Oahu Beaches Off-the Beaten Path

A Short List of ‘Unpopular’ Beaches on Oahu

Oahu is a popular destination, but it’s still possible to find pockets of peace and quiet on its beautiful beaches. Here are some options to consider, divided by coast:

West Coast

 Makua Beach (Keawaula Beach): Known as “Tunnels” for its excellent snorkeling and diving, Makua Beach is a bit off the beaten path, which helps keep the crowds down. The dramatic cliffs and lush greenery add to the secluded atmosphere.

 Yokohama Beach (Kea’au Beach): At the end of the road, Yokohama Beach offers a sense of remoteness. It’s a great spot for watching the sunset and sometimes you can even see monk seals basking in the sun.

 Mokuleia Beach: These long, sandy beaches near Dillingham Airfield are less crowded than some of the more famous North Shore beaches. No lifeguards or bathrooms but they make a good spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

East Coast

 Waimanalo Bay Beach: This long stretch of white sand offers plenty of space to spread out and relax. The water is wavy – the perfect size for body surfing and boogie boarding.

Baby Mokapu’u: A tiny beach with small tide pools that locals love to bring small kids to swim and explore. This beach gets packed on the weekends so try a weekday sunrise adventure at this beach park.

North Shore

 Waialua Beach: This hidden gem is a favorite with locals. It’s not visible from the main road, which helps keep it quiet and secluded.

 Kawela Bay: Located next to the Turtle Bay resort, this quiet bay is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

 Aweoweo Beach Park: This small beach park offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. It’s a good spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

South Shore

 Kaimana Beach: Located at the far end of Waikiki, Kaimana Beach is a bit quieter than the main stretch of Waikiki Beach. It’s still close to the action, but offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

 Kuliouou Beach: Tucked away near Paiko Lagoon, Kuliouou Beach is a quiet and secluded spot. It’s a favorite with locals and those in the know.

 Eternity Beach (Halona Beach Cove): This small cove is tucked away beneath cliffs. It’s a bit of a hike to get to, but the seclusion is worth it.

 Diamond Head Beach: This beach is located at the base of Diamond Head. It’s a bit of a walk from the parking lot, which helps to keep the crowds down.

Tips for finding quiet beaches:

 * Go on weekdays: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

 * Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon: These times are usually less crowded than midday.

 * Explore less-known beaches: The beaches listed above are a good starting point, but there are many other hidden gems to discover on Oahu.

 * Be prepared to walk: Some of the most secluded beaches require a bit of a walk to get to.

 * Respect the environment: Help keep these beaches clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

Remember that beach conditions can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather and surf reports before you go. Enjoy your search for peace and quiet on Oahu’s beautiful beaches!

by Honolulu Vibes