 | 'EHU KAI BEACH PARK Gateway to the world famous Banzai Pipeline the breeding ground to some of the best surfers in the world. Winter swells happen from November to March ranging from 20-30 feet making swimming and snorkeling extremely dangerous. The summertime proves to be better for swimmers and families to enjoy this beach. Picnic tables, public restrooms and showers make this park a comfortable rest stop. Located off of Kamehameha Highway at 59-337 Ke Nui Road. |
 | WAIMEA BAY Large white sand beach with deep blue water is great for swimming snorkeling, body boarding, bodysurfing and surfing. A large fresh water stream empties into the northern part of the bay. Be cautious of strong rip tides and large winter surf. Lifeguard, picnic areas, restrooms, showers and phones are available. Located at 61-031 Kamehameha Hwy. Additional parking is located at Saint Peter and Paul’s Cathedral for a nominal fee. |
 | LANIAKEA BEACH PARK A.K.A. Lani’s is popular for the many green sea turtles that come ashore to feed here. Please do not touch the turtles as they are endangered. Also a very popular surf break, the shallow reef and dangerous waves make it unsafe for swimming. Lifeguards are present but restrooms aren’t. Located at 61-631 Kamehameha Hwy. Parking available on the side of the road. Look out for pedestrian crossing. |
 | WAIKIKI BEACH A two- mile, coconut lined, stretch of white sand and turquoise water. 4 star resorts, restaurants and world-class shopping make this beach a tourist mecca and one of the most recognized beaches in the world. Lifeguard stands, picnic areas, concessions stands, restrooms, showers, phones, snorkeling and surf rentals are all readily available. Located from 2909 Kalakaua Ave. to 2005 Kalia Road. |
| KAIMANA BEACH Just south of Waikiki this beach is surrounded by the verdant Kapiolani Park and offers a nice retreat from the city. It's a lovely place to picnic, swim, and snorkel. The Waikiki Aquarium is also within walking distance. Calm, protected, clear water makes this beach a local family favorite. Picnic areas, restrooms, showers and lifeguard are available. Located at 2863 Kalakaua Avenue. |
| SANDY BEACH One of the most famous bodysurfing spots on the island is also an ideal beach for swimming when the surf is calm. Shade on this sunny beach is scarce and is a temple for sun worshippers. When the wind is right, kite-flying enthusiasts occupy the large area of flat grassy park adjacent to the beach. Lifeguards, restrooms, picnic areas, and showers are available. Located at 8808 Kalaniana‘ole Hwy. |
| MAKAPUU BEACH This picturesque beach is a popular localized body surfing spot. Located on Hawaii’s easternmost tip large surf and riptides can make swimming hazardous. All of the picnic areas and BBQ grills have a view of Rabbit Island and Makapu‘u lighthouse. During the months of December to April humpback whales can seen migrating to Kauai. Sea Life Park is right across the street. Located at 41-095 Kalaniana‘ole Highway. Lifeguards, restrooms, showers and phones are available. |
 | LANIKAI BEACH Voted Travel Channel’s best beach, this mile lone stretch of fine white sand is protected by an offshore reef making it ideal for swimming. Coconut palms line the beach providing some shade for sunbathers. Windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, surfing and outrigger canoeing are just some of many activities that take place here. Covered picnic areas and restrooms are available. Located at Kailua Road, Kailua – East ‘Oahu. |
| KAHANA BAY Located at the base of the Kualau Mountains, this isolated beach cove is excellent for swimming, body boarding, fishing, hiking and picnicking. The large crescent shaped bay is shaded by a grove of tall pine tress. The water is usually calm and the sandy beach gently slopes into the ocean. There are no lifeguards, facilities or fresh water so come prepared and practice caution. Located at 52-222 Kamehameha Highway in Kahana. |
 | HANAUMA BAY NATURE PARK This nature preserve is dedicated to protecting the bay’s fragile marine life making it a snorkeler’s paradise. The bay itself is actually the floor of a volcanic crater that opened up to the ocean when it’s exterior walls collapsed. Its protected waters also attract swimmers and picnickers making it the most visited beach on the island. Various hiking trails surround the area. Open 6am – 6pm during October – March and 6am-7pm April thru September. Open every Saturday from 6am – 10pm throughout the year and closed every Tuesday. $1.00 parking per car and $5.00 admission fee for 13 year old or older: Free for children under 13, local residents and military. Lifeguards, Picnics facilities, shade, concession stand, restroom, showers, phones, snorkel rentals, lockers, gift shops and wheelchair access are all available. Located at 7455 Kalaniana'ole Highway, Southeast Oahu (808) 396-4229. |
You're probably well aware of at least one of Oahu's world-renown beaches, a little spot called Waikiki, but there are many other great sandy locales to explore on your trip. From the world class surf on the North Shore, to the white sands of Lanikai, check out our Oahu beach guide to make sure you don't miss some of the best sand and surf in Hawaii.
Beaches
Sign up below for our monthly enewsletter and stay connected with paradise! Get exclusive travel deals, insider guides, and more!
