The Most Delicious Beaches in Honolulu

Point Panic Beach Park

★★★★☆ 4.2 (23)

"One of my pledges this year is to complete more reviews of dive sites and dive shops. Point Panic is my home reef, the dive site I regularly go. From my monthly reef cleanup with Nudiwear, who adopted PP as their clean up site, to venturing out during the winter time to some of the well known reefs beyond. PP is very convenient: it has a concrete staircase into the water, available shower after the dive, and parking. About the only major inconvenience is that the closest public restroom is about a block ewa from the parking lot. From remembering Point Panic as the site comedian Rap Reiplinger sang about in the song, "Faith Yanagi", to regularly coming down for fun or reef clean up dives, it is a favorite of mine! "Point Panic was unreal, 90 feet and glassy!" Will repeat and recommend!"

Sand Island Beach

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (10)

"Hubby and I stopped here to kill time cause there was traffic coming in town. This beach was pretty secluded and away from everything. It was a nice afternoon here and it was a pretty day considering that it was so windy. It was nice. The sand kept blowing around as I sat down. Hubby and I enjoyed the beach and there were only a few people on the beach around the time we went. I definitely would come back here. It closes early around 6:45 pm. We left prior to the closing time but it was nice just sitting down on the beach and relaxing to the sounds of the water."

Kahana Bay Beach

★★★★☆ 4.2 (35)

"I had just had the most amazing massage, and the last time I had gone, I didn't have time to stop anywhere along the way. I saw this beach on the way to Punaluu, so on my way back I stopped. This is one of those hidden beaches that's not hidden, but during the week, it's not busy at all. Some tourists came by...not very friendly, and some of the cars drive the two lane road a little fast, but once you find a spot, the rest of the world far away.I did wish I had a beach chair, but I sat against a tree and read my book. Good breeze and the soft crash of waves. A great place to relax! I'm not sure what it looks like on the weekend, but I wouldn't come here at that time. There's a porta potty, but if you're too haole for that, walk across the street to the state park, there are restrooms.Aloha!"

Mokuleia Beach

★★★★☆ 4.4 (66)

"Traveling around the island, this was the idyllic and almost empty beach of my imagination.The waves at this North Shore outpost were incredibly consistent. If I had a beach chair with me, I would have stayed here the entire day."

Zablan

★★★★☆ 4.2 (15)

"Not sure why this beach is reported closed...but maybe it's better to keep the crowds out lol. It's the left hand side of Nanakuli Beach but has its own parking. I love this beach!! Awesome place to swim and the water is clear and nice. It's always sunny for the most part, and not rocky at all. It does have a shore-break so just watch the little ones. The weekends can get busy so go early to claim a spot. To the far left on the rocks you will find tunnels/mermaid caves, and a lot of cool little tide pools. If you do venture out here keep in mind the rocks are pretty sharp, maybe wear beach shoes or something if you're not used to it.Don't leave valuables in your car, bring out what you bring in - don't leave trash! Be respectful, and have fun! It's one of my favorite beaches on the island."

Turtle Bay Beach

★★★★☆ 4.1 (150)

"A cozy hike through some cool forest trees to reach the cozy beach. A lot of famous movies and tv shows were filmed here, including the second Hunger Games movie"

Sherwoods Beach

★★★★★ 4.8 (32)

"It was nice to get away from the country passed all the other beaches along the way to Waimanalo.The ocean was so blue. Beach was not so crowded. There were some over night campers. While eating lunch at the picnic table, it was so windy and chilly that I couldn't handle it. We drove to the beach access that my friend has never been too. There is no parking lot so people were parking on the side of road by fence that was across the houses. It was actually at the end of Sherwoods Forest Beach. There was a restroom. Not too many people."

Kaena Point State Park

★★★★★ 4.6 (50)

"What a delightful find. Not a lot of people pay attention to the west side of Oahu. It certainly has its own character and a lot of permanent campers, but I really enjoyed this area. We drove it twice on our trip, the first time we didn't quite make it up here to Kaena Point, but we came back for a hike a few days later.The first thing we noticed as we neared the end of the highway was the Space Force installation. First time to see the sign and logo in action, for all the lolz. We parked at the end of the highway--for some reason the giant parking area is all closed off, which added some time onto our hike, but no worries. We walked until the end of the pavement, and entered the old rail trail. There used to be a railroad around the point, but now it's the trail and it takes you out to the wildlife preserve at the end. The preserve on the point is fantastic, and one of the few areas we ever visited in Oahu where we had it almost all to ourselves. There are giant albatross out there, and they are loud, and do a lot of dancing."

