Oahu is the sixth oldest island in Hawaii. There is much history to explore between the two parallel mountains as well as in the valleys of this destination.
Oahu is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches. In fact, the Waikiki area is the best when you want to enjoy the majority of your stay at the water.
When most people think of Hawaii, they picture beautiful beaches with clear blue waters. Oahu is no different, and in fact has some of the best beaches in the state. I
f you’re planning a trip to Oahu, be sure to check out our guide to the best beaches on the island.
The Best Beaches In Oahu
So what are some of the best beaches in Oahu, and when is the best time to visit these areas? This listicle seeks to answer such questions.
1. Lanikai Beach
Ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Lanikai Beach is covered in fine white sand. The locals nickname this beach “The Mokes” and often visit when they want to sail the Pacific Ocean or engage in a bit of windsurfing.
Lanikai Beach has clear water, which makes it the ideal choice for snorkeling. Of course, you can walk in the shallow part of the water when the tide is right to just behold the mysteries of the sea.
2. Kailua Beach Park
Taking a walk never felt so good! Kailua Beach Park is the ideal spot for walkers and joggers who want to take in the beauty of water while doing their morning or evening workouts.
This beach is also great for swimming. Surfing fanatics may be disappointed, though, as Kailua does not have high tides and currents. You can, however, rent equipment at this beach for windsurfing or take a kayaking trip during the day.
3. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and for good reason. This area boasts two miles of white sand and mild waves that make it a treat for families. You can swim in the ocean without much fear of being carried away by the current.
There is much to enjoy if you are a surfer as well. Those in the beginning stages of the sport may particularly love the water’s mild demeanor. Boogie boarding is also popular at Waikiki Beach.
4. Waimanalo Bay Beach Park
Stretching from Wailea Point to Makapuu, Waimanalo Bay Beach Park is one of the longest beaches on Oahu. The locals recognize the northern section of the beach as Bellows.
Waimanalo has calm waters that make it the ideal spot for boogie boarding as well as fishing. The white sand is a hub for sunbathing and walking along the shoreline.
5. Sunset Beach
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is an amazing tourist attraction during the summer. The blue ocean is calm and clear during this time, which makes it the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
The winter months are for surfing at Sunset Beach. It is during this time that the large waves roll continuously to create a paradise for experienced surfers.
6. Keawaulu Beach
Located in the Yokohama Bay area, Keawaula Beach is the ideal spot when you want to relax and rejuvenate during your trip. The bottom of the ocean is bright and sandy, which ultimately leads to a bright turquoise color on top.
Photographers love Keawaulu Beach because of its sandy beaches and turquoise waters that sometimes host dolphins. There are also other activities to enjoy as Keawaulu Beach is part of 35 acres of recreation. You can enjoy the beach in the morning and engage in a hike in the afternoon without leaving the area.
7. Ehukai Beach
Located on Oahu’s North Shore, Ehukai Beach is the perfect getaway for adventurers who love to test the waves. The tides and currents on this beach are far too tricky for the beginner and intermediate surfer.
Even some experienced surfers do not attempt to take on the waves at Ehukai Beach. Those with daredevil spirits, however, will love wave heights of over 30 feet during the winter months.
In fact, Ehukai hosts several surfing contests between November and February to accommodate extreme surfers and their fans.
Summer months at the beach are for families. It is during this time that the waves are calm enough for visitors to swim.
Visitor Guide
Waimanalo Beach is often considered to be one of the best beaches on Oahu. It’s located on the east side of the island, and is known for its clear waters and beautiful white sand beaches. There are also a few restaurants and cafes in the area, making it the perfect place to spend a day.
Lanikai Beach is another popular choice for visitors to Oahu. This beach is located on the east side of the island as well, and is known for its stunning views of the nearby Mokulua Islands. Lanikai Beach is also a great place to take a dip in the ocean, as it’s typically very calm and clear.
Waimea Bay is located on the north shore of Oahu, and is one of the most popular surfing spots on the island. Even if you’re not a surfer, Waimea Bay is still worth a visit for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, Makua Beach is the perfect place for you. This beach is located on the west side of Oahu, and is only accessible by hiking or 4WD. Once you make it to Makua Beach, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the nearby cliffs, as well as crystal clear waters.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax on the beach or catch some waves, Oahu has something for everyone. Be sure to check out our guide to the best beaches on the island, and start planning your trip today!
Other tourist attractions on Oahu besides the beaches
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: A world-renowned snorkeling and diving destination, Hanauma Bay is teeming with colorful fish and coral.
- Diamond Head State Monument: Hike to the top of this volcanic crater for incredible views of Honolulu and the surrounding area.
- Kailua Beach Park: This beautiful beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing in the sand.
- Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: This park is home to an ancient Hawaiian village, as well as a sacred pu’uhonua (place of refuge).
- Waimea Falls Park: Take a swim in the refreshing waters of Waimea Falls, or hike to the top of the falls for a bird’s eye view of the park.
How my visit went
I was so excited to visit Oahu and its beautiful beaches! I had heard so much about the clear waters and white sand beaches, and I was not disappointed.
My first stop was Waimanalo Beach. It was a beautiful day, and the beach was packed with people. I found a spot on the sand and got to work relaxing in the sun. The water was so clear that I could see all the way to the bottom, and it was the perfect temperature for swimming.
After a few hours at Waimanalo Beach, I headed to Lanikai Beach. This beach was even more beautiful than Waimanalo, and I spent hours swimming and sunbathing there. The views of the Mokulua Islands were incredible, and I could have stayed there all day.
The next stop on my tour of Oahu’s beaches was Waimea Bay. This beach is well-known for its excellent surfing conditions, but even if you’re not a surfer it’s worth a visit. The views from the top of the bay are amazing, and the beach itself is very pretty.
My final stop on my tour of Oahu’s beaches was Makua Beach. This beach is only accessible by hiking or 4WD, but it was definitely worth the effort. The views from the beach are breathtaking, and the water is crystal clear. I would definitely recommend Makua Beach to anyone looking for a secluded beach experience.
Overall, I had an incredible time visiting Oahu’s beaches. They were everything I hoped for and more. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, be sure to check out all of the amazing beaches the island has to offer!
What beaches do you plan to visit during your next trip to Oahu?
Hi, I’m Ryan Nelson! I live in the Hamptons, out on Long Island, near Ponquogue Beach. The beach is a place where I can find peace and serenity. It’s a place where I can sit and clear my head. The waves crashing on the shore somehow helps me to relax, while also reminding me that I am far from the stressors of daily life.
