East Shore Beaches

Kailua Beach Park

Lanikai Beach
Parking is catch-as-catch-can, but the beach is generally rated #1 in the United States. It's over a mile long. Usually very quiet with good snorkeling and swimming all year long. Fantastic, quiet and open beach.

Makapuu Beach
The intense greens of the rugged sea cliffs contrast perfectly with the bright blue sky and the unforgettable palette of colors that make up the Pacific Ocean. At the base of this rugged coastline, there's a beach. Not a quiet little beach where gentle waves kiss the coastline, but a rip-roaring, snorting beach that's perfect for serious boogie-boarding. The waves roll in here at three to five feet most of the year. The undertow will pull you right into the water. But if you're an athlete, looking for some serious action, this is the place.

Sandy Beach
Sandy is the kite-flying capitol of the islands. Steady trade winds, dependable sunshine and elegant rolling surf make this a favorite place for body-boarders, kite-flyers, surfers and people who like watching people. Turn a corner and you should be able to find a deserted strip of beach all your own. If the surf is up, we'd suggest that you stay out of the water unless you're a very strong swimmer. Still the combination of constant sun and tradewinds makes this a great spot to work on your tan. Bring a cooler, sandwiches and sunscreen and make a day of it.

Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo is still an agricultural area with numerous truck and horse farms (even a polo field). The beach park is clearly indicated on the ocean side and there's more than adequate parking, plus rest room facilities and water. It could hardly be more picturesque. Four miles of uninterrupted, white sand framed by palm trees. The waves are manageable for most families and yet there's enough of a roller effect to body surf or boogie board. During week days the beach is virtually deserted, though it can occasionally get crowded over the weekends. If you're looking for space and solitude, the trade winds always drown out the noise of civilization. A tremendously beautiful and generally under populated spot.

East Shore Sites

Hiking, Snorkeling & Boogie-boarding Eco Adventure Tour
Take a guided mountain bike tour through the 1000 acre Kaaawa Valley on Oahu's east shore. Dirt roads and single track meander throughout this lush stream filled valley. Points of interest: Nuuana Pali, Kaneohe Bay, Ko'olau Mountains

Mountain Biking Ka'a'awa Valley at Kualoa Ranch
Take a guided mountain bike tour through the 1000 acre Kaaawa Valley on Oahu's east shore. Dirt roads and single track meander throughout this lush stream filled valley. Points of interest: Nuuana Pali, Kaneohe Bay, Ko'olau Mountains.

Courtesy of O'ahu Visitors Bureau