"Kailua, on the Windward Side" Top 5 Page for this destination Kailua by Rixie

Kailua Travel Guide: 61 reviews and 170 photos

If I could have a second home anywhere in the world, I would choose Kailua. When I was there, I was seriously tempted to sell everything I own and call the office to say, "I'm not coming back!" Unfortunately, even if I sold everything, I'd still be several million dollars short. . .

Kailua has carved green mountains, a long, white-sand beach that I consider to be the most beautiful on Oahu, and all of the amenities like good restaurants, shops, a public library, and a medical center. The air is pure, the pace of living is relaxed, it's not overrun with tourists, yet it's only 11 miles from the city of Honolulu, on the windward side of the island.

Quite a few military officers make their homes in Kailua. The Marine base at Kaneohe is close by, and Pearl Harbor is an easy and scenic commute via H3.

President Barack Obama, who is a graduate of Punahou School in Honolulu, vacations in Kailua whenever he can.

Beach homes, Kailua

This photo shows one of the many homes in Kailua that I can't afford! I actually know exactly where I would live, if I could. It wouldn't be right on the beach, just in case there were ever a tidal wave, but it would be within walking distance in a serene, landscaped condo complex.

Mailbox, Kailua

I enjoyed walking around Kailua and seeing the personal touches people added to their homes.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Gorgeous beach, lovely climate
Cons:High real estate prices
In a nutshell:My idea of Paradise

Intro Updated Jan 17, 2010
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Reviews (10)

Tour a Ukulele Factory Off The Beaten Path (1)

Kanile'a Ukulele is owned by husband-and-wife team Joe and Kristen Souza, both of whom were born and raised in Kailua.... more travel advice

Going Mall-ing Shopping (2)

The closest mall is the Windward Mall in Kaneohe, about 10 minutes away from Kailua. You can find the usual stores... more travel advice

One of the many shopping centers in Kailua - Kailua

A Variety of Shops Shopping (2)

There are all kinds of places to shop in Kailua - everything from a Goodwill store to pricey beachwear boutiques. I was... more travel advice

Lots to look at - Big City Diner - Kailua

Great Breakfasts Restaurants (5)

Big City Diner is a great place for breakfast. They serve American breakfasts with a local flair: guava juice, fresh... more travel advice

Things to Do (2)
See All Walk on the Beach

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Travelogues (1)

Written Nov 11, 2010

8 photos

A Visit to Kanile'a Ukulele Factory

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Comments (2)

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aussirose Jan 10, 2011 at 3:46 PM

Mmmm, that is a gorgeous beach Laverne :o) Cute mailbox too. I can see why you would want to live here :o) Hugs, Ann.
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cachaseiro Feb 20, 2010 at 9:17 AM

nice page laverne. seems like you spend a lot of time eating there :O)