Pacific Soul Surfing

★★★★★ 4.9 (14)

"Yes, guilty, me and Thing 1 and Thing 2 did what every sunburned, lei-wearing pot bellied mainlander does when they come to Waikiki beach- we took surfing lessons. We took them from these guys and they were great. We had Mad Dog as our main instructor, and mad Dog looks exactly as his name suggests. After 25 minutes on the board on land getting to know how to hold it, stand up, paddle, turn and get down we are out on the water, paddling about 400 yards to get to the fabled breakers of Waikiki Beach. For $20 extra they will tow you out and if you are not in shape you should pay tyhe $, as yuo will be less tired when you get out there.Absolutely fabulous. One of their guys is also out there taking photos and for an extra $25 you get all the photos of you - and in an hour or so on the water pretty much everybosdy managed to get up ansd look half decent. I have to say Thing 1 and Thing 2 looked a lot better than half decent on some waves and enjoyed themselves immensely."

Kepoikai II Catamaran

★★★★★ 4.8 (228)

"We enjoyed our voyage upon the Kepoikai II Catamaran. I chose Kepoikai because I wanted a chill cruise for my family, minus the drunk adults that can be found boarding the other catamarans. The crew and captain exceeded my expectations and I'll be sure to sail again. Be sure to make your way at least 10-15 minutes before your sail time. They're located on the shoreline of Waikiki Beach between the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and the main Outrigger Waikiki Beach Hotel, in front of Dukes Waikiki."

White Plains Beach

★★★★☆ 4 (108)

"I love surfing here! The waves are the perfect size for anyone who wants to learn. Parking can be a pain during peak hours but eventually ppl leave. Don't leave anything out in sight in your car. There are showers to wash yourself and your board as well as a enclosed bathroom. Bring an umbrella for shade. It gets so hot! Not many shady areas. I've been to a birthday party here so you have the option to rent the pavilion. If I can recall, tents bigger than 10x10 are not allowed. There are lifeguards on duty. For the most part, it is sandy on the ocean floor with little reef spots and rocks here and there. My son and I love to paddle board out here too. Once he has the hang of surfing, I'll pass down my first ever surfboard to him. We seen little girls surfing around us, too cute! I'll definitely take my daughter once she old enough and can swim."

Malaekahana Beach

★★★★☆ 4 (30)

"For a person who's lived most of her life on Oahu, I'm surprised I've never heard of Malaekahana Beach before. This beach is absolutely stunning! It's perfect for romantic strolls, fun in the sun with your kids, swimming, body surfing, camping (yes, there's a campground site!), and even shore fishing. It was not over crowded with people. And the ocean when I was there was calm and inviting. This beach definitely sends serene vibes and is somewhere to go to get away from the city and leave your busy thoughts behind.The only issue is there is very limited parking, and the parking lot is locked in the evening. So you will need to leave the parking lot before it closes unless you want your vehicle to stay over night.I was told this is a very popular place to go camping and has a year out wait list (yikes!) But once you see this beach, you'll know exactly why so many believe it's worth the wait!"

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park

★★★★☆ 4 (110)

"My husband and I stopped by here to take a brisk walk to look at the ocean. He wanted to check if they cleaned out the park. It looked awhole lot better from the last time we were there. We enjoyed looking at the water and it sure was crowded. The waves were about 2-6" and there was alot of people in the water surfing. We enjoyed our day here today and happy we found parking. We were on our way out and just in time a parking opened up for us. Yay !!! We will surely return another day. I had a nice day with hubby."

Hunakai Beach

★★★★☆ 4.1 (31)

"This is a small beach, with very little space for hanging out in the sand. We were able to snag a spot because people were on their way out. It is nice and secluded and had nice views of Kahala. The water isn't too deep, and I was able to go in slightly and sit down. There are a lot of rocks below, so beware when walking around in the water. We found residential parking really close to the entrance."

