Oahu’s Best Beaches: Where to Swim, Surf & Explore

Best beaches in Oahu by location:

South Shore (Honolulu Area)

• Waikiki Beach: Oahu’s most famous beach, for its golden sand, gentle waves and lively atmosphere. Ideal for beginner surfers, swimming and sunset strolls. There are lifeguards and gear rentals.

• Ala Moana Beach Park: Just west of Waikiki, Ala Moana is a favorite for locals. Its off-shore reef protects the inner shore, creating a calm lagoon-like swimming area. There’s plenty of space to picnic, jog or learn stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Tip: It’s walking distance from Ala Moana Center (shopping), and food trucks often park nearby on weekends.

• Hanauma Bay: A curved bay formed in a volcanic crater, known for snorkeling among coral reefs and tropical fish. It’s a designated Marine Life Conservation District with limited daily entry. The beach has basic facilities and an education center focused on marine conservation.

  • Tip: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, reservation and entry fee required.

Southeast Oahu

• Sandy Beach: Known for its powerful shore break, making it a top spot for experienced bodysurfers and bodyboarders. Not recommended for weak swimmers.

• Alan Davis Beach: A hidden cove with calm, shallow waters. A short hike from the Makapuʻu Lighthouse trail and great for a secluded swim.

• Halona Beach Cove: Also known as “Eternity Beach,” this small cove is located next to the Halona Blowhole Lookout. It’s a secluded spot with clear water, but conditions can be rough, so it’s best for relaxing or exploring rather than swimming.

Windward (East Coast)

• Lanikai Beach: Often rated among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Lanikai features powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s ideal for swimming and kayaking to the nearby Mokulua Islands.

  • Tip: Parking is on residential streets, so be courteous and go early!

• Kailua Beach Park: Located next to Lanikai. Kailua Beach has soft sand and calm waters, making it a good spot for kayaking, paddleboarding and windsurfing. The park has restrooms, picnic areas and plenty of space to relax to spend time with friends and family.

• Waimānalo Beach: A long, quiet beach lined with ironwood trees and fewer crowds than other spots on the island. It’s a good place for swimming or bodysurfing, especially during the calmer summer months.

North Shore

• Waimea Bay: Known for its massive winter surf (30+ ft waves) and exciting summer fun. In the calmer summer months, the water is crystal-clear and great for swimming or cliff jumping off “The Rock.” In winter, it’s a great spot to watch expert big-wave surfers (swimming not advised then).

• Sunset Beach: A two-mile stretch that hosts surf competitions like the Vans Triple Crown in the winter. In the summer, it’s great for snorkeling and long beach walks. Year-round, it’s one of the best places to catch the perfect sunset.

• Laniakea Beach: Nicknamed “Turtle Beach” for the green sea turtles that lay on the sand. It’s a small, rocky stretch of shoreline – great for observing turtles (from a respectful distance) and enjoying the North Shore’s natural beauty.

West (Leeward Coast)

• Ko Olina Lagoons: Four crescent-shaped man-made lagoons fronting the Ko Olina resort area (home to Aulani Disney Resort and others). The lagoons offer very gentle, clear water – perfect for young children and first-time snorkeling.

  • Tip: Public access is available (limited parking at each lagoon), and a path connects them for a scenic walk.

• Yokohama Bay (Keawaʻula Beach): The last beach on Oahu’s west side past Makaha, this is a remote stretch of sand with clear water and no nearby development or lifeguards. It’s a quiet spot popular with locals for relaxing and dolphin spotting.

  • Tip: Swimming is only recommended when the water is calm, as currents can be strong.

With so many stunning beaches to choose from, you really can't go wrong. Whether you're looking for great snorkeling, calm waters or a family-friendly spot, I can help you plan beach days that fit your trip perfectly. Need help with where to stay, what to do nearby or where to eat? I’ve got you covered there, too — let’s build your dream Oahu itinerary!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Oahu page.