From hidden coves to world-famous shores — your complete guide to Oahu's best beaches with parking tips and insider knowledge.
Powdery white sand, calm turquoise water, views of Mokulua Islands. Often rated #1 beach in the US.
Swimming, kayaking, relaxing
Early morning or late afternoon
Street parking only, arrive before 8am
None (use Kailua Beach Park nearby)
Pro Tip: Rent kayaks to paddle to Mokulua Islands
Famous for massive winter waves and calm summer swimming. The iconic rock for cliff jumping.
Swimming (summer), watching surfers (winter)
Summer for swimming, winter for waves
Free lot, fills up by 9am in summer
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards
Pro Tip: Jump off the famous rock - it's about 25 feet!
World-famous surf spot and stunning sunsets. Wide sandy beach stretches for 2 miles.
Sunset watching, winter wave watching
Late afternoon for golden hour photos
Street parking along Kamehameha Hwy
Portable restrooms
Pro Tip: Bring a beach chair and watch pro surfers during winter contests
Premier snorkeling destination in a volcanic crater. Crystal-clear water with abundant marine life.
Snorkeling, marine life viewing
Morning for calmest water, arrive early
Paid lot $3, reservation required online
Full facilities, snorkel rentals
Pro Tip: Book reservations at least 2 days in advance online
Half-mile of golden sand with gentle waves. Full facilities and kayak rentals available.
Swimming, kayaking, windsurfing
Morning for calm water
Paid lot at Kailua Beach Park
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic areas
Pro Tip: Perfect home base for exploring Lanikai too
3.5 miles of pristine white sand backed by ironwood trees. Less crowded than other beaches.
Long beach walks, bodysurfing
Weekday mornings for solitude
Free lot at Waimanalo Beach Park
Restrooms, showers, picnic tables
Pro Tip: Location for many Hawaiian photoshoots - stunning backdrop
Famous for bodyboarding with powerful shorebreak. Beautiful but dangerous currents.
Experienced bodyboarders, watching action
Morning for best waves
Large free lot
Restrooms, lifeguards
Pro Tip: Watch only unless you're an expert - strong currents!
Incredible tide pools and snorkeling in summer. Rocky cove with abundant sea life.
Snorkeling, tide pool exploring
Summer mornings when water is calmest
Paid lot across highway
Nearby food trucks, limited restrooms
Pro Tip: Bring water shoes for the rocky entry
Four man-made lagoons with calm, protected water. Perfect for families and relaxing.
Families with young kids, calm swimming
Weekday mornings
Limited free parking, arrive early
Restrooms, nearby resort dining
Pro Tip: Lagoon 4 is usually the least crowded
Warm water from power plant outflow attracts sea turtles and tropical fish.
Snorkeling, turtle spotting
Calm days, morning
Small free lot
None - bring everything
Pro Tip: Swim toward the power plant pipes for warmest water
