Things to do in Kaaawa
Discover amazing Kaaawa activities and premium in-home experiences.
Kaaawa is a tranquil coastal gem on Oahu’s windward side, where lush green mountains meet the azure Pacific Ocean. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and laid-back vibe, it's an ideal spot for those seeking to explore scenic trails or relax by pristine beaches away from busier tourist locales. Whether you're soaking up panoramic views of Kaʻaʻawa Valley or enjoying fresh local flavors at welcoming eateries, Kaaawa offers a truly enchanting Hawaiian experience.
Popular Activities in Kaaawa
Kayak and SUP 3-Hour Rentals
Enjoy a flexible 3-hour river outing with paddles and life jackets included
North Shore Oahu Group Surf Lesson
Learn to surf gentle North Shore waves with your group in an uncrowded cove.
North Shore Intermediate Surf Tour
Get personalized guidance to find the right waves for your ability
Hands-On Fireknife Experience
Learn the Siva Afi fire knife dance with guided instruction and demonstrations
Mobility Scooter Rental at Polynesian Cultural Center
Explore 42 acres in comfort with a full-day mobility scooter rental
Wheelchair Rental at Polynesian Cultural Center
Reserve a wheelchair for 7.5 hours to explore the Polynesian Cultural Center comfortably.
Single Stroller Rental at Polynesian Cultural Center
Make your visit easier with an on-site 3-wheel stroller rental for 7.5 hours
Koʻolau Distillery Whiskey Tour
Discover Hawaii’s whiskey-making process and enjoy a guided tasting in an active distillery.
OENO Winery Tour and Tasting on Oahu
Sample six natural wines and learn the winemaking process in a friendly, educational setting
Exclusive Chocolate & Wine Pairing on O‘ahu
Savor locally grown O‘ahu wine and chocolate in a guided pairing led by the winery team
Chinaman's Hat Self-Guided Kayak Tour
Paddle at your own pace to Mokoli'i and hike for panoramic Oahu views
Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak Tour
Paddle to Kailua’s twin islands, snorkel coral reefs, and hike Moku Nui with an expert guide
Sharks Cove Self-Guided Snorkel Experience
Discover top North Shore snorkel spots with provided gear and local tips
Kayak Rentals
Customize your Kailua beach day with quality kayaks, boards and accessories ready for easy pickup
Rainforest Self-Guided Kayak Tour in Kahana Valley
Paddle a calm rainforest river and bay with all gear supplied for an easy adventure
Rainforest Stand-Up Paddleboard Self-Guided Tour
Explore a lush rainforest river at your pace on a delivered stand-up paddleboard, perfect for all ages.
Kaneohe Bay Coral Reef Self-Guided Kayaking Adventure
Paddle Kaneohe Bay at your own pace and snorkel vibrant coral reefs with included gear
Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Self-Guided Kayak Experience
Paddle to the Kaneohe Sandbar for reef views and a rare mid-ocean sandbar experience at your own pace
Chinaman's Hat Self-Guided Kayak Rental
Explore Mokoli'i at your own pace with gear, demo, and route tips
Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Kayak Rental
Paddle at your own pace to the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar with gear, demo, and safety talk
Kahana Rainforest River Kayak Rental
Explore Kahana Valley’s rainforest river with easy pickup and included transport pads
Kailua Kayak Rentals
Paddle Kailua Bay to Mokulua or Popoia with included gear and easy car-top transport
Kailua Bay and Popoia Island Self-Guided Kayaking
Paddle sheltered Kailua Bay to Popoia Islet at your own pace with tandem gear provided
Mokulua Islands Self-Guided Kayak Adventure
Paddle from Kailua to the Mokulua Islands for an all-day ocean kayak and hiking experience.
Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour
Guided paddle to Popoia Island for beginners with optional snorkeling and wildlife viewing
East Oahu Self-Guided Kayak Experience
Paddle East Oahu’s reef-protected routes at your own pace with all gear included
Kailua Guided E-Bike Scenic and Food Tour
Taste local favorites and explore Kailua by e-bike with a knowledgeable guide and exclusive shop discounts
Popoia Island and Kailua Bay Full-Day Guided Kayak Tour
Paddle to Popoia Island with a guide, snorkel Kailua Bay, and enjoy beach gear for the afternoon
Kailua E-Bike Kau Kau Guided Food and Scenic Tour
Ride electric bikes through Kailua, taste local favorites, and explore beaches and hidden gems with a guide
Kailua Paddle Board Lesson to Popoia Island
Learn SUP and explore Popoia Island with a friendly guide in Kailua
Guided Mokulua Islands Kayak and E-Bike Adventure
Explore Moku Nui by kayak with e-bike transport and expert guides; lunch and shave ice included
Popoia Island Kayak and E-Bike Guided Adventure Tour
Ride e-bikes to Kailua Beach, then kayak and snorkel around Popoia Island with a guide
Popoia Island Kayak and E-Bike Guided Adventure
Guided paddle to Popoia Island with e-bikes to tow kayaks, snorkeling, and beach time included
Self-Guided Lanikai E-Bike, Pillbox Hike and Snorkel
Explore land and sea at your own pace with an e-bike ride, Pillbox hike, and Lanikai snorkeling
West Oahu Guided Snorkel Tour
Experience Oahu’s Best Snorkeling With a Lifeguard Certified Guide
Guided Kayak Excursion and Beach Time in Kailua
Paddle to Popoiʻa Island with a guide, then enjoy snorkeling, lunch, and free time on Kailua’s sandy beach.
Self-Guided Kayak Discovery in Kailua Bay
Explore protected waters, snorkel reefs, and picnic at your own pace with gear, lunch, and guidance included
Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson in Kailua
Learn paddle techniques then enjoy beach time with gear and lunch included along Kailua’s scenic coast
Explore the Charms of Kaaawa
Kaaawa is a serene coastal village on Oahu's windward side, where lush mountains meet azure waters. This hidden gem offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With its stunning landscapes and welcoming community, Kaaawa provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for those looking to experience authentic Hawaiian culture.
Start your day with a hike along the Crouching Lion Trail, which rewards you with breathtaking views of the coastline and verdant valleys below. After working up an appetite, head over to one of the local food trucks or eateries for some fresh poke or traditional plate lunch. For beach lovers, Kahana Bay Beach Park offers pristine sands ideal for sunbathing or enjoying a leisurely swim in calm waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
No visit to Kaaawa would be complete without exploring nearby attractions like Ka'a'awa Valley at Kualoa Ranch—famous as a filming location for numerous movies—and learning about Hawaii’s rich history through guided tours. Whether you're kayaking along crystal-clear shores or simply soaking up sunset vistas from your lanai, this charming town promises unforgettable memories that capture both heart and soul.