The People of Kailua

"I grew up in the beachside community of Kailua on Oahu. The town of more than 40,000 residents is built on the edge of KailuaBay, one of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the country.

Radiant white sand stretches uninterrupted for more than three miles and Kailua's stunning piece of the Pacific Ocean turns as it deepens from sea foam green, to turquoise, to deep sapphire blue with violet streaks.

Those who live in Kailua are passionate about the outdoors, nature, education, God and family.

They have artwork of turtles, dolphins and sea birds on their mailboxes, cars, driveways, in their primarily simple middle class homes.

They have an aggressive neighborhood watch program and help raise money for their kids' schools.

They see their neighbors on the weekend at the beach - kayaking, fishing, surfing, body boarding and building sandcastles with their kids and grandkids - at the moonrise on full-moon nights, and then again at church, where parishioners have that suntanned glow.

The people who grow up in Kailua town often stay and raise their kids in this relatively safe community. In my case, four generations of my family have had this privilege."

Malia Zimmerman, Publisher, Hawaii Reporter

"Kailua is a special community comprised of warm and friendly people, much like an ‘Ohana.’ No matter where you live, you’re either a walk or bike ride away from the beach. If you enjoy outdoor activities, your options are endless. From surfing, to body boarding, wind surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, biking, running, hiking, golf, horseback riding and much more in the convenience of your "backyard". You can wake up in the morning, open your door and see the beautiful mountaintops, smell the wonderful aroma of flowers, and hear the birds chirping happily. The weather is sunny majority of the time with occasional showers, cooling us off.

Kailua is a wonderful place to raise a family. We have a variety of reputable elementary schools. There are several recreation centers and public parks for the community. Kailua Beach Park was recently renovated and has become the gathering place for many family and friends. Kailua Beach has been rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world on countless occasions. Kailua town is also one of the "secret" tourist attractions on Oahu because of its beauty and beaches. Celebrities have been known to rent or purchase homes in Lanikai while shooting a movie or simply vacationing.

Along with the beauty of Kailua comes convenience. No matter where you live in Kailua you have access to 3 major highways: the Pali, Like Like and H-3 allows you to travel to various parts of the islands in virtually 30 minutes. There are many wonderful intimate restaurants, artsy boutiques, shopping centers and entertainment venues. When you go to your local grocery store or bank, you are greeted with a smile not because they have to but because you are a familiar face to them. The clerk might not know your name but they do know your face…It’s that hometown feeling you get. In fact, we have a yearly community gathering called "I Love Kailua," which is just how the people of Kailua feel.

And, at the end of a hard day’s work, it’s always nice to know you’re coming home to Kailua."

Vickie Marino, Account Manager, Title Guaranty

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