Lanikai beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in Hawaii, features miles of white sand beach and excellent swimming areas all year-round. It also has an off-shore reef that keeps the water calm so it is great for families with small children. You can also kayak to small islands and bird sanctuaries a few miles offshore. Hemmed by mysterious hills, Lanikai is nestled in the corner of Kailua town and an exclusive residential neighborhood.
Lanikai Beach – an overview
Located in the windward coast of Oahu, Lanikai beach has been constantly included in the list of the best beaches in the world. Adjacent to the beach is an upper-class residential area so it is only accessible through public beach access paths. While the beach itself is considered as a public property, it is not a county beach park like other beaches in Hawaii. It does not offer a public parking lot and the area also lacks certain facilities such as showers and restrooms.
The charm of Lanikai beach lies in its secluded location. During weekdays, the beach is relatively empty. However, the beach is extremely crowded during the weekends of peak tourist seasons. Lanikai has become a popular place for photo shoots as popular photographers and models frequent the place. Its position on the eastern area of the island also makes it a great place for watching the moonrise over Mokula’s, especially during a full moon. This makes Lanikai Beach a great place for couples, families, and friends.
Things to do in Lanikai
The dreamy Lanikai beach is certainly a hidden gem that is popular for its aquamarine water, soft sands, and gentle onshore winds. The protected lagoon at Lanikai beach seems like a big, tropical swimming pool that makes it great for children. Seawalls built along its shore have also made the windward coast disappear in the recent years so you should probably enjoy what is left while you still can. Lanikai actually means heavenly sea, which aptly describes the crystal clear waters of this picturesque beach.
Aside from its pristine sands, swaying palms, and calm waters, Lanikai beach has become popular among photographers and celebrities. Its breath-taking scenery and stunning surroundings has helped it remain popular over the years. Aside from swimming, it is also great for other activities such as swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing. You can also lie around the shore and bask in the glorious rays of the sun. It is also a great for snorkelling because you will not have any worry about going too far off the shore.
Another popular activity in Lanikai beach is paddling kayaks to the scenic, offshore islands of Mokula seabird sanctuary. The large island is about a mile away from the southern end of Lanikai beach, with its up-current upwind great for experienced kayakers. Amidst the coral reefs, you will see lots of colorful fish so it is one of the best snorkelling areas between Haokea Drive and Mokumanu Drive. The onshore trade winds also make Lanikai beach great for windsurfing and sailing.
Lanikai is certainly a great place to visit during your trip to Hawaii. Its pristine beaches, calm waters, and picturesque landscapes will surely captivate your heart as you reminisce the wonderful years that have passed by.
