OAHU BEACHES
Beyond Waikiki

Waikiki Beach is quite possibly the most famous beach in the world, and most certainly in Hawaii. It is actually made up of five smaller beaches, located on Oahu’s south shore. The area is generally filled with tourists looking to sun, swim, and learn to surf on the small waves. But it is still a beautiful area and great for people watching. The newly renovated Waikiki Beach Walk offers many choices for lodging, shopping, dining and playing.

However, Waikiki is far from the only beach worth mentioning on the island. Here is a list of just some of the other beaches you will want to consider.

Windward Shore
The East shore tends to be the calmest on Oahu, and to have the best swimming beaches.

Waimanalo Beach, in the town of the same name, is a local favorite, but most visitors aren’t aware of its existence. Almost two miles long with a wide strip of sand, this beach is one of the best swimming spots on Oahu.

Kailua Beach, in the town of Kailua, is best known for its windsurfing. Lots of sand, with decent waves, there is even an offshore island to which the adventurous can swim.

Leeward Shore
Traveler Alert: There have been reports of several break-ins to rental cars and resentment by locals of tourists on the West shore.

Pokai Bay Beach Park is located south of Makaha, and offers some of the best swimming on the West shore.

North Shore
Traveler Alert: Famous for its surfing, the North shore waves frequently hit 30 feet during the winter. Use extreme caution during this time of year.

Sunset Beach Park has waves that regularly hit 15-20 feet in the winter and some large swells even in the summer. Very limited parking.

Waimea Bay Beach Park is where you will find some of the biggest waves in the world, some of which are over 30 feet tall. This beach is suitable for only the most expert of surfers in the winter.

Ali’i Beach Park, just north of Hale’iwa, in the only North shore beach that is suitable for swimming. Even here, though, care must be taken during the winter months.

South Shore
The South shore is where all of the hotels of Honolulu are located. The beaches are easily accessible, with calm waters, but they are frequently crowded.

Ala Moana Beach Park is near downtown Honolulu, and across from the Ala Moana Shopping Center. This is a popular spot with the locals, with its large picnic areas and tennis courts. There is easy swimming for kids, but this beach park is best for picnics and relaxing.

Hanauma Bay Nature Park is just east of Hawaii Kai. This sunken crater of an extinct volcano is a protected nature reserve. There is a $5 admission fee per person for non-residents 13 years of age and older, and a per car parking fee of $1, but if you enjoy snorkeling, it is well worth the small cost. The water is shallow, calm and clear, filled with colorful tropical fish. But get there early – the park fills up quickly, and the water gets cloudier as it fills with more people. There is a steep paved path down to the water, but there is a tram if you don’t feel like walking. Snorkel gear is available for rent if you don’t have your own.

So, don’t limit yourself to just one beach on Oahu! Explore the island and enjoy some of the many other beaches. Windward, leeward, north and south – beaches are everywhere on Oahu, not just Waikiki!