Aloha Beach Services

★★★★☆ 4.4 (68)

"We were lucky to happen upon this spot on the beach. One of the best deals for an umbrella and two lounge chairs - $40.00It's sits right in front of the Westin and the beach cafe is directly behind you. Food service and restrooms available. I highly recommend these guys. Give them a try and let me know your experience. Mahalo!"

Makua Beach

★★★★★ 4.8 (36)

"AKA pray for sets/sex. I love this beach, the water is always nice and it's never too crowded. There is a rock you can snorkel and swim around, and a cool little cave to explore (on low tide). To the left of the parking and rock there are also cool tide pools you can lounge in. These pictures are during high tide. I wouldn't recommend this beach for kids unless they are strong swimmers.During the morning a lot of tour boats anchor off this beach (very close to shore) to snorkel and bother dolphins. The ocean here is very pristine and beautiful. Please take your trash when you leave.I always park where I can see my car and I would never come here alone. Just be respectful and cautious when exploring. It's beautiful!"

Secret Island

★★★★☆ 3.9 (54)

"This adventure is really more for families or people who aren't just looking to chill.We didn't feel like paddling a SUP, kayak or canoe. I signed up for the outrigger, but bailed when I realized I had to paddle.The views were great, lots of shade, bunches of picnic tables and we swung in a hammock for a while... but the price may dissuade you if that's all you want to do.The lunch was a wrap, chips, pineapple cup, brownie and bottle of water.They do have A/C bathrooms on the "island"."

Kahala Beach

★★★★☆ 3.9 (60)

"I am a little hesitant to post this because I want to keep this place secret; it seems many reviewers have been reviewing the beach that's really Waialae Beach Park. I stumbled upon this fabulous beach by accident during one of my walks with my friend Pamela P. and decided to bring the family here for a swim and make beach days a regular thing (I mean, we do live in Hawaii!!) This beach is usually not crowded and is very kid-friendly and swimmable. The water is pretty shallow and waves are manageable. It is a bit of a walk from the public parking lot and bathroom amenities at Waialae Beach Park but so worth it. The sand/ocean floor is soft but can be a bit "slimy" coz of the seaweed. We usually park in the neighborhood and walk-- why waste time and wait in the little parking lot for someone to leave? It's only a five-minute walk, maybe ten, but it's with a nice view and weather. Today on our way back to the car we discovered a shoreline access that takes us to the road after the beach so we wouldn't have to cut across the huge families/gatherings that choose to picnic/cookout at the pavilions. #46"

Ala Moana Beach

★★★★☆ 4.4 (62)

"We really enjoy this beach! Tons of sand, great water access, easy parking, straight across from the mall. There are a few homeless people but they never bother and the beach can get a little littered because of the constant influx of people coming and going so be sure to pick up after yourself. TIPS & TRICKS: * There are lots of things that happen at Ala Moana Beach Park, races, yoga, paddle boarding, water polo. Just hop online and see what's happening when you're here! * Bring food and water and post up all day, it's a nice spot. Plus there is L&L BBQ right here as well if you're feeling like a local Hawaiian plate!"

Bellows Field Beach Park

★★★★★ 4.5 (184)

"You will need to have a military ID to get on base. Bellows is my favorite beach because there is plenty of parking! There are beach cabins for rent, as well as picnic/camping areas. The grounds are so well kept, and you can even rent beach gear at the visitor center! I love bringing my family here when they come to visit because it is such a clean, family friendly beach."

Makaha Beach Cabanas

★★★☆☆ 2.8 (12)

"First off, these are not cabanas in any sense of the word. This is a condo building several stories tall. The unit we stayed in was arranged through Air Bnb and was a great deal and experience. This review is purely of the building and surrounding facility.The best aspects of this place is the it's proximity to an excellent beach. It is located on the beach, you literally walk out of the building into the sand (and there's a convenient foot bath as you come back in from the beach to wash the sand away). There is a secured parking lot with an attendant watching the lot. The building manager is very helpful and has a library of books to take onto the beach if you so desire. The beach is relatively empty on the week days. Weekends there were more people but not so many that it was inconvenient.The best part of everything is the snorkeling right outside your condo. The reef and fish, sea turtles and eels in the area are beautiful. There's also a wicked tide in sunset hours with fun waves for boogie boarding. This is a great, budget destination away from tourist locations. You are with the locals on this side of the island and it's fun!"

