Kailua vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Kailua
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Popular amenities for Kailua vacation rentals
Kailua beach vacation rentals
Rental unit in Waikiki
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviewsIlikai Collection # 6.Luxury & beachfront location
Condo in Waikiki
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 241 reviewsBeachside Bliss: Steps to the Sand *legal rental*
Condo in Waianae
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 81 reviewsAmazing Beach Front REACH OUT for booking Dates!
Condo in Waikiki
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviewsBeautiful Waikiki - New AC! *Free Parking*
Condo in Ewa
5 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviewsHale Healani B-705 Stunning Views of the ocean
Condo in Waikiki
5 out of 5 average rating, 7 reviewsFloor-to-Ceiling Ocean (Car & Parking Available)
Condo in Waikiki
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviewsOcean View w/ 2 private balconies; 100ft to Beach
Rental unit in Waiʻanae
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviewsWaikikiLux at the Beach
Kailua home rentals
Home in Waianae
5 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviewsWestside Hawaiian Sanctuary-New Home w/ 24hr Gated
Home in Waianae
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviewsLarge family home 5 min from beach- newly built
Home in North Shore
4.77 out of 5 average rating, 48 reviewsWaimea Bay, North Shore - Walk to beach!
Home in Makaha Valley
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 86 reviewsSlice of Paradise-3 Bedrms-Sleeps 10-Max 8 Adults
Home in Hauula
5 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviewsFamily friendly home in Hauula; steps from beach
Home in Makaha Valley
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviewsKalo Homes ~ Makaha’s Hidden Gem!
Home in Waianae
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 61 reviewsFamily Oasis Million Dollar View Beach 5 min + 4BR
Home in Hawaii Kai
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 51 reviewsHale Ohana, Hawaii Kai, Oahu, #90/TVU-0258
Beach home rentals in Kailua
Home in Laie
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 44 reviewsRoomy Beach House w/ AC Perfect Location! 30 day
Home in North Shore
5 out of 5 average rating, 52 reviewsHaleiwa Waterfront House
Home in North Shore
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 126 reviewsHome: 3 bedroom 2 bath in Haleiwa Town
Home in Waianae
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 70 reviewsParadise Getaway Only 2-Min Drive From The Beach!
Home in Hauula
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 48 reviews4BR Hawaiian Dreams Ku'u Ahulili Beach Hale
Home in Hauula
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviewsEntire Beach front private home.
Home in Hauula
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviewsBeachfront Bliss on tropical acreage, Sea View, AC
Home in Kahuku
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 250 reviewsHawaiian Country Retreat - 30 day stays
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Kailua
Total rentals
380 properties
Total number of reviews
11K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
200 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
50 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
100 properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
180 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Kailua
Welcome to Kailua
With stretches of powdery white sand beaches, two reef-protected lagoons, and temperatures kept on the comfortable side of cool by ever-present trade winds, it’s no surprise Kailua is no longer the secret destination guarded by seasoned island vacationers that it once was. Located on the windward side of Oahu on a peninsula overlooking the crescent-shaped Kailua Bay and the Koolau Mountain range, Kailua is beloved for its small beach town vibe — a mellow yin to Honolulu’s metropolitan yang, with only a 25-minute drive separating the destinations.
There’s also an increasing possibility of rubbing well-tanned shoulders with vacationing celebrities drawn to the same soft sand beaches and tranquil aquamarine waters delivering on the promise of paradise. In Kailua you can revel in a variety of water sports. Hikers have a range of challenging trails to choose from, some leading to breathtaking mountaintop views, others to such secluded mountain-fed pools as Maunawili Falls, along with a network of leisurely footpaths awaiting within the 830 acres of Kawainui Marsh.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Kailua
With an average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit, there’s really no bad time to stay in one of Kailua’s vacation rentals. Months spanning from spring through fall generally offer the best balance between agreeable (dry) days, with sparser crowds that spike after Thanksgiving. Kailua’s windward location on the island means sweltering heat will rarely be a concern here, and the weather is almost always pleasant. Mornings can be a little muggy, though, before the trade winds flush out the humidity, perpetually moving clouds overhead to reveal the shockingly blue skies. If you plan to travel from November through early spring, come prepared for rainfall, including footwear outfitted for muddy conditions.
Top things to do in Kailua
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is often described as one of the world’s greatest beaches, and it’s easy to see why, with its breathtaking stretches of sand and ocean overlooking two nearby islets, the Na Mokulua. The waters here are typically calm, with a protected coastline buffered from windpowered waves thanks to a sizable reef offshore, making it one of the more swimmable spots on Oahu. These placid coastal waters are hard to beat — especially for kayaking and paddleboarding — tempting the more adventurous to paddle around those two offshore islands colloquially referred to as the Mokes.
Kawainui Marsh
Binoculars and a camera are a must while visiting Kawainui Marsh, the state’s largest protected wetlands, a sanctuary where many of Oʻahu’s endemic, endangered, and migratory birds, fish, and other aquatic life can be observed in their natural habitat. Travel by foot or by bike along a paved three-mile round path in a watershed that fed ancient Hawaiians with its abundance.
BookEnds
If you identify as a bibliophile and/or a lover of Hawaiian history, you might lose yourself once entering the door of this small neighborhood bookstore. BookEnds is filled with an extensive collection of Hawaiiana reflecting the islands’ history through photography, arts and crafts, architecture, and music.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Kailua?
Kailua's weather remains warm throughout the year with an average temperature ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). It sees the most rain from November to March, while the driest months are June to September.
What are some of the best things to do in Kailua?
Popular activities in Kailua include swimming, kayaking, or windsurfing at Kailua Beach, hiking the scenic trails such as the Olomana Trail, and exploring local markets like the Kailua Farmers Market. Visitors also enjoy sampling local cuisine at the many eateries in town.
What is the best time of year to visit Kailua?
Kailua is mostly visited during the summer months, particularly from May to September. Around this time, visitors can enjoy events such as the Kailua Independence Day Parade in July. The period between December and April is also popular, especially for those looking to escape colder weather.
What are the best places to stay in Kailua?
Visitors to Kailua often prefer staying in places close to its natural beauty. Lanikai, known for its beach, and Enchanted Lake, a residential area with a shopping center, are popular choices. Notably, Maunawili, with its proximity to hiking trails, also attracts nature lovers.
What are the best places to visit in Kailua?
In Kailua, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park are frequented by sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Nature lovers often explore the Maunawili Falls Trail and the Kawainui Marsh. The Kailua Farmers Market is a favorite among food enthusiasts for its local produce.
What are some hiking trails in Kailua?
Kailua has several hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. The Olomana Trail, offering three peaks of varying difficulty, and the Maunawili Falls Trail, leading to a waterfall, are popular choices. The relatively easy Pillbox Hike offers great views of the town and ocean.
What are some family activities to do in Kailua?
Families in Kailua can enjoy a day at the beach, try stand-up paddleboarding, or visit Kalapawai Market for a picnic lunch. They can also explore Pillbox Hike for a fun family adventure or visit the Thursday Night Farmers Market for a taste of local food and culture.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Kailua?
From Kailua, day trips can include exploring the marine life at Hanauma Bay, hiking the Ko'olau Mountain Range, or visiting the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples. Trips to the bustling city of Honolulu, just 19 km away, are also enjoyed by many.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Kailua?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 180 vacation rentals in Kailua featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Kailua?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Kailua. Choose from more than 50 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
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