Windward · 19 places in all
The windward side
Kailua and Lanikai, then a string of quiet beaches up the coast to Lāʻie.
The windward side faces the trade winds: greener, wetter and quieter than Waikīkī, with the Koʻolau cliffs right behind the beaches.
Kailua and Lanikai are the famous end; further north the coast is a chain of small, quiet beach parks.
2 ways to do it
EThe editorsKailua and LanikaiBreakfast at Kalapawai, the beach, the pillboxes, shave ice and a steak by the sand.9 placesA full day5 freeWindwardUse this list →
EThe editorsBeaches up the windward coastEleven beaches from Waimānalo to Lāʻie, from public-access maps, for a slow drive north.11 placesA full day11 freeEast sideWindwardUse this list →Questions people ask
Can you park at Lanikai Beach?
There’s no lot. Park at Kailua Beach Park and walk 5–10 minutes. On holiday weekends the city bans street parking in Lanikai from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Is Kailua worth a day trip?
Yes. It’s 30 minutes from Waikīkī, with one of the best beaches in Hawaiʻi and a good little town for food.
Are windward beaches safe to swim?
Kailua and Waimānalo have lifeguards. Many beaches further north don’t; swim only on calm days.