The island of Oahu is the most populated of the Hawaiian Islands, with approximately 75% of the state’s residences calling the island home. Here, the capital city of Honolulu is found, with many intriguing historic sites, iconic landmarks, amazing activities, and a ton of things to keep you busy during your vacation.
As with any of the islands, the beaches are a calling card, featuring white sand, a nice breeze, and a day of relaxation, with the occasional dip or the chance to take part in an ocean activity.
You may be wondering which the best beaches to visit are, or where to go to find a retreat from the crowds. We can help you out, giving you a guide to the top beaches to check out.
Ala Moana Beach Park
A short drive from Waikiki, the sprawling beach park is a great place to spend a few hours, with a path for walking or running that wraps around the entire park, a manmade island with paths and a protected cove, and plenty of parking. The beach and beach park fill up on the weekends, but during the week there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the view. The beach itself is protected by offshore reefs, so the water is calm, perfect conditions for Stand-Up Paddle.
Waimanalo Beach
On the Windward side of the island you’ll find Waimanalo Beach, probably the most amazing beach you will find on Oahu. Located next to Bellows Air Force Station, the surrounding area is a far cry from the city of Honolulu, but the beach is out of a picture. Powder white sands are fronted by towering trees, and the pristine water creates an incredible view for the day. The water is known to be rougher at Waimanalo, so be careful if you enter.
North Shore Beaches
We can’t choose just one, so we’ll mention them all. Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline are the trinity of surf beaches on the North Shore, but during the summer, the waters are quite calm and you can actually enter. Parking can be very limited, but if you are lucky enough to find a place, stay for the entire day and watch the sunset. If you are visiting during the winter, stay out of the water, and watch as the expert surfers put on a show.
Yokohama Bay
On the Leeward side of the island, Yokohama Bay is the hidden gem of the area, and one of the absolute best beaches on Oahu. Usually the beach is very empty, so there is plenty of space to spread out. Pick up some Poke and enjoy the day.
Waikiki Beach
If you’re staying in Waikiki, you’ll become well acquainted with Waikiki Beach, and the fun that happens here. Take a booze cruise or try your hand at surfing on the gentle waves, or just sit back and relax.
Which are your favorite beaches to visit on Oahu?
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance, especially our top seller Sea Life Park Luau. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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