10 BEST BEACHES ON OAHU YOU CAN’T MISS

Do you think about taking time off from work or your routine in general and going on a holiday to a place where you can dip your toes into soft, golden sand with blue waves nearby pulling you closer? If you have this scene imprinted in your mind, we are here to tell you where this place is. Oahu will bring this dream to life.

It’s a paradise full of variety, and each coastline here has a personality and vibe of its own. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, consider visiting Oahu and exploring the best beaches on this island. Here’s a list of the ten best beaches on Oahu that you just can’t miss on your trip:

Windward (East) Side

If you’re looking for some tropical magic, the Windward Side is your go-to spot. Also known as the East Coast of Oahu, this area has lush, green mountains. While the ocean views are enough to help you unwind and relax, there is a lot more to explore on this wonderfully inviting island.

1. Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach boasts white sand and crystal-clear water, making it ideal for kayaking and swimming. You could also try kitesurfing and windsurfing here. Adventure lovers will find themselves busy throughout the day. But what about those who only want to sip margaritas and relax? If your goal is to chill on the beach doing nothing, this is the place to soak in the scenic views of the Mokulua Islands.

Do you know that Lanikai means “heavenly sea”? You’ll see why it’s called so when you experience gentle breezes as you lazily float on the water without worrying about strong currents.

2. Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It’s a family-friendly spot that offers a soothing mix of fun and relaxation. With the Kailua Beach Park nearby, you can enjoy peaceful walks with your loved ones or go paddleboarding for some top-grade adventure.

The ironwood trees in this region are a mesmerizing sight, and you can spend time under their shade while munching on delicious snacks (yes, there are many charming eateries nearby).

3. Kaiona Beach

Locals love Kaiona Beach Park, located close to Waimanalo Beach, because it’s a blissful, uncrowded spot where it feels like time has stopped. Isn’t that what all holidays should be about: no work, no schedules, and no emails (most definitely)?

The shallow water is calm, which makes it the perfect place for children to wade and snorkel (always under adult supervision, though). Plus, in the backdrop, you can see the majestic Koʻolau Mountain Range. Locals frequently come to the beach park with lots of food to grill, picnicking under the giant, shady trees.

If you’re planning a day trip, you can visit Sea Life Park, which is only a few minutes away. A quick stop at Kaiona Beach is also recommended when you take the picturesque route to Kahana Bay and the North Shore.

South Shore

Now, let’s move to the South Shore, where the fabulous waves of the beach will match your holiday energy and enthusiasm.

4. Waikiki Beach

It won’t be wrong to say that Waikiki Beach is probably the most famous of all Oahu beaches. This gem along the Honolulu coastline is a cool place where you can sip a mai tai under a palm tree while watching surfers and swimmers play with the waves.

This is a fairly crowded beach, but that doesn’t affect the fun in any way. If anything, the crowd is part of the vibe, and you’ll likely make friends who are as full of energy as you. It’s a vibrant and lively beach that makes tourists want to come back for more.

5. Ala Moana Beach

Those interested in swimming, jogging, or paddleboarding make a beeline for this beach, just like locals. Located west of Waikiki, the Ala Moana Beach Park has a relaxed vibe. Since it is protected by an offshore reef, it’s an excellent place for children due to its shallow waters.

The park is vast, and families can enjoy leisurely picnics on the grassy lawns or along a long stretch of soft sand. It’s a full-day adventure that will keep you entertained and relaxed throughout the day.

If you’re there on a weekend, you might see locals practicing hula or grilling barbecue. If you start walking toward Magic Island, you can enjoy the lovely views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head in the distance.

6. Sandy Beach

Also called Sandy’s, Sandy Beach may not be suitable for casual swimmers, but you can enjoy watching skilled locals tackle the waves like they are nothing. This region has a rustic charm that’s quite different from places like Waikiki, which has a polished vibe. Nearby attractions, such as Sea Life Park and Hanauma Bay, can also be included in your itinerary when visiting Sandy Beach.

When you visit this powerful yet stunning beach, be sure to bring your camera and sunscreen and experience the boundlessness of the sea.

