Leeward Coast Sanctuaries
Beaches 15-20: Remote Beauty & Spectacular Sunsets
Part V of Hidden Beaches Guide
By Jade KawanuiLeeward Coast Sanctuaries
The Leeward, or western, side of Oʻahu is the driest and sunniest part of the island. The beaches here are remote, backed by the stunning Waiʻanae Mountain Range, and offer some of the most spectacular sunsets you'll ever see.
🏔️ Remote Location Notice
These Leeward Coast beaches are the most remote on the island. Most have no facilities, lifeguards, or cell service. Come fully prepared with water, food, and emergency supplies.
Many beaches here are exposed to open ocean with powerful currents—experienced swimmers only.
Leeward Coast Beach Quick Reference
| Beach | Best For | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15. Mākua | Sunsets, dolphin spotting | Advanced | No |
| 16. Yokohama Bay | Remote beauty, hiking | Moderate | Yes |
| 17. Tracks | Complete isolation | Expert | No |
| 18. Kepuhi | Wild beauty | Advanced | No |
| 19. Nanakuli | Local culture | Easy | Yes |
| 20. Kahe Point | Snorkeling, warm water | Moderate | No |
15 Mākua Beach
Driving to Mākua feels like you're heading to the edge of the world. The Waiʻanae mountains rise up behind you like ancient guardians, and the beach itself is this incredible, untouched stretch of white sand. This area is deeply sacred in Hawaiian culture—Mākua Valley is believed to be where humans were first created, and the word mākua means "parent."
🚗 Access & Parking
Located on Farrington Highway, several miles past Mākaha. Small, unpaved gravel parking area at northern end, identifiable by a large boulder. No facilities.
🌅 Best For
Sunsets, solitude, photography, and dolphin spotting. This is a sacred place that demands respect and reverence.
🐬 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
The beauty of Mākua is raw, and so is the ocean here. There's no offshore reef to protect the beach, and the seafloor drops off quickly. This beach is for confident, experienced ocean swimmers only, and even then, only during calm summer months. In early mornings, spinner dolphins often visit the bay—admire them from shore only.
16 Yokohama Bay (Keawaʻula Beach)
This is literally the end of the road. Yokohama Bay, or "Yokes" as locals call it, is the last sandy beach on the Leeward Coast before the pavement gives way to the hiking trail at Kaʻena Point. It's a vast, curving bay of fine white sand with turquoise water and the dramatic backdrop of mountains.
🚗 Access & Parking
Located at the very end of Farrington Highway. Large parking area for Kaʻena Point State Park, plus roadside parking. Park has restrooms and showers (non-potable water).
🥾 Best For
Sunbathing, remote beauty, watching expert surfers in winter, and as starting point for the Kaʻena Point hike.
🌊 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
Like Mākua, Yokohama Bay is exposed to the open ocean. The surf can be massive and dangerous in winter. In summer, waves can be calmer, but the shorebreak is still powerful. Always check with lifeguards before entering water. The park gate locks promptly at 7 PM—make sure your car is parked outside the gate if you're staying for sunset.
17 Tracks Beach
This completely undeveloped stretch of coastline requires either a 4WD vehicle or a substantial hike to reach. Tracks gets its name from the old railroad tracks that once ran along this coast. It offers the ultimate in solitude and untouched natural beauty.
🚙 Access & Parking
From end of Farrington Highway, hike along coast or drive 4WD vehicle when conditions permit. No facilities whatsoever.
🏕️ Best For
Complete isolation, hiking, photography, and experiencing Oʻahu's most remote coastline. True wilderness experience.
⚠️ Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
This is as remote as it gets on Oʻahu. Bring everything you need, including plenty of water. Cell phone service is spotty or nonexistent. Only attempt this if you're prepared for a true wilderness experience. Never swim here alone.
🏖️ Beach Guide Navigation
Start here
Windward CoastBeaches 1-5
South ShoreBeaches 6-8
North ShoreBeaches 9-14
You are here • Beaches 15-20
Tips & answers
🌄 Leeward Coast Features
- Climate: Driest & sunniest
- Backdrop: Waiʻanae Mountains
- Access: Most remote
- Sunsets: Spectacular
- Crowds: Minimal
📍 Beaches 15-20
- 15. Mākua - Sacred & pristine
- 16. Yokohama - End of road
- 17. Tracks - Ultimate isolation
- 18. Kepuhi - Wild beauty
- 19. Nanakuli - Local culture
- 20. Kahe Point - Electric Beach
18 Kepuhi Beach
Kepuhi Beach represents Oʻahu at its most wild and undeveloped. This long stretch of pristine sand sits in a valley between the Waiʻanae Mountains and offers an incredibly raw Hawaiian experience.
🚗 Access & Parking
Located along Farrington Highway south of Mākaha. Look for unmarked dirt pullouts. No official facilities available.
🏞️ Best For
Solitude, nature photography, and experiencing untouched Hawaiian coastline in its natