The Best Beaches on Oahu
Makalei Beach (Hard to find parking)
Location: West Oahu
Makalei Beach is a quiet, lesser-known spot perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is isolated, making it a great place to relax or meditate, though it’s not ideal for swimming due to the rocky waters.
Directions: Head towards Makalei Beach from the H-1 freeway. It's a bit tricky to find, as the beach is tucked away off the main roads, so using a GPS or local directions will help guide you here. You can park near the entrance and walk down to the beach.
Kahana Bay Beach (Easy Parking)
Directions: From the H-3 Freeway, exit onto Route 83 (Kamehameha Highway). Continue east toward Kahana Bay. The parking lot is small, so arrive early to find a spot. Once parked, the beach is a short walk.
Kaaawa Beach
Location: Windward Oahu
A quiet beach with breathtaking views of the Koolau Mountains and clear water perfect for swimming. This beach is great for those who want to relax in a less crowded area.
Directions: Take the Kamehameha Highway (Route 83) and head east to Kaaawa. You’ll see the beach on the left after passing the town, just before the road bends. There’s free parking along the street or in the small lot by the beach.
Turtle Bay Beach
Location: North Shore, Oahu
Turtle Bay Beach is known for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings. It's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing by the shore. As it’s near the Turtle Bay Resort, it offers amenities like restrooms and showers.
Directions: From the Kamehameha Highway (Route 83), turn onto the road leading to Turtle Bay Resort. The beach is right next to the resort, and there’s plenty of parking available.
Paradise Cove, Ko Olina
Located near the Ko Olina resorts, Paradise Cove is perfect for a calm, peaceful beach day with crystal-clear waters. It’s great for families, though you may encounter more tourists due to its proximity to resorts.
Directions: Take Route 93 (Farrington Highway) west towards the Ko Olina resorts. Turn into the main Ko Olina entrance and follow the signs toward Paradise Cove. There's parking near the beach, and some spots near the resort if it gets crowded.
Makapu'u Beach
Location: East Oahu
Makapu'u Beach offers incredible views of the nearby lighthouse and the open ocean. While it's known for its rough waves and strong current, it's a good spot for boogie boarding and catching the surf.
Directions: From Honolulu, take Route 72 (Kalanianaole Highway) toward East Oahu. The beach is located just before the Makapu'u Lighthouse. There’s a large parking lot near the beach, but it can fill up quickly.
Lanikai Beach & Kailua Beach
Location: Kailua, Oahu
Lanikai is famous for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It’s perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach. Though often busy, it’s still one of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches.
Directions: From Kailua, head south on Kailua Road, and take a left on Mokulua Drive. Follow it until you reach the Lanikai Beach entrance. There is limited street parking available.
Waimanalo Beach
Location: East Oahu
Waimanalo Beach offers a long stretch of beautiful, soft sand and clear blue water. Known for its serene and relatively uncrowded atmosphere, it’s perfect for swimming or a peaceful beach day.
Directions: From Honolulu, take Route 72 east to Waimanalo. The beach is located just past the Waimanalo Beach Park. There’s a large parking lot available near the beach.
Sunset Beach
Location: North Shore, Oahu
Sunset Beach is iconic for its big-wave surf in the winter, making it a must-see for surf enthusiasts. It has one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island and is a great spot for photography.
Directions: Take Route 83 (Kamehameha Highway) to the North Shore. The beach is located between Waimea Bay and Ehukai Beach. There’s plenty of parking along the road, though it can get crowded in the winter months.
Pipeline Beach
Location: North Shore, Oahu
Pipeline is one of the most famous surf spots on the planet, known for its powerful waves. While it’s not ideal for swimming, it’s perfect for watching professional surfers ride world-class waves.
Directions: From the Kamehameha Highway (Route 83), the beach is located near Ehukai Beach Park. Parking is available in the park and along the roadside, but it can be crowded, especially during the winter surf season.
Kaena Point
Kaena Point is a remote and tranquil beach, perfect for those who want to get away from the crowds. The beach is rugged and natural, with an expansive view of the ocean and nearby islands.
Directions: To get to Kaena Point, head west on Route 93 (Farrington Highway). The beach is located at the far western point of the island. It’s a bit of a drive, but the reward is a peaceful, secluded beach.
Makua Beach
Location: West Oahu
Makua Beach is often considered one of the most scenic and untouched beaches on Oahu. The waters here are clear, with vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling. The beach is also less crowded compared to others.
Directions: From Route 93 (Farrington Highway), turn right just past the Makua Cave. The beach is a short walk from the road, with parking located nearby.
Secret Beach (Kualoa Ranch)
Directions: To get to Secret Beach, head to Kualoa Public Beach. Park at the very end of the lot, and follow the grassy field to the beach. Walk along the shoreline to discover this hidden gem with breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings.
