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Beaches on O‘ahu

 
Oʻahu beaches are known as being some of the world’s most famous beaches – almost everyone recognizes the Hollywood image of Diamond Head and Waikīkī Beach. However, O‘ahu has a wealth of hidden and not so hidden white sand beaches all around the island. No matter where you are on the O‘ahu, you’re bound to find a picture-perfect beach in O’ahu to spend the day on. Spend your vacation exploring the best beaches of O’ahu and the world.
 

O‘ahu Beach Weather

All of the Hawaiian Islands are mountainous, which results in a dry side (leeward) and a wet side (windward). Generally, the sunny sides are on the south and west shores, while there are more frequent rains on the north and east sides. Fortunately O‘ahu is a fairly small island, so even if it’s pouring rain where you are staying, you can easily escape to the other side for a sunny, idyllic O’ahu beach day.

O‘ahu’s Leeward Beaches

The leeward side beaches on O‘ahu are the best for great snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking. Of course there’s the famous Waikīkī Beach of legend and lore on the south shore. On the west side, check out Kō ʻOlina Beach, Pōkai Bay Beach Park, and Mākaha Beach.

O‘ahu’s Windward Beaches

The spectacular scenery of windward O‘ahu beaches makes them some of the most beautiful in the world. On the east shore you’ll find great swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking at Kailua Bay Beach Park and Hanauma Bay Marine Preserve. The North Shore is one of the world’s greatest surf destinations; spend a day on Banzai Pipeline Beach shredding the giant waves or watching the pro surfers go for it. Pipeline is also a great sunset-watching beach.

Play It Safe

When spending the perfect day at a perfect O‘ahu beach, please remember to heed all posted signs regarding ocean swimming and safety.