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Things to do in Kailua

Our most recommended things to do in Kailua

From Honolulu: Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off

1. From Honolulu: Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off

Hop aboard a helicopter and admire Oahu’s landmarks on a guided flight tour from Honolulu. See the Waikiki skyline from above, fly past Diamond Head, and round the volcanic cliffs to Makapu’u Lighthouse. Choose a private or shared tour, with your choice of an on-or-off door experience. Make your way to the local partner’s helipad to begin your experience. Ascend above the city and follow the Windward Coast, with breathtaking views of the Ko’olau Mountains in the distance. Listen to your guide's live tour commentary. Pass Lanikai Beach and see its gorgeous coral formations. Cruise over Kaneohe Bay and discover why this place is regarded as one of the most scenic locations on Earth. Glide past the “Chinaman’s Hat” off the east coast of Oahu. See the Ka’a’awa Valley—the historic home of the island’s kings. Plus, take in views of the lush rainforest surrounding the Sacred Falls. Continue onto the North Shore to spot surfers at the Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay. Loop back to Honolulu and get a glimpse of the pineapple-tastic Dole Plantation. Finally, pass over the iconic Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, before returning to the helipad.

Oahu: Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki

2. Oahu: Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki

Take beautiful photographs of Hawaii on a photo tour from Waikiki. Capture the stunning colors of the island with the help of a professional photographer guide. Bring any camera you like on our tour and see the best of Hawaii on a photography tour Visit scenic locations to see the amazing blue waters of the ocean and skies of the east coast. Go to picturesque locations, such as the marine reserve of Hanauma Bay and the Halona Blowhole formed by molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions that happened thousands of years ago. Visit Sandy Beach and the Makapu’u Point Lookout on Oahu's southeastern tip. Admire Waimanalo Beach and the Ko’olau Mountains, and capture the stunning views from the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout. Make a stop at Kailua or Waimanalo for lunch. It's a great tour for anyone who wants to see beautiful locations and spend some time capturing them on their cameras as ever-lasting souvenirs. It's also ideal for cruise ship passengers who want something different to do while in port. Tour at an easy pace to enhance your Hawaii experience and enjoy short walks through the dramatic landscape along the way. Stops will be made at: • Tantalus lookout • Pali lookout (admission included) • Ko’olau Mountains • Waimanalo Bay • Ono Steaks & Shrimp Shack (not catered)  • Makapu’u Beach lookout • Sandy's Beach  • The Blow Hole lookout • Lana’i lookout • Hanauma Bay

Oahu: Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off

3. Oahu: Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off

Take a scenic helicopter flight over Oahu and marvel at the island's highlights from the air. Choose between a shared or private tour option to best suit you. See Waikiki Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, the Chinaman's Hat, and much more. Begin the helicopter adventure with a flight over Honolulu Harbor. See the Aloha Tower, which has been welcoming ships into the harbor for nearly a century. As you soar down the coast, go past the Waikiki beaches, looping around Diamond Head. Shortly, witness Maunalua Bay open in front of your eyes, revealing the island's world-renowned reefs. Be greeted by Makapu’u Lighthouse after the rocky cliffs before you travel up Windward Coast. Pass Lanikai Beach and then see the appropriately named Chinaman’s Hat, the island’s iconic monument. But it’s not all beach and coastline on your tour. Get a chance to experience the lush tropical landscapes of the Ka’a’awa Valley and see the beautiful Sacred Falls. On your homeward journey, catch sight of the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Get an emotional flyover of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. The top sights include Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Lanikai Beach, Chinaman’s Hat, Ka’a’awa Valley, Sacred Falls, and Dole Pineapple Plantation.

Oahu: Twin Islands Guided Kailua Kayak Tour

4. Oahu: Twin Islands Guided Kailua Kayak Tour

This kayak tour is led by certified lifeguards and true watermen and women, ensuring that your activities for the day go off without incident. During the day you will kayak to some of your guide's favorite spots, including secret, secluded locations throughout the bay where you can discover marine life, great snorkelling spots, a place to kayak surf, discover hidden tide pools, secluded coves, and visit a sea-bird sanctuary.  You will have the opportunity to snorkel with your guide in a live coral reef inside Kailua's turtle feeding grounds and enjoy the idyllic, tropical paradise settings. During your tour, you will collect marine plastics and learn how to positively interact with local wildlife. The local partner is a leader for sustainable tourism and incorporates eco-friendly practices into their tours such as eliminating single-use-plastics from their lunches.

