La'ie

La'ie is a windward Oahu town known for the Polynesian Cultural Center, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, La'ie Point, beaches and North Shore access.

La'ie, Oahu

La'ie is a small town on Oahu's northeastern shore, between Hau'ula and Kahuku, about 38 miles (61 km) north of Honolulu. It is a predominantly Mormon community. The town's cultural attractions include the Mormon Temple, the Hawaii campus of Brigham Young University and the Polynesian Cultural Center.

The temple is the fifth oldest Mormon temple in the world. And the Polynesian Cultural Center is Hawaii's number one paid visitor attraction. It's a large open-air museum and park featuring the cultures of seven Polynesian island nations.

Another natural sight of interest is La'ie Point (also known as Laniloa Point), a prominent lithified dune jutting out into the ocean. To reach it, go toward the ocean from Kamehameha Highway onto Anemoku Street. Then turn right and follow Napaka Street to the end. Two other lithified dunes (Kukuihoolua and Mokualai) lie just offshore as scenic islets. La'ie Beach Park (Pounders Beach) and Hukilau Beach are located nearby.

La'ie has a small shopping square with a Foodland grocery store and a Subway and Taco Bell restaurant, among others. It is mainly a residential community. In the Hawaiian language, laie means "ie leaf" ("ie" is a climbing pandanus: Freycinetia arborea).

Key Features

Windward Oahu town on the island's northeastern shore
Home to the Polynesian Cultural Center and Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Close to La'ie Point, Hukilau Beach, La'ie Beach Park and Malaekahana Beach
Kamehameha Highway runs through town toward Kahuku and the North Shore
Good area for cultural attractions, coastal views and beach stops
Beach conditions can change with wind, surf and seasonal swells
Visitors should check attraction hours, show times and parking before going
Population: 5,963 at the 2020 Census
ZIP code: 96762

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is La'ie on Oahu?

La'ie is on Oahu's northeastern shore, between Hauula and Kahuku along Kamehameha Highway.

What is La'ie known for?

La'ie is known for the Polynesian Cultural Center, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, La'ie Point, beaches and its location near the North Shore.

Is the Polynesian Cultural Center in La'ie?

Yes. The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of La'ie's main visitor attractions and is located along Kamehameha Highway.

What beaches are near La'ie?

Nearby beaches include La'ie Beach Park, Hukilau Beach, Pounders Beach and Malaekahana Beach, with conditions changing by season and swell.

Is La'ie close to the North Shore?

Yes. La'ie sits near the northeastern side of the North Shore route, with Kahuku, Turtle Bay and other North Shore areas a short drive away.