For a tropical getaway, you should explore the beautiful Waikiki beaches in Hawaii. Waikiki is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters on the southern shore of Honolulu. From peaceful coves to famous hotspots, the Waikiki beaches are for everyone. The beaches of Waikiki Oahu attract tourists and travelers worldwide for a beautiful Hawaii experience.
Best Waikiki Beaches In Hawaii
Hawaii is famous for its tropical Waikiki Beaches, where you can chill and have a delightful visit. Here is a list of beaches of Waikiki where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views:
1. Diamond Head Beach
The Diamond Head Beach is a stunning beach, east of Waikiki. To reach this paradise, simply head towards the Diamond Head volcano, passing through the beautiful Kapiolani Beach Park. Once you’ve arrived at the Diamond Head lookout, get ready for an extraordinary experience.
The beach offers a captivating walking path with breathtaking views. You can rake a leisurely stroll along the shore or sit back and cherish the astounding scenery. Pack a delightful picnic dinner for a memorable evening and create unforgettable memories here.
Diamond Head Beach is famous for surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts for its exceptional water offshore. You can explore the fascinating wave pools, admire beachfront homes, and catch a glimpse of the charming lighthouse. Swimming at this beach can be challenging because the coral reef extends to the shore. However, you’ll discover a few areas where the reef breaks, providing a sandy spot to take a refreshing dip!
You can also view the extraordinary sunset on Waikiki Beach at Diamond Head. As the day ends, the sky is filled with orange, pink, and purple hues, creating a mesmerizing panorama that perfectly rounds off a day on the beaches of Waikiki.
2. Prince Kuhio Beach
The Prince Kuhio Beach is a vibrant beach at Waikiki that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty with a modern city view. This famous beach stands out among the Waikiki beaches due to its protective concrete walls; hence, it is known as ‘The Ponds.’ These walls create a peaceful beach experience perfect for families with young children seeking a calm, wave-free experience.
During high tide, the ocean water spills into the pools, transforming them into a peaceful oasis. During low tides, a narrow channel becomes the only connection to the open ocean, which regulates the water from the shore and does not allow waves to reach the shore. The Kuhio beach is a safe getaway for families and children.
Beyond the protective walls lie adventures of watersports. Here, you can go bodyboarding adjacent to the pier, making the most of the rolling waves. The pier is a popular lookout spot, particularly during the mesmerizing sunset hours when many visitors gather to glimpse the sunset on Waikiki Beach.
Prince Kuhio Beach offers a unique blend of serenity, adventure, and breathtaking beauty. It captivates travelers and tourists alike, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable beach experience in Waikiki.
3. Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is a refreshing escape for locals and tourists seeking a relaxing beach experience. Its serene atmosphere and peaceful water set it apart. Visitors appreciate the calmness of the beach water, making it an ideal spot for safe swimming and water sports for families and children. You can also sunbathe here, and you don’t have to worry about finding a place to relax because the beach is quite spacious.
Ala Moana Beach Park is not just another tourist attraction – it’s a part of the local culture. The park hosts many events throughout the year, including live music performances, cultural festivals, and even movie nights on the beach! Check out the event calendar before your visit and experience the island’s vibrant culture firsthand.
This beach at Waikiki offers many amenities to make your visit delightful. You can hit the tennis courts or enjoy a workout in the outdoor gym, surrounded by the breathtaking tropical scenery. You can also stroll along the beach or participate in various activities such as canoeing, yoga, boot camps, and even surfing and snorkeling.
As you explore the Ala Moana Beach Park, you will be mesmerized by the breathtaking sunset on Waikiki Beach, making this Beach Park a perfect paradise for your day. The park provides restrooms and outdoor beachside showers for your convenience, ensuring you can freshen up after a day of fun in the sun.
4. Duke Kahanamoku Beach
The Duke Kahanamoku Beach at Waikiki is a paradise that must be on your Waikiki itinerary. Duke Kahanamoku Beach has palm trees along the shore, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular views. It is located beside the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort, making the Kahanama beach an ideal destination among other Waikiki beaches for locals and travelers.
