Beaches: Amazing Hawaii – best beaches in Oahu ranked

Waikiki Bay is one of the most famous beaches in the world, located on the south shore of Oahu. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic shoreline, Waikiki Bay attracts millions of visitors each year. The beach offers soft, golden sand and clear, blue waters ideal for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Diamond Head Crater provides a stunning backdrop to the bay, adding to its picturesque appeal. Waikiki is home to numerous luxury hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a hub of activity both day and night.

Ko'Olina Lagoons, located on the leeward coast of Oahu, consists of four man-made lagoons that offer a tranquil and family-friendly beach experience. Each lagoon features calm, clear waters protected by rock barriers, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The lagoons are surrounded by well-maintained sandy beaches and lush landscapes. Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Nearby, there are luxury resorts and restaurants, offering a variety of dining and accommodation options. Ko'Olina Lagoons provide a serene and picturesque setting ideal for relaxation and leisure.

During the winter months, the bay becomes a world-famous surf spot, attracting top surfers who challenge its massive waves, sometimes reaching over 30 feet. In contrast, the summer brings calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving off the iconic Waimea Rock. The beach has golden sand and lush surrounding landscapes that create a picturesque setting, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Waimea Bay is also steeped in Hawaiian history and culture, adding to its allure.

Hanauma Bay is a world-renowned marine sanctuary known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Located in a volcanic crater, the bay offers calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant underwater world, encountering tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. As a protected area, Hanauma Bay has strict conservation rules to preserve its natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Kane ohe Sandbar is a unique and magical destination located in the middle of Kaneohe Bay. Accessible only by boat or kayak, the sandbar appears during low tide, creating a temporary beach surrounded by crystal-clear waters. It is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and snorkeling, with stunning views of the surrounding bay and mountains. The Kane ohe Sandbar offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Kailua Beach Park is a picturesque and family-friendly beach known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters. The beach offers excellent conditions for swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing, with rental equipment available nearby. The park features plenty of amenities, including picnic tables, restrooms, and shaded areas, making it a perfect spot for a fun-filled beach day. Kailua Beach Park’s beautiful scenery and calm waters attract both locals and visitors looking for a relaxing and enjoyable beach experience.

Known for its serene atmosphere, the park is a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely beach days. The beach is relatively small, but it offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots. The park features lush grassy areas, picnic tables, and BBQ pits, making it ideal for family gatherings. The calm, shallow waters are great for wading and for children to play safely. While not typically a prime spot for snorkeling or surfing, the beach’s gentle waves provide a relaxing experience.

Lanikai, often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, is located on Oahu’s windward side. The beach boasts powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Lanikai is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, thanks to its calm and shallow waters. Facilities are minimal, with no restrooms or showers, and parking is limited to residential streets. Despite its lack of amenities, Lanikai has a natural beauty and tranquility that make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Sunset Beach Park, also on the North Shore, is famous for its stunning sunsets and world-class surf breaks. The beach features a long stretch of golden sand and powerful waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. During the winter, the surf can be very high, making it ideal for experienced surfers. In the summer, the waters are calmer, suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Facilities include parking, restrooms, and showers. Sunset Beach Park has a natural beauty and vibrant surf culture that make it a must-visit destination.

Sans Souci Beach, also known as Kaimana Beach, is a quieter alternative to the bustling Waikiki beaches. Located near the Waikiki Aquarium and Kapiolani Park, the beach features soft sand and calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, and nearby dining options. Sans Souci Beach has a tranquil environment and convenient location make it a great spot for a relaxing beach day away from the crowds.

Three Tables is a small beach located near Sharks Cove on the North Shore, known for its excellent snorkeling conditions. The beach gets its name from the three flat reef formations visible at low tide. Clear waters and diverse marine life make it a popular spot for underwater exploration. Facilities are limited to parking and restrooms. Three Tables offers a unique and beautiful setting for snorkeling, with ample marine biodiversity to discover.

This bay is less crowded compared to other North Shore beaches, offering a more tranquil beach experience. The bay features a long stretch of sandy shoreline with gentle waves, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding area is lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for beachgoers. Waialua Bay is also a popular spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, thanks to its calm waters. The nearby Waialua Sugar Mill adds a touch of historical charm to the area.

He'eia State Park is a tranquil and scenic spot on the windward side of Oahu. The park features a small, sandy beach with calm waters ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. The surrounding area offers lush greenery, picnic tables, and stunning views of Kaneohe Bay and the Ko'olau Mountains. He'eia State Park is perfect for a relaxing day of outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of Oahu.

Turtle Canyon, located off the coast of Waikiki, is a renowned snorkeling and diving site known for its abundance of green sea turtles. Accessible by boat tours, the area features clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can swim alongside turtles and other marine life in a protected environment. Facilities are typically provided by tour operators, including gear rental and guidance. Turtle Canyon offers a memorable and eco-friendly underwater adventure for marine enthusiasts.

