Soak in the beautiful view from the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. Credit: HTA/Tor Johnson Windward Oahu - Kailua Town 286 On the Windward side of Oahu lies the relaxed, close-knit community of Kailua. Surrounded by the breathtaking Koolau Mountain Range and glistening Pacific Ocean with silky soft sandy beaches, this Windward Oahu town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Kailua also boasts a variety of shops, schools, medical facilities and restaurants, including Target and Whole Foods. Also enjoy farmers’ markets and community events including the annual “I Love Kailua” town party. Many of Kailua’s nearly 40,000 residents live, work and play in “at home”. However, the scenic commute to “town” (Honolulu) along the Pali Highway is only 12 miles away. Kailua borders Marine Corps Base Hawaii, making it a favorite relocation spot for military families. Celebrities can also be spotted on Kailua’s award-winning beaches and residing in the local neighborhoods. HAWAIIAN ROYALTY TO CATTLE TO CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY Kailua means “two seas” or “two currents” in Hawaiian, alluding to the two lagoons in the area – Kaelepulu and Kawainui – or the two currents which run through Kailua Bay. Hawaiians settled in Kailua as early as 500 A.D., communally enjoying the rich irrigated lands, freshwater ponds, cool windward breezes and bountiful food provided by pristine Kailua Bay. In 1795, King Kamehameha I fought his famous Battle of Nuuanu on the Pali Cliffs to unite the Hawaiian Islands. Afterwards, he granted Kailua lands to warriors and chiefs. The rich soil was used to cultivate an abundance of agriculture, from taro to bananas to sweet potatoes. While Kailua Beach is typically tapped by numerous publications as one of the best beaches in the world, it was officially named in 2019 as “The Best Beach in the United States” by Dr. Stephen P. Letherman – aka Dr. Beach. In his rating, the beach guru cited qualities like Kailua’s white sands, small waves and amenities that include picnic tables, restrooms and showers. And it is all at your Oahu doorstep! WINDWARD OAHU KAILUA
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