North Shore Beach Bus

★★★★★ 4.8 (59)

"Kona is DA BOMB. Kahuna Status tour guide. He is the wise sage to show us around the island of Oahu.At first I read about Greg, but in the middle of the tour as things were getting interesting I was thinking, "Greg who?" Seriously though guys, NSBB is super lucky to have him. 100% recommend this tour."

Shriners Beach Club

★★★★★ 4.9 (19)

"Time to PARTY.My friend recently hosted a birthday party for her daughter earlier this month. Though I was unfamiliar with the this venue in particular, as well as unsure of the location, I'm thankful other Yelpers were kind to post adequate info in their review. Thanks especially to Lori I. in helping me find my way.DETAILS:1. Spacious grassy area. Lots of room for kids to play OR to set up a bouncy castle/apparatus as my friend did on the day of the party. Concrete walls surround the property/grassy area as well.2. Beach access available.3. The covered lanai area can accommodate up to 400 people/guests (info provided by my friend). She also mentioned the hours this venue was available for their use was 8am to 5pm (the party was held on a Saturday).4. Parking is either in a small area in the compound (just as you drive thru the entrance) or on the roadside fronting the property or across the street. If parking across the street, please be mindful and careful of the oncoming traffic. On the day of the party there was a HPD officer helping to stop traffic for party-goers crossing the highway. Unfortunately, I don't know if my friend arranged separately for this service or if its provided in conjunction when having functions at the beach club. In any case, the officer was very HELPFUL indeed.I feel the best aspect or quality of this locale is the space allotted within the covered area and the large grassy lawn. Small or large parties/groups are easily accommodated, though parking may be a challenge for larger events. All told the party was enjoyed by all and I commended my friend for her choice of venue in celebrating her daughter's birthday. BOTTOM LINE: Party on! Great space/venue for hosting all types of parties."

Kualoa Regional Park

★★★★★ 4.7 (55)

"While passing through the windward side of Oahu, we stopped at this park which has an up close view of Mokoli'i Island in Kāneohe Bay. The mass is a basal islet located less than a half mile offshore of Kualoa Point. Some folks have nicknamed it a certain term because of how the shape resembles the hat of an old school laborer of Asian descent. The preferred use of Mokoli'i means 'little lizard' in Hawaiian.The park was flat and very spacious. There were numerous groups hosting parties, picnics, potlucks, etc on that afternoon. The scenery wasn't as gorgeous as some of the beaches elsewhere in Oahu. I was more impressed with the mountains to the north overlooking the highway. Apparently, Hollywood must have also liked these same views at Kualoa Ranch, enough so to use them as backdrops in a few blockbuster movies.At low tide, you can kayak, surf, or swim to the island and explore. After reaching the shore, there is even a short hike you can take to the peak. We snapped some requisite photos and briefly strolled the grounds before departing. If there was more time and a specific occasion, then I would consider returning to check out Kualoa Regional Park in detail. For now, I gave a three star experience for our visit."

Kawela Bay

★★★★☆ 3.5 (42)

"I came here with Michelle R. and my daughter a while back after an Elite event. We totally enjoyed the water along the beach. We wanted to hang out and my daughter wanted to get her feet wet. I managed to get some sun but didn't want to stay too long. There's a huge parking lot right in front. You have to literally walk down to get to the beach. Be careful as there's big and small rocks on the beach. There were small crabs and such along the beach so be careful. You can even find a lot of corral here. People were snorkeling as well. I would definitely come back here again. A cool spot to hang out!"

Pyramid Rock Beach

★★★★☆ 3.9 (17)

"I'm pretty lucky to work and enjoy life on the best base on the Island (location at least), MCBH Kaneohe, HI. This beach is a hidden gem, tucked away in a corner of the base. The Beach: Beautiful! Soft white sand. Ocean breeze. Warm, clear waters. Waves are good for surfing/body boarding. "Don't turn your back on the Ocean". Conditions can change in a heartbeat. Check with the lifeguard for recommendations on where to swim. Not too crowded like other beaches off base. On a week day you might be the only one getting your tan on or competing for waves. Climbing Pyramid Rock is not allowed. Signs are posted. You are near a Military flight line so u will hear/see planes take off and land.Access: this is on a Military base. You need to have a DOD ID or someone with one to sponsor you.Be safe and enjoy!"