Kahnamoku Beach is a tourist attraction of Oahu with a real Hawaii experience. Here, you can engage yourself with Hawaiian culture through their cultural dance, traditional events, and meeting with the locals. For Hawaiian Adventure, this beach at Waikiki is ideal for watersports like snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing. You may even spot a turtle as you snorkel in Waikiki.
You can also go for an Atlantis Submarine Tour from Kahanama Beach and explore the water surrounding Waikiki. Duke Kahanamoku Beach offers various fun-filled activities for everyone. Here, kids can splash around in the protected lagoon while adults can enjoy a refreshing swim on the beach. Moreover, the calm, warm waters make it perfect for snorkeling. End your day by viewing the stunning sunset on Waikiki Beach as the sun sets below the horizon, painting unique shades of the sky.
5. Dreamland Beach
Dreamland Beach is one of the most enchanting Waikiki beaches that promises an exceptional beach experience. It is located away from the bustling city, Dreamland Beach is the perfect spot to escape the crowd and enjoy the peace of nature.
Dreamland Beach is surrounded by majestic cliffs and lush greenery along the pristine shoreline that stretches as far as the eye can see. The turquoise waters gently wash against the shore and add to the scenic beauty of this stunning beach at Waikiki, making it a perfect paradise for beach lovers.
Dreamland Beach is not just about relaxation. The beach is famous for surfing, so grab your surfboard and ride the waves! Snorkeling around the vibrant coral reef is a must if you prefer a more laid-back adventure. The clear water of the beaches of Waikiki provides an excellent window to the underwater marine life.
The beach also offers amenities, including a cafe serving delicious Hawaiian cuisine and a rental shop where you can hire snorkeling and surfing gear for adventurous water sports.
6. Fort DeRussy Beach Park
The Fort DeRussy Beach Park in Waikiki is one of the hidden gems of Oahu! Unlike other Waikiki beaches, this park offers a serene getaway with spectacular views. Beyond the sandy shore, this beach park has volleyball courts, walking paths, and palm trees for shade, providing a delightful escape from the sunny beach. It is ideal for a beach picnic where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Fort DeRussy Beach Park has a charm that appeals to families and those seeking a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a curious traveler or an enthusiastic tourist, this hidden gem offers a unique experience that perfectly captures the charisma of Hawaii. For surfing at DeRussy Beach, the water, wind, and tide at DeRussy Beach are perfect. You can also swim with turtles in Oahu when you snorkel in Waikiki’s DeRussy Beach.
If you’re a history enthusiast, you’ll be intrigued by the U.S. Army Museum within the park. You can study Hawaii’s military history through the museum’s impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and narratives. One of DeRussy Beach Park’s highlights is the barbecue grills spread across the park, perfect for a sizzling beach delight. As the day ends, you will witness a breathtaking sunset in Oahu. The entire experience feels surreal and magical, as the skyline is painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
7. Gray’s Beach
The Gray’s Beach is a beautiful beach at Waikiki with historical significance. Although it is not what it used to be due to erosion and high tide, it is still a good spot to add to your Waikiki itinerary. It is located in front of the Halekulani Hotel. The beach is more like a connecting remote path than a tourist attraction.
At Gray’s Beach, the soft, golden sand meets the calm, crystalline waters of the Pacific, creating the ideal setting for a day of pure relaxation. The peaceful ambiance of this beach at Waikiki makes it the perfect spot for sunbathing, reading a book, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty surrounding you.
No visit to Gray’s Beach would be complete without trying the local cuisine. Near Gray’s Beach, you’ll find food trucks and restaurants serving some of the best Hawaiian delicacies. Whether you crave fresh seafood or traditional poke bowls, this beach at Waikiki will leave you craving more.
In the evening, get ready to experience the most stunning sunset in Oahu at Gray Beach. The sun casting its golden hues over the horizon and the reflection of the gentle waves create a mesmerizing view that is truly a delight among the beaches of Waikiki.