Kahe Point Beach Park, also known as Electric Beach, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving due to the warm water outflows from the nearby power plant. The clear, warm waters attract a variety of marine life, making it a haven for underwater exploration. The beach has a rocky shoreline and strong currents, so it’s best suited for experienced snorkelers and divers. The abundance of sea life and unique underwater environment make Kahe Point a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Aweoweo Beach Park is a hidden gem on Oahu’s North Shore, known for its quiet atmosphere and local vibe. The beach features a narrow stretch of soft sand, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. The calm, clear waters are great for swimming and snorkeling, especially during the summer months. With picnic tables, a playground, and plenty of shade, Aweoweo Beach Park is an excellent spot for families looking for a peaceful beach day.

Sharks Cove, located on the North Shore, is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The cove features rocky outcroppings and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. During the summer months, the calm waters provide perfect conditions for underwater exploration. Facilities include parking and restrooms, but no showers. The rocky terrain and vibrant aquatic environment make Sharks Cove a favorite among snorkelers and divers looking for an adventurous experience.

Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is located on the North Shore and is famous for its resident green sea turtles. Visitors can often see these magnificent creatures basking on the sand or swimming close to shore. The beach features golden sand and rocky areas, with moderate waves making it suitable for experienced swimmers and surfers. Parking is available, but facilities are limited. Laniakea Beach is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those interested in observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Electric Beach, officially known as Kahe Point Beach Park, is famous for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The beach gets its nickname from the nearby power plant, which releases warm water into the ocean, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers and snorkelers can explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins. The beach itself is relatively small, with rocky areas and clear waters, ideal for underwater adventures.

This beach, named after the nearby historic Waialua Sugar Mill, features a mix of sandy shores and rocky outcrops, providing a unique landscape perfect for exploring. The clear, calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant marine life and coral formations. With fewer crowds, Sugar Mill Beach offers a peaceful and relaxing environment where you can unwind and soak in the natural beauty. The lush greenery and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains add to the charm.

Makua Beach, also known as Tunnels Beach, is a secluded and picturesque beach on Oahu’s west side. It is known for its clear waters, expansive sandy shore, and stunning views of the Waianae Mountain Range. The beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with fewer crowds than more popular beaches. Facilities are limited, with no restrooms or showers, and parking is along the roadside. Makua Beach offers a tranquil and scenic escape, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Kuilima Cove, situated on Oahu’s North Shore, is a small and protected bay adjacent to the Turtle Bay Resort. Known for its calm waters, the cove is excellent for swimming and snorkeling, offering a safe environment for all skill levels. The beach features soft sand and clear waters with abundant marine life. Facilities include parking, restrooms, and easy access to the resort’s amenities, such as restaurants and shops. Kuilima Cove has a serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a peaceful beach day.

Secret Beach, located on the west side of Oahu, is a hidden gem known for its secluded and pristine environment. The beach features soft sand and clear waters, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Access to the beach is via a short hike, and facilities are minimal, with no restrooms or showers. The beach offers a tranquil and undisturbed setting, perfect for those seeking a quiet and intimate beach experience away from the more crowded spots on the island.

Makaha Beach, located on the west coast of Oahu, is known for its excellent surfing conditions and beautiful sunsets. The beach features a wide stretch of golden sand and clear, blue waters with consistent waves, making it popular among surfers. Swimming is best enjoyed during calmer conditions. Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Makaha Beach’s vibrant local culture and scenic beauty provide an authentic Hawaiian beach experience, attracting surfers, sunbathers, and beachgoers alike.

Maunalua Bay Beach Park, located in Hawaii Kai, offers a spacious park setting with a sandy beach and calm waters. The bay is popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports due to its sheltered conditions. The park features ample parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and a boat ramp. Shaded areas under trees provide a comfortable spot for picnicking and relaxing. Maunalua Bay Beach Park is ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts, offering a range of activities in a beautiful, coastal setting.

Queens Beach, located in Waikiki, is a lively and popular beach known for its excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions. The beach features soft sand, clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere with nearby attractions such as the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium. Facilities include parking, restrooms, showers, and numerous dining options within walking distance. Queens Beach offers a bustling yet beautiful setting, perfect for enjoying the sun, sea, and local amenities.

Ka'ena Point is a remote and rugged beach located at the westernmost tip of Oahu. Known for its dramatic landscapes and powerful waves, it’s a favorite spot for hiking and wildlife viewing. The Kaena Point Trail offers stunning coastal views and the chance to see native Hawaiian plants and seabirds. While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, the area’s untouched beauty and sense of solitude make it a unique destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.