Oahu: Kailua Guided Kayak Excursion with Lunch

5. Oahu: Kailua Guided Kayak Excursion with Lunch

Perfect for beginners or travelers wanting to perfect their skills, this kayak tour has been designed to show off the very best that Hawaii has to offer. Follow a qualified guide to their favorite locations around the bay, visit secluded coves, discover Hawaii’s marine life, and find the best spots to snorkel. During the tour you’ll also protect the island by helping to collect marine plastics as well as learn how to positively interact with wildlife. The tour focuses on sustainable tourism and incorporates eco-friendly practices, such as the elimination of single-use-plastics at lunch. Get kitted out with all the necessary safety gear before hopping onboard your kayak and heading into the water. The first stop of the day is the beautiful Popoi’a Island, where you can admire and learn about the nesting sea-birds which are protected here. Next, follow your guide on an easy eco-hike around the island, and explore the tide pools that line the shore. Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, replenish your energy with a snack break. While you eat, marvel at the magnificent landscapes of dormant volcanoes and the Ko’olau Mountain Range, which provide the perfect back drop to learn about Hawaii’s geologic history. Back on the kayak, soak up the tranquil atmosphere as you go in search of the green sea turtles that call these waters their home. Next, enjoy some free time to snorkel in search of colorful marine life, have a go at boogie boarding, or simply relax on the beach.

Oahu: Chocolate, Dolphins and Beaches East Shore Day Trip

6. Oahu: Chocolate, Dolphins and Beaches East Shore Day Trip

Set off on an adventure around Oahu. Visit Halona Blowhole, the Koolau Distillery, Kualoa Ranch, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm and Turtle Beach. This Adventure showcases Kualoa Ranch as well as other local treats on our Island. We will start our journey with dolphin, whale or monk seal searching. Then we will head to Turtle Bay for some relaxing beach time at turtle bay cove. Here you can search for turtles, snorkel, or just relax at this world class beach. Next, we will be grabbing local farm style food from one of the coolest Ranch venues in the world, Kualoa Ranch! Not only is Kuoloa Ranch the official film location for Jurassic Park and all tropical movies, it offers great locally farmed and raised food. I hope you'll be hungry, their hamburgers are all made of beef locally raised, their garlic shrimp is also raised onsite and is amazing. Don't worry vegetarians they have great vegetarian options too! Lunch is not included in the price. After a great lunch we will continue our adventure to Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm for some coffee and macadamia nuts Our next stop is one of the favorites, we will be tasting Manoa chocolate at Ko‘olau Distillery. One last stop, we will head to Halona Blowhole where Pirates of the Caribbean, 50 First Dates and whales are usually seen frolicking around. Take a closer look, to find a lava tunnel!

Oahu: Full-Day Guided Hawaiian Food and Photo Tour

7. Oahu: Full-Day Guided Hawaiian Food and Photo Tour

Experience the flavors of Hawaii on this full-day guided food tour. Stop for incredible photos along the way while sampling authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Start your adventure in the morning and head to the coffee shop for a local dish called the musubi. Continue to the Diamond Head Lookout and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the ocean. From here, head to Leonard's Bakery and try the famous Portuguese malasada. Next, visit the Halona Blowhole and Makapu'u Lookout to capture the most amazing photos of Hawaii. Now it's time for the famous plate lunch. Try it with shrimp or steak or a combination of both and see why it's one of the most popular meals on the island. Then, treat yourself to a trip to the chocolate factory in Kailua. Learn about Hawaii's history of chocolate and the movement to make it a sustainable industry. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to the Ko'olau mountains, and stop at a popular poke shop. Get a sample plate of poke to try the different flavors of this local dish. If you're not interested, don't worry, your tour guide will eat it for you. After, head to a local family spot for a large selection of traditional Hawaiian dishes to sample. Here, enjoy the diverse flavors of Hawaiian food. Finish your tour at one of the most popular shave ice places near Waikiki. Pick up one of these famous treats before being dropped off at the departure point.

Oahu: Honolulu Sunrise Photos Tour with Malasadas

8. Oahu: Honolulu Sunrise Photos Tour with Malasadas

The Golden Sunrise Tour is something that you can't miss! When the sun breaks over the horizon on O'ahu and lights up the sky with its brilliance, there's nothing to compare with its majesty. Wake up your senses with the dramatic feel of this spectacular dawn of the day. There are many different spots to choose from, but this tour ensures you will experience the best ones. After the sunrise, you'll explore the area for more great photos with beautiful lookouts, and secluded beaches you will also enjoy a well-earned Malasada from Leonards bakery (not included in the price). This tour is 3 hours long.  

