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• Shark's Cove - Pupukea Tide Pools

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  Shark's Cove / Pupukea Tide PoolsAn amazing snorkel and dive spot on Oahu's North Shore, this area offers variety of ways to interact with the ocean when calmer conditions prevail. The tide pool section is well-protected shallow ocean water tidal basin teaming with smaller sea life. Surrounded by lava rock, the bay gradually grows in depth revealing underwater caves hosting corals and larger sea life. For the experienced snorkeler the bay opening to the right of the pools is a

• Pyramid Rock

  Kaneohe, Oahu

  Pyramid Rock Beach is a one Hawaii's best kept secrets. Named after a pyramid shaped rock along the coastline, this beach boasts natural green plants and tropical flowers, powderwhite sand and crystal clear water. Located in Kaneohe Marine Corps Base (MCBH) on Oahu's Windward sided Mokapu Peninsula, this hidden secret will definitely offer a magical experience for those able to enjoy.AT A GLANCE:HIGHLIGHTS: Located on MCBH in Ka

• Turtle Bay - Kuilima Cove

  Turtle Bay, Oahu

  Turtle Bay / Kuilima CoveOn the northern tip of Oahu a set of scenic bays flank the famed "Turtle Bay Resort". The smaller of the two is protected from the deeper ocean swells by natural volcanic rock jetties making it a safe place to snorkel for visitors of all ages. The drive through the countryside to reach this area is beautiful, and the resulting reward is a perfect beach destination for relaxing in calming warm ocean waters.

• Velzyland

  North Shore, Oahu

  Although it is part of the strip of famous North Shore surf breaks, Velzyland is set apart from the rest and off of the main road, so seems more secluded. The land running up to the sand is wooded, which adds to the "private" feel and provides plenty of shade. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Velzyland has both right and left breaks, and is a crowded surf spot all winter long. Surfers still flock to it when there is a swell during the summer, an

• Log Cabins

  North Shore, Oahu

  Oahu is known for having some of the best and biggest waves in the world, and during the winter months countless pro surfers, photographers, and observers descend on the several mile long strip of coast that is the mecca of the surfing world to bear witness. The Pipeline is probably the best-known wave, but there are several other big breaks on either side. Located to the left of Rock Piles, Log Cabins has been a favorite among advanced surfers for decades.

• Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park and Lagoon

  Waikiki, Oahu

  If you are heading to Waikiki for some beach time, the Park and Lagoon are great alternatives to the hustle-bustle of the busier central Waikiki beach access . The access to this location is a bit hidden, but worth the effort to locate it. A world of ocean fun awaits you, as there are two bodies of water accessible from this one beach: a protective break wall on the ocean side creates a sheltered cove, and a safe warm man-made lagoon to the other side of the beach offers a fun water pla

• Keehi Lagoon Beach Park

  Honolulu, Oahu

  Keehi Lagoon Beach Park is a beautiful, spacious haven located right in-between the chaos of the airport and the major highways leading in to Honolulu. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: The park features calm waters perfect for paddling of all sorts, tennis courts, a running path, an open field for ball games, and a playground. It's a great place to relax after a long day and watch the sunset. ACTIVITIES: Tennis, canoeing, kaya

• Haleiwa Ali'i Beach Park

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  A hub of activity for beach lovers in Haleiwa town, this park is spacious, covering 19 acres of land along the ocean and adjacent to the Haleiwa Boat Harbor. This beach has is a great panorama of breaking surf in the foreground, and a view of the the Waianae Mountain Range and Kaena Point in the distance. Portions of this park where used for the popular television series "Baywatch: Hawaii" and you can see why, as it truly is picture perfect.AT A GL

• Paiko Lagoon Kuli'ou'ou Beach Park

  Hawaii Kai, Oahu

  Kuli'ou'ou Beach Park is a beautiful neighborhood park next to the peaceful Paiko Lagoon, which is a wildlife sanctuary. Located near Hawaii Kai in south Oahu, the park offers beautiful views and lots of water and land activities. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Since it is a lagoon, the water is very calm and perfect for swimming, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. You'll often see families with young children here, as the park is

