Oahu has some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, from the Windward Coast’s bright blue water to the North Shore and Waikiki. This guide covers beach stops, viewpoints, parking, and access considerations, with a downloadable Google Map. Check current closures and ocean conditions before heading out; a beautiful photo does not mean a place is safe to enter.
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Related reading: Hawaii packing guide.
1. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the most visually refined beaches in Oahu, defined by its pale sand, shallow reef-protected water, and direct sightlines to the Mokulua Islands - and it is 100% worth the hype. Lanikai has some of the whitest sand and clearest, most vibrant aqua blue water of anywhere on the Hawaiian islands. What often surprises visitors is how residential the setting is, which affects both parking and access, especially during peak morning hours. Swimming conditions are typically calm in summer and early fall, making it one of the more dependable Windward options when trade winds are lighter.
- Location: Kailua, Windward Oahu
- Parking: Parking at Kailua Beach Park. Within Lanikai, there is street parking only, and residential restrictions strictly enforced
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Walk-in access via signed public beach paths
- Known for: Clear shallow water, sunrise views, fine sand
- Hazards: Crowding, limited shade, occasional box jellyfish presence
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Guided Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour - Paddle from Kailua toward the Mokulua Islands with a guide, with the route dependent on ocean conditions.
2. Moku Nui (Mokulua Islands)
Moku Nui is the larger of the Mokulua islands off Kailua and Lanikai. Access is restricted to protect wildlife, and temporary closures can prevent landing altogether. An open-water paddle also depends on wind, swell, and your experience, so check current DLNR restrictions and ask a permitted operator about the rules before arranging a trip. Moku Iki is not open to public landings.
- Location: Offshore from Lanikai and Kailua
- Parking: Dependent on mainland launch point
- Fees or permits: Check current DLNR landing restrictions and any operator permit requirements; do not assume landing is allowed.
- How to reach: Kayak or paddleboard during calm conditions
- Known for: Offshore scenery and protected seabird habitat; stay out of nesting areas.
- Hazards: Wind shifts, currents, limited landing areas
Check DLNR’s Mokulua sanctuary rules and current closures before planning any landing.
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Guided Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour - Paddle from Kailua toward the Mokulua Islands with a guide, with the route dependent on ocean conditions.
3. Kaʻaʻawa Beach Park
Kaʻaʻawa Beach Park is one of Oahu's best little-known beaches - and the one that looks the most like you landed on an uninhabited island straight out of Moana or Jurassic Park. The small beach runs parallel to Kamehameha Highway and offers consistent views of offshore islets framed by steep Koʻolau ridges. The shoreline alternates between sandy and rocky sections, which limits swimming during rougher conditions but makes the area ideal for walking and coastal stops. Facilities and parking are straightforward, positioning this beach as a convenient break rather than a destination that demands planning.
- Location: Kaʻaʻawa, Windward Oahu
- Parking: On-site lot
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Direct roadside access
- Known for: Scenic coastline, open space
- Hazards: Rocky entry points, variable surf
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Kualoa Open Air Jungle Expedition - Head to nearby Kualoa Ranch for an open-air vehicle tour through its green mountain landscape.
4. Makua Beach
Makua Beach combines clear water with a dramatic cliff-lined backdrop, although public access has been inconsistent due to adjacent military land. When open, calm days offer good swimming and occasional snorkeling near the reef edges. There are no facilities or lifeguards, which reinforces the need for self-awareness and conservative judgment.
- Location: Waianae Coast
- Parking: Roadside when access is permitted
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Farrington Highway
- Known for: Clear water, natural setting
- Hazards: Sudden surf changes, limited access
Where To Stay Nearby: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina - A lagoon-front Ko Olina resort with pools and restaurants, a comfortable base for driving up the leeward coast.
What To Do Nearby: Leeward Coast Snorkel Cruise - Depart from Waiʻanae Boat Harbor for reef snorkeling and coastal wildlife watching by catamaran.
5. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach remains Oahu’s most predictable shoreline, offering groomed sand, protected swimming zones, and a full range of services, with a long line of resorts spanning the beach. While it lacks the natural variability found elsewhere on the island, it excels in consistency, particularly for visitors prioritizing convenience. Lifeguards, restrooms, and surf schools are present year-round. While the beach is always busy and filled with tourists, the brilliant blue water, and gentle rolling surf break still makes it very worthy of a visit.
- Location: South Shore, Honolulu
- Parking: Paid garages and hotel parking
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Urban access via Honolulu
- Known for: Beginner surfing, amenities
- Hazards: Heavy foot traffic, limited reef
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
6. Halona Beach Cove
Halona Beach Cove is the small sandy inlet beside Halona Blowhole on Oahu’s southeastern coast. Enjoy the coastline from the established lookout; the steep route down, powerful surf, and currents make this a very different stop from a lifeguarded swimming beach.
- Parking: Use the designated Halona Blowhole lookout parking area and obey posted restrictions.
- How to reach: View the cove from the established lookout beside Kalanianaʻole Highway.
- Ocean conditions: Typically rough
- Known for: A small sandy cove framed by volcanic rock.
- Hazards: Strong currents and sharp rocks
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
7. Kalanianaʻole Zablan Beach / The Mermaid Caves
Kalanianaʻole Beach Park, also known as Nanakuli or Zablan Beach, is on Oahu’s western Waianae Coast, not the Kaiwi Coast. This is the Nanakuli shoreline near the formations called Mermaid Caves. Stay on the public beach and away from cave openings and exposed rock ledges.
The Mermaid Caves are hazardous sea caves with sudden wave surges and difficult exits. Do not climb into them, even at low tide; calm-looking water is not a reliable indication of safety. This section identifies the area rather than recommending cave entry.
- Location: Nanakuli, Waianae Coast, western Oahu
- Parking: Use designated public parking at Kalanianaʻole Beach Park and obey signs.
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Approach the beach park from Farrington Highway; stay away from the sea caves.
- Known for: West-coast beach scenery and coastal lava formations.
- Hazards: Limited space, slick lava rock, variable surf conditions near the caves
Where To Stay on Oahu: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina - A lagoon-front Ko Olina resort with pools and restaurants, a comfortable base for driving up the leeward coast.
Another Oahu Outing: Leeward Coast Snorkel Cruise - Depart from Waiʻanae Boat Harbor for reef snorkeling and coastal wildlife watching by catamaran.
8. Yokohama Bay (Keawaʻula Beach)
Yokohama Bay marks the end of the road on Oahu’s Waianae Coast and feels distinctly removed from the island’s urban core. Summer typically brings calmer water suitable for swimming, while winter swells can transform the bay into a high-energy surf zone. Facilities are basic but functional, and the sense of scale here sets it apart.
- Location: Waianae Coast
- Parking: On-site beach lot
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Farrington Highway
- Known for: Expansive views, sunsets
- Hazards: Seasonal surf, strong currents
Where To Stay Nearby: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina - A lagoon-front Ko Olina resort with pools and restaurants, a comfortable base for driving up the leeward coast.
What To Do Nearby: Leeward Coast Snorkel Cruise - Depart from Waiʻanae Boat Harbor for reef snorkeling and coastal wildlife watching by catamaran.
9. Cash Beach, Lanikai
Cash Beach refers to a quieter stretch near the northern end of Lanikai, where foot traffic tends to thin slightly compared to the central access points. The shoreline feels more relaxed, particularly outside peak hours, although logistical constraints remain identical to the rest of Lanikai. Water depth stays shallow for an extended distance, making this area better suited to floating and wading than snorkeling.