Ko Olina Beach & Sports Club

★★★★☆ 4.2 (32)

"This is one of my favorite beaches on Oahu! The private lagoons are generally not as crowded as other beaches. The parking is very limited..I have had good luck parking at Lagoon 4. If there is not any parking available, I usually park at the marina and pay about $10 for parking. The beach is really clean and has showers. The bathrooms are clean compared to other beach bathrooms that I have been to. The nice thing about this beach park is that all of the lagoons are connected you can walk from one to the other. The water in the lagoons is pretty tranquil. Nice to swim and splash around in with the kids. If you venture for a walk you can also stop by and visit the Disney Aulani and have lunch. Good times. Or just bring your own foodies to the beach."

North Shore Beach Boyz

★★★★★ 5 (36)

"Kalani was very patient and understanding. He answered all my questions and made me feel safe."

Kewalo Basin Park

★★★★★ 4.9 (8)

"Built in 1990, the Kewalo Basin Park is a triangular peninsula that is located on the ocean edge of the Kewalo Basin at the westernmost point of Ala Moana Regional Park. Shhhh, this park is somewhat undiscovered by most residents and even fewer visitors would visit here. There's a small parking lot that's open and free to the public and access to the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Hookupu Center (Green Jobs & Training Center) and next to this center, you'll find the Harbor Master. But, this park's main draws are its beautiful wide promenade (similar to the Kaka'ako Waterfront Park), a pergola, public restrooms and showers, and a jetty from which you can get unobstructed views at the ocean's edge. Looking West, across the Kewalo channel, you can easily see the Kaka'ako Waterfront Park and back up into the Kewalo Basin Harbor. If you stand on the jetty and look East, you're at ocean edge and can get fabulous views for that perfect photo opportunity of Diamond Head, Waikiki, Ala Moana Regional Park, and Magic Island. In the past, my husband and I would come here on Friday nights to watch the Hilton Hawaiian Resorts' fireworks display and/or watch from afar the annual Shinnyo Lantern Floating Festival on Memorial Day. It can get windy so be prepared and hold onto your hat or don't wear loose clothes as the gusts may move you along like a kite. There are a couple of significant bronze statues here. The first statue that greets you at the entrance of this park is Saint Marianne Cope, OSF who tirelessly worked on the island of Molokai with patients affected with leprosy (Hansen's Disease) bringing them new healthcare standards, joy, and dignity. The second bronze statue is called 'Ano Lani; Ano Honua (A Heavenly Nature; An Earthly Nature). This statue represents a Hawaiian legend where a Hawaiian man called "Kapoi" showed kindness to an owl or pueo in Kewalo. That pueo or owl became Kapois protector as he saved Kapoi's life during a famous battle in Waikīkī. The eight diamond forms in the sculpture represent our eight Hawaiian islands that are "protected" by the pueo/owl that sits atop. If you look down at the promenade, you'll also see the diamond shape which is traditionally found on tapa cloth (bark cloth).This park also houses the newly opened (November 2019) and first of its kind Hookupu Center which focuses on encouraging and preparing local youths to become leaders in the green jobs sector. Kupu (Hawai'i's leading environmental education non-profit organization) opened this center with the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation. This center is also available for public events/catering through a rental program. Since the Ho'okupu Center, this triangular peninsula has seen a 90% drop in homeless people. But, you still shouldn't let your guard down.If you have a chance to check out this park, I'd recommend it for its views and tranquility. If you surf, there are stairs to access the water as there is no sandy beach to walk on here.."

Nanakuli Beach Park

★★★★☆ 4.4 (86)

"This beach was pretty nice, but we really came here to check out the mermaid caves!Just make sure you check the high/low tide before you come if you're planning on going to the caves because you won't be able to get in if it's high tide. Caves can be found on the left side of the beach. You will reach this rocky area and one of the holes in the ground will lead you to the cave. When I went, there was a big branch that was propped up to help you climb into and out of the caves. The waves were a bit high and getting rougher when I went so I couldn't stay for too long. Still a great place, glad I got a chance to see it."

