When planning your dream trip to Oʻahu, Waikiki is often the first stop — with its world-famous beach, endless dining, and lively nightlife. But just beyond Waikiki lies Kailua, a hidden gem with calm turquoise waters, soft sand, and a more relaxed, local feel.
With so much to explore, it helps to have a reliable resource to plan your journey. That’s where KAYAK comes in. Their Kailua Travel Guide highlights activities, attractions, and local tips, making it easier to balance your time between Waikiki’s energy and Kailua’s serenity.
Why Visit Kailua
Kailua Beach is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Its long shoreline is perfect for swimming, picnics, or a morning jog. A few minutes away, Lanikai Beach delivers calm waters with views of the Mokulua Islands — a dream spot for sunrise.
If you’re looking for things to do in Kailua, options go beyond the beach. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards, hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, or explore the boutiques and cafés downtown.
👉 Discover more activities in the official Kailua Travel Guide by KAYAK.
From Waikiki to Kailua: Easy Day Trips
Most travelers stay in Waikiki, but visiting Kailua is a must. The scenic drive over the Pali Highway takes about 30–40 minutes and is an experience in itself. KAYAK makes it simple to compare car rentals, find shuttles, or even browse flights if you’re island-hopping.
Using KAYAK’s travel planning tools, you can map out the perfect day: a Waikiki breakfast, a morning hike, then a full afternoon of relaxing in Kailua.
Capture the Memories: Kailua Family Photographer
Vacations go by fast, but photos last forever. Kailua’s golden sunsets, swaying palms, and turquoise waters create the perfect backdrop for family portraits, couples’ shoots, or group photos.
As a Kailua family photographer, I’ve helped countless families and couples capture these moments. Whether you’re on the beach, near a waterfall, or exploring Oʻahu’s secret spots, your time in Hawaii deserves to be remembered.
Plan Smarter with KAYAK
Oʻahu offers a mix of adventure and relaxation — from Waikiki’s busy streets to Kailua’s calm shores. The update makes it easy to organize your trip, discover activities, and plan the details all in one place.
👉 Don’t just visit Hawaii — plan your perfect Kailua getaway with KAYAK, and let us capture the memories with our photography packages.
