Oahu Best Beaches

Sunset beach, located on the North Shore, is another of Hawaii`s many world famous beaches. During the summer months, the waters off Sunset Beach are calm and great for swimming and snorkeling. During the winter months, however, this remarkable beach is the prime surf venue for annual surf competitions and surf enthusiasts. Waves towering as high as 35 feet in height have been spotted on Sunset Beach. Windsurfing is another popular activity that can be seen on Sunset Beach. Both surfing and windsurfing equipment are available for rent on Sunset Beach. There are also numerous surfing schools that offer surfing lessons for those interested. Though synonymous with surfing, Sunset beach provides a breathtaking view of the sunset at dusk.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, located at 7455 Kalaniana`ole Highway (SR 72), is perfect for swimming, picnicking or sunbathing. This very beautiful and legendary bay is the ideal location for snorkeling or scuba diving on Oahu. It is usually very crowded so go early in the morning to avoid the long lines. Hanauma Bay opens daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is closed on Tuesdays. Admission to the park is $5 and parking is $1. Snorkel gears and life jackets are available for renting. There are numerous tours and shuttle services that provide trips to Hanauma Bay, some at very reasonable prices.

Kuhio Beach is located on the shores of Waikiki at the landmark Duke Kahanamoku Statue. This beach is excellent for surfing and swimming and also offers a reef protected shallow water area idea for younger kids and non swimmers. Rent a surfboard, take surfing lessons or just bask in the Waikiki sun while you work on getting that perfect tan.

The world famous Waikiki Beach is a 2 mile stretch of beautiful beach sand extending from the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel (the pink hotel) to the Natatorium War Memorial. Flanked by world renowned Waikiki hotels and shopping areas on one side and the majestic warm blue pacific waters on the other, the colorful beauty and specter of Waikiki can be seen in full flight. Equipped with lifeguards, the beach is excellent for swimming and surfing and provides reef protected swimming areas ideal for kids. Surfboards can be rented along the beach and surf lessons are available for those interested in learning the sport. Though this beach can be very crowded and filled with activities during the daytime, it is well worth the experience. The outlook of Waikiki Beach is spectacular at sunrise.