Kalama Beach Park, a compact four-acre park along Kailua Bay's stunning windward coastline, has earned legendary status among Hawaii's wind sports community as one of the premier kiteboarding and windsurfing launch sites in the entire state. The beach's consistent trade winds, combined with the protected waters of Kailua Bay and the spectacular backdrop of the Ko'olau Mountains, create ideal conditions for wind-powered activities that attract both local enthusiasts and international competitors year-round. While smaller and less developed than the main Kailua Beach Park located nearby, Kalama Beach Park offers a more authentic, local atmosphere where the sounds of flapping sails and the sight of colorful kites dancing across the sky define the daily rhythm of beach life.
The designated launch area behind Kalapawai Market serves as the primary takeoff point for kiteboarders, foil boarders, and windsurfers, making the beach a fascinating spot for spectators to watch skilled athletes perform aerial tricks and high-speed runs across the bay. Bodyboarding is also popular here when the wind conditions create rideable waves along the shore. The park features basic but essential facilities including restrooms that are locked between 6 p.m. and 7 a.m., an outdoor shower, and a grassy lawn area perfect for rigging equipment or simply relaxing in the shade. While equipment rentals and lessons are available in the greater Kailua Beach area, Kalama Beach Park itself functions primarily as a launch site rather than a rental hub. Just steps from the beach, Kalapawai Market, a beloved Kailua institution since 1932, serves breakfast, lunch, and fresh poke bowls, while also offering beach supplies and cold drinks for those spending the day on the water.
The best time to visit Kalama Beach Park for wind sports is during the afternoon when the trade winds are strongest, typically from April through September, though winds blow fairly consistently throughout the year. Parking is extremely limited with only a handful of spaces available in the small lot, and spots fill rapidly on weekends and during peak wind conditions, so arriving early is essential or consider biking from nearby accommodations. The park has no lifeguards on duty, so visitors should be confident in their swimming and water sports abilities before entering the water. While this beach caters primarily to experienced wind sports enthusiasts, it's an excellent spot for families to watch the action while enjoying a picnic on the grass, and the calmer morning hours offer pleasant swimming conditions before the winds pick up. The local vibe is friendly and welcoming, with experienced riders often willing to share advice with newcomers about conditions and technique.
