Waimanalo Beach Park

Family-Friendly Activities

Waimanalo Beach is ideal for a relaxing family day. Its 3-mile stretch of white sand and clear waters provides plenty of space for kids to play, build sandcastles, and splash in the shallows. The steady breeze makes it a great place to fly kites, and the Ironwood trees provide natural shade for those looking to escape the sun.

Water activities include bodysurfing, swimming, and boogie boarding, but it’s essential to be mindful of the ocean conditions, as waves can become more substantial later in the day. Bring a light jacket if visiting in the winter, as the windward side can be more extraordinary.

Pro-tip: Since Waimanalo faces east, the best time for sunbathing is in the morning. By afternoon, shadows from the Ko'olau Mountains lengthen, and the beach tends to get windier.

Waimanalo Beach Activities

Waimanalo Beach offers a variety of activities for all types of visitors:

• Fishing: The clear, shallow waters are ideal for shoreline fishing. Visitors can find bait and tackle nearby Kailua or arrange a deep-sea fishing charter.
• Water Activities: While Waimanalo Beach is not a significant surf spot, it offers fun bodysurfing and boogie boarding opportunities. The absence of large rocks makes it a safer swimming choice than other Oahu beaches.
• Photography: Whether you’re capturing a wedding, family portrait, or nature shots, the scenery here is unparalleled.
• Beach Volleyball: Set up a net and play a game with friends or family on the soft sand.
• Lounging: Relax under the shade of the Ironwood trees and soak in the beautiful Pacific views.
• Sunrise Viewing: On the east coast of Oahu, Waimanalo Beach offers some of the most stunning sunrises on the island.
• Camping in Sherwood Forest: Adjacent to the beach, Sherwood Forest provides a peaceful camping experience with a permit. Enjoy waking up to the sound of the ocean in this tranquil setting.

Nearby Sights and Activities

• Makapuu Lighthouse: The view from the Makapuu Lighthouse stands as one-of-a-kind. This place offers stunning views of Oahu's Windward side and beyond with its height! And if that's not enough to sell it for yourself, the mile hike only takes 30 minutes total with lots of scenic views along this journey, making those few extra glory moments worth every second they take away from work/school!
• Sea Life Park: What better way to spend time at Sea Life Park than swimming with sharks and sea lions? You'll have access to many exciting marine exhibits, but if you want an experience like no other, try Swimming With Sharks! Professional trainers will educate and lead the way through this fantastic opportunity for just 20-30 minutes in a 300k gallon tank (or more).

Nearby Places to Eat

Although Waimanalo Beach itself doesn’t have restaurants on-site, several great dining options are nearby:

• Ono Steaks & Shrimp Shack – A casual eatery offering delicious Hawaiian plate lunches, fresh seafood, and local flavors.
• Keneke’s Waimanalo – A well-known Hawaiian plate lunch spot featuring BBQ chicken, kalua pork, and refreshing shaved ice.
• Ai Love Nalo – A vegan-friendly café serving fresh, organic, and locally inspired dishes.
• Kalapawai Market (Kailua) – A great stop on the way to or from Waimanalo for sandwiches, coffee, and snacks.

Waimanalo Beach is a slice of paradise offering a tranquil escape from Oahu’s more crowded tourist spots. Whether you're here for the sunrise, a beachside picnic, or a fun-filled day in the ocean, Waimanalo delivers an unforgettable experience. With its soft sands, turquoise waters, and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder this hidden gem remains a local favorite.