Oahu is known as the Pearl Harbor site and is home to the State Capital of Hawaii. Every year millions of visitors turn up at its shorelines to unwind at the best Beaches on Oahu or learn about its rich history.

Bet you didn’t know that Oahu Island is the island with the most residents in Hawaii. It is not surprising that you will find many beautiful beaches in Hawaii here. These are some of the best Oahu beaches you can visit if you’re in the area.

Most Famous Beach In Oahu

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki beach is the most famous Hawaiian beach, leading the pack amongst the best beaches on Oahu. If you’re wondering why the beach is so famous worldwide, there are several compelling reasons right off the top of our heads.

Firstly, it is the birthplace of surfing, which Duke popularized. Surfing used to be an activity that was exclusive to the Waikiki royalty at the time until Duke Exported it to the world.

Additionally, the Island became the favorite destination of lots of celebrities in the 1900s. Waikiki is so beautiful that people couldn’t stop returning after being introduced to the Island. If you take a trip to Waikiki, you’ll fall in love with its beauty and all the fantastic things you’ll experience at the beach.

A typical day at Waikiki will involve you in activities like learning to surf if that’s your sort of thing. You can go on a submarine tour and check out all the amazing aquatic life in the deep. You can wrap it all up by playing some beach games or joining the tour groups and exploring the island.

In short, you will not run out of things to do; which is why this Oahu beach sees a good amount of returning visitors each year.

There are lots of unique places to stay around Waikiki beach. Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani has one of the most fantastic accommodations you can find with great amenities, and is close to the beach. 

Best Oahu Beaches For Families

Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is one of the best beaches on Oahu for families to create unforgettable memories. It is situated on the eastern parts of Oahu’s shorelines, covering quite an expense of land.

The large area adds to its appeal, especially for families, because everyone can have fun without getting in each other’s way.

Additionally, it’s built to hold thousands of visitors at a time. Nothing speaks loudly to that fact than its 3 sizable parking spaces.

One of the most common activities engaged on the beach is kayaking. Kailua has calm waters, and the kids can play around under close supervision. They can also bring their sandcastle kits and take advantage of the fine sandy shore.

Regardless, one great thing is that the beach has lifeguards that can keep an additional eye on the kids.

If you’re out with your family, Royal Kuhio has the best family-friendly service in the Kailua beach area.

Chun’s Reef

Chun’s Reef is one of the Northern beaches on Oahu shorelines. It can be found amidst many well-known beaches like Haleiwa and Laniakea beach. New visitors can easily overlook it since it’s just one of the famous surf breaks in Oahu.

Chun’s has a lot of rocky areas and just some certain regions suitable for swimming. It is advisable to put on water shoes if you want to go into the water.

However, if you want a lovely day out under the sheds in the sun watching the ocean waves with your family, Chun’s is the perfect place.

Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei has excellent facilities for families looking for places to stay.

Waimea Bay

Waimea bay is among the beaches in Oahu that occupy the 7-mile-long Northern shorelines. It’s a popular destination for daring surfers because of its strong and potentially hazardous waves.

On the other hand, Waimea bay is also perfect for families and has many land activities that encourage great bonding moments. For instance, families can take advantage of their self-guided 4-man tour packages and explore the vast vegetation. The kids would love to see scenes similar to their favorite movie scenes.

Do you need a place to stay while exploring Waimea bay and its environs? Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei is the perfect solution.

Bellow Fields Beach Park

Bellow Fields beach park is one of the Oahu beaches located around the Kalaniana’ole highway. It’s usually open to visitors only during the weekends, and it’s perfect for families seeking private getaways.

Suppose you’re into activities like bodysurfing, surfing, fishing, etc. Bello fields have provisions for such activities. The beach has amenities for its visitors and is excellent for camping activities.

Check The Kahala Hotel & Resort for excellent accommodation arrangements.

Kuilima Cove

Kuilima Cove is located in the Northern parts of Oahu Island. This is one of the beaches in Oahu because it is relatively safe for swimmers.

Kuilima is one of the top snorkeling destinations on the island, and the waters are calm enough for even newbies to join in on the fun. So grab your snorkel gear and hop on it. Lifeguards are available to inform you if the waters are unsafe for snorkeling at any point.

Visitors who go to the beach with their families can unwind and relax at any bars and restaurants littered around the area. Additionally, families can schedule tours to see the surrounding area and learn its history.

Turtle Bay Resort is a popular accommodation with fantastic amenities for visitors to the area.