Oahu Bundle: 6 In-App Driving and Walking Audio Tours

9. Oahu Bundle: 6 In-App Driving and Walking Audio Tours

Welcome to Shaka Guide's audio tour app, your ultimate companion for exploring the vibrant island of Oahu, Hawaii. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through stunning beaches, lush valleys, iconic landmarks, and cultural treasures. As you begin your tour of Oahu with the Shaka Guide app, prepare to be immersed in the island's natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. The app will provide informative and engaging audio commentary, sharing insights into the island's geology, marine life, Hawaiian traditions, and local tips. The app will guide you through the historic district of downtown Honolulu, where you can explore attractions such as Iolani Palace, the State Capitol, and the iconic King Kamehameha Statue. Discover the vibrant food scene, explore local markets, and learn about the city's fascinating past. Continue your exploration as you venture to the North Shore, a surfer's paradise renowned for its massive waves and laid-back vibe. The app will guide you to famous surf spots like Waimea Bay and Banzai Pipeline, where you can witness surfers tackling the legendary breaks. Enjoy the pristine beaches, indulge in delicious shrimp from the local food trucks, and explore the charming town of Haleiwa. Discover the natural beauty of Oahu's eastern coast as the app leads you to scenic spots like the Halona Blowhole and the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail. Marvel at the stunning panoramic views, spot humpback whales (during the season), and capture the beauty of rugged cliffs and sparkling turquoise waters. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and lushness of the island as you journey to the stunning Ko'olau Mountains. The app will guide you through scenic drives and recommend hiking trails where you can marvel at waterfalls, tropical foliage, and panoramic views of the island's interior. Experience the cultural richness of Oahu by visiting sites such as the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Byodo-In Temple. Learn about the diverse Polynesian cultures, enjoy traditional performances, and soak in the serene ambiance of the temple. As you explore the island, the Shaka Guide app will recommend local eateries, hidden gems, and cultural experiences that will enhance your visit to Oahu. Whether it's trying local Hawaiian dishes, snorkeling in pristine waters, or experiencing a traditional luau, the app will provide valuable insights to make the most of your trip. With the Shaka Guide app as your knowledgeable companion, your tour of Oahu will be enriched with fascinating stories, natural insights, and practical information. So, grab your phone, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating landscapes and vibrant culture of Oahu, Hawaii.

Oahu: Kailua Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson

10. Oahu: Kailua Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson

Stand-up paddling combines the thrill of surfing with the techniques of paddling, which when combined create a match made in heaven. This activity offers a variety of conditions, from flat-water cruising and moderate chop to rolling waves.   Lessons generally stick to the calmest areas to practice basic strokes and techniques. Your lesson begins with paddling instructions and a brief introduction class at the beach center. From there you’ll head to the Kailua Beach Park, where your instructor will help you launch your board and eventually stand up. Your group will then head out towards Popo’ia, also known as “Flat Island”, where you will typically land to enjoy a break and island tour.

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What people are saying about Kailua

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 367 reviews

Kurt was our private guide for the day and did a great job with both the food and the photo part of the tour. There were so many beautiful spots that we went to on this tour - the online description doesn't do this justice. Kurt provided us with some helpful, quick tips about taking better photos with our cellphone cameras. The food provided on this tour is delicious and plentiful - again, the online description doesn't really tell you how much value there is in this tour. We couldn't finish it all and came back to the hotel with lots of leftovers. Kurt was very kind to my partner who was not feeling well the day of our trip. Would definitely recommend this tour!

Had a great day out with Mac. He kept us entertained the whole way with his knowledge and expertise! Got some really fantastic photos to make everyone at home jealous. Would recommend to anyone who’s looking for a shorter tour to take in a lot of beautiful sights, we even saw some whales swimming quite close to the coast. The perfect last day in Oahu!

Love this app!!! Shakra was one of the best parts of our trip to Hawaii!!! We love to go off the beaten path on our time & this app was the perfect companion!!! Can’t wait to see if future travels in other parts of the world have it available!!!

Fantastic way to see the island. We had a really memorable flight and experience

super informative. seen a lot of the island by using this app!