- Location: Northern Lanikai residential area
- Parking: Limited street parking, enforcement common - if possible, the easiest way to reach here is to park further out and ride a bike in from Kailua
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Neighborhood beach access paths
- Known for: Reduced foot traffic, calm water
- Hazards: Minimal facilities, limited emergency access
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Guided Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour - Paddle from Kailua toward the Mokulua Islands with a guide, with the route dependent on ocean conditions.
10. Kaneohe Sandbar
Kaneohe Sandbar emerges during low tide as a broad, shallow reef flat in the center of Kaneohe Bay, drawing boaters and tour groups when conditions align. Despite its popularity, the sandbar’s appeal depends heavily on timing, wind, and tide height, which can shift the experience quickly. Responsible reef behavior is essential, as coral damage has been an ongoing concern in the bay.
- Location: Kaneohe Bay
- Parking: Marina dependent
- Fees or permits: Tour fees if using commercial boats
- How to reach: Boat or guided excursion
- Known for: Shallow turquoise water, mountain backdrop
- Hazards: Sun exposure, wind chop, reef sensitivity
Kaneohe Sandbar snorkeling tour: Head out from Heʻeia Kea Boat Harbor with equipment and snacks included; the sandbar’s water depth and visibility depend on tides and weather.
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Kaneohe Sandbar Morning Snorkeling Tour - Boat out into Kāneʻohe Bay for a morning of sandbar scenery and snorkeling.
11. Kaimana Beach
Kaimana Beach sits at the eastern edge of Waikiki near Diamond Head, offering a noticeably more relaxed environment - and, notably, is one of the best beaches in the Honolulu/Waikiki area for unobstructed sunset views. Offshore reef structures help moderate wave energy, creating reliable swimming conditions for much of the year. The beach attracts a mix of locals and visitors without feeling compressed.
- Location: Near Diamond Head
- Parking: Street parking and nearby park lots
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Short walk from Waikiki
- Known for: Reef protection, quieter atmosphere
- Hazards: Rocky entry points in some areas
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
12. Makapuʻu Tide Pools
The Makapuʻu tide pools sit below the lighthouse trail along a dangerous, wave-exposed shoreline. DLNR identifies the pools as a closed area and warns against descending to them. Enjoy the coastal views from the established Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail instead of scrambling down to the water.
- Location: Southeast Oahu
- Parking: Makapuʻu Lookout lot
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Use the established lighthouse trail for coastal views; do not descend to the tide pools.
- Known for: Tide pools, lava formations
- Hazards: Slippery rocks, rising tides
Read the current Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline notices before visiting.
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
13. Kaupō Beach Park
Kaupō Beach Park sits along Oahu’s southeastern coastline and functions more as a scenic coastal stop than a traditional swimming beach - and is an amazing view from a hike above. The shoreline is narrow and rocky, with persistent wave energy and limited sand, which makes it better suited to experienced ocean users and shoreline walks rather than casual swimming. Its value lies in accessibility, open views toward the Kaiwi Coast, and its role as a less crowded alternative to nearby, more regulated beaches.
- Location: Southeast Oahu, along Kalanianaʻole Highway
- Parking: Small roadside lot and shoulder parking
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Direct roadside access via Kalanianaʻole Highway
- Known for: Coastal views, fishing, low foot traffic
- Hazards: Rocky shoreline, strong shore break, limited swimming conditions
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Guided Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour - Paddle from Kailua toward the Mokulua Islands with a guide, with the route dependent on ocean conditions.
14. Hanauma Bay Beach
Hanauma Bay is a managed nature preserve with timed admission and weekly closure days. Book through the official Honolulu reservation system; limited walk-in tickets may be offered but are not guaranteed. Check current hours, entry rules, and ocean conditions before traveling.
- Location: Southeast Oahu
- Parking: Limited paid parking; an admission reservation does not guarantee a parking space.
- Fees or permits: Entry fee for non-residents
- How to reach: Arrange admission through the official reservation system and allow time for parking and entry.