• Ko Olina Beach and Lagoons

  Ko Olina, Oahu

  Located on the warm dry leeward side of the island of Oahu, four sheltered Ko Olina Lagoons form a picture-perfect vacation paradise. Historically an oceanside retreat of choice of Hawaiian royalty, this well-designed 642-acre resort area is now home to several large hotels including the Disney Aulani and upscale vacation condominiums. Picturesque and charming, the lagoons provide calm sheltered ocean access. Easily accessible from Honolulu via H-3, Ko Olina is a great place to get away

• Waimanalo Bay Beach Park

  Waimanalo, Oahu

  Waimanalo Bay Beach Park is a family-style county beach park in the center of Waimanalo Bay, also nicknamed "Sherwood's" by locals. With sand like soft white powdered sugar, shady ironwood forest backing the beach, and regular cooling on-shore breezes this park is a Windward side favorite, yet only 35-minute drive from Honolulu, and well worth the trip. Visitors to Sandy Beach or Makapu'u Beach Parks are often directed to this beach when swimming conditions are too hazardous e

• Laie Beach Park aka Pounders Beach

  Laie, Oahu

  White-sand, turquoise water, ample shade, year-round waves, and a picturesque setting make this beach a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Laie Beach Park is commonly known as Pounders Beach because of the pounding shorebreak found here during most times of the year. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Year-round surf, calm areas for swimming, cliffs for fishing, open grassy space for ball games, and plenty of shade and picnic tables

• North Beach

  Kaneohe, Oahu

  Despite the epic, world-famous surf breaks that Oahu boasts, the windward side of the island has a serious lack of good surf spots. Because of this, North Beach is a rare treasure an exquisitely beautiful, postcard-perfect beach with consistently awesome waves. The only downside it is located off of the military base in Kaneohe, so is impossible to access unless you have military clearance or know someone who does and is willing to take you on a beach trip.

• Maunalua Bay

  Hawaii Kai, Oahu

  Aptly named, Maunalua (meaning two mountains) is located along a beautiful stretch of southeastern Oahu coast in-between Diamond Head and Koko Head. This bay is a watersport lover's dream, offering wide-open space, epic views, and perfect conditions for paddling, fishing, and sailing. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Conveniently located just off of Hawaii Kai Drive, Maunalua Bay is hugely expansive with large grassy areas, several park

• Tracks Beach Park

  Ko Olina, Oahu

  While not in the prettiest area (across from a busy highway and a power plant), Tracks Beach Park is gorgeous and relatively quiet with crystal clear, turquoise water. The beach is on a downward slant with lots of trees and bushes at the top, which provides both shade and a sort of "barrier" from everything on the other side. Bonus the furry members of your family are welcome here, as well! When your dog is tired of having to stay at home, this is the place to go.&lt

• Barbers Point Beach Park

  Kapolei, Oahu

  If you're planning a beach day, Barber's Point isn't the beach for you. However if you want to fish, see the lighthouse, or happen to be in the Kapolei area, it is definitely worth a visit. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Located adjacent to an industrial area in Kapolei, Barbers Point Beach Park has a narrow, rocky beach and dangerous currents that make it unsuitable for swimming. The main attraction here is the lighthouse,

• Mokule'ia Beach Park

  Mokuleia, Oahu

  Whose familiar with the smash hit TV series Lost will find instant familiarity with this secluded and little-known gem of a beach often used for the ABC show's filming of scenes. Tucked away on Oahu's North Shore, Mokule'ia Beach is a marvelous spot to spend the day in peace, quiet and solitude. Far away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, white sands and beautiful blue waters beckon visitors to slow down, take a deep breath and just "be." Turtle sighti

• Off the Wall

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  This world-famous surf break is packed with surfers, photographers, and other beach goers during the winter months when the swells bring wave-chasers from around the world. During the summer months, it offers a calmer and less crowded beach experience. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Off the Wall features epic barreling waves (mostly rights) that draw surfers and fans from Oahu and beyond all winter. An integral part of the fabled Nort

• Bellows Beach Park

  Waimanalo, Oahu

  Bellows Beach Park is a family style leisure camp located in Waimanalo, Hawaii. With long stretches of white sand, shady ironwood trees, clear waters and a magnificient view of luscious offshore islands, this beach park offers a great vacation for military and nonmilitary citizens alike. Bellows Air Force Station offers air conditioned lodging units for comfort and tranquility. Only 30 minutes away from Waikiki and Honolulu, this paradise getaway is sure to offer magnificent views and a