7. Hanauma Bay

If Oahu has a snorkeling paradise, it’s Hanauma Bay! This protected sanctuary, formed in a volcanic crater, is home to a variety of tropical fish and vibrant coral. Since the bay is curved, you will not encounter big waves, so it’s ideal for families with young children. Reef preservation is a key goal, which is communicated to people to ensure everyone acknowledges the need to protect this region’s ecosystem.

This is among those Hawaii beaches that bring fun and education (about marine life) together, and it’s easy to feel like you are in a different world, where underwater species are the rulers.

North Shore

The North Shore in Oahu is legendary; there’s no denying that! If you’re eager to see the wild, somewhat untamed side of the island, explore the beaches on the North Shore.

8. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach captures the essence of Oahu in many ways. It’s nearly two miles long, and skilled surfers can test their skills when massive waves visit this end of the sea in the winter season. The waters are calm in the summer, as people arrive to enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

As the sun goes down, changing the color of the beautiful sky above, locals watch the spectacle with as much awe as the tourists. If you’re looking for photographs that mesmerize, click as many as you can here.

Food lovers, fear not, as this beach houses multiple eateries and restaurants that serve local cuisine. If you’re on a hunt for souvenirs to take home, you’ll find many shops selling magnificent items at Sunset Beach. If you’re looking for other exciting spots nearby, visit Waimea Bay and Malaekahana Beach along Oahu’s northern coastline.

9. Waimea Bay Beach

Whatever you imagined about the Hawaiian beaches while planning your trip to this terrific place can be found at Waimea Bay Beach. Rugged cliffs and greenery surround this beauty. It’s a great spot to visit with your family, friends, or your partner, or you can undertake a solo trip that refreshes your soul.

Waimea Bay brings nature lovers close to Waimea Valley, which is home to several extraordinary plants in the region.

10. Kawela Bay (Turtle Bay)

Anyone who enjoys visiting beaches early in the morning should consider going to Kawela Bay. Located at a little distance from Turtle Bay Resort, this is one of the quietest beaches on the North Shore. You can sit, eat, walk, read, or lie down under the huge ironwood and coconut trees found across the beach.

Since it’s not as popular as other Oahu beaches, Kawela Bay is usually less crowded early in the morning. If you want to enjoy a romantic moment with your significant other, this beach offers you the chance to walk hand in hand without being disturbed. As you move along the coast, you’ll reach Kaena Point on the island’s western tip.

Tips for Visiting Oahu’s Beaches

‘A towel and sunscreen are all I need to visit a beach’: that’s the thought many have when planning a beach holiday. While those are crucial, here are a few tips that can make your beach visits better:

To ensure you don’t harm marine life inadvertently, do not carry plastic items into the water, and bring reef-safe sunscreen.
Carry snacks and water to stay hydrated when traveling to remote beaches and other destinations in Oahu.
Since currents can be unpredictable (and sometimes outright dangerous), do not ignore “No Swimming” signboards and other guidelines.
Arrive early, especially on popular beaches that attract crowds daily, to secure a good parking spot (when traveling in your own car).
Hire local tour operators (if you don’t have your own car) to promote the local economy and enjoy community engagement.

Safety and Environmental Guidelines

Visiting any place for a holiday means enjoyment, but it also brings some responsibilities. Maintaining Hawaii’s natural beauty and fragile ecosystems is a responsibility shared by every tourist. Collecting any trash you may have gathered and bringing it back for safe disposal is crucial.

Supporting local authorities in protecting marine life and coral reefs is another critical responsibility for every tourist. Following all safety guidelines, especially about where to swim, snorkel, surf, paddleboard, etc., is essential to ensure your own safety.

Conclusion

Oahu is a place that offers many wonderful experiences, along with opportunities to interact with locals, spend time with loved ones, or reflect on the philosophical and spiritual aspects of life. If you’re ready to visit Oahu’s top beaches, contact our team at Malama Tours to build the perfect itinerary and experience the local Hawaiian culture and food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best beach in Oahu Hawaii for families?

The best beach in Oahu, Hawaii, for families is tough to determine, but Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach are among the most popular spots when traveling with your family.

Which Oahu Hawaii beach is best for snorkeling and turtles?

Hanauma Bay and Sunset Beach are top spots for snorkeling. Kawela Bay is also an excellent option for snorkeling and observing turtles as they lazily move around.