Highlights of Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is a quiet shoreline stretching beyond the residential area in eastern Kailua. Once you pass through the residential area via the public access path, a white-sand beach and blue ocean come into view.
Residential Lanes and Coastal Scenery
At the entrance to the residential area stands a monument engraved with “LANIKAI.”
Hidden behind homes, the beach is barely visible from the road. To avoid disturbing the quiet residential area, refrain from speaking loudly or entering private property, and use the marked public paths.
The ocean looks slightly different from each path, and the scenery along the way before the blue sea appears at the end is part of Lanikai Beach’s unique appeal.
Beyond the paths, a heavenly sea stretches out before you. Restrooms, showers, and other facilities are available at nearby Kailua Beach, so it is reassuring to make the necessary preparations before visiting.
You can see the offshore islands and the crystal-clear water. Plan for both your time on the beach and the round trip to and from Kailua Beach.
Kailua Beach to the west offers not only a wide sandy shore but also convenient access to restrooms, showers, and parking, making it a useful base when visiting together with Lanikai Beach. The differences between the two beaches and ways to spend time at Kailua Beach are introduced in the article below.
Basic information about Lanikai Beach
The information below was checked against official sources on October 11, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Honolulu City’s website provides information on parking restrictions and the traffic management plan for the Lanikai area.
Lanikai Transportation Management Plan Parking Regulations Update presentation available online | Department of Transportation ServicesKAILUA – The City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS) has made the Lanikai Transport...www.honolulu.gov - 📍 Location
- Kaʻōhao shoreline, Kailua, Oʻahu
- 💴 Admission
- There is no admission fee for public access to the shoreline.
- ⚠️ Parking and facilities
- There is no public parking dedicated to the beach. The shoreline, approximately 800 m away, has no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards, so prepare on the Kailua Beach side and walk from there. Parking restrictions on nearby roads are being updated, so follow local signs first.
- ⏱ Time required
- Allow about 1 to 2 hours to walk along the shoreline and enjoy the scenery. ⚠️ Include the walk from Kailua Beach and time spent by the sea when planning your visit.
Getting to Lanikai Beach
By car and parking
Lanikai Beach has no public parking. Use the public beach access paths and follow the parking restriction signs in the residential area. You can also walk from Kailua Beach or use public transportation.
The city's announcement dated 15/6/2026 outlines a plan to change the parking restrictions in stages, but the construction schedule has not been set. This announcement alone does not establish that the changes have already been implemented.
Local bus and walking
Travel from Honolulu toward Kailua, transfer to TheBus 671, and continue toward Lanikai. From the stop you use, walk to the coast. 671 operates from Monday through Sunday.
On TheBus’s official routes and schedules page, you can check the route map and schedules needed to plan a round trip.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Oahu: A guide to attractions, food, transportation, and a sample itinerary”.
