5 Best Oahu Beaches to Rock Your Bikini (That aren’t in Waikiki)

by Pakaloha Staff
If you’ve ever been to Oahu, you know how lucky we are to have nearly unlimited options for going to the beach. We all know Waikiki Beach for its history and famous skyline, but let's face it...sometimes the crowds get a little overwhelming. So if you’re looking to explore outside of town, here are the top 5 Oahu beaches to rock your bikini. Waimea
  1. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is known for its winter swells, that sometimes reach over 25 feet! But in the summer, when the waves are calm, and it’s the perfect place to float away from your problems. Or, if that sounds too easy, take a leap of faith, jumping off the infamous rock platform on the south side of the bay.
  1. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai means “heavenly sea” and if you drive out to the east side of Oahu, you’ll instantly know why. The soft sand and tranquil blues, that don’t get hit with the same waves that take over the North Shore in winter. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a kayak out to the Mokuluas. There’s no telling how far you’ll go!
  1. Sunset Beach
Sunset beach seems to stretch out forever, giving you a panorama view of blue ocean. In winter you can check out a surf contest, and in summer it seems to beckon from the end of the Haleiwa bike path. Get yourself some coconut from a nearby fruit stand (or some pie from Ted’s bakery!) and stretch out here to catch some sun.
  1. Kalaniana’ole Beach Park
Maybe you know this place by the ‘mermaid caves’ that are all over Instagram these days. But did you know you can camp with the proper permit? Located out on the Waianae side of the island, this beach is located near the Ko Olina resort and hosts a stretch of grass for picnic lunches. Acro Yoga anyone?
  1. Ala Moana Beach Park/Magic Island
Magic Island If the thought of H1 traffic is too much, take a break at Ala Moana Beach Park. This beach is also host to Magic Island, and is a focal point for many gatherings and events. Most recently the Hokule’a returned home from her worldwide voyage here, and it's the perfect spot to watch some Fourth of July fireworks. This beach also features a paved road for jogging and biking, and if you get tired of the beach you can cross the street and go shopping at Ala Moana Shopping Center (although can you get tired of a view like this?) With so many places to choose from, what are you waiting for? Pack your favorite Pakaloha Bikini and get going!
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