2.7
(4)
95
runners
South Lanikai via Kailua Beach loop
00:39
6.32km
40m
Running
Enjoy a refreshing jogging experience along the O‘ahu coastline with the South Lanikai via Kailua Beach loop. This moderate route covers 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and includes a gentle elevation gain of 115 feet (35 metres), making it a perfect quick workout that takes about 39 minutes to complete. As you jog, you will pass through charming beachy residential areas and enjoy stunning ocean vistas, with the iconic twin Mokulua Islands often visible offshore from Lanikai Beach.
For your convenience, it is best to begin this loop at Kailua Beach Park. This park offers ample parking, which can be limited in the nearby Lanikai residential area. Additionally, Kailua Beach Park provides useful amenities such as restrooms and showers, which are not available directly at Lanikai Beach, ensuring a more comfortable start and finish to your run.
This route offers a unique opportunity to jog between two of O‘ahu's most celebrated coastal gems. You will experience the powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters of Lanikai Beach, alongside the equally beautiful Kailua Beach, known for its long stretch of fine white sand and gentle waves. It is a popular choice for those looking to combine a pleasant jog with some of the island's most picturesque scenery.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.01 km
Alālā Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Alāla means 'awakening' as for decades, beach houses in Lanikai were mainly used as a retreat from Honolulu. However, in the 1950s, the area began to develop into a more suburban residential area.
Tip by
2.93 km
View of the Mokulua Islands from South Lanikai Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
6.32 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.48 km
596 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.40 km
599 m
148 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 7 May
26°C
23°C
20 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I park to access the South Lanikai via Kailua Beach loop?
It's highly recommended to park at Kailua Beach Park. This park offers convenient amenities like restrooms and showers, which are not available in the residential Lanikai area. The walk from Kailua Beach Park to Lanikai is a scenic part of the experience itself.
Is this jogging loop suitable for beginners?
Yes, while rated as 'moderate' due to its length and a slight incline when transitioning between Kailua and Lanikai, the loop is generally mostly flat and easy. Its predominantly paved surfaces make it suitable for all skill levels, though good fitness is beneficial.
What is the terrain like on the loop?
The jogging loop features mostly paved surfaces, including residential streets like Mokulua Drive and Aalapapa Drive, which often have a decent shoulder for running. Kailua Beach Park also has a pleasant bike path. You can also opt to run on the adjacent Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, where the sand is soft but firmer closer to the water. Some sections of Lanikai's main road may have unpaved sidewalks, bike lanes, and narrow side streets.
What can I see along the route?
This loop offers breathtaking coastal views, including glimpses of Kailua Bay and the iconic twin Mokulua Islands. You'll pass by Alālā Point and enjoy the stunning scenery from View of the Mokulua Islands from South Lanikai Beach. Lanikai Beach is famous for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters, while Kailua Beach boasts a long stretch of fine white sand and gentle waves.
Is the South Lanikai via Kailua Beach loop dog-friendly?
Information regarding dog-friendliness for this specific jogging loop is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. However, generally, dogs are allowed on leash on public streets and some beach areas in O‘ahu. It's best to check local regulations for Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai residential areas regarding dogs on beaches and sidewalks before you go.
What is the best time of year to jog this loop?
O‘ahu offers pleasant weather year-round, making this loop enjoyable in any season. However, Lanikai Beach is particularly famous for its spectacular sunrise views over the Mokulua Islands, so an early morning jog can be especially rewarding for the scenery.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this jogging loop?
No, you do not need a permit or to pay an entrance fee to jog this loop. Access to Kailua Beach Park and the public streets of Lanikai is free.
How long does it typically take to jog this loop?
The loop is approximately 6.3 kilometers (3.9 miles) long and typically takes around 40 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Does this route intersect with other trails?
Yes, the route incorporates sections of several public beach access points, including 'Public Beach Access' (18%), 'Public Beach Access' (17%), 'Public Beach Access' (13%), and 'Public Beach Access' (12%). It also briefly touches upon the 'Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail' (7%).
Are there restrooms or water available along the loop?
Restrooms and showers are conveniently available at Kailua Beach Park, which is the recommended starting point for the loop. There are no public restrooms or water fountains directly within the Lanikai residential area.
Are there places to eat or drink nearby?
Yes, the town of Kailua, adjacent to Kailua Beach Park, offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your jog. Lanikai itself is primarily residential with limited commercial establishments.