Warm (75° F), crystal clear waters. Huge schools of tropical fish. A live coral reef that serves as a feeding ground for endangered sea turtles. Whether you're a novice or an expert, snorkeling off of Kailua Beach is a not-to-be-missed experience.
Sure, surfing and kayaking are loads of fun, but nothing gets you up-close with marine life like donning a snorkel, mask, and flippers and paddling gently through the clear waters that surround the island of Oahu. The Hawaiian Islands form one of the most biologically diverse habitats on earth, and it would be a shame to pass up the opportunity to see some of the state’s most beloved creatures when you visit. Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks, Inc. offers you the chance to make use of a full set of snorkel gear for a half-day, letting you enjoy the magnificent southeastern shore of Oahu, with its pristine white beach at Kailua—which means “two seas”.
In the 16th century, Kailua was the residential seat of the royal family of Oahu, and it is now considered one of the best beaches in the United States for snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and other water sports. The cobalt blue waters and blinding white sand have attracted visitors for centuries, as well as locals who come to enjoy the scenery with loved ones.
Hours
Daily, 8:30 am-5:00 pm
Closed
Open 365 days a year.
Redemption Instructions
Included half-day snorkel equipment rental with the Go Oahu Card.
Address
130 Kailua Road
Kailua, HI 93764
Driving Directions
Leave Waikiki by taking Kapahulu Avenue up to H1 West. After 3 miles take Pali exit (Highway 61). Pali Highway will take you all the way over the mountain into Kailua Town. Keep going straight until you see a Fire Station to your right. Turn right on Kainalu Drive. Go to the end. Turn left onto Kailua Road. You will see Kailua Beach Center 1/4 mile down the road. You will find ample parking in our small shopping center. Kailua Sailboards and Kayaks is located in walking distance to Kailua Beach Park, 1 block down the road.
Public Transportation
TheBus: From Ala Moana, take the 56 or 56 City Bus to Kailua. Transfer to the 70 and get off at the Kailua Beach Center (app. 1.5 Hr).
A coral reef sits off the shore of quaint little Kailua, protecting its many miles of stunning beach, and keeping the waters a consistent and balmy 75 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so you will not need a wetsuit, no matter when you visit! Snorkelers can expect to see large schools of tropical fish (the colors look even more vibrant under the surface of the clear water with the sun shining through), as well as shy and dignified Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, which are frequent visitors to this protected beach (please do not try to touch these fragile creatures).
You also might get a glimpse of Hawaii’s state fish, the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa (the fish may be smaller than its name). Even the drive from Waikiki to Kailua Beach is spectacular, providing postcard-quality scenery that laces Highway 61 and sees you finish your journey at this seaside haven. If you’re planning on using public transportation, don’t be put off by the hour-long drive—see it as an opportunity to take in the sights!
Kailua Sailboards and Kayak's half-day snorkel package (available for adults as well as children) will get you out and exploring the calm water in no time. Take this opportunity to snorkel at what is consistently voted one of the nation’s best beaches, and come face-to-face with the incredible wildlife that calls Oahu’s waters home.
By Family of four
from Sacramento, Ca on 9/19/2010
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
[1 of 2 customers found this review helpful]
By Jen
from San Francisco, CA on 7/6/2010
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
[1 of 2 customers found this review helpful]
By Couple
from CA on 5/5/2010
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend