10 Best Beaches on Oahu: The Ultimate 2026 Local’s Guide

Oʻahu is home to some of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic beaches, offering everything from lively shorelines and gentle waves to hidden coves and rugged, scenic escapes. Whether you’re a family traveler, a dedicated wave-chaser, or someone simply looking for a quiet corner of paradise, the island’s diverse coastline has a perfect spot for you.

If you’re planning your 2026 getaway, the best way to experience these gems is to have a central home base. Waikiki Resort Hotel is located just steps away from the sands of Waikīkī Beach, making it easy to enjoy an early morning swim or a sunset stroll without ever needing a car. Before you pack your bags, be sure to check out our current special offers and seasonal promotions to make your stay even more memorable.

Quick Comparison: Which Beach is Right for You?

Top Beaches on Oʻahu: A 2026 Guide to the Island’s Best Shorelines

1. Waikīkī Beach (South Shore)

Best for: First-time visitors, swimming, and people-watching. One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikīkī Beach is known for its golden sand and unbeatable views of Diamond Head. Because it’s protected by a reef, the waves are generally gentle, making it the world’s best place for a first surfing lesson. 

Accessibility: For guests at the Waikiki Resort Hotel, the beach is incredibly easy to reach. It's just a one-block, one-minute stroll from our lobby, allowing you to go from your room to the ocean in just steps away.

• Local Insight: For the calmest water, head to the "Wall" area (Kūhiō Beach), where a stone breakwater creates a tranquil swimming pond.

2. Ala Moana Beach Park (South Shore)

Best for: Families and peaceful sunset swims. Located between Waikīkī and Downtown Honolulu, this is the preferred "local" alternative. The water is lake-still, and the park offers 100 acres of shade and grass.

• Pro Tip: Head to the "Magic Island" section for a stunning panoramic view of the Honolulu skyline.

3. Lanikai Beach (Windward Oʻahu)

Best for: Soft white sand and those iconic "Twin Island" views. Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, Lanikai is a dream for photographers. The turquoise waters and views of the Mokulua Islands are unmatched.

• 2026 Parking Alert: Parking is extremely restricted in this residential neighborhood. Consider taking a rideshare or biking from nearby Kailua to avoid heavy fines.

4. Kailua Beach Park (Windward Oʻahu)

Best for: Water sports and long beach walks. Just down the road from Lanikai, this park offers more space and full amenities (restrooms, showers, and parking). The trade winds here make it a hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

• Activity: Rent a kayak and paddle out to Popoia Island (Flat Island)—it’s an easy trek for most skill levels.

5. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Southeast Oʻahu)

Best for: Snorkeling and marine life. A protected volcanic crater, this is the premier snorkeling spot on the island. You’ll see schools of colorful tropical fish and, often, the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu).

• 2026 Update: Reservations are required and usually open 48 hours in advance. They sell out within minutes, so set an alarm for 7:00 AM HST two days before your visit!

6. Sunset Beach (North Shore)

Best for: Watching professional surfers and epic sunsets. In the winter (November–February), this is the site of world-class surfing competitions with waves reaching 30 feet. In the summer, the water turns into a flat, crystal-clear pool perfect for swimming.

• Food Tip: Stop by Ted’s Bakery nearby for their famous chocolate haupia cream pie.

READ MORE: Best North Shore Beaches To Visit In Oahu

7. Waimea Bay (North Shore)

Best for: Rock jumping (Summer) and big wave watching (Winter). Waimea is a legendary North Shore spot. In the summer, a large rock on the shoreline serves as a popular "jump-off" point into the deep blue water.

• Safety Note: During winter swells, stay well back from the shoreline; the power of the waves here is immense.

8. Ko Olina Lagoons (West Side)

Best for: Toddlers and safety. These four man-made, crescent-shaped lagoons are protected by rock barriers, ensuring there are zero waves. It’s essentially a giant, beautiful, salt-water swimming pool.

• Vibe: It feels very much like a high-end resort area, offering a clean and manicured beach experience.

9. Makapuʻu Beach Park (East Side)

Best for: Bodyboarding and dramatic scenery.

Set against black lava cliffs and the Rabbit Island backdrop, this is Oʻahu’s most photogenic beach.

• Safety Note: The shorebreak here is powerful. If you aren't an experienced swimmer, enjoy the view from the sand rather than the water.

10. Sandy Beach (East Side)

Best for: Watching local bodysurfers (and only watching).

Known as "Broke Neck Beach" to locals, this spot is famous for its dangerous, heavy shorebreak.

• Experience: It is a great place to feel the "local" vibe and watch some of the best bodysurfers in the world, but the water is for experts only.

Pro-Tips for a Responsible Visit (Mālama Oʻahu)

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: It is now the law in Hawaiʻi to use only mineral-based sunscreens (Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide) to protect our coral reefs.

• Wildlife Distance: Always stay at least 10 feet away from Sea Turtles and 50 feet away from Hawaiian Monk Seals.

• Parking: If a spot says "No Parking," believe it. Oʻahu has increased enforcement in 2026 to ensure emergency vehicles can access coastal roads.

Your Home Base in Paradise

Planning your beach hopping is much easier when you’re staying at the heart of it all. Waikiki Resort Hotel offers the convenience of being steps away from Waikīkī Beach, providing the perfect balance of city excitement and island relaxation.