Beaches Not to Miss
Oʻahu’s beaches are the heart of the island and an unforgettable highlight for first-time visitors. From the famous golden sands of Waikīkī to the quieter, more natural stretches along the North Shore and Leeward Coast, each beach offers its own personality, calm turquoise waters for swimming, rolling waves for surfing, and postcard-perfect sunsets. Warm year-round temperatures, soft sand, and the welcoming spirit of aloha make Oʻahu’s beaches the perfect place to relax, explore, and experience the island’s natural beauty for the very first time.
Waikiki Beach
Best for: First-time visitors, swimming, dining, iconic views
Waikīkī is Oʻahu’s most famous beach, offering calm waters, beginner-friendly surf breaks, and a vibrant beachfront lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants. Diamond Head provides a dramatic backdrop, making this a classic Hawaiian experience.
Lanikai Beach
Best for: Scenic beauty, kayaking, sunrise views
Frequently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Lanikai is known for powder-soft sand, calm turquoise water, and views of the Mokulua Islands offshore. Residential and peaceful, it’s perfect for a serene beach day.
Waimanalo Beach
Best for: Clear waters, not crowded and fine white sand
If you're looking for a breathtaking Hawaiian getaway, look no further than Waimanalo Beach. This serene spot on the island of Oahu is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning natural scenery. With crystal-clear water and soft white sand, Waimanalo Beach is worth a visit!
Kailua Beach
Best for: Families, wind sports, long walks
Just minutes from Lanikai, Kailua Beach offers wide sandy stretches, steady trade winds, and shallow waters ideal for swimming, kiteboarding, and picnics. A relaxed local favorite with easy access and facilities.
North Shore (Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline)
Best for: Big waves, surfing culture, winter scenery
The North Shore is legendary for its powerful winter waves and professional surf competitions. In summer, Waimea Bay transforms into a calm, crystal-clear swimming beach. It’s raw, beautiful, and quintessentially Hawaiian.
Makaha Beach
Best for: Authentic local vibe, sunsets, seasonal surf
Makaha is less crowded and deeply rooted in local culture. In winter, it hosts powerful surf breaks; in summer, the waters calm for swimming and snorkeling. Sunsets here are some of the island’s best.
Electric Beach
Best for: Snorkeling, marine life
Warm water outflow attracts colorful fish and coral, making this a favorite among experienced snorkelers.
Makua/Yokohama/Keawa`ula Beach
Best for: Scenic beauty, sunsets, dramatic coastline
Known by many names, this stunning and often ignored beach is framed by rugged cliffs and deep blue water, the beach feels wild and untouched. Best visited on calm days or if you want to take in the view of big waves, but exercise caution.