Best Beaches in Oahu

Oahu has long been known as the “Gathering Place”. While most people do not know that little tidbit, it hasn’t stopped this Hawaiian Island from being the most popular choice for family vacations. When you take the time to visit the island of Oahu, you will find yourself mesmerized from the moment you step off the plane. The rich culture and history will draw you in, while the weather will have you wanting to stay forever. Of course, you cannot discount the spectacular beaches on the island of Oahu either. There are more than one hundred beaches on this Hawaiian Island. You will love spending time at any of them during your family vacation in Oahu. However, I know you will prefer choosing some of the best beaches in Oahu for your trip.

Best Beaches in Oahu

Nanakuli Beach Park

Nanakuli Beach Park is one of the best beaches on Oahu, especially if you have a family that loves being active. Swimming on the southern end of this beach is amazing. However, you can also spend a good part of your day diving to check out marine life. And during the winter months, the waves really come crashing in. That is excellent news if your family loves to surf.

Bellows Field Beach Park

Jellyfish are everywhere in the water at Bellows Field Beach Park, so you must be cautious when you are swimming or surfing. A wetsuit is recommended if you choose to enter the water. If you don’t want to risk getting stung, you can always enjoy a picnic lunch under the ironwood trees and enjoy the gorgeous views.

Makapuu Beach Park

Swimming at Makapuu Beach Park doesn’t happen every day due to the very strong currents. However, it is the perfect beach in Oahu if you want to hike to a lighthouse. The walk to the Makapuu Lighthouse is easy. Plus, you are rewarded with gorgeous views of not only the coast but the nearby mountains.

Ala Moana Beach Park

One of the newest beaches on Oahu is Ala Moana Beach. This beach was created approximately sixty years ago when sand was dumped in this park. This beach in Oahu is on the smaller side. But since the water is nice and calm, thanks to the outer reef, it is the perfect place to swim. The best part is mostly locals spend time at this beach, so it won’t be as crowded during your visit.

Lanikai Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Oahu is Lanikai Beach. The reef keeps the water nice and calm. When your family is not swimming, you may all find yourselves participating in a little windsurfing, snorkeling, or sailing. There are also two islands nearby, and they are both filled with wildlife. It is best to arrive at this beach early in the morning. Due to its location in a residential neighborhood, parking is often limited.

Waikiki Beach

Almost everyone has heard of Waikiki Beach, which is why it will probably be close to the top of your family’s list of things to do during your vacation in Oahu. This beach in Oahu is one of many beaches that connect on this island. If you want to spend a lot of your time at this beach, I will usually recommend staying at one of the nearby resorts. There are many reasons for this. But the main reason is there is nothing better than walking only a few steps from your resort and being at the beach in no time at all.

Sunset Beach

The summer months are perfect for swimming and snorkeling at Sunset Beach. The winter months bring changes to this beach in Oahu as the waves come crashing in. If you happen to visit during the winter, you will find yourself watching many of the professional surfers competing out in the water. No matter when you visit this beach on Oahu, your family will most likely spot a celebrity or two.

Kailua Beach

There is something for every member of your family at Kailua Beach. The water activities include swimming, sailing, surfing, snorkeling, and diving. Those family members who do not want to spend time in the water may prefer being on the volleyball court. This beach in Oahu is never too crowded on weekdays, so it may be best to plan your visit accordingly.

Waimea Bay

The waves at Waimea Bay reach heights of twenty-five feet during the winter months. Therefore, you won’t want to plan on swimming during that time of the year. However, you can watch professional surfers, as they attempt to catch the perfect wave. The water does calm down during the summer months. So, if you really want to swim at this beach in Oahu, we must plan your family vacation for that time of the year.

These are the best beaches in Oahu. I understand there are so many to choose from and that you won’t get to see them all during your family vacation. However, now you can determine which beaches in Oahu must make your list, so I can customize the perfect Oahu vacation for your family.

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