Lanikai

Lanikai, Oahu

Lanikai is an upper-class residential community on Oahu's windward coast. It is part of Kailua. Lanikai is most known for its great beach. Even though it is just about a half mile long, its powdery soft white sand is a draw to residents and visitors alike. Just offshore are the two Mokulua Islands, a popular kayaking destination. Lanikai Beach has been photographed the world over and graces many Hawaiian postcards and wall calendars.

The community is small and doesn't have any supermarkets or other stores. The homes here are expensive and some of them are vacation rentals.

A popular hiking trail in Lanikai is located at the end of Kaelepulu Drive. It is the Ka'iwa Ridge Trail, also known as Lanikai Pillboxes. It leads up the small mountain and from up there one has a nice view of Lanikai, Kailua and the Mokulua Islands. It takes about one hour to hike all the way up. The trail is wide enough to keep away from some steep dropoffs, but nevertheless be cautious.

Key Features

Windward Oahu setting: Residential beach neighborhood within Kailua

Signature beach: Lanikai Beach has pale sand, clear-water views and no public facilities

Mokulua Islands: Offshore islets with wildlife sanctuary rules and kayaking access considerations

Trail views: Ka'iwa Ridge Trail offers views over Lanikai, Kailua and the Mokulua Islands

Residential access: Narrow streets, limited parking and signed beach paths

Ocean caution: No lifeguards, with changing wind, currents, reef, swell and jellyfish conditions

Visitor planning: Check parking rules, ocean conditions, trail conditions and sanctuary access

Zip code: 96734

Plan Your Visit

Use Lanikai for beach access, sunrise views, kayaking and the Ka'iwa Ridge Trail. Check parking rules, wind, surf, reef, jellyfish and sanctuary access before you go.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

3.0

Rated 3.0 out of 5 based on 1 rated visitor review.

Add Your Review

Lynn

Mon Dec 31, 2018

Nice but too busy!

Photo gallery

Lanikai Photos

Browse Lanikai photos featuring aerial beach views, Mokulua Drive, residential streets, Mid Pacific Country Club, neighborhood parks and scenic views toward Kailua Bay.

Location, Parking and Directions

Lanikai is located within Kailua on Oahu's windward coast, just south of Kailua Beach and east of Kailua town. From Honolulu, drive through the Pali or Likelike route toward Kailua, then continue toward Lanikai. Parking is limited on residential streets and varies by posted signs, access path, trailhead area and time restrictions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lanikai on Oahu?

Lanikai is a residential beach neighborhood in Kailua on Oahu's windward coast, just south of Kailua Beach and east of Kailua town.

What is Lanikai known for?

Lanikai is known for Lanikai Beach, Mokulua Islands views, sunrise scenery, kayaking, the Ka'iwa Ridge Trail and its quiet residential streets.

Does Lanikai Beach have facilities?

No. Lanikai Beach is not a beach park and has no public parking lot, restrooms, showers, lifeguards or concessions. Kailua Beach Park has more facilities nearby.

Can visitors kayak to the Mokulua Islands?

Yes, but visitors need to follow current wildlife sanctuary rules, ocean conditions and legal landing access. Use a permitted operator when needed.

Is parking easy in Lanikai?

No. Parking is very limited in the residential neighborhood. Follow all signs, avoid blocking driveways and consider walking from legal parking outside the loop.