hidden beach north shore oahu

While beaches like Three Tables and Sunset are known for having professional-level surf waves, Haleiwa Beach Park has calmer waves that are great for beginner surfers. Note: Be sure not to touch the turtles. We passed the actual entrance and parked about a quarter mile up the road on the right hand side. I am in Oahu with my family: myself, my husband, our 2 sons: 15 and 17 years old, our daughter: 13 and my mom who is 85. You wont find many people along Kaena Point. Shark's Cove 8. One of my favorite lesser known beaches to watch the sunset at is Papailoa Beach. document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "ad454807841e6d4cf2cb61b6c6da565d" );document.getElementById("cbc326333c").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); You may use these HTML tags and attributes: Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I visited Lanikai Beach many times on my trips to Oahu and did not have any issues with finding parking. The biggest, most historic, most famous of all the North Shore breaks, Waimea sometimes has rideable waves when all the other spots are closed out. It is located on the North Shore about 12 miles past the town of Haleiwa. It may be expensive, but it is very luxurious. Teds Bakery offers some of the best affordable bakery items, so be sure to stop by for breakfast. TOP THINGS TO DO AT WAIMEA BAY BEACH For those hoping to slip away from all the craziness of Waikiki, the North Shore helps to give you a much more relaxing and chill experience! Theres also the fact that you cant swim at this beach without scraping your belly across the reef. Which of these stunning little-known sandy beaches in Hawaii is your favorite? Mokule'ia Beach Park on Oahu's North Shore has a long sandy beach and a long flat, shallow reef. Probably the most famous out of all the North Shore Oahu hotels is Turtle Bay. I will also share some tips and tricks that I learned to help you plan your trip. Chuns Reef: Named for a well-known resident who once owned a two-story house here, its among the popular surf spots on the North Shore, as the long line of cars and spectators can attest. Snorkel down into the deep, surrounded by fish and turtles, and explore the tunnels that can be found beneath the rock. Well, this name stems from the sections of the reef that can be seen during the low tide, which look similar to a table! But you might just find monk seals, sea turtles, and albatross.The secluded, volcanic coast makes for some of the best views on the island. Laniakea (or Turtle) Beach: A favorite stopping place for tourists, this beach isnt particularly good for swimming because of its rocky bottom and strong currents, even on calmer days. As the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu boasts nearly 230 miles of stunning coastline. Today, we have put together a list of 10 incredible, secluded, and hidden beaches across this fine island from the north shores Mokuleia to the west sides Makua Beach to showcase some of the best beaches in Hawaii. How to Find the Hidden Gems on the North Shore of Oahu Personally, our family loves staying in Waikiki and doing day trips to other areas of the island. A lot of people tend to come here when Lanikai Beach is overcrowded, and I dont blame them at all. One thing to note about Laniakea Beach is that it gets super crowded, and parking can be hectic. This beach is also great for swimming. I know it can be tempting, but remember to respect the land and health of these majestic creatures. The most famous of the North Shore beaches, sunset has some of the most spectacular winter surf found anywhere on Oahu, with steep and shift outside peaks reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet, according to John Clark, author of Beaches of Oahu. Bring your sunscreen, a bottle of water and your binoculars the best breaks are well off-shore and settle down for a couple of hours. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. Park on the side of the road and buy a coconut and some other fruit. No matter how long your trip is, I would recommend fitting in a couple of beaches during your time here if you can! If you are looking for a secluded beach, this is a great place to visit after exploring the Jurassic Valley of Kualao Ranch. It is the North Shore's largest hotel and sits on 880 acres. The best part about this beach is that there are no crowds compared to Lanikai and Kailua. Ke Iki Beach is a quiet, hidden little treasure that many people don't know about. Inland, there are historic places such as the Puuomahuka (the largest heiau in the state) or the James Campbell Wildlife Refuge to visit. Scenic Drives and Secret Beaches on Oahu, Hawaii - TripSavvy The best part about these Oahu hidden spots is that they are all free! When we visited in early May of 2021, Turtle Bay Beach Resort was closed and we were able to use their palapas for free. Its a must if you are visiting the North Shore. 