Lanikai beach is one of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches and consistently ranks among the nicest in the world. Located on the northeast side of the island, the area offers a winning combination of crystal clear water, soft sand, and a picturesque view of the mountains. Lanikai beach is so easy to get to from Honolulu by bus or car and is a must for anyone visiting Oahu!
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Location of Lanikai Beach
Lanikai beach is located only the northeast side of Oahu in the town of Kailua which is about a 30 minute drive from Honolulu. It is a public beach located in a residential area in the town of Kailua.
Transportation
By Bus: Without a car, Lanikai beach is easily accessible on the bus route. From Honolulu, take the 67 bus to Kailua where you will get off after about 35 minutes at the “Kailua Road Hahani St” stop. There is a grocery store at this stop called Down To Earth Organic And Natural where you can grab snacks and drinks for the beach. From here, you’ll get on the 671 where after about a 10 minute drive, you’ll depart at “Alala Dr. & Kaneapu Pl”. Follow the path for about 5 minutes down the road which will take you take you to the remote, spectacular seashore.
By Car: Only a quick 30-40 minute drive will bring you to the beautiful shores of Lanikai Beach. It’s important to note that parking is very limited so arrive early, especially on the weekends. There are no parking lots near Lanikai Beach. Only street parking is available. The best streets to look for parking are Mokolua drive and Kaiolena drive. If you are unable to find street parking near Lanikai beach, Kailua beach park has a public parking less than a mile down the road.
Why Is Lanikai Beach So Popular?
Lanikai beach is one Oahu’s favorites and for good reason. It has everything you could ask for:
- pristine, white sand that is so soft and powdery
- beautiful turqioise blue water
- calm waters that could spend the entire day floating around in
- a secluded atmosphere away from the busy beaches of Waikiki
The Best Time To Go
The least busy time to go is on the weekdays in the morning or before noon. If you are going on a weekday, be sure to get there before noon to get a good spot on the beach and avoid parking troubles.
Things To Do
Snorkeling:
Bring your snorkel gear because you can spot small, colorful fish and other marine life on the shallow reefs right off the shore. Although this is not the best snorkeling Oahu has to offer, the crystal clear and calm water make it the perfect spot for children or beginners.
Kayaking:
The calm waters also make it the perfect spot for kayaking out to “the Mokes”, the 2 small islands directly across from Lanikai beach. Kayaking out to the larger, northern island is permitted, but not allowed at the smaller island since it is a bird sanctuary. Kayaks can be rented from the neighboring Kailua Beach. To book a guided kayaking tour out to the islands with lunch included, Click Here!
Beach Games and Activites:
Lanikai beach is much less crowded than Waikiki beach allowing for more space of the beach for activities and games. The least busy times at Lanikai beach are on the weekends in the morning or early afternoon. Pack up your frisbees, volleyballs, and footballs for a fun day at the beach!
Watch The Sunrise:
Lanikai Beach has the most beautiful sunrises. One of the best spots on the island! Get here early, pack up your breakfast and coffee, and enjoy the peaceful beach as you watch the sun rise.
Other Great Activities to Book in Oahu
Toa Luau:
One of Oahu’s most authentic luaus at a great price
Turtle Canyon Waikiki Snorkel Adventure:
Snorkel with sea turtles and schools of fish on this small group tour
Waikiki Sunset Cruise:
BYOB! Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise as you sip of your favorite drinks
Oahu Hidden Gems Tour:
experience some of Oahu’s must see spots in one day
Surfing Lesson At Waikiki Beach:
Don’t leave Hawaii without getting up on a surfboard once!
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What To Pack
As there are no food sales at Lanikai beach, be sure to pack your own lunch, snacks, and water. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen as there are very few shaded areas.
As mentioned above, bring any snorkel gear you own as there are shallow reefs where you can spot some colorful fish.
It’s also important to note that there are no lifeguards, restrooms, or showers as Lanikai beach. There are facilities at the neighboring Kailua beach and only take a little over 10 minutes to walk to.
The Best Places For Food After The Beach
Since Lanikai is in a residential area, there are no restaurants in the immediate vicinity, but plenty of good restaurants in downtown Kailua a short drive or a few bus stops away. My personal favorite is Uahi Island Grill. They have delicious food and incredible happy hour drink prices such as select $4 beers, $5 wines, and $6 cocktails. They also have disounts on apps such as Kailua pork fries, furikake calamari, and fried garlic chicken. Some other highly rates restaurants in the area are The Hibachi for fresh poke, Nalu Health Bar and Cafe for healthy acai bowls and yummy wraps, or Easy Que for some comfort Hawaiian BBQ.
