Kawaihapai Airfield
Mokuleia, United States

Kawaihapai Airfield
Small general aviation airfield on Oahu's scenic North Shore.
- ›Originally built by the U.S. Army during World War II.
- ›Known locally as Dillingham Airfield, named after Benjamin Dillingham.
- ›Home to several glider and skydiving companies operating year-round.
- ›Located adjacent to Mokuleia Beach on Oahu's remote northwestern coast.
- ›The runway is approximately 9,000 feet long, a legacy of its military origins.
Kawaihapai Airfield, also known as Dillingham Airfield, is a small general aviation facility located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, near the town of Mokuleia. Originally built as a military airstrip during World War II, it has since become a hub for skydiving, glider operations, and light aircraft activity. Its dramatic setting between the Waianae Mountains and the ocean makes it one of the most scenic airfields in the United States.
- General Aviation Facility — A modest single-building operations area serving light aircraft, glider clubs, and skydiving operators with basic amenities.
- Personal vehicle or rental car via Farrington Highway
- Taxi or rideshare services from Haleiwa or Waialua
- TheBus Route 76 (limited service to nearby Mokuleia area)
- Turtle Bay Resort (Kahuku)
- North Shore Hostel (Haleiwa)
- Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore
There are no dining facilities within the airfield itself. Visitors typically head to nearby Haleiwa town, about 5 miles east, which offers a range of casual eateries, shave ice stands, and local plate lunch spots. The surrounding area is rural, so it is advisable to bring snacks or plan meals before or after your visit.
- Arrive early for skydiving or glider operations as morning conditions offer calmer winds and clearer visibility.
- Sunscreen and water are essential — the North Shore sun is intense and shade at the airfield is limited.
- Parking is informal and unpaved; a standard vehicle is sufficient but expect a dusty lot in dry seasons.
- Check in advance whether operations are running — the airfield can close temporarily due to weather or maintenance.
AI-assisted overview, verified against public sources.
Airlines serving this airport
No scheduled airline data available.
Routes
No route data available.
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