Castles Beach, located at the northwestern end of Kailua Bay on Oahu's windward coast, takes its name from the historic Castle family home that once stood nearby, serving as a prominent landmark for generations of surfers and beachgoers. This picturesque stretch of white sand offers a more tranquil alternative to the busier sections of Kailua Beach, with the stunning Ko'olau Mountains rising dramatically in the background and the iconic Mokulua Islands, known locally as the Mokes, visible just offshore. The beach features a sandy bottom reef break that creates gentle, rolling waves perfect for longboarding, making it a favorite spot among both experienced riders and those learning to surf.
The surf break at Castles works best during winter months, particularly in November when consistent clean swells wrap around the bay, though summer also provides enjoyable longboarding conditions in deep water over the mostly sandy bottom. Beyond surfing, the beach offers excellent swimming conditions in the calm, turquoise waters of Kailua Bay, and the gentle nearshore area is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. At the southeastern end of Kailua Beach near the main beach park, visitors can stop by Kalapawai Market, a beloved local general store since 1932 that serves breakfast and lunch, or enjoy oceanfront dining at Buzz's Steakhouse, a Kailua institution known for its fresh fish and prime rib. The charming town of Kailua, just a short drive inland, features a variety of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants including Whole Foods Market and Island Brew Coffeehouse.
The best time to visit Castles Beach is during the early morning hours before the tradewinds pick up, or on weekdays when crowds are lighter than the busy weekend rush. Free parking can be found along the residential streets near the intersection of North Kalaheo Avenue and Kailuana Place, though spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving before 9 a.m. is recommended. While the sandy bottom makes for safer swimming than many Oahu beaches, visitors should still be aware of occasional strong currents and shore break, particularly during winter swells, and should always swim at beaches with lifeguard coverage when possible. The beach's relatively uncrowded atmosphere and spectacular mountain-and-island views make it a perfect spot for those seeking the beauty of Kailua Bay without the crowds at the main beach park.
