The Top Seven Best Beaches on Oahu for You to Visit
When most people think of Hawaii, the first thing that comes to mind is the beach! All of our islands are known for having gorgeous shorelines with miles of sand for exploring and the perfect waves for swimming and surfing. But Oahu’s coast, in particular, stands out. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a couple’s retreat, find out our recommendations for the best beaches on Oahu.
To learn more about Oahu and everything we have to offer, be sure to access our Vacation Guide! It contains our top recommendations for fantastic places to eat, great activities, and top places you must see, like our top five best beaches on Oahu!
The Best Beaches on Oahu
When you arrive on Oahu, you may think you have found paradise, and you’re not wrong! Between the friendly people, the laid-back atmosphere, and the breathtaking natural beauty, you’ll discover there is an almost endless list of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re sunning, building sand castles, taking a dip, or hanging 10, you’ll want to experience everything the best beaches on Oahu have to offer! Just keep in mind, the waves are calmer in the summer and can get really big in the winter, so plan your trip accordingly and always be cautious when out in the water.
1. Kailua Beach Park
For two-and-a-half miles of beautiful white sand and turquoise waters, you have to visit Kailua Beach Park! This beach has everything you would need for a day at the beach, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables! You can even take a stroll through Downtown Kailua for lunch or a souvenir. Many locals and travelers consider Kailua Beach Park as one of the two top beaches on Oahu. The other top beach you should know about is Lanikai Beach!
2. Lanikai Beach
Named one of the best beaches in the world, Lanikai Beach, or “Heavenly Ocean,” is a must during your time on Oahu! You’ll feel maximum relaxation when you spend time on this beach. The sight of the tranquil blue waters and the breeze coming from the ocean will truly make you feel like you’re in paradise. If you’re an early riser, make sure to catch the sunrise over Lanikai Beach for the most beautiful sight!
3. Sunset Beach
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is world famous for perfect waves and postcard-worthy sunsets. Many professional surfers live on Sunset Beach, which hosts surfing competitions year-round. During the summer, the water is calmer and ideal for swimming or snorkeling. In the winter, however, the waves can be huge and conditions are not suitable for swimmers. You’ll still want to stake out a spot in the sand and watch the big-wave surfers put their skills to the test.
4. Haleiwa Beach Park
The North Shore is known for its big waves and surf contests, but Haleiwa Beach Park is a tucked away beach perfect for the whole family. With lots of parking, picnic areas, basketball courts, and volleyball, there’s so much to do. The crystal-clear water makes this a prime location for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, due to natural barriers that keep the waves from getting too big, this beach has been hailed as one of the best for beginner surfers.
5. Waikiki Beach
No list of the top beaches on Oahu is complete without mentioning what is probably the most famous beach in the world. Waikiki Beach stretches two miles and hosts over four million visitors a year. The turquoise waters are great for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, and the white sand is perfect for relaxing. Waikiki Beach was once the playground for Hawaiian royalty and, thanks to Duke Kahanamoku, is known as the birthplace of modern surfing.
6. ‘Ehukai Beach Park
‘Ehukai Beach Park is a great beach in the summertime for swimming and relaxing on the sand. It’s home to what’s known as the Banzai Pipeline. Like most beaches on the North Shore, winter brings huge waves that are so mesmerizing, you can sit and watch them break for hours.
7. Waimea Bay
Renowned amongst surfers for its gigantic waves, Waimea Bay is another world famous beach on the North Shore of Oahu. In the summer, the waves aren’t quite as high, so it can be a great place for swimming or snorkeling. In the winter, swimming is basically impossible, but the waves are fantastic for experienced surfers.
Surf Contests on Oahu
When winter brings heavy surf, professional surfers and thousands of fans hit the beaches in search of big-wave glory. A few of the largest contests include the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in November and December at Waimea Bay, Haleiwa Beach, and Ehukai Beach. The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau is another big contest held between December and February. This event only takes place when and if the waves can be measured at 20 feet or more! Even if you miss one of these big events, you’re bound to find a contest happening no matter when you visit.
Your Home Away from Home for a Beach Getaway
Private Homes Hawaii is the best option for your Oahu beach getaway. We have fantastic properties with our world-class concierge service. Our beachfront and resort villas are perfectly suited to your Oahu vacation, whether it’s a romantic Hawaii getaway or a surf trip with friends. Plus, all of our locations offer easy access to the best beaches on Oahu.
Our three-bedroom, three-bathroom Mokulua Aina property located on the Lanikai loop is perfect for a family vacation. Relax in the large yard with a gorgeous private pool, grill, and lounge chairs. If you’re thinking of bringing some extended family or friends along, you can take advantage of the on-site one bedroom cottage.
Browse the complete catalog of our available Oahu properties to start planning your Hawaii vacation today!