Lanikai Beach is a stunner for sure. From this beach you can cast your gaze across the dreamy blue water to rest your eyes on the Mokulua Islands. Lanikai is the kind of beach that beacons you to stay, play and absorb the scenery. Even if you don’t have an hour or two of beach time to enjoy this beach, you should at least plan to see it on your Oahu vacation. You won’t be disappointed.

Lanikai Beach is located on the southeast side of Oahu just below Kailua Beach Park and above Waimanalo Beach Park. I think it’s a little bit tricky to find as a first time visitor because all the private homes obstruct the view of the beach from Mokulua Drive which parallels the beach. If you don’t know to look for Lanikai Beach, you’ll most likely miss it. If you want to print directions to Lanikai Beach aim for the intersection of Mokulua Drive and Kaiolena Drive. There’s a nice beach access path at that intersection. (See this Google Map for the street plan at Lanikai Beach.) There isn’t a specific beach parking lot for Lanikai Beach. You have to find side street parking and look for a beach access. I’ve been there on a busy Saturday and though I had to look for a bit, I was able to find street parking.

Snorkeling and kayaking are popular in this area. See my post on kayaking to the Mokuluas.

Unfortunately, there are no facilities at this beach, but if you need a restroom and showers, you can find them just a short drive North to Kailua Beach Park.

Just one photo doesn’t do this beach justice, so see more photos from our visits to Lanikai Beach.