• Diamond Head Beach Park

  Diamond Head, Oahu

  Located at the base of Diamond Head and encompassing two acres along the cliffs, this beach primarily attracts surfers and features beautiful views, tide pools, good waves, a running path, and extensive coral reef. If you're lucky, you might even see a monk seal!AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Cliff views, dog-friendly, ample parking, large grassy area for sunning, picnics, and dog walking, great waves, uncrowded beach and surf break,

• Rocky Point

  North Shore, Oahu

  Another one of North Shore's famous reef breaks, Rocky Point attracts throngs of pro surfers and fans all winter long. As the name implies, you can find this break by the lava rocks scattered on the beach in front of it. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Both rights and lefts, consistent swells during the winter months and off and on throughout the summer. This is a great place to watch the big wave surfers fight over the waves during th

• Laniakea Beach

  North Shore, Oahu

  Also known as Turtle Beach, Laniakea is an essential stop-off point for tourists traveling along Oahu's North Shore. The green sea turtles that frequent this section of the coast have made it a favorite, and year-round you'll find throngs of people surrounding the popular and protected turtles as they bask in the sun. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Although most popular for turtle viewing, Laniakea Beach is a beautiful destination for other bea

• Hukilau Beach

  Laie, Oahu

  This beautiful beach is located along the northeastern shore of Oahu in Laie. Featuring soft sand, turquoise water, ample shade, and a grassy park, it has something for everyone and is the perfect destination for a day at the beach. It also makes a great picnic stop en route to the North Shore. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Set in an idyllic tropical setting, Hukilau Beach is peaceful and typically not too crowded. It's a popular family beach

• Kailua Beach Park

  Kailua, Oahu

  The town of Kailua is a charming oceanfront community on Oahu's Windward side. At the heart of this community is Kailua Bay, and all the activities that beach and ocean living can provide. Kailua Beach Park is a multi-use family-friendly beach haven that is the perfect launching point for a day of beach adventuring or just lounging in steady on-shore breezes. With plenty of tree shade, multi-use pavilions, a bike path, canoe club, and grassy parklands stretching through 35 acres, this i

• Oneula Beach Park

  Ewa Beach, Oahu

  Located near Ewa Beach, just a short drive from Honolulu, the Oneula Beach Park is a hidden gem on Oahu's southern coast. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: The park is huge, with a wide, soft sand beach, killer views, sprawling grassy areas, and, best of all, no crowds. There isn't much around, which gives Oneula Beach a raw, wild, and rural feel. Although it's a little rough for swimming, Oneula Beach is a great surfing, bodysurfing, and bodyboar

• Kualoa Regional Park

  Kaaawa, Oahu

  Halfway up the coast toward Oahu's legendary North Shore, Kualoa Regional Park offers breathtaking views, campsites, and a variety of fun land and water activities.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: This park covers 153 acres and is a great destination for families (or anyone!) when visiting the Windward side of Oahu. Almost never busy, you're guaranteed to not have to worry about crowds or difficult parking here. Whether you're stopping by to take

• Chun's reef

  North Shore, Oahu

  Chun's is a reef break located off a beautiful stretch of beach right in the middle of the 7-miles of North Shore surf breaks. In the '60s, local surfer John Chun would often bring his children to surf this spot, as the break in front of his nearby home was dangerous. A friend started calling it "Chun's Reef," and the name stuck. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: This is a popular surf break with all levels of surfers. The wide

• Kaena Point (south side)

  Makaha, Oahu

  With a rich spiritual past woven deeply into the history of Hawaiian legend, Kaena Point is a very respected and protected part of the island. It is an unbelievably beautiful stretch of land on the western tip of Oahu, inaccessible by car. The hike to the point provides breathtaking views up and down both sides of the coast. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: This 2.5-mile hike is one of the most beautiful and rural on the island. Since there is no

• Ke Waena Beach access - Pipeline south

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  Beautiful and lesser known Ke Waena beach access is actually at the lifeguard tower to the south of the famous surf break known as "Bonzai Pipeline".. When the world is flooding into the Ehu Kai Beach Park to the north to watch spectacular surfing, they are passing right by this shoreline access unaware that the same beach stretches between the two entry points. A tree-lined uncrowded sweeping expanse of white sand with flat blue horizon reaching as far as the eye can see awai

