Admissions
Hollywood Movie Sites Tour

Hollywood Movie Sites Tour at Kualoa Ranch

$60
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Hollywood Movie Sites Tour at Kualoa Ranch
Fire spinning performer and dancer in white outfit.

Waikiki Starlight Luau on the Great Lawn at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

$112
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
Waikiki Starlight Luau on the Great Lawn at the Hilton Hawaiian Village
1 Hour Waikiki Sail on Na Hoku 3 Catamaran

1 Hour Waikiki Sail on Na Hoku 3 Catamaran

$46
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
1 Hour Waikiki Sail on Na Hoku 3 Catamaran
See all activities in Kailua

Frequently asked questions

Is Kailua worth visiting?
Kailua is worth visiting for its beautiful beaches like Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, perfect for relaxation. Travelers can also enjoy a diverse food scene, with options ranging from Asian to North American dishes, and explore distinct areas such as Maunawili.
When is the best time to visit Kailua?
The best time to visit Kailua is from January through May, when the climate is pleasant and mild. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the warmer month of September is a good option, offering comfortable temperatures.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Kailua?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Kailua depend on what you want to see:

  • Maunawili offers outdoor activities like the Olomana Three Peaks Trail, plus the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club and Ulu Pō Heiau State Monument.

What is Kailua known for?
Kailua is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach, and Kalama Beach Park. Travelers can also enjoy a strong Asian food culture throughout the city, which includes areas like Maunawili.
What is a good itinerary length for Kailua?
A good itinerary length for Kailua is two to three days to enjoy its beautiful beaches like Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, plus a 2-Hour Guided Kayak Tour. An extended stay of four to five days lets travelers explore the Maunawili neighborhood and experience the Manoa Chocolate Factory Tour. See Kailua Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Kailua?
Kailua offers a mix of beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and unique local experiences for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Kailua?
To plan your trip to Kailua, book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. Enjoy activities like a 2-Hour Guided Kayak Tour or the Manoa Chocolate Factory Tour. Explore natural attractions such as Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, and plan any outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
What cuisines can you find in Kailua?
In Kailua, you can find Hawaiian cuisine, with dishes like fresh poke and kalua pig. Travelers also have options for Asian flavors such as Japanese and Chinese, Italian dishes, and Latin American choices like Mexican food. You can also find Mediterranean options.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Kailua?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Kailua by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Kailua with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Kailua trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Kailua?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Kailua can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Kailua trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Kailua trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Kailua trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Kailua trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Kailua?
If it's your first trip to Kailua, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Kailua hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Kailua hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Kailua

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Honolulu

A coastal landscape with a beach, rocky coastline, and a prominent hill.

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A coastal landscape with mountains, a clear blue sky, and several sailboats on the water.

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