10 Must-See Places on O'ahu's North Shore - WanderWisdom Kahuku Farms is a farm-to-table restaurant with delicious lunch, smoothies, and desserts. Thats because its easy to get groceries, walk to restaurants, and join Oahu tours. I would live to mark the occasion as memorial/celebration for my mom and my kids (my parents live with us my kids have never lived without him). The North Shore of Oahu hosts some of the most world-renowned beaches in all of Hawaii. Management / TripAdvisor You'll find a long stretch of sandy beach, with a strong shore break. The Shady Path In Hawaii That Leads To Not One But Two Beautiful Beaches Kahuku Golf Course Beach is hidden from Kamehameha Highway by a residential community, then a rough-around-the-edges brick and mortar (mostly brick) facility, and as the name indicates a golf course. Makapuu Beach Park: Secluded Oahu Beach Near Waikiki, Located: Windward Oahu, 41 HI-71, Waimanalo, HI, Recommended Activities: beach bumming, bodysurfing, fishing, 3. In recent years, however, theres nothing hidden about the North Shore. The 30 Most Instagrammable Places in Oahu, Hawaii Lanikai Beach is a mile-long beach that offers amazing views and the water here was clearer than any other beach I visited on the island. As a result, a lucky few (yourself included) will enjoy a relaxing beach with a juxtaposing mix of soft sand and shoreline reef rock. And, the only way around is a one-lane highway that hugs the coast, Kamehameha Highway. After reading this, I hope you have found many beaches worth traveling to! Check out the best Oahu surfing lessons for kids. These tall tropical trees have vibrantly colored trunks. Its home to the tubular wave, and its also known for hosting the finale for the Vans Triple Crown of surfing competition. Jungle Expedition: One of the Best Kualoa Ranch Tours, 12 Best Places to Eat in Oahu Hawaii | Simply Wander, The Perfect 3 Day Oahu North Shore Itinerary | Simply Wander, Crouching Lion Trail: The Most Underrated Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, 10 Best Beaches on Oahu North Shore | Simply Wander, Maunawili Falls Trail: The Best Waterfall Hike in Oahu | Simply Wander, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail: The Best Family Hike in Oahu - Simply Wander, The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List - Simply Wander, South Point Hawaii: A Big Island Hidden Gem | Simply Wander, What is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii? Located next to Turtle Bay Resort, the farmers will cut the tops off of the coconuts they sell and put in a straw. If youre looking for one of my recommendations for one of the beaches that is a must-see on the North Shore of Oahu, I can easily say that Waimea Bay takes the cake. Chun's Reef Beach (Haleiwa) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Visiting food trucks and bringing meals to the beach is an experience unlike any other. 15 Best Restaurants in Oahu With a View 4. From hardcore surfing fanatics to those who just want a chance to watch some surfing from afar, there is no doubt that this mesmerizing beach has incredible views that people come from all over the world to check out. Part of the fun of discovering hidden gems in Hawaii is finding them yourself. Walk along our trail past the stables. The North Shore of Oahu is an experience like no other. Located behind the Sunset Elementary School, this Oahu hike will take you about 30 minutes to climb up to the top. For years, I passed the Coral Kingdom on my way up to the north shore. 8 Breathtaking North Shore Oahu Beaches Worth a Stop (2023) But, if you are planning on renting a car and want a laid-back Oahu vacation, the North Shore is pretty awesome! Kualoa Regional Park: Best Oahu Beach You Have Never Visited, I love this gem of a beach park for two reasons. Viewers back home or at your hotel will be curious about how you discovered the clandestine outcrop in the sea. Plus, here are lifeguards on hand to protect novices from getting in harms way. Wed like to think that every beach in the Aloha State is as pretty as a postcard, but some of the most consistently recognized stretches of sand include Kailua and Lanikai beaches on Oahu, Kaanapali Beach on Maui, Punaluu Beach on Hawaii Island, and Poipu Beach on Kauai. Paradise doesnt get much better than that. Waimea Bay Beach Park There are lots of amazing beaches on the North Shore of Oahu, but Waimea Bay makes it to the top of the list. There are North Shore activities for everyone to enjoy! Sunset Beach Oahu isnt just for surfers hitting the waves during the surfer season. For even more fun, a park with picnic tables is close to the beach! Kawela Bay is a perfect example of the hidden surprises that lay off the beaten path throughout the Hawaiian Islands. This Oahu beach is almost always empty. Other gems include most beaches along the southeastern coast of Oahu (Waimanalo and Bellows, to name a few) and Mauis southwestern coast. That's Hidden Beach. You can enjoy beautiful beaches, delicious shave ice, and adventurous activities. Of course, regardless of the season, the view of the sunset at Sunset Beach is one of the most amazing things you will ever see. If you were debating on whether to stay in the North Shore or Waikiki area then here is my recommendation: if you love a laid back quieter area and want to surf or watch surfers, then the North Shore is for you. From secret caves to hidden lookout points, you'll uncover a whole new side of Oahu that you won't find in the guidebooks. Banzai Beach-Pipeline-Ehukai Beach Park: When the conditions are right, this two-mile stretch of beach (the longest continuous stretch of wide beach on Oahu) features some of best surf-watching opportunities in the world: long, clean barrels so close to shore that you can feel the ground shake when the waves break on the shallow reef. A trip to the North Shore isnt complete without a visit to some of the best food trucks. 