What to expect at kitespot Kailua Bay?
On the island of Oahu (Hawai), at a 30 minute drive from Honolulu Airport you’ll find kitespot Kailua Bay. The bay is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise and choppy water.
The beach itself is often listed as one of the best beaches worldwide to visit. Giving you beautiful scenery to kite but also making the bay a popular destination for swimmers and sunbathers.
Wind conditions
The onshore wind at Kailua Bay (Oahu-Hawaii) blows from NNW through SE. This is a thermally-driven spot: afternoon heating regularly builds reliable wind in February to March, plus September to November, on top of whatever the larger weather pattern is doing. Conditions are good most of the year, with the exception of January. Typical wind during that window runs 13-28 knots.
Kiteseason
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January: wind is less consistent here, with more lulls between sessions.
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February to March: reliable wind here, with a thermal boost most afternoons on top of the base pattern.
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April to August: the most reliable stretch, with rideable wind on most days.
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September to November: reliable wind here, with a thermal boost most afternoons on top of the base pattern.
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December: the most reliable stretch, with rideable wind on most days.
Water conditions
The water is warm and choppy within the bay itself, but has some medium waves on the outside of the bay. Behind Flat Island there is also some flat water, depending on the direction of the swell. Except for the reef area’s the water is pretty deep. It’s advised to wear a lycra and/or pants as protection from jellyfish and reefs in the water. Bonus: if you're lucky you might have the change to kitesurf along a sea turtle here.
Launch Area
There is a large grassy designated area for launching and landing at the very left of the Kailua Beach Park behind Kalopawai market. Make sure to use this area. In the past there have been many incidents with kites hitting people, trees and even yards of neighbors surrounding the bay.
Please note that the bay gets crowded easily, especially at high tide when the beach is very small. It's best to launch and land quickly.
Level of riding
The Kailua bay is a beginner-friendly spot that can also be suitable for more advanced kiters.
Lessons
Get your lessons at the Kailua Kiteboarding School, part of windwardwatersports. They offer lessons to beginners and more advanced kiteboarders. It's also possible to rent a kiteboard here but no full gear.
Ready to book a lesson? Compare kite schools in Hawaii →
Warnings
- Only launch and land in the designated area
- No jumping or jibing within 200 feet of the shore line
- Absolutely no beach jumping or Hot launching
- Do not leave kites on the beach
- No kiting in the designated swim zone
- No trespassing into private yards to retrieve loose kites. Ask permission if necessary and pay for tree service if needed
- For a complete list of guidelines see both sides of the sign at kailua beach.
Facilities
The beach offers many facilities from picnic tables to clean washing facilities and you can grab lunch at the Kalapawai Market. Making it a family friend spot to visit. Parking is possible at the Kailua Beach Park, near the launch and landing area.