READ MORE: 20 BEST MAUI BEACHES IN HAWAII TO VISIT

Best Oahu Beaches For Couples

Malaekahana Beach Park

One reason Malaekahana Beach Park is one of the perfect Oahu beaches for lovers is its special camp accommodations. Couples can opt for either tent camps or vehicle camps for a little lovers’ night out away from the crowds after a long day at the beach. There are other private camping arrangements available for couples.

Standup paddling rentals are also available for couples who’d love to spend some quiet time outdoors. If you’re in for something wilder, you can go on Zipline tours.

Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore has fantastic staff and amenities and is the perfect home away from home.

Kaimana Beach

Kaimana Beach, aka Sans Souci beach, can be found close to the Diamond Head museum in Oahu, Hawaii. The beach is closely flanked by the War Memorial Pool Natatorium, which was built as a tribute to fallen soldiers.

For couples seeking out beaches in Oahu for swimming, Kaimana’s low current makes it an ideal spot for the activity.

Additionally, it has reefs spanning nearly the entire beachfront, which makes it safe for swimmers. Surfers also frequent the beach and move on from there to another location.

You can check out Trump International Hotel Waikiki. They have excellent accommodation services for visitors.

Haleiwa Beach

Haleiwa beach is one of the best beaches on Oahu for couples seeking quiet time alone. It is one of the less crowded beaches in Oahu, and a lot of times, it has tides that allow visitors to engage in snorkeling, kayaking, and snorkeling activities.

However, it may not be ideal for extended visits because of its lack of amenities. That said, you can always set up a beach tent, bring your own refreshments, and spend some tranquil time here.

One of the reputable accommodations in the area is the Ocean Villas at Turtle Bay

Kahala Hotel And Resort

Kahala Hotel and Resort offers one of the best beaches in Oahu. The Resort is almost 60 years old; there is a lot of history for visitors to explore and learn here.

Unsurprisingly, it is now known as one of the hottest destinations for families, individuals, and couples.

Most of its luxurious accommodations offer a breathtaking view of the oceans and beautiful vegetation. 

Couples can opt to spend a day enjoying all the resort’s indoor services or take part in outdoor tours and activities. Convenience and comfort all in one.

Yokohama Bay

Yokohama bay is a quiet beach in the Southern parts of Oahu, Hawaii. It got its name because of the Japanese Soldier that settled there years ago. It’s an excellent spot for couples who want to enjoy a whole beach experience which includes fishing, swimming, snorkeling, etc.

Need a place to stay during your visit? You can check out The Beach Villas at Ko Olina by Real Select Vacations.

Most Visited Beaches In Oahu

Three Tables Beach

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Three Tables Beach is a small, intimate beach with crystal clear water and plenty of shade. 

The beach aptly gets its name from the three flat rocks that jut out of the sand. That aside, it is a perfect spot to spread your beach mat, relax and sunbathe.

Visitors love to swim, snorkel, and surf at this beach, and it is a great spot to escape the crowds. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby to grab a bite.

Three Tables Beach is one of the well-loved beaches on Oahu because of its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Do you want to stay in the city center near Hawaii’s Three Tables Beach? Consider the Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore for a five-star experience.

Laniakea Beach

Laniakea beach is best known as “turtle beach” because it has a lot of sea turtles that come to the shore often. This is also the primary reason that people come to visit.

The shoreline here has a mixture of sandy beaches, crashing waves, and rocky terrain. You can spend some time exploring the shoreline, snorkeling, or even trying your hand at surfing.

There are not a lot of amenities here, so it is good to bring your own refreshments and gear. If you want to get the best chance of seeing these green sea turtles, here is a guide to Laniakea Turtle Beach. Plan your visit time accordingly if this is your sole purpose for coming to this beach.

Makapu’u Beach Park

Makapu’u Beach Park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. With its long sandy beach and clear waters, this beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing lessons. 

It is also an excellent spot for whale watching during the winter months. Each year between December and April, Humpback whales migrate from Alaska to these warmer waters before heading further north.

The park has plenty of facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it an excellent place to spend a day. 

You can hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail for some amazing views. With the diversity in activities, it is no wonder that this is one of the best Oahu beaches to holiday at. 

Turtle Bay

Turtle Bay is a secluded and beautiful beach on the North Shore of Oahu island. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, and the water is calm and transparent, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. 

Visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and surfboards or even take a scenic horseback ride along the beach. 

A hotel and several restaurants are nearby, so you can easily stay for a few days. The warm surrounding waters for sports make turtle bay one of the best beaches on Oahu.