9. Keep scrolling to find out my top picks of where to stay and other fun things to do in North Shore Hawaii. This is a great beach for learning to surf on the north shore. The North Shore of Oahu will not disappoint you. Laniakea Beach is more commonly known as Turtle Beach, as there are a plethora of sea turtles chilling at the beach! Some people make it in less time and others more. Not particularly good for swimming because of a shallow reef that comes all the way to shore.Lifeguard: Mobile lifeguard standParking: Only along the highway.Restrooms: No.How it got its name: Formerly known as Kumakani (to stand against the wind), the surfing spot got its new name after a well known resident, John Chun, built a home here and his kids started surfing. Select a 2023 Travel Guide. Most people cant be bothered with that sort of effort, which works in the favor of anyone seeking seclusion. Another one of the best beaches on Oahus North Shore is Kuilima Cove. Lanikai Beach: Best Beach on Oahu Details on Lanikai Beach 5. Its found off of Kamehameha Highway as the road runs from Sunset Beach to Turtle Bay Resort. See Also: The Best 16 Places to Get Breakfast in Honolulu. 11 BEST CLIFF JUMPING SPOTS ON OAHU, HAWAII - Journey Era It translates to white shell in the native Hawaiian language. The water is much calmer in the summer months, and it offers some of the best swimming and snorkeling. Ehukai Beach Park is a great place to watch professional surfing in Oahu. Trust me, this is one of my favorite things to do here! Hunt For Sea Glass On The Beautiful Ke Iki Beach In Hawaii The best way to find the hidden gems along the north shore is to drive along Kamehameha Highway and to pull over at any fruit stand, beach, or place that looks interesting to you. Its quieter, more laid back, and has some of the best beaches in Hawaii. After that, you can walk to Lanikai Beach and you wont have to worry about losing your parking spot. Holding periods for mens and womens surfing contests, including the famous Triple Crown of Surfing Championships, start in mid-November each year and continue through March. Honolulu's best secluded beaches - IHG Travel Blog THE FOUR MOST POPULAR OAHU TOURS. Leaving Haleiwa Town, you have two choices as you head out to the beaches. Its a great place to stay if you want to do a lot of North Shore Oahu activities. Papailoa Beach has a steeper gradient than traditional beachgoers prefer. You can head to one of the many cafes on the North Shore to grab coffee or pastries. If you are a surfer or love to watch people surf, then this is your paradise. $239,900. Simply leave a comment below, and well get back to you within the day. You may also enjoy authentic poke and North Shore shops. Oahu is a beautiful Hawaiian island that is well-known for its stunning beaches and iconic attractions. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip! Visiting at least one of these places is a no-brainer for one who seeks a scenic drive around Oahu or a day-long trip to Waikiki that you will never forget! Get directions to Papailoa from your North Shore location here. Let them judge a book by its cover while you enjoy the spoils of this isolated slice of paradise. I mean, who doesnt love turtles, right?! And Its usually the host of the finale for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing competition. They all want to just get a crack at the amazing waves that are present on this beautiful beach. And there are several ways to get to North Shore from Waikiki/Honolulu. If you drive up to the north shore through the center of the island, you will pass Surfers Coffee Bar in Wahiawa. (i.e. The best time to go to the Banzai Pipeline is in the spring for casual water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and water skiing. The azure waters are crystal clear, making it a dream for photographers who flock here at sunset to capture the picturesque beauty. Love Hawaii? The beauty of Laniakea Beach is visible as soon as you set foot on the sands and look at the wide, open sky. Just ask any old-timer about traffic if you want to start a rant. Waimanalo Beach Park: Best White Sand Beach on Oahu Details on Waimanalo Beach Park 4. The hidden beach is accessible only by a rocky trail. 