Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach Park is consistently rated one of the best beaches in America, and it is the beach that Honolulu locals actually go to with their families. Located on Oahu's windward (east) coast, about 30 minutes from Waikiki over the dramatic Pali Highway, Kailua Beach offers everything Waikiki does in terms of beautiful water and sand, minus the crowds, high-rises, and commercial chaos.

The beach stretches for 2. 5 miles of fine white sand with crystal-clear turquoise water that is warm year-round. The offshore reef provides some wave protection, creating conditions that are generally calmer than north shore beaches but with enough small shore break for boogie boarding.

The water is shallow for a long way out, making it comfortable for kids of all swimming abilities. The sand is remarkably soft and clean -- the kind of sand that makes for excellent castle building.

Kailua Beach Park itself has excellent facilities for families: large free parking lot (arrives early, it fills), restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables under shade trees, and a large grassy area perfect for frisbee, soccer, or just spreading out a blanket. There is also a playground at the park. The combination of beach, grass, and playground means families can easily spend a full half-day here with kids of different ages all entertained.

For active older kids and teens, Kailua Beach is a launching point for kayaking to the Mokulua Islands, two small offshore islands about 45 minutes by kayak. The paddle is suitable for teens and fit kids age 10+ with an adult. Landing on Moku Nui (the larger island) reveals a hidden beach, tide pools, and a natural swimming cove.

Several rental companies in Kailua town offer double kayaks and provide safety briefings. The paddle crosses open water with some chop, so this is not suitable for young children.

The drive to Kailua from Waikiki is part of the experience. The Pali Highway (Route 61) winds through a lush mountain pass with a free lookout point at the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, which offers one of the most spectacular views on the island -- the entire windward coast spread out 1,000 feet below. Stop on the way to the beach; it takes 10 minutes and is unforgettable.

The winds at the lookout are legendary (sometimes strong enough that you can lean into them), which kids find hilarious.

Kailua town, a 5-minute drive from the beach, is a charming small town with excellent food options. Island Snow is the shave ice shop made famous by President Obama's regular visits. Buzz's Original Steakhouse is a kitschy-cool local institution.

Kalapawai Market and Cinnamon's Restaurant are family favorites. For the best-value beach picnic, hit the Foodland grocery store on Hahani Street for fresh poke bowls ($8-10), musubi, and drinks.

One important note: there are no food vendors, shops, or rental stands at the beach itself. Bring everything you need or make a stop in Kailua town first. This is part of what keeps the beach uncrowded and uncommercial -- and part of what makes it special.