• Kalama Park - Kailua

  Kailua, Oahu

  Kalama Park, KailuaA gorgeous alternative to Kailua Beach Park, the lesser-known Kalama Park is a small grassy park stretching from North Kalaheo Avenue to the middle of Kailua Bay. Kalama's beach front is a part of the 4-mile stretch of uninterrupted sand that spans the entire Kailua Bay. This green grassy park is small, but affords you an easy access to the part of the beach far removed from the more popular parts of Kailua Beach. A great, easy t

• Nanakuli Beach Park

  Nanakuli, Oahu

  If you're looking to get away from the city and experience a beach that is a bit more "rural Hawaii," Nanakuli Beach Park is a must-see. On any given day of the week you'll find that the majority of beachgoers here are locals and with plenty of parking, huge grassy park areas, and a long, wide stretch of beach, it rarely feels over-crowded. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Nanakuli Beach Park stretches across 40 acres and features sever

• Kaupo Beach Park

  Waimanalo, Oahu

  Kaupo Beach is a beautiful, narrow stretch of coast just outside of Waimanalo on the southern tip of Oahu's windward side. Featuring soft sand, calm tidepools, and gorgeous views, it's predominantly a "locals beach" and is rarely loud or crowded. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Most of the shoreline at this beach park is rocky, but there are good snorkeling areas near the Makai Research Pier (to the far left). There are also sandy-bott

• Laie Point State Wayside

  Laie, Oahu

  Offering epic views, good fishing, and great photographic opportunities, Laie Point is a must-see along Oahu's northeastern coast. It is located a bit off the main road, so often missed unless you know to look for it. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: The most photographed spot here is the puka (hole) in the rocky island to the left. Since the land here comes to a point, it provides amazing views of this part of the island's rugged coastline. The

• Kaneohe Bay

  Kaneohe, Oahu

  Providing a dramatic backdrop for many Hollywood Blockbusters, including Pearl Harbor, Gilligan's Island and Adam Sandler's beloved cult classic 50 First Dates, Kaneohe Bay is one of East Oahu's most idyllic areas. Not so much a beach (sand is scarce to none) as it is a breathtaking bay, this vast stretch of vibrant blue water is surrounded on all sides by the captivating Ko'olau Mountain range. Although not necessarily the spot for swimmers, kayakers, boatman and avid fishermen w

• Kaimana Beach aka San Souci

  Honolulu, Oahu

  Kaimana Beach, located on a stretch of Kalakaua Avenue known as Gold Coast and is between the War Memorial Natatorium and the New Otani Kaimana Hotel (where it gets its name from), is the go-to beach for sand, sun, and socializing. Also known as San Souci after a lodge that stood nearby in the late 1800s, Kaimana Beach is not only rich in history, it is also abundant in amenities and offerings for the kama'aina and tourists alike.

• Sunset Beach - Paumalu

  North Shore, Oahu

  This beach is wild and wonderful, with azure-colored waters near shore that expand out to meet deep-blue ocean horizon. It is home to one of the most legendary stretches of surf in the Hawaiian islands, as well as one of the most dangerous during the northern swells. Sunset beach hosts multiple surf breaks that barely show themselves in the summer, yet they swell so immense in the winter that the beach can often be closed to all but the most experienced surfers for safety reasons. Long

• Malaekahana State Beach and Recreation Area

  Laie, Oahu

  One of the most beautiful spots on Oahu's northeastern coast, Malaekahana State Recreation Area covers 37 acres of secluded beach and forest and is a popular camping destination.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Malaekahana offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites to yurts, cabins, and grass shacks. It has a very remote feel and is less crowded and more spacious than some of the other beach parks that offer camping.