8. Royal Hawaiian Beach
The Royal Hawaiian Beach, also known as ‘Waikiki Beach Center,’ is one of the most iconic beaches of Waikiki that attracts travelers and tourists worldwide. It is in front of the pink Royal Hawaiian Hotel with a breathtaking view and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Royal Hawaiian Beach is perfect for surfing. You can also rent surfboards from rentals on the beach. It does not matter if you are a beginner or a pro; you can easily surf at this beach at Waikiki. You can enjoy the warm beach by sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip in the clear waters, surfing the waves, and relaxing under the palm trees.
As the day ends, you will be captivated by the breathtaking sunset on Waikiki Beach. You should look at how the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a magical glow over the ocean. It’s a view you would want to cherish at Waikiki beaches.
9. Queen Kapiolani Beach
Queen Kapiolani Beach is the most desired among other beaches of Waikiki. It’s a hidden gem that offers a peaceful vibe away from the crowd. When you visit Kapiolani Beach, you will find it easily accessible, making it the perfect place to relax. This beach is famous for surfing and bodyboarding. You can stroll along the pier and notice teens eager for waves to bodyboard. If you’re new to bodyboarding, don’t worry! You can rent a board here and give it a try.
Queen Kapiolani Beach isn’t just about sun and surf. You should visit the nearby Queen Kapiolani Garden, which will take you on a historical journey. You can admire the beautiful statue of Queen Kapiolani and learn about Hawaii’s royal past.
The Queen Kapiolani allows you to relax and unwind under the majestic palm trees, providing shade throughout the day, and you can lounge comfortably and enjoy the stunning views, especially the sunset on Waikiki Beach.
10. Kaimana Beach Park (San Souci Beach)
The Kaimana Beach Park, also known as San Souci Beach, is in Waikiki. This beach offers a unique and exciting experience away from the crowds at Waikiki. With its soft sandy shores and beautiful views, Kaimana Beach is a peaceful oasis for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway.
Kaimana Beach may be smaller, but it compensates with its charm and less crowd. Imagine lounging on the grassy lawn with palm trees, a perfect relaxing spot while enjoying the gentle ocean breeze.
Kaimana Beach Park is a haven for those seeking tranquility and a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. It is famous as a snorkeling spot; the clear waters of the beaches of Waikiki offer a window into the vibrant marine life of tropical fish and colorful coral reefs. For more adventure, the beach’s calm waters provide excellent conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Kaimana Beach Park harbors a rich cultural and historical significance that enhances its appeal. It is situated near the War Memorial Natatorium. A visit to this beach at Waikiki presents a unique opportunity to pay tribute to Hawaii’s World War I veterans.
Nothing beats the breathtaking Hawaiian sunset on Waikiki Beach, and Kaimana Beach Park provides the perfect viewpoint. As the sun sets, it paints the sky with a palette of dazzling colors, signifying a perfect end to a beach day at Waikiki.
11. Makalei Beach Park
The Makalei Beach Park is between Kaimana Beach and Diamond Head Beach; it offers a charming escape from people. The Makalei Beach Park may go unnoticed from the roadside due to the busy neighboring Beaches of Waikiki; this hidden gem awaits those who seek a peaceful beach time.
What sets Makalei Beach apart is its serenity. It has a peaceful atmosphere, and as you stroll along the shoreline, you will notice people surfing along the waves, some enjoying a dip in the beach, and a small group going to snorkel in Waikiki’s Makalei Beach. The marine life here is filled with various tropical fish, a paradise for snorkelers.
While Makalei Beach Park does not provide parking or restrooms, you’ll find an outdoor shower and a few picnic tables, adding a touch of comfort to your visit. Please note that it might be difficult to find dry sand during high tide at the beach, but this minor inconvenience is well worth the private experience Makalei Beach offers. Makalei Beach Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking to relax in Hawaii.
Makalei Beach Park is a paradise for kids and adults alike with its calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. The park’s playground is an additional delight, ensuring that the little ones are entertained while adults enjoy the serenity of the beaches of Waikiki. We recommend you stay to see the sunset at Waikiki Beach and make memories during your stay.
