The beaches of Oʻahu offer a true glimpse of paradise. Whether you're seeking a thrilling ocean adventure, gentle waves for a beginner’s surf lesson, a romantic sunset spot, or a family-friendly swim, the island's coastline has something for everyone. While famous spots like Waikīkī Beach and the winter waves of the North Shore are well-known, Oʻahu’s 112 miles of coastline hold many more hidden treasures. Discover the best island’s Oahu beaches region by region below.
North Shore Beaches
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach stretches from ʻEhukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) to Sunset Point, covering several different reef breaks. Spanning two miles, it’s known as one of the longest surfable areas in the world and is a key location for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (November-December).
Waimea Bay Beach
Waimea Bay Beach Park is renowned for its huge winter waves, making it one of the first spots where surfers began tackling big waves in the 1950s. During the summer, the waves calm down, offering excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. With full facilities available, it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Ehukai Beach
ʻEhukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline) is infamous for its powerful waves that crash over sharp reefs just below the surface. The large, tubular waves here make it a challenging and dangerous spot for surfers, and it also serves as one of the venues for the Triple Crown of Surfing.
Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach
Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach State Park is a popular surfing destination with winter waves reaching up to 25 feet.
Haleʻiwa Beach Park, in contrast, offers calmer waters compared to other North Shore spots.
Chun's Reef
Chun's Reef is a great choice for families, featuring a freshwater pond perfect for kids to enjoy.
Ke Waena Beach
Ke Waena Beach may not be as famous as other North Shore beaches, but it’s beloved by surfers. While its winter waves are best left to professionals, the waters calm down in the summer, making it suitable for swimming.
Kawela Bay/Turtle Bay
Kawela Bay/Turtle Bay, located at Oʻahu’s northeastern tip near Kahuku, is sheltered from the big waves, offering an ideal spot for snorkeling. Visitors might even spot a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle).
Windward Coast Beaches (Eastside)
Kuaola Regional Park
Kuaola Regional Park, situated across from Kuaola Ranch, provides stunning views of Oʻahu’s east coast and Mokoliʻi, a small islet off the shore.
Makapuʻu Beach Park
Makapuʻu Beach Park, surrounded by sea cliffs, is a favorite spot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. Just around the corner is the iconic Makapuʻu Lighthouse.
South Shore Beaches
Waikīkī Beach
Waikīkī Beach is world-renowned, attracting over four million visitors each year. Its breathtaking views of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head) and the iconic Duke Kahanamoku statue make it one of the most recognizable beaches globally. It’s also one of the best places in Hawaiʻi to learn how to surf or paddle a canoe, thanks to its gentle, long-lasting waves. Waikīkī comprises several smaller beaches, including Fort DeRussy Beach to the west, Waikīkī Beach (fronting the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and Westin Moana Surfrider), Kūhiō Beach (along Kalākaua Avenue), and Queen Surf Beach near the base of Lēʻahi.
Waikīkī - Duke's Beach
Waikīkī - Duke's Beach, named after Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, is a small beach that forms part of the larger Waikīkī Beach.
Waikīkī - Kūhiō Beach
Waikīkī - Kūhiō Beach, nicknamed "Kūhiō Ponds" due to the two dividing walls, is a smaller segment of Waikīkī.
Waikīkī - Queen’s Surf Beach
Waikīkī - Queen’s Surf Beach is favored by bodyboarders and surfers, forming another part of the larger Waikīkī beach area.
Waikīkī - Sans Souci/Kaimana Beach Park
Waikīkī - Sans Souci/Kaimana Beach Park, with its shallow, sandy waters, is perfect for families, as it’s free from strong currents.
Ala Moana Regional Park
Ala Moana Regional Park, just west of Waikīkī, features a half-mile stretch of beach protected by a reef, ensuring calm waters. The park also has picnic tables for a relaxing day out.
Magic Island Lagoon
Magic Island Lagoon, extending from Ala Moana, is a man-made peninsula with seawalls and a shallow lagoon, making it a safe place for children to swim.
Leeward Coast Beaches (Westside)
Depot Beach Park
Depot Beach Park is a local favorite, offering a wide expanse of white sand.
Mākaha Beach
Mākaha Beach is renowned for its surfing, especially on Oʻahu’s west coast, and was one of the pioneering spots for big wave surfing. However, visitors should be cautious of the sloping sand, which can create backwash.
Keawaʻula Beach (Yokohama Beach)
Keawaʻula Beach (Yokohama Beach), located at the end of the Leeward Coast, features a curved shoreline and vibrant turquoise waters. It’s an excellent place to relax and watch surfers and dolphins, while nearby Kaʻena Point offers a scenic hiking trail with stunning ocean views.
Kō Olina Resort
Kō Olina Resort and Marina is home to several man-made lagoons that were designed for the Kō Olina Resort. With amenities such as parking, restrooms, and showers, it’s an ideal destination for families, and it also houses the J.W. Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa and Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.
Final Words:
Traveling is about more than just seeing new places—it's about immersing yourself in different cultures, trying new foods, and embracing unforgettable adventures. At Travel World, we’re here to fuel your wanderlust and guide you to the world’s most captivating destinations. Whether you're exploring bustling cities or relaxing on secluded beaches, each journey offers a new story. Let’s make every trip an unforgettable experience!