• Ehu Kai Beach Park - Banzai Pipeline

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  One of the world's most famous big wave surfing locations, this beach park is a mile of light sandy beach connecting to 1.2 acres of grass lands. This mecca of surfing is the center of activity during large northern swells that reach the area generally October through April. In the summer the ocean here calms, and you may snorkel out and view the very same reefs that sculpt and catapult the waves into such powerful breaks. Besides being legendary powerful, the ocean and beach here are e

• Sandy Beach Park

  Honolulu, Oahu

  This beach is on the beautiful coastline along the south-easternmost point of Oahu. It is remote and removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown Honolulu, yet just a short 25-minute drive away. On a clear day you can see the island of Molokai in the distance, and lots of open ocean The waters are often turbulent, but the beach is over 300-yards-long and lends itself well to the romantic walks or beach lounging. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS:

• Ala Moana Beach Park

  Honolulu, Oahu

  In the heart of downtown Honolulu there is a place where city-scape meets beach-scape. A wonder of modern civil engineering, Ala Moana Beach Park consists of 100 acres of green space separating the ocean beach from the city streets. Both the land and the sea were shaped by humans, dating back to the chartering of the park in the 1930's, through land-filling of former wetlands and sand dredging to create the beach during the 1950's. Thus a star attraction was born. Grassy city park acros

• 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

• Waimea Bay Beach Park

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  This famed North Shore beach is an easy-to-find true Hawaiian classic. Abundant white sand and deep turquoise blue waters with no reefs or submerged rocks create a picture-perfect beach paradise. Located at the mouth of the Waimea Valley and stream, this beach is spacious, with over 300 yards of sand blanketing the bay front from end to end. The width varies according to season and surf, but in the summer it is easily 100 yards wide. Conditions vary greatly from calm in the summer to da

• Lanikai Beach

  Lanikai, Oahu

  Lanikai Beach is the beach you are envisioning when you think tropical paradise. Lanikai literally means "heaven ocean" in the Hawaiian language, and though it is not the longest beach on the island, it is amongst the most beautiful. The sand is soft, brilliant white like powdered confectioners' sugar and clings on your skin after a refreshing swim in the warm aquamarine blue ocean. Nestled between two bays on the east side of Oahu, it is only accessible through a small neighb

• Kapiolani Beach Park

  Waikiki, Oahu

  The first public park in Hawaii, dedicated in 1877, this park's 300 acres of green space feel like a tropical "Central Park", only oceanside. The south end of the park fronts the beach and ocean at the eastern end of the high-rise district of Waikiki. This is the gentler end of Waikiki Beach, with coarse white sand and very little wave action, making it beginner swimmer-friendly. If driving into town, this park has plenty of curbside parking spots. For those staying in Waikiki

• Pupukea Beach Park

  Haleiwa, Oahu

  A sweet little beach and snorkel area that is often overlooked as it sits between two much more popular parks on Oahu's North Shore. Pupukea is also referred to as "Three Tables" because of the 3 flat rock formations a short distance out in the ocean. This beach is seldom crowded due to the larger and more popular beaches of the North Shore drawing the crowds.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Lesser known and not very crowded beach, with

• Makapu'u Beach Park

  Waimanalo, Oahu

  Wild and scenic Makapu'u beach sits at the foot of the towering cliffs and hosts all the natural elements in abundance. It is easy to get blown away here, especially when the north-eastern "trade winds" are strong. The wind currents spiral upward overhead, and frigate birds and their human glider counterparts make use of the updrafts to soar high overhead. White crests of the shore breakers and two islets on the horizon complete the sweeping panorama.

• Waialae Beach

  Kahala, Oahu

  Located next to the Waialae Country Club, this gorgeous beach is just a short drive from the chaos of Waikiki, making it the perfect retreat for those looking to avoid the crowds. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: When you set foot onto this gorgeous stretch of beach, you won't even know you're just four miles from Waikiki. It is quiet and peaceful, with plenty of space for sunning, picnics, or throwing a Frisbee. The grassy park area is extensive

• Polo Beach

  Waialua, Oahu

  Located across from Dillingham Lodge and right next to the Polo Club, this is one of the most secluded and unique beaches on Oahu. Horses are pastured on both sides of the long sandy path leading down to the beach, giving the lucky animals a beach view. Having horses on the beach adds an "old Hawaii" feel, and although it is a bit out of the way, this beach is definitely worth the trip.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: The path leading from the r

• Kaena Point (north side)

  Waialua, Oahu

  Located at the very westernmost tip of Oahu, Kaena Point is the only part of the island inaccessible by car. Steeped in ancient Hawaiian legend, it is considered to be a very spiritual place and is a protected sanctuary for endangered plants and wildlife.AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: This 2.5-mile hike features breathtaking views up and down the coast, abundant wildlife, and a variety of endangered plants. Since there is no road, it has a very