Hawaii is has some of the world’s best beaches and Oahu is no exception. While Waikiki is one of the most famous of Oahu beaches, there are many other sandy areas to explore on the island if you’re looking for an adventure road trip. If you’re planning a one or two day trip around Oahu, this guide will show you the top 5 Oahu beaches to stop at on your drive. Each beach is unique, from calm coves to big surf to vibrant marine life.
If you do decide to rent a car you can download this DIY island tour that takes you to some hidden gems in Kauai and North Shore.
1. Lanikai Beach (Windward Coast)
Why?
On the Windward side of Oahu, Lanikai Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The white sand and turquoise water is a postcard come to life. What makes Lanikai special is its calm and not too crowded compared to other touristy spots.
Activities
Lanikai is great for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. The calm water is perfect for beginners and if you’re looking for an adventure, you can rent a kayak and paddle out to the Mokulua Islands. Snorkelers will love the shallow coral reefs full of colorful fish. If you love views, the Lanikai Pillbox hike has stunning views of the beach from above.
Insider Tip
Parking can be tough since the beach is in a residential area, so be prepared to walk a bit after parking. Best to get there early in the morning to score a spot and watch the sunrise.
Ideal Stop for:
- Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking.
- A peaceful retreat.
Word of Caution
No public restrooms or showers at Lanikai, so plan accordingly.
2. Kailua Beach Park (Windward Coast)
Why?
Just a short drive from Lanikai, Kailua Beach Park is another Oahu Windward gem. Long stretch of soft white sand and calm clear water, Kailua Beach is perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts. Larger and more equipped than Lanikai, more amenities but still peaceful.
Activities
Kailua Beach is great for swimming, picnicking and kite surfing. The breezy conditions make it a top spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. If you’re not into water sports, you can just relax on the sand, go for a peaceful swim or rent a kayak to explore the offshore islands.
Facilities
Unlike Lanikai, Kailua Beach Park has facilities, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and plenty of parking so it’s a more convenient stop for families or if you’re spending the whole day at the beach.
Ideal Stop for:
- Water sports enthusiasts and families.
- A active beach day.
Don’t forget to check out our post about all the incredible eats on Oahu!
3. Waimea Bay Beach Park (North Shore)
Why?
Located on the North Shore, Waimea Bay is one of the must see Oahu beaches for surfers and thrill seekers. In the winter months, this beach is a big wave surfers paradise as the swells can get up to 30 feet. In the summer, the bay is calm and serene and perfect for families and those who want to explore the crystal clear water.
Activities
Waimea Bay is more than just surfing. In the summer when the water is calm, it’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and cliff diving. The big rock on the shore is a famous spot where adventurous visitors can jump into the deep water below. There’s also great snorkeling along the edges of the bay especially near the rocks where marine life gathers.
Facilities
Waimea Bay has parking, restrooms and showers but parking can be limited especially during peak season. Get there early to score a spot.
Ideal Stop for:
- Surfing in winter, swimming and snorkeling in summer.
- Adventure seekers and families.
4. Sunset Beach (North Shore)
Why?
Just a few minutes from Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach is another North Shore gem for sunsets and big waves. In the winter it’s one of the host beaches for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing. In the summer the water is much calmer and great for swimming and snorkeling.
Activities
Surfing is the main attraction at Sunset Beach, especially in the winter. But in the summer when the water is calm it’s a great beach for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. If you’re staying until evening you’ll be rewarded with one of the best sunsets on the island.
Facilities
Public restrooms and showers are available but parking can be tough especially during the winter months when the surfing competitions are in full swing.
Ideal Stop for:
- Surfing in winter and sunbathing in summer.
- Photography lovers for sunset views.
5. Makapuʻu Beach Park (Southeastern Oahu)
Why?
Located on the southeastern tip of Oahu, Makapuʻu Beach Park is a wild and rugged beach. The beach is famous for its cliffs and big waves. It’s a great spot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing due to the consistent shore breaks. It is also a great spot for engagement or family vacation photos like we did with a Viator photography session back in 2015!
Activities
Makapuʻu Beach is a bodyboarder’s favorite due to the powerful shore breaks. Swimming here can be dangerous especially in the winter months when the waves are bigger. If you’re not up for the waves you can hike the nearby Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail for ocean and beach views.
Tip
The beach itself can be rough for swimming but the tide pools near the Makapuʻu Lighthouse are fun to explore and during the winter months the cliffs are great for whale watching.
Facilities
Restrooms and showers but parking can be limited. A great stop to take in the natural beauty of Oahu’s southeastern coast even if you don’t plan to spend the whole day at the beach.
Ideal Stop for:
- Bodyboarding, bodysurfing and hiking.
- Whale watching and photography in the morning.
Bonus Stop: Hālona Blowhole Lookout
If you have time while exploring the southeastern coast near Makapuʻu Beach don’t miss the Hālona Blowhole Lookout. This natural wonder is when waves force seawater through lava tubes and create water spouts. There’s also a small cove nearby Hālona Beach Cove perfect for a quick dip or photo op.
Oahu Beaches Road Trip Tips
- Start Early: Parking is limited at many beaches so get there early especially at popular spots like Waimea Bay and Lanikai Beach.
- Plan for Restrooms and Food: Some beaches have restrooms and food trucks nearby others don’t. Bring snacks, drinks and know where the facilities are.
- Weather Considerations: The North Shore is big wave winter and less ideal for swimming but great for surfing. Summer is calmer and perfect for water sports and families.
- Respect the Land: Many beaches in Oahu are in residential or natural areas. Always respect the locals and the environment by cleaning up after yourself and following any posted rules.
- Keep your car doors closed! We had a chicken run into our vehicle when we parked at a random beach.
Oahu beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or scenery a beach road trip around the island will give you the best of what Hawaii’s beaches have to offer. From the calm sands of Lanikai to the big waves of Waimea Bay each stop is a chance to experience the natural beauty of the island. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel and hit the road!
Hy,
What a wonderful experience is to swim in the ocean like a bird flying in the sky with no restrictions.
I’m basically a fish. I feel “out of water” on land. I just love being in the ocean and have done my fair share of snorkeling but since I picked up boogie boarding I can’t get enough of it. Just floating in the ocean waiting for a perfect wave is my kind of day!
I completely understand where you’re coming from. When I am at the ocean, I feel alive. It’s so refreshing for my soul. I wish I lived closer (I’m about 90 minutes away, sometimes longer).
I feel the same about the ocean, and luckily except for my three years living near Lake Geneva in Switzerland, I have never lived too far from one. I cannot imagine living more than an hour away, yes another body of water can appease me for awhile, but I need the ocean – the waves, the saltiness, the unpredictability – or I have a hole in my heart!