Kailua, HI

Oahu’s public transportation system is TheBus. It provides regular service from Kailua to many places around the island including Waikiki and Honolulu. Most residents in this area do tend to drive cars, but the commute over the Pali Highway is challenging during the work week. Kailua is within reach of several beaches along the Windward Coast and is only a short drive from the North Shore. The town is also bike-friendly and many residents use pedal power to run local errands or head for Kailua Beach. Walking is another great way to get around. Some of the hole-in-the wall shops and vintage cafes can only be found when strolling about on your own two feet.

Visit the two-mile strip of white sand at Kailua Beach during a work day and you probably won’t have much company. But go back on the weekend and you’ll find a good portion of the town flying kites, picnicking, tossing baseballs, and getting good and wet in the surf. Fronting the beach is an expanse of lawn, plenty of shade trees, and lots of parking. Windsurfers gear up for afternoon rides when the wind picks up. Kayakers paddle from the beach out to Flat Island, a quarter-mile ride. There’s not much there except for a bird sanctuary but the snorkeling is first rate. Little kids play in the sandy shallows while the older ones try their hand at surfing. The waves are just large enough to make things interesting but gentle enough for beginners. Kaiwainui Regional Park, on the northern end of town, offers hiking trails and a chance to see some of Oahu's land-based wildlife. Golfers may tee off at the Pali Golf Course, nearby at Kaneohe. It's a public course with reasonable green fees.

Beaches are the main attraction along the Windward Coast. Waimanalo Beach Park and Bellows Field Beach Park are south of Kailua and noted for their beauty. Waimanolo Beach is 3-miles long and was used in the filming of “Baywatch” and “Magnum P.I.” Both beaches allow overnight camping. Roughly 10 miles south of Kailua is Sea Life Park. Think mainland marine park with a Hawaiian twist. Swim with dolphins, attend the Chief’s Luau or check out the Hawaiian Shark Tank. The local kids love this place just as much as the tourists. Follow the Kamehameha Highway 9 miles north and you’ll find Heeia State Park on Kaneohe Bay. This is the place to learn kayaking, stand-up paddling and catamaran sailing. Nearby vendors provide equipment rentals and lessons.