Change doesn't come very often to Kailua, which is exactly how the people of this beach community prefer it. Residents enjoy the privacy of their peaceful suburbia and fight to preserve Kailua's rustic roots. Still, any area with a top-tier beach down the street is going to garner attention.
One of Kailua's biggest draws is Lanikai beach. Even by Hawaii's high standards, Lanikai stands out as one of the premier beaches on the island. The soft, powdery white sand and rolling waters make the area an ideal spot for a day at the beach. Swimmers venture out to small islands that loom on the horizon and bodyboarders frolic along the shoreline waves.
The unique air currents of Lanikai also make it a favorite spot for kite surfers. This high-thrill, high-intensity activity allows adventurers to harness the breezes while skimming along the ocean surface. Experienced kite surfers catch strong updrafts and glide several feet in the air, coming as close to flying as humans can get.
One of Kailua's longest-standing traditions is the annual Fourth of July parade, a tradition that has been going on for nearly 65 years. Residents who aren't in the parade line the street to watch the spectacle pass by. A salute to military men, local organizations, politicians, and community groups are all part of the parade. And, since it is a celebration, there are a few fireworks along the way.
For shoppers, Kailua Shopping Center is the biggest place in town with dozens of retail stores and restaurants. Located on Kailua road, the sprawling shopping center is impossible to miss as you travel through town.
After a long day at the beach, a favorite place to cool off is Island Snow. This popular store serves up sweet, frosty shave ice in a multitude of flavors. Mainlanders may know these concoctions as snow-cones, but in Hawai'i these frozen treats are called shave-ice. And, of course, President Barack Obama knows about Island Snow and stops by when he is on vacation.
Unlike Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, Kailua lacks the buzz and excitement of city life. If this makes Kailua seem quaint or boring, well, that's exactly how the people like it.
Area Resources
- • Kailua on Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kailua,_Honolulu_County,_Hawaii
