Oahu is a paradise for the people who love beaches. The long coastline, which spread over a length of 112 miles, is home to some of the most popular and beautiful beaches of the world. For a person who wishes to have a good time on the sandy beaches and enjoy some recreational beachside activities, Oahu should be on top of their bucket list for sure.
As the Oahu has some of the best beaches, we made list fo best beaches in Oahu to make your Oahu trip more awesome. Here is a list of 15 best beaches in Oahu.
Best beaches in Oahu
These are the best beaches in Oahu. Some of the beaches in Oahu are with turtles.
1. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is located in the South Shore of Oahu and the majority of the hotels, restaurants, and resorts are located here. This is the reason that it is highly populated by tourists from all over the world. It also makes Waikiki Beach one of the most famous beaches in the world. Waikiki was used by royal families as a playground in earlier times. It attracts around 4 million tourists every year. Waikiki Beach gives a mesmerizing view of Diamond Head.
2. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai is a small beach which is located on the windward side of Oahu in a small beach town named Kailua. This beach is perfect for safe swimming because of the presence of an offshore reef, which keeps the water tamed. There are two islands located nearby, where people can go in search of wildlife in the bird sanctuaries featured there. Windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling are some of the water sports that people can go for here. This beach is usually crowded over the weekends.
3. Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is located on the North Shore of Oahu. The crystal clear water attracts both international tourists as well the local people who come here to enjoy the sun. This beach on Oahu north shore is more crowded during the summers because it is perfect for swimming and snorkeling during this season. The winder winds create huge waves that make it difficult for amateur swimmers to swim. There are surfing competitions held on this beach.
4. Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach has a 30-acre public park wherein features picnic tables, volleyball courts, restrooms, and a couple of food stands. There are lots of water activities even on this beach. It includes wind-surfing, snorkeling, swimming, sailing, and diving. It is preferable to visit Kailua Beach on a weekday because of fewer crowds. Nearby islands can be visited by kayaking.
5. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is famous among professional surfers because of high waves that are prevalent from October to April. Vans Triple Crown Surfing competition is held on this beach every year because of the suitable conditions. Waimea Bay is perfect for a picnic and bathing in the sun as it is located in on the windy shores. It is perfect for swimming and scuba diving in the summers.
6. Kahana Bay Beach Park
Kahana Bay Beach Park has shallow waters because of which, it is not very suitable for swimming but water activities like kayaking and fishing are done here. But it is ideal for chilling on the sand and enjoy a peaceful scenic beauty. Kanaha Bay Beach Park is famous for its salt and pepper sand, Kamani trees, and jagged cliffs. There are several areas to set up camps and go for a picnic. Kahana Bay Beach Park also has hiking trails in certain areas.
7. Malaekahana Beach
Malaekahana Beach is a white sand beach that is one mile in length. The beach offers various activities including ball-games and hiking. People can also just sit and relax in the sun. The currents are strong during the winter, so, it is advised to not swim during that season. There are also no lifeguards present, making it even riskier. However, visitors may go to the nearby Moku’auia island to swim as the water level is low there. Also, the water is crystal clear and one can also see some green turtles. This is one of the beaches in Oahu with turtles.
8. Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach has great waves and close shore break which makes it suitable for body-boarding and surfing. It is stretched over a length of 1200 feet and is located in the southeast area of Oahu. The water waves are not ideal for amateur surfers even during the summers. Thus, tourists just come here to relax in the sun and watch professional surfers surf. However, people take long strolls and fly kites here.
9. Pokai Bay
Pokai Bay is perfect for the people who want to enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling without much crowd. The shoreline here is secluded. Also, the waters are calm as it is surrounded by reefs. This makes it suitable for children to snorkel in this area. Pokai Bay is ideal for swimming even it the winters, unlike most of the other beaches. It is a favorite among the locals who visit the beach for small picnics with their families.
10. Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is a man-made beach that is located between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. It is half-mile long and is a tropical paradise. An outer reef protects the area which leads to calm waters. The beach is ideal for swimming and paddle-boarding. Ala Moana Beach Park is mostly visited by locals. Dillingham Dredging Company dumped sand on the park 60 years ago and created this beach. It is a great place for children to take swimming lessons.
11. Makapuu Beach Park
Makapuu Beach Park is one of the most scenic places in Hawaii. It is surrounded by mountains. The currents in this area are strong and are not suitable for swimming even during the summers. Although, it is popular among body surfers. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll to the picturesque Makappu Lighthouse and can enjoy the amazing view of mountains and coastline.
12. Bellows Field Beach Park
The water on this beach is shallow and thus it is ideal for families with children. It is popular for its beautiful scenery. The park is protected by a reef on the eastside ad hence, it is an ideal location for swimmers. But, it is advised to be careful while one goes into the water because there are jellyfish in this area. There are also campsites on this beach as there is plenty of shade from ironwood trees. However, one needs to get a permit to camp here. Bellows Field Beach Park also has restrooms and picnic areas.
13. Makaha Beach Park
Makaha Beach Park is located on the west coast of Oahu and is a great place to swim during the summers. In the winter, the currents become strong and thus, it popular among surfers. The visitors are not allowed it the northern end of it and is reserved only for surfers. The beach is less crowded during the weekdays. There is the well-known site of Makaha Caverns offshore, for divers. There are lifeguards throughout the day to advise people about swimming in the waters.
14. Diamond Head Beach Park
Diamond Head Beach Park is another favorite spot for surfers. Although, rocky and sharp reefs near the shore make it difficult for swimming. This beach is less crowded and it is a great place for snorkeling when the shores are not high. A rocky shelf and beautiful steep rugged cliffs give this beach a picturesque touch. The scenery around is a photographer’s favorite.
15. Nanakuli Beach Park
Although, Nanakuli Beach Park is a perfect area for swimming, the southern part of the beach is more ideal for swimming as the currents are comparatively less strong. It is popular as one of the best diving spots in Hawaii. The beach is also popular among families and couples who come there for a picnic. Surfers prefer this beach in the winters when the waves are larger.
Read more, Islands to visit in Hawaii
Oahu has a lot to offer to the people who reside or visit there- a huge number of beaches, activities, and scenic beauty. People can look forward to spending a great summer in the beaches engaging themselves in fishing, snorkeling, swimming or surfing (to name a few of the many activities) Oahu is a solution to all types of travelers be it a family with kids, couples or adventure seekers, it has an answer for all.