Pililaau Army Beach

★★★★☆ 4.2 (12)

"I've never heard of a camping site in Waianae other than the homeless at "Tent City" so I was a little weary when my 6yo received an invitation for a birthday party at Pililaau Army Rec Center. But it is a really cute place! The host left parking passes for us with the security guard since we aren't military; I simply told them I was there for a party at Cabin 32, showed my ID, and on we were. Each cabin and their designated parking stalls-which are right in front of the cabins-are clearly marked and easy to find. The party was supposed to be at one of the picnic sites, but the host said "it was ghetto." Instead, the party was held at the BBQ grills and picnic tables right in front of the cabin. The cabins I saw had 2 bedrooms, but from my understanding there are also studio cabins. They don't look like much from the outside but inside they're super cozy and cute with a small living room, kitchen, bathroom and 2 bedrooms. They had uncovered lanais that faced the beach and crystal blue waters which was a mere 100 feet away.If you're military, I highly recommend this place for a fun and easy camping trip! If you're not military....quickly find somebody who is and can sponsor you! I can't wait until my kids get invited back!"

Secret Beach

★★★★☆ 4.3 (43)

"Great beach to come and relax on the Westside of Oahu. Nice little cove good for kids, snorkeling, or catching some rays.On this visit, we got to see TWO of Hawaii's endangered species- The Hawaiian Green Sea Turttle and the Hawaiian Monk Seal. If you ever come across them, please respect them and keep your distance.Best spot IMHO to catch the sunset too! Pictures don't do it justice, you just gotta check it out if you ever get the opportunity. ALOHA!!!"

Nimitz Beach

★★★★☆ 4 (41)

"This park is so cool. Away from most of the crowd (park does get crowded but not overcrowded) There are 3 pavillions but they are reserved for the military. Even without the pavillions this park is a cool alternative. ( no homeless that I could see) Lots of parking...public bathrooms...place to swim with showers..beautiful views...like most beaches in our paradise home its awesome!! Lucky we live Here in Hawaii"

Hickam Beach and Picnic Area

★★★★☆ 4 (89)

"Parking is close, you don't have to walk a mile to enjoy the clean sand and clear blue water. Totally safe, lifeguard stand is peace of mind too. Sturdy cabanas that you can reserve (on base) and grill at. There's even a rental stand if you want to paddle board or long board. Lucky we live Hawaii!"

Halona Beach Cove

★★★★★ 4.7 (91)

"HAWAII 2020 ADVENTURES #11 - FROM HERE TO ETERNITY A former coworker commented to me that I have an "old soul" due to my fondness of old, classic movies. Most movies today will be dated however classic movies stay fresh. Two years ago I visited Hawaii for the first time. Prior to my trip I read the novel "From Here To Eternity". In fact when I was in the Big Island at the condominium I was staying I watched the movie version on TCM during Memorial Day Weekend. The most talked about scene from the movie was the love scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr at Halona Beach Cove. I wasn't sure when I would visit Oahu again but I bookmarked this beach on my bucket list. This year I came back to Hawaii where I stayed at Oahu for 2 days. I visited to this beach on the day before Thanksgiving. That day was also my last day in Hawaii before I flew back to the mainland. When I arrived at Halona Beach Cove I was shocked that the beach was at the bottom of the lookout. I couldn't tell that from the movie. To get to the beach you have to walk on sandy, rocky slope. I didn't have difficulty walking down. However I couldn't imagine in 1953 how the cameramen would carry their equipment. The beach isn't big. Even though the body of water isn't big as normal beaches the current is quite strong. This beach is an underrated place to swim due to the small beach, which means this area won't be overcrowded. From my perspective if you want a peaceful time to yourself the best time to go to this beach is early morning just after sunrise. As my former coworker said, "I have an old soul." I'm not ashamed to admit it. Yet for a small beach why do old and young people drive to Halona Beach Cove? Mostly it's because of that famous movie of 1953 that won the Oscar for Best Picture. If I go back to Oahu I'll come to this beach again to swim and unwind. Hopefully there still be a young Deborah Kerr look-a-like waiting for me."