- Known for: Snorkeling, marine biodiversity
- Hazards: Overcrowding, intense sun
Check Hanauma Bay’s official visitor information for reservations, fees, and closures.
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
15. Mokuleia Beach Park
Mokuleia Beach Park stretches along Oahu’s North Shore with a broad, open shoreline and constant mountain views inland. Wind exposure is common, particularly in the afternoon, but the space and scenery make the area appealing even when water conditions are marginal. Seasonal surf patterns dictate whether swimming is advisable.
- Location: North Shore
- Parking: On-site beach lot
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Farrington Highway
- Known for: Wide shoreline, open views
- Hazards: Wind, seasonal surf
Where To Stay Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay - An oceanfront North Shore resort, with the drive to Haleiwa and Mokulēʻia forming part of the day’s outing.
What To Do Nearby: Haleiwa Kayak and Snorkel Tour - Meet in Haleiwa for a small-group paddle and snorkel outing along the North Shore.
Oahu’s beaches reward alignment rather than comparison, and the most satisfying experiences tend to come from choosing a shoreline that matches the day’s conditions rather than chasing reputation alone. Understanding access, exposure, and limitations before leaving your accommodation often determines whether a beach feels effortless or frustrating once you arrive.
16. Kahana Bay Beach Park
Kahana Bay is expansive and often quiet, with a wide shoreline backed by forested ridges that create a more remote atmosphere than nearby Windward beaches. Water clarity can fluctuate after rainfall due to runoff, and swimming conditions vary with seasonal swell patterns. The beach works best for relaxed days centered on space and scenery rather than extended time in the water.
- Location: Windward coast, north of Kaʻaʻawa
- Parking: Large beach park lot
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Kamehameha Highway
- Known for: Broad shoreline, mountain views
- Hazards: Murky water after rain, shore break
Where To Stay Nearby: Paradise Bay Resort - A laid-back Kāneʻohe Bay base with a pool, within driving distance of the windward coast’s beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Kualoa Open Air Jungle Expedition - Head to nearby Kualoa Ranch for an open-air vehicle tour through its green mountain landscape.
17. Sand Cove, Kaʻena Point
The Kaʻena Point coastline has rugged walking routes, little shade, and few amenities. Plan a coastal hike on designated paths rather than an off-road drive; vehicle access is restricted and the natural area reserve protects sensitive wildlife.
- Location: Northwestern Oahu
- Parking: Dirt roadside near trailheads
- Fees or permits: Vehicle access to designated roads in the Mokulēʻia section requires a permit; restrictions and closures apply.
- How to reach: Walk on designated coastal routes from a legal parking area; do not drive off-road or into the natural area reserve.
- Known for: Seclusion, natural coastline
- Hazards: Strong currents, no lifeguards
Check DLNR’s Kaʻena Point access guidance for the current permit area and closures.
October 2026 update: DLNR lists the Keawaʻula trail as closed following storm damage. Check current park notices before setting out and respect all barriers.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay - An oceanfront North Shore resort, with the drive to Haleiwa and Mokulēʻia forming part of the day’s outing.
What To Do Nearby: Haleiwa Kayak and Snorkel Tour - Meet in Haleiwa for a small-group paddle and snorkel outing along the North Shore.
18. Royal Moana Beach, Waikiki
Royal Moana Beach occupies a slightly quieter stretch of Waikiki, where crowds thin just enough to change the feel of the shoreline. The water remains calm and swimmable most days, supported by South Shore reef protection. Proximity to hotels makes access easy without overwhelming the space.
- Location: Central Waikiki
- Parking: Hotel and public garages
- Fees or permits: None
- How to reach: Walking access
- Known for: Manageable crowds, calm conditions
- Hazards: Limited natural shade
Where To Stay Nearby: Moana Surfrider - A historic hotel right on Waikiki Beach, with oceanfront dining and easy access to Honolulu.
What To Do Nearby: Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise - Return to Waikiki for an evening catamaran sail along the coast as the sun goes down.
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