Written by Terrance D.
Terrance writes for Marina Hawaii Vacations, highlighting O'ahu's best attractions, sites, and events.
Hawaii and O’ahu are known as the home of some of the best beaches in the world! With over 112 miles of coastline throughout the island, there’s just about any type of beach. A trip to the beach is the centerpiece of any vacation to Hawaii, and with so many in and around the area of Waikiki, you can go over to the beach that’s right for you, or go out and explore them all. With such a variety in choice, we want to take you through the area’s beaches and the different experiences they offer before you hit the sand on your O’ahu vacation!
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In this Blog:
- Waikiki Beach: The Iconic Beach for Surfing and Ocean Views
- Kuhio Beach: The Best Waikiki Beach for Families
- Queen’s Beach: Snorkeling and Relaxing Near Diamond Head
- Duke Kahanamoku Beach: Calm Waters and Lagoon Activities
- Fort DeRussy Beach: A Less Crowded Waikiki Escape
- Kaimana Beach: A Local Favorite for Swimming and Sunbathing
- Ala Moana Beach Park: Waikiki's Best Nearby Beach for Locals and Sunsets
- Which Waikiki Beach is Right for You?
- Enjoy Adventures at the Beach During your Trip to O’ahu!
Waikiki Beach: The Iconic Beach for Surfing and Ocean Views
Possibly the most famous beach in Hawaii, this iconic 2-mile beach stretches on the south shore of O’ahu, offering gentle waves, white sand, and stunning views of Diamond Head. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, so be sure to arrive early and prepare for heavy foot traffic. One fun thing about Waikiki is that it’s actually a few different interconnected beaches, a few of which we’ll discuss next!
Kuhio Beach: The Best Waikiki Beach for Families
Enjoy the protected waters of this popular section of Waikiki Beach! When you arrive at Kuhio Beach, you may be greeted by a statue of Prince Kuhio, for whom the beach is named. The beach is also known for its iconic surf breaks, Queens and Canoes, both of which have attracted surfers worldwide, making Kuhio Beach the site of several surfing competitions throughout the year.
Queen’s Beach: Snorkeling and Relaxing Near Diamond Head
This calmer beach sits right in the middle of Waikiki and is known for being one of the more welcoming surf beaches in Waikiki. This beach is named for Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaiʻi, who once lived in a nearby beach home. Outside of breezy surfing, this spot is popular with snorkelers, as the beach is designated as a Marine Life Conservation District, so you’re likely to spot many colorful fish in these waters!
Duke Kahanamoku Beach: Calm Waters and Lagoon Activities
Named after the famed Olympic swimmer and surfing icon, this popular site is a great spot for family-friendly swimming, thanks to a protective sea wall and manmade lagoon. Staying out of the water is also a great time here, with its golden, sandy shores and nearby restaurants and shops that make this section feel particularly convenient for those looking to relax or walk around.
Fort DeRussy Beach: A Less Crowded Waikiki Escape
For a quieter beach day, head over to this beachfront military reservation on the north end of Waikiki. While the space is intended for military use, the 71-acre park is almost entirely open to the public, making this a great place to bring the family to enjoy a more serene beach experience around Waikiki. While you’re here, you can also enjoy the park’s well-groomed features, workout stations, picnic tables, and playground.
Kaimana Beach: A Local Favorite for Swimming and Sunbathing
Escape the crowds and enjoy a nice swim at Kaimana Beach. Known by several other names like “Sans Souci” and “Dig Me Beach”, the calm water and smooth, sandy floor make this one of the best swims you can enjoy on O’ahu. If you’re very lucky, you may see the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal, which has been spotted in the area, although sightings are extremely rare. If you do come across these beautiful creatures, leave them be, as disturbing them is punishable by law.
Ala Moana Beach Park: Waikiki's Best Nearby Beach for Sunsets
Experience an explosion of color and one of the best sunset views in all of Hawaii at Ala Moana Beach Park. The park, along with Magic Island Lagoon, makes for a great sightseeing trip at sunset. The wide-open shoreline offers a perfect view of the horizon as you watch the sun set, turning the sky into a wonder. As far as swimming on this beach, it’s relatively calm and easy, as a shallow offshore reef makes it a popular, calm swimming spot. The floor of the ocean drops rather quickly, so swimmers should exercise caution when swimming around.
Which Waikiki Beach is Right for You?
The best Waikiki beach for you to visit depends entirely on the experience you have planned. Families may prefer the protected waters at Kuhio or Kahanamoku Beach, while surfers can head to Waikiki or Queen’s Beach for popular breaks and ocean views. Kaimana and Fort DeRussy Beach offer a quieter escape alternative to Waikiki’s more popular beaches. For snorkeling, try Queen’s Beach, and for some of the most stunning sunsets, hit up Ala Moana Beach Park.
Enjoy Adventures at the Beach During your Trip to O’ahu!
Featured Property: Illikai Tower 1207
Explore these beaches and take on the adventure of a lifetime during your next trip in Waikiki! With so many beaches to explore in the area, make the experience easier with a vacation rental right by the beach. When you book with Marina Hawaii Vacations, you can enjoy a whole host of conveniently located rentals in the heart of Waikiki, putting you right by the area’s best beaches and tourist attractions, giving you more time to enjoy your stay! Browse our available rentals today and save big when you book with us!