On the windward side of Oahu is the town of Waimanalo, which is Hawaiian for ""potable water"", named because of the brackish ponds in the area used for irrigation. The town of Waimanalo is close to, but somewhat separated from, the neighborhood of Waimanalo Beach - which is also the name of the longest stretch of sandy shoreline (around 5 and a half miles) on the entire island of Oahu. During World War II, this is where the first Japanese prisoner of war was captured.
Waimanalo is noteworthy because of its proximity to Sea Life Park and Chief's Luau, the highest rated luau on the island by Trip Advisor. Also nearby is Makapu'u beach and Makapu'u point, the eastern most point on the Island of Oahu, and scenic Makapu'u Lighthouse. Just off the shore is Kaohikaipu, a volcanic island that is a designated Hawaii state sea bird sanctuary.