If you want to stay next to Turtle Bay Beach, consider staying at Turtle Bay. This incredible scenic hotel is right by the beach.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Oahu, and for a good reason. This stunning bay is surrounded by cliffs and is filled with vibrant coral and a diverse array of marine life. 

Hanauma Bay is one of the famous landmarks in Hawaii because it is more than just a beach. The region is reserved for the preservation and conservation of aquatic life, which makes it an important area.

Visitors love to snorkel in the bay. There are plenty of rental gear and guided tours available so it is super convenient. The bay is also a popular spot for relaxing activities like sunbathing and picnicking. 

There is even a visitor center and cafe on site if you need anything from information to refreshments.

Are you looking for a place to stay while at Hanauma Bay? Check out The Modern Honolulu, they also offer refunds for no-shows.

Pokai Bay

Pokai Bay is a small, quiet beach on the West Side of Oahu. With its soft sand and clear waters, this beach is great for a day of swimming and sunbathing. 

There are several picnic areas and showers on site; visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and has superb views of the nearby mountains. It is an excellent place to escape the crowds.

Pokai Bay’s mountain view is rather unique amongst the beaches in Oahu.

Ko Olina Bay

Ko Olina Bay is a man-made lagoon on Oahu’s West Side, but that does not take anything from it. This beautiful bay is surrounded by lush vegetation and is still a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. 

Several resorts and hotels are located on the bay, so you can conveniently stay for a few days if you like. Visitors can rent equipment like paddleboards, kayaks, and surfboards to take advantage of the beautiful waters or take a scenic walk along the coastline. 

Other Popular Oahu Beaches

Waimanalo Beach

Waimanalo Beach is a long and pristine beach located on the East Side of Oahu. With its clear blue water and soft sand, this beach is good for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. There are several picnic areas and showers available.

You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards here. It is perfect for families looking for the Best Beaches on Oahu to holiday at. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and has great views of the nearby mountains, making it an excellent place to escape the crowds.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is one of the popular hotels to stay close to Waimanalo beach because of its amenities.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is a world-famous surf spot on the North Shore of Oahu. With its long sandy beach and consistent waves, this beach is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers. 

That said, it is not just for surfers. Casual visitors also love to come and simply sunbathe and swim at this beach. Maybe watch other surfers catch waves as well. It’s a show by itself. 

There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite.

Ala Moana Beach

Ala Moana Beach is a long sandy beach located in the heart of Honolulu, featuring alluring, clear waters.

The beach is surrounded by a large park and has plenty of facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. That explains why it is popular as visitors come to swim, sunbathe and have an enjoyable picnic.

A large shopping center is nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or shop. Convenience is a big part of every experience. 

If you are looking for the perfect hotel to stay at while visiting Ala Moana Beach and enjoying the best beaches in Oahu, you can check out The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

Sandy Beach Park

Sandy Beach Park is located on the East Side of Oahu. Its beach is situated in a relatively secluded area, surrounded by cliffs and rocky outcrops. It helps to create a more private and intimate atmosphere. 

The park has a large grassy area, perfect for picnics or playing games. There are also several shady areas where you can relax and escape the hot Hawaiian sun.

Lush vegetation surrounds the beach and you can get great views of the nearby mountains. This makes it an excellent place to escape the crowds at other more popular Oahu beaches, but still enjoy the Hawaiian coast.

Papailoa Beach

On the north shore of Oahu in Hawaii is where you’ll find the beauty of Papailoa Beach. This quiet beach is located in the middle of two sprawling estates, and the only way to get there is on foot or by bicycle. 

A day out chilling at the beach under the blissful sun will give tranquility and relaxation a new meaning.

You can also get in some action by riding the waves. Papailoa Beach is one of the best Oahu beaches for snorkeling and swimming.

Makua Beach

Makua Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach on the West Side of Oahu. During the winter months, Makua Beach is a hotspot for surfers from around the world. 

The waves can reach up to 20 feet and are considered some of the most challenging and exhilarating in the world. However, for safety reasons, it is recommended that only experienced surfers attempt these waves. 

That said, even if you are not too skilled, you are always welcome to watch others go at it while relaxing on the sandy shores.

Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is the recommended hotel when visiting this beach in Oahu.

Exploring The Best Beaches On Oahu Island

The state of Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches and the island of Oahu is no exception. From the famous Waikiki Beach to Ala Moana Beach, there are so many stunning spots that offer something unique and special for beachgoers of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax in nature or take part in thrilling activities like surfing and snorkeling, there are plenty of beautiful Oahu beaches that can accommodate your interests. When you visit the state, be sure to explore all the beauty that lies within this Hawaiian paradise!

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