Is This Kailua Hawaii’s Next Waikiki?
Uh oh, it looks like there’s a fight brewing in Hawaii.
Kailua, a small, beachside town on the island’s windward side, is increasingly becoming popular with tourists, much to the chagrin of many local residents.
Kailua is best known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and quaint charm. President Barack Obama and his family have rented a home
But while there are a few innsBB’sillegally renting homesAirbnb
Local residents are divided. Some, like local business-owner Steven Parker, welcome the increase in tourism. As he told Pacific Business News, ““There is a lot to share here.They’re not real neighbors
While current legislation looks at how to better enforce restrictions
Let’s take a tour of all Kailua has to offer, shall we?
Here’s why demand is so high:
Lanikai Beach Hawaii Pillbox by Daniel Kollmann on 500pxThe white-sand beaches are world-class.
Lanikai and Kailua beaches are reef-protected bays and are consistently ranked on top ten lists for the most beautiful beaches worldwide.
With the beaches’ white-powder sand, calm, sapphirine water, purple sunrises and cooling trade winds, it’s easy to understand why many people have started to covet the Kailua lifestyle.
The Mokes don’t hurt either.
Untitled by James Crawford on 500px
Sunset Cruise… by Brandon Chapman on 500px
People fall in love with the small-town atmosphere.
The area’s main allure, according to tourists, is a small-town vibe and town center that gives them a “more authentic” Hawaiian experience
“Fell in love with this beach the first time in Oahu and have made a point to come over to this sweet quiet town every time since,” a visitor from Seattle wrote on Yelp
It’s also home to some of the island’s best hikes…
Lanikai Pillbox by meeyak on 500px
…As well as a POTUS-approved shave ice spot.wrote Brent W. on Yelp
So what do you think? Is Kailua the next Waikiki?