Kalama Beach Park is a beloved community shoreline in Kailua, Hawaii, known for its gentle waters, open grassy lawns, and easy access to Kailua Bay.
Kalama Beach Park occupies a modest but cherished stretch of Kailua's famous windward shoreline on the eastern side of Oahu. The park is a neighborhood fixture, maintained by the City and County of Honolulu and used daily by residents who jog the grassy edge, picnic under the shade trees, and let children play in the shallow surf. The beach itself is composed of the fine, powdery white sand characteristic of Kailua Bay, and the water transitions gradually from pale green to deep turquoise as it deepens offshore. Because the bay is partially sheltered and fed by consistent trade winds, conditions here tend to be calmer than on Oahu's exposed north or south shores, making it accessible to swimmers and paddlers of varying skill levels.
Kailua as a town adds considerable appeal to any visit to Kalama Beach Park. The surrounding neighborhood is known for its independent boutiques, relaxed cafes, and a strong sense of local culture that sets it apart from the more tourist-heavy areas of Honolulu. Visitors can easily combine a morning at the beach with an afternoon exploring Kailua town's food scene, which includes well-regarded spots for acai bowls, plate lunches, and fresh fish.
The park itself has restroom facilities, outdoor showers, and open parking, keeping the experience straightforward and unpretentious. Kalama Beach Park rewards those who seek an authentic, unhurried side of Hawaii rather than a resort-curated one.
Visit during the early morning hours to enjoy the beach before the midday crowd arrives and to catch the clearest views of the Ko'olau Mountains.
Bring a paddleboard or rent one nearby, as the calm, shallow waters of Kailua Bay make Kalama Beach Park an ideal launch point for beginners.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, as Hawaii state law prohibits sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect the local coral reef ecosystem.
Try the shave ice at one of the shops along Kailua town's main street, just a short walk or drive from the park.
Arrive on a weekday if possible, as weekends draw local families and the parking lot fills up quickly in the late morning.
Explore Kailua's reefs on a 3-hour traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe and hear local stories from expert watermen
Private South Shore tour with beach lookouts and flexible stops
Ride an e-bike through Kailua with 3 tasting stops and a local guide
E-bike your kayak to Kailua Beach, then paddle to Moku Nui with a guide
E-bike to Kailua Beach, then kayak to Popoia Island with a guide
Ride an e-bike to the Lanikai Pillbox Trail and snorkel on your own schedule