Kailua vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Kailua
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Popular amenities for Kailua vacation rentals
Kailua beach vacation rentals
Waikiki Shore - Beachfront
Ilikai Collection # 6.Luxury & beachfront location
Beachside Bliss: Steps to the Sand *legal rental*
Beautiful Waikiki Apartment Free Parking*
Oceanfront Dream Home (Car & Parking Available)
Ocean View w/ 2 private balconies; Steps to Beach
26 FREE Parking/Ocean Front 2br-Waikiki/Ala Moana
Private Escape on the Beach
Kailua home rentals
Westside Hawaiian Sanctuary-New Home w/ 24hr Gated
@Marbella Lane - Elegant 3BR w/ Marvelous Views
Kalo Homes ~ Makaha Valley Oasis!
Large family home 5 min from beach- newly built
Beautiful 4-BR Home| Near Beach| Mountain View
Slice of Paradise-3BR- Sleeps10-same $ for 2 as 10
3BR New Construction w/Mt views, Close to Beach
O‘ahu Perfect Vacation, Pool, Near Beach Sleeps 14
Beach home rentals in Kailua
Waikiki Gem, Stunning Ocean View, Parking Included
Paradise Getaway Only 2-Min Drive From The Beach!
One of a kind Beach front 2brm ocean and mnt views
Lanikai Ohana Hale: Tropical Cottage w/Pool, Lanai
Waimea Bay, North Shore - Walk to beach!
Hawaiian Country Retreat - 30 day stays
Peek-a-Boo Ocean View
Ocean View Vacation Home
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Kailua
Total rentals
360 properties
Total number of reviews
11K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
200 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
40 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
90 properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
170 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Kailua
Welcome to Kailua
With stretches of powdery white sand beaches, two reef-protected lagoons, and temperatures kept on the comfortable side of cool by ever-present trade winds, it’s no surprise Kailua is no longer the secret destination guarded by seasoned island vacationers that it once was. Located on the windward side of Oahu on a peninsula overlooking the crescent-shaped Kailua Bay and the Koolau Mountain range, Kailua is beloved for its small beach town vibe — a mellow yin to Honolulu’s metropolitan yang, with only a 25-minute drive separating the destinations.
There’s also an increasing possibility of rubbing well-tanned shoulders with vacationing celebrities drawn to the same soft sand beaches and tranquil aquamarine waters delivering on the promise of paradise. In Kailua you can revel in a variety of water sports. Hikers have a range of challenging trails to choose from, some leading to breathtaking mountaintop views, others to such secluded mountain-fed pools as Maunawili Falls, along with a network of leisurely footpaths awaiting within the 830 acres of Kawainui Marsh.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Kailua
With an average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit, there’s really no bad time to stay in one of Kailua’s vacation rentals. Months spanning from spring through fall generally offer the best balance between agreeable (dry) days, with sparser crowds that spike after Thanksgiving. Kailua’s windward location on the island means sweltering heat will rarely be a concern here, and the weather is almost always pleasant. Mornings can be a little muggy, though, before the trade winds flush out the humidity, perpetually moving clouds overhead to reveal the shockingly blue skies. If you plan to travel from November through early spring, come prepared for rainfall, including footwear outfitted for muddy conditions.
Top things to do in Kailua
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is often described as one of the world’s greatest beaches, and it’s easy to see why, with its breathtaking stretches of sand and ocean overlooking two nearby islets, the Na Mokulua. The waters here are typically calm, with a protected coastline buffered from windpowered waves thanks to a sizable reef offshore, making it one of the more swimmable spots on Oahu. These placid coastal waters are hard to beat — especially for kayaking and paddleboarding — tempting the more adventurous to paddle around those two offshore islands colloquially referred to as the Mokes.
Kawainui Marsh
Binoculars and a camera are a must while visiting Kawainui Marsh, the state’s largest protected wetlands, a sanctuary where many of Oʻahu’s endemic, endangered, and migratory birds, fish, and other aquatic life can be observed in their natural habitat. Travel by foot or by bike along a paved three-mile round path in a watershed that fed ancient Hawaiians with its abundance.
BookEnds
If you identify as a bibliophile and/or a lover of Hawaiian history, you might lose yourself once entering the door of this small neighborhood bookstore. BookEnds is filled with an extensive collection of Hawaiiana reflecting the islands’ history through photography, arts and crafts, architecture, and music.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Kailua?
Kailua's weather remains warm throughout the year with an average temperature ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). It sees the most rain from November to March, while the driest months are June to September.
What are some of the best things to do in Kailua?
Popular activities in Kailua include swimming, kayaking, or windsurfing at Kailua Beach, hiking the scenic trails such as the Olomana Trail, and exploring local markets like the Kailua Farmers Market. Visitors also enjoy sampling local cuisine at the many eateries in town.
What is the best time of year to visit Kailua?
Kailua is mostly visited during the summer months, particularly from May to September. Around this time, visitors can enjoy events such as the Kailua Independence Day Parade in July. The period between December and April is also popular, especially for those looking to escape colder weather.
What are the best places to stay in Kailua?
Visitors to Kailua often prefer staying in places close to its natural beauty. Lanikai, known for its beach, and Enchanted Lake, a residential area with a shopping center, are popular choices. Notably, Maunawili, with its proximity to hiking trails, also attracts nature lovers.
What are the best places to visit in Kailua?
In Kailua, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park are frequented by sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Nature lovers often explore the Maunawili Falls Trail and the Kawainui Marsh. The Kailua Farmers Market is a favorite among food enthusiasts for its local produce.
What are some hiking trails in Kailua?
Kailua has several hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. The Olomana Trail, offering three peaks of varying difficulty, and the Maunawili Falls Trail, leading to a waterfall, are popular choices. The relatively easy Pillbox Hike offers great views of the town and ocean.
What are some family activities to do in Kailua?
Families in Kailua can enjoy a day at the beach, try stand-up paddleboarding, or visit Kalapawai Market for a picnic lunch. They can also explore Pillbox Hike for a fun family adventure or visit the Thursday Night Farmers Market for a taste of local food and culture.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Kailua?
From Kailua, day trips can include exploring the marine life at Hanauma Bay, hiking the Ko'olau Mountain Range, or visiting the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples. Trips to the bustling city of Honolulu, just 19 km away, are also enjoyed by many.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Kailua?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 170 vacation rentals in Kailua featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Kailua?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Kailua. Choose from more than 40 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
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