Oahu Getaway Guide: 10 Charming Towns, Villages, and Resorts
Head Out of Honolulu on a Road Trip to the Towns of Oahu
There are so many great towns, villages, and beachfront resorts all across Oahu. You could be a novice surfer looking for gentle breaks to start honing your skill or an expert who wants to enjoy one of the many towns that cater to surf culture.
The beaches and resorts of Oahu each have a distinct personality, which gives you the opportunity to find what suits your needs and likes – whether that’s a long, narrow beach for an early morning jog or campsites with plenty of palm tree shade to enjoy as a family. Before planning your stay, check out our guide to towns, resorts, and villages to visit in Oahu.
1. Waimanalo Beach
A versatile area with beaches and lush greenery
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The Waimanalo Beach neighborhood in windward Oahu boasts local flavor with numerous plant nurseries and sizable agricultural lots extending back in the valley toward the scenic Koolau Mountains. Its gorgeous beaches and pristine waters are excellent for fun days enjoying the sun and the sand. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere as gentle waves roll far onto the 3-mile stretch of white sand.
Here, you’ll also find the Anderson Estate which that was featured in the Magnum P.I. television series as “Robin’s Nest.” Only 45 minutes from Waikiki, Waimanalo Beach is easily accessible but far enough away to feel like you’re in a secret part of Oahu. Be sure to try some bodyboarding before you leave.
Waimanalo Beach
2. Lanikai Beach
Sunbathing and enjoying views of the Mokulua Islands
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Lanikai Beach is a hidden gem that has been voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its seclusion and lack of public facilities are part of the charm. You can stroll on the mile-long beach, looking out to the shallow turquoise water that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Lanikai Beach is one of the best places for photography in Oahu, thanks to a backdrop of the distant Mokulua Islands and the occasional surfers. Don’t forget your underwater camera when going on a snorkeling adventure as you’ll find exotic fish and colorful reefs lying beneath the calm surf. Read more
Lanikai Beach
3. Waikiki Beach
A busy resort with high-rise hotels overlooking the sea
Good for: Nightlife, Photo
Waikiki Beach is one of the most sought-after beach destinations in Honolulu. You might want to visit it because it’s a popular surf spot or to enjoy the nightlife amenities in and around the beach. Whatever the case, you can find plenty of activities within this Hawaii region.
Stay at one of the many high-rise hotels along the beachfront for expansive views of the passing surf and nearby islands. After a day of exploring, end the night with a drink at a poolside cocktail bar.
Waikiki Beach
4. Kaimuki
A historic small neighborhood near Kāhala Beach
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The residential community of Kaimuki has long been a favorite vacation destination for in-the-know travelers. From quaint coffee shops to eclectic indie stores, this isn’t a run-of-the-mill tourist destination in Hawaii.
The historic, small-town vibe of Kaimuki adds to the desirability and charm of this beautiful area. You can walk through town and grab a refreshing gelato, or find a sundress with an inspired Hawaiian flare. Kaimuki has an excellent farmers’ market that takes place on Saturdays, so pick up exotic flowers and local produce at affordable prices.
Kaimuki
5. Pearl City
Where to learn about the history of Pearl Harbor
Good for: Adventure, History, Photo
Pearl City is where you can find the Pearl Harbor Memorial, making it a great town to visit to learn about its history. Located right on the shore of the harbor, you can be immersed in the rather somber atmosphere of the region.
Along with an afternoon of remembrance, you can experience many attractions, local shops, and eateries throughout the area. Pearl City is also very easy to get to, located just a few miles west of downtown Honolulu. If you’re into hiking, head out to the Waimano Valley Trail Head for a great day out and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Pearl City
6. Kaneohe
Spectacular coastal views
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Like many small towns on the island of Oahu, Kaneohe is known for its tropical beauty and spectacular coastal views. Towering, green cliffs in the distance provide a great backdrop for the perfect beach photo at Kāneʻohe Beach Park.
Many of Kaneohe’s attractions are outdoors, such as the spectacular Stairway to Heaven. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden adds to the scenic tropical atmosphere with a 32-acre lake and exotic plants from regions like Africa, India, and Malaysia. Enjoy a lovely selection of local shops and authentic eateries during your visit.
Kaneohe
7. Malaekahana Beach
Relaxing and camping on the beach
Good for: Adventure, Budget, Photo
Malaekahana Beach boasts expansive ocean views, with great swimming and snorkeling conditions. The nearshore water can be a bit rocky due to coral reefs but makes for a great snorkel and scuba spot in Hawaii.
On top of the exciting ocean activities, Malaekahana Beach is located in a state park and has many palm trees and tropical Hawaiian surroundings. Campsites can be found near the beach, where you can enjoy a soft, sandy plot and relax the day away. Arrive early to secure the best tent spot to watch the sunset.
Malaekahana Beach
8. Sandy Beach
A surfing hotspot in Oahu
Good for: Budget, Photo
Sandy Beach is a surfer’s paradise in Oahu, thanks to consistent barrels along the shore. It’s great for shallow-water bodyboarding and bodysurfing as well. When you enter the surf, you may want to be careful with what you have in your pockets, whether that’s your keys or sunglasses.
The crescent-shaped beach is relatively small, which helps give it a local, intimate feel. Located in the South Shore of Oahu, Sandy Beach is around 14 miles east of Honolulu. Check out the great lookouts nearby such as Halona blowhole lookout and Lānaʻi lookout as well as the Makapuʻu tide pools.
Sandy Beach
9. Pokai Bay
A relaxing beach with calm breaks year-round
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Pokai Bay is known for its relaxing beach vibe and calm breaks throughout the year. Despite its location on the Leeward Coast, its offshore breakwater makes it excellent for swimming and paddleboarding.
Families especially appreciate Pokai Bay as it offers safe swimming conditions for kids. Because of the calm surf, the bay is a great spot if you are interested in learning how to surf or bodyboard. Be sure to visit the ancient Hawaiian temple of Ku’ilioloa Heiau on the nearby peninsula.
Pokai Bay
10. Bellows Field Beach Park
Stellar camping with direct beach access
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The oceanfront Bellows Field Beach Park is a must-visit if you like peaceful campsites shaded with palm trees and direct beach access. It has a shallow sandbar and water conditions that are often ideal for bodyboarding. It also means that the water around the beach is safe for kids to swim in.
With a long, wide sandy beach that’s great for long scrolls, Bellows Field Beach Park is a great family destination, for couples on a romantic getaway, and even for solo surfers trying to take advantage of great breaks.
Location: 41-43 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795, USA
Open: Friday from noon to 8 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 6 am to 8 pm (closed Monday–Thursday)
Phone: +1 808-768-2267
Bellows Field Beach Park
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