Beaches in Oahu

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• Canoes and Queens

  Waikiki, Oahu

  This stretch of Waikiki beach that includes Queens and Canoes is popularly known as the birthplace of surfing thanks in part to Duke Kahanamoku and the Hawaiian royalties before him who considered these beaches their playgrounds. Because Waikiki has deep roots in surfing, it is difficult to imagine that these beaches were once mostly marshland made up of fishponds and loi (taro fields) It's a far cry from the hotel-lined coast that it is today. If privacy and peace

• Kaiona Beach Park

  Waimanalo, Oahu

  The beaches of Waimanalo are the most magically picturesque pieces of tropical paradise you could ever imagine, and Kaiona Beach Park is no exception. Soft white sand, bright turquoise ocean, and sun kissed rippled mountains create an ideal setting to relax ad settle into the quiet, easy pace of island life.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: This family-friendly beach provides beachgoers with the perfect mix of sun-saturated sand, shade, grassy par

• China Walls aka Koko Kai Mini Beach Park

  Hawaii Kai, Oahu

  Located deep in the Hawaii Kai back roads you will find China Walls, a beach you can do everything at. You can come here just to bathe in the sun and hang out with the family, you can surf when the south swell comes in or you could just dive in and swim. You can even fish! The best thing about China Walls is the view of the sunset when the sun is going down and the open view of the ocean white water rolling onto the south shoreline. AT A GLANC

• Ulehawa Beach Park

  Waianae, Oahu

  Away from the main "tourist zones" of Oahu, Ulehawa Beach Park offers a refreshing break from the crowds and chaos of other beaches. The beach features ample space, shade, and a long stretch of white sand, but due to hazardous conditions it is not the best beach for swimming.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Covering 58 acres, Ulehawa Beach Park is a peaceful, picturesque spot for fishing, relaxing in the sun, or having a family picnic.

• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

  Honolulu, Oahu

  Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve This is a must-see wonder of nature on Oahu's south shore. In the years under protected status, the fish population has returned to very high numbers, and numerous marine life is thriving, creating unparalleled snorkeling opportunities. As a State Nature Preserve, the focus here is educating island visitors and residents alike on the ocean's ecosystems. The bay itself is a spectacular geological feature, as it is formed by a colla

• Halona Blowhole

  Honolulu, Oahu

  This small cove is a hidden gem tucked along the southeastern coast of Oahu. The blowhole attracts a steady flow of tourists year-round, and right next to it is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach that is often missed. Regardless of whether or not the blowhole is active, it is worth stopping by for the stunning view alone. The blowhole is most likely to be active when the wind is strong and tides are high. The beach area is a perfect spot for sunning and whale

• Hale'iwa Beach Park

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  On the easternmost edge of Hale'iwa town, off of Kamehameha Highway, you will find this great multi-purpose beach park. The view is stunningly Hawaiian, with Hale'iwa Harbor and breakwaters in the foreground, expansive Waialua Bay stretching out towards the panoramic Waianae Mountain Range, and Kaena Point in the distance. Part green space and part sandy beach, this park is a popular destination for water sports with rental vendors for surfboards and kayaks located right on the beach fr

• Publics

  Waikiki, Oahu

  Publics is the stretch of beach nestled between the north side of Waikiki Aquarium and the south end of Queens Beach. The surf break and the beach are named after the public restrooms that they front. To the left and right of the restroom facility are manicured lawns lined with coconut trees that dance with the breeze. The lawns are often used for barbecues/picnics and other fun, physical activities like yoga and group workouts. A breakwater, about 100 yards (300 ft.

• Wailupe Beach Park

  Aina Haina, Oahu

  Although it's small, Wailupe Beach Park is pristine and picturesque, with lots to offer. Located just east of Honolulu, it's easy to get to and popular with local families for picnics and fishing. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Lots of grass, plenty of parking, abundant shade, and a beach that is most suited to fishing activities.ACTIVITIES: Fishing, surfing and kayaking (farther out), picnicsLIFEGUARD: N

• Maili Beach Park

  Waianae, Oahu

  One of the most beautiful beaches on the west side of Oahu, Maili Beach Park stretches across 40 acres of land along the coast. White sand, turquoise water, and gorgeous mountain views create a pristine oasis that stands apart from some of the other beaches in the area that aren't quite as aesthetically appealing, due to being in the midst of industrial environments.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Maili Beach features high surf in the winter mon