Top 5 Beaches
Oahu’s North Shore is a coastal masterpiece for every traveler. From world-class surf to calm snorkeling tide pools, discover the natural beauty and "Aloha" spirit of these iconic Hawaii beaches.
1. Waimea Bay
One of the best beaches in Oahu’s North Shore. A smooth, sandy beach, flat waters during the summer months and some gorgeous views. The bay is naturally protected with just enough wave action to keep it interesting for kids. “The Eddie” surfing competition is held here when waves reach a minimum of 20 feet in the winter.
It’s a spectacular spot to watch seasoned surfers have a go at huge waves during the winter swells, but expect a crowd any day of the year. There is a parking lot with very limited spaces. A few people get lucky and park on the side of the road where there’s space.
- Lifeguard
- Very limited Parking. Get there before 10am, especially during summer.
- Access: Through the parking lot.
- Bathrooms and showers
2. Kawela Bay
Kawela Bay is a serene and picturesque beach nestled along the North Shore. Known for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Kawela Bay offers soft white sands framed by lush greenery and swaying palm trees.
The bay is sheltered by a protective reef, creating calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its relatively secluded location adds to its charm, providing visitors with a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded beaches on the island. Kawela Bay is also famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a favorite spot for evening walks or romantic moments by the shore.
- Parking: You may park along the road, across from the farm stands. Do not leave anything of value in the car.
- No bathrooms
- No lifeguards
3. Sunset Beach
When you think of sandy beaches with rolling waves, Sunset beach is what probably comes to mind. It’s one of the best beaches in Oahu’s North Shore for walking and lying in the sand; there’s a wide sandy shore and as its name implies, it’s an amazing spot to view the sunset from.
During the summer the waves are calm and gentle, but in the winter, Sunset beach turns into a surf spot and signs posted along the sand warn visitors of high surf and caution against swimming.
- Parking: Open. Extra parking is found across the street. Be careful crossing the street as a lot of people like to speed up along Kamehameha highway. Most drivers are tourists unfamiliar with impatient people darting across the road when they see a chance.
- Bathrooms and showers across the street.
- Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
4. Kokololio Beach
Kokololio Beach, often called "Long Sands," is a hidden sanctuary in Laie where the lush Ironwood forest meets a pristine, golden shoreline. This tranquil escape offers soft, powdery sand and turquoise waters protected by an offshore reef, making it a peaceful alternative to the North Shore’s more crowded hubs.
- Access: Located directly off Kamehameha Highway in Laie. You can access the beach via a paved driveway that leads to a spacious parking lot nestled within a grove of ironwood trees.
- Entrance Fee: None. Access to the park and beach is free for the public. (Note: Overnight camping requires a paid permit from the City & County of Honolulu).
- Operating Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
5. Shark's Cove
If you're eager to snorkel, Shark's Cove is a fantastic choice. It's renowned as one of Oahu's premier North Shore beaches for witnessing a kaleidoscope of colorful fish gracefully navigating the waters near the shore. The excitement begins immediately upon entering the water, where you might be pleasantly surprised by the proximity of larger fish.
Due to its challenging snorkeling conditions, it's advisable for families with older children who are strong swimmers to explore this area (safety first!). Families with younger children can enjoy the nearby expansive tide pool area, perfect for observing small rock skippers, fish, hermit crabs, and pipipi (snails). It's important to equip children with sturdy beach shoes for their comfort and safety.
- Parking lot: Open. Easy to get if you arrive before 10 AM.
- Access: It may be difficult for some to get down to Shark’s Cove entrance. From the parking lot, there’s a pretty steep trail/rocks to walk down but it won’t take you more than a minute. The beach itself has more rocks than sand, so save your tanning for someplace else.
- Bathrooms and showers.
- Rentals: Right across the street is a snorkel rental shop with everything you need if you don’t have snorkel gear. The staff (it’s usually just 1 person) are always super helpful and will answer your questions and give you any tips about snorkeling in Shark’s Cove.