Easily the biggest draw to Hawaii is the stunning beaches. Travelers planning a trip to the islands often spend plenty of time deciding which beaches to visit and where to spend their days relaxing. Each island has well-known favorites as well as quieter stretches of coastline, and some of the most memorable places are found away from the busiest resort areas.
As the most visited of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu features a wide variety of activities, sightseeing experiences and famous beaches. Located all around the island, these beaches range from calm family-friendly spots to legendary North Shore surf breaks. Some are close to Waikiki, while others are best experienced as part of a drive around the island. If you want to see more than just the resort areas, Oahu sightseeing tours are another way to explore beaches, scenic coastlines and attractions around the island.
Waimanalo Beach
Swing around Oahu’s windward coast and you’ll find Waimanalo Beach, a beautiful stretch of shoreline known for its soft sand, turquoise water and relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular stop for visitors exploring the eastern side of the island and offers a quieter alternative to many of the beaches closer to Waikiki.
Waimea Bay
You’ve probably seen Waimea Bay while looking through photos of Hawaii. The iconic shape of the bay, the large rock near the shoreline and the famous winter surf make this one of the North Shore’s best-known beaches. During calmer conditions, Waimea Bay can also be a beautiful place to spend a relaxing day by the water.
Ala Moana Beach
Found just outside Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach is popular with both locals and visitors. The protected water is often calmer than many nearby beaches, making it a popular place for swimming and families. Nearby Magic Island also offers walking paths, grassy areas and scenic views of the ocean and Waikiki.
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is located near the Halona Blowhole and is known for powerful shore breaks and strong ocean conditions. It is popular with experienced bodyboarders, but visitors should use caution and always follow posted warnings and lifeguard instructions before entering the water.
Sunset Beach
The name says it all. Sunset Beach is famous for its winter surf, but it is also one of the North Shore’s most scenic places to watch the sun set over the ocean. Spend some time along the beach in the late afternoon and enjoy the changing colors as the sun drops below the horizon.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year-round, popular Hawaii tours and activities can sell out quickly. In many cases, tours fill up weeks in advance, especially during busy travel periods. To help secure your preferred dates, we recommend making reservations ahead of time.