25 Best Beaches in Hawaii For A Spectacular Trip, 71 Awesome Things to Do on Oahu With Your Family. Families can enjoy the beach during the summer months when the waves are calmer, and children can swim in the water. And theres talk about building new hotels in the area, which some say will change the pace of the place forever. Regardless of the parking situation, I can assure you that you will be glad you came here. Best Parking Tip: Make sure you follow all parking protocols before you park your car. The waters at this time are much calmer than in the winter. On its own the island is a beacon for photos. ; Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Tour: One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was . There, you will spy a delightful stretch of sand that is rarely occupied aside from a basking sea turtle or monk seal from time to time. In the summer months, the beaches here are much warmer and calm and depending on where you go, you might be able to see some turtles too. A small 4-acre park at the base of the Ko'olau Mountains near the southern tip of Oahu, Also called Kahala Beach, this stretch of sand in Hawaii Kai is simply perfect: the sunsets are unforgettable, the sand is ideal for sunbathing and the water is perfect for swimming. The North Shore Hawaii waves are the perfect conditions for professional surfers! Mokul'ia. To get you started, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems. from the famed rock that sits half-submerged at the shoreline. Lots of people, from professional surfers to lovers of the sport come from across the globe. 1. Its a good place to see a mix of beachcombers, fishermen and surfers without a lot of tourists, but the dangerous currents and shallow reef make it unfit for swimming or wading.Lifeguard: NoParking: NoRestrooms: NoHow it got its name: Dale Velzy, one of the first commercial surfboard manufacturers in California, surfed here in the early 1960s. Usually smaller than elsewhere on the North Shore, the waves gently roll into the large southern end of Waialua Bay.Lifeguard: No.Parking: At Haleiwa Beach Park.Restrooms: At Haleiwa Beach Park.How it got its name: Literally, hot issue, perhaps because Pele was once said to live in the area before moving to Hawaii island. If you want to fully explore the island, go on some tours, and get the complete experience, this amount of time will allow you to relax when you need it and enjoy the wonders of the beach! Still, the beaches are wide and relatively uncrowded, and many inland attractions (yes, theres more to the North Shore than sand and surf) remain under the radar. The beach was not overcrowded at all either. Required fields are marked *. For the best burgers on the north shore, you have to go to Seven Brothers in Laie. I recommend getting there early to beat the crowdsand secure your parking spot. This is one of the top things to do at Waimea Bay on Oahu. Located within Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu's north shore is this amazing little cove perfect for novice snorkelers to practice their skills in the summer months. Backed by fancy mansions and huge homes, this, Coral Sea Road, Coral Sea Rd, Kapolei, HI, USA, Now it's onto the island's leeward coast! This side of the island has some of the best swimming and snorkeling and the water is calmer and clearer. This is one of the coolest waterfall hikes on Oahu, with a Jurassic Park vibe throughout the hike. - Lot / Land for sale. On average, it took us 45 minutes from Waikiki, but we made quick stops along the way as well. This breathtaking beach is also known as Turtle Beach because of the astounding number of sea turtles that come to hang out there! Although this spot can often be a surfers paradise, it is ill-advised to attempt these waves during the winter. As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. First, the view of Mokolii Island (aka, Chinamans Hat) offshore is beautiful as it sits in Kaneohe Bay (. The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau estimates that more than half of the states 7 million visitors make the trek to the North Shore at some time during their stay. Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Nka Blue Grade Rd, East Wenatchee, WA 98802. Along Kamehameha Highway, there are so many different places to stop and get out of your car. In doing so, wont we cause them to become overrun? Give us a call today. Start with this list to explore the island to find the right beach for you. The Honolulu beaches can be done either day, depending on whats more convenient for you. Puaena Point: Gently rolling swells that peter out in a beautiful bay. You can access Banzai Pipeline through Ehukai Beach Park, another one of the best beaches on Oahu to watch amazing surfing! It is a beach that has very little foot traffic, especially if you go early morning or late afternoon. When theres high surf, that means there is a strong rip current and its not safe for swimming. 9. 