Embrace the island life in Kapolei. The master-planned community is named after the volcanic cone that towers over the city. Swim in jewel-coloured lagoons and spend the day at the family-friendly water park. Kapolei is also a gateway to Oʻahu, where you can swim in turquoise bays, hike through the verdant rainforest and discover the Hawaiian heartland.
Things to do in Kapolei
Skip the waves and swim in the crystalline Ko Olina Lagoons. The crescent-shaped lagoons are carved into the mainland and fringed by golden sand, lush grass and coconut palms. A breezy promenade stretches along the coast and makes it easy to hop between the lagoons.
Ko Olina Beach Park is another great swimming spot, where you can peer into tidepools and stay for the fiery sunsets. The grassy foreshore is great for picnics. Further up the coast, Paradise Cove has a secluded and off-the-beaten-track feel.
Make a splash at Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park. Swim in the enormous wave pool and speed down exhilarating water slides. Slow down the pace on the lazy river and take a soak in the adults-only whirlpool spa or visit the poolside bar for fruity cocktails.
From fine-dining restaurants to casual seafood taverns and colourful food trucks, there are plenty of places to satisfy your appetite in Kapolei. You’ll love the fresh flavours and local ingredients inspired by Hawaii and the Pacific Ocean. Dig into rainbow-coloured poke bowls, smoked shredded pork and enormous cups of shaved ice.
Kapolei Golf Course combines challenging holes with stunning views. The architect-designed course is built on a former sugar cane plantation and features emerald-green fairways, elevated greens and swaying palms. Finish with a drink on the sunny clubhouse terrace.
Getting around Kapolei
Parts of Kapolei are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Cars are a fast and easy way to get around Kapolei and explore Oʻahu at your own pace. The community is a one-hour drive from Honolulu and 40 minutes from Hawaii International Airport.