Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is a half-mile stretch of white sand in Kailua with clear, shallow water suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The Mokulua Islands are visible from the shore, and the setting offers a view of these protected natural areas across the water.

The beach took its current name in 1924 when a developer combined Hawaiian words to replace the original local name Ka'ohao. This naming change happened during an era when many places in Hawaii received new hybrid designations.

The place holds meaning for the community as a gathering spot where locals and visitors share the same stretch of sand and shallow water. People come here to enjoy the ocean in their own way, whether swimming, snorkeling, or simply watching the water and islands.

The beach lacks designated parking, so visitors need to locate free public access points between residential properties and find spots there. The shallow water and generally calm conditions make it easy to enter, but it's wise to check local conditions before your visit.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles regularly feed in the shallow offshore reefs throughout the year, making encounters with these animals fairly common during a swim. Watching these creatures glide through the water is often the most memorable part of a visit here.