8 Epic North Shore Oahu Beaches (2023) - Hawaii Travel Spot We recommend, Parking: challenging to find street parking, numerous public and private parking garages in Waikiki, Food: Lots of options in Waikiki for dine-in or take to the beach, Recommended Activities: swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, beach bumming, walking, snorkeling, 21 Best Things to Do on Lanai: free, without a rental car, and reservation required, Your First-Time in Hawaii Itinerary (10-Days), Where to Find the Best Live Music on Maui, The 59 Best Things to do in Hawaii: Your Ultimate Bucket List (2023), 2. Entrance to the public beach is via the resort parking lot. How do you find Hidden Beach? I think I purposely saved the best for last here haha. Kawela Bay is a small protected cove on the north shore near Turtle Bay Resort. You can do all kinds of adventurous activities or North Shore surf shops. With views of the water and the sunset to die for, Sunset Beach is simply a place you cant miss to get amazing pictures to last you a lifetime. There is simply an endless number of fun options that any traveler can take advantage of, which makes sense considering that this is one of the most beloved beaches on Oahu. Ehukai Beach Park 122 Beaches Parks By CarolF260 It was by far our favorite beach of our Oahu adventure after visiting about 7 others including Lanikai and Kailua. Use these places as a jumping off point to spend an entire day exploring Oahus north shore. Doors-Off Oahu Helicopter Flight Tour: My number one recommendation is to do a heli-flight (doors off)and be blown away when you see Oahu from the air. There is also a campground with tent sites and small cabins. 1. Chuns Reef: Famous North Shore break that is well known for its gentle, tapering walls, and high percentage of beginner surfers in the water. While the beach is also a popular spot for North Shore Hawaii surfing, only experienced surfers should try to ride in the winter. 11 AMAZING WATERFALLS ON OAHU, HAWAII - Journey Era Shark's Cove - Hawaii Guide You'll receive your first newsletter soon! But when its big, the currents get strong and the area lives up to its name, which means rippling or stirring waters. This is where youll find that the surfing in Hawaii you see on TV and in the movies is much more incredible in real life! Although its gotten more popular over the years, its still a special place thats worth visiting when you are up on the north shore. This stellar itinerary is 130 miles, and at four and a half hours of drive time, is perfect for spreading over your next two-day weekend. The North Shore of Oahu is home to some of the most famous Hawaii beaches. There are a lot of activities to do while visiting the North Shore. Our travel agents can help you uncover the hidden gems that will be of the most interest to you and can help you plan a day on Oahus north shore. There are North Shore activities for everyone to enjoy! The reef is close in by the shore so you paddle out over the reef and the break is about 50 yards out from the shore. Hidden beaches are hard to come by on the North Shore. Turning left and heading west, will take you an isolated and beautiful side of Oahu North Shore called Mokuleia. For another epic road trip on Oahu, check out this phenomenal waterfall itinerary. Ehukai Beach / Banzai Pipeline 9. The views here are amazing, the sand is very soft, and the turquoise water is so clear and much calmer. Ke Iki Beach and Oahu's North Shore is less than an hour from famous Waikiki. Beyond the surface aesthetic, the reef between the sand and islet is great for snorkeling as it is teeming with fish and young sea turtles. The wind and swell direction drives collectible fishing junk such as floats, ropes, and more to the shore. 11 Best North Shore Oahu Beaches In Hawaii If you want a more metropolitan feel with lots of lodging options, then Waikiki is for you. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Having traveled to Hawaii MORE THAN 40 TIMES, Marcie is a self-proclaimed Hawaii travel expert! Lifeguards are stationed here as many a visitor tries, Food: No restaurants nearby so pick up food in Hawaii Kai, Recommended Activities: surfing, bodysurfing, fishing, 2. If you already decided on staying on a different part of the island, then staying a night on the North Shore does not make sense when you can easily make day trips. View more (including directions) to Kahuku Golf Course Beach. The Ultimate Oahu Road Trip Is Right Here And Youll Definitely Want To Do It. The beach parks calmer waves are perfect for those who dont want to start out on waves too tough. Cross the street, walk through a secret trail, pass an old Banyan tree, and you will arrive at secret beach. You can also check out the cafes on the North Shore to take pastries and beverages on the go! Waimanalois a four-mile-long beach that offers good facilities including picnic tables and restrooms. We have to keep some for ourselves! I recommend doing the Lanikai Pillbox Hike for sunrise. Below are some of my top recommendations. Keep reading this post for some highlights of each location. We've got it covered. But across the sunburned green you will find the most isolated beach of its size on Oahu. Start out by taking a daredevil dive (but its actually safe!) Copyright 2019-2023 Hawaii Travel With Kids/Marcie In Mommyland, Privacy Policy for Hawaii Travel with Kids. Located on the remote northwestern shore of Oahu, just past Haleiwa, is this secluded Hawaii beach the nearest store and restrooms are more than ten miles away. During the spring, the water at Banzai Pipeline is calmer. 9 Somewhat Secret Spots in Oahu Hawaii - Simply Wander However, the water at North Shore beaches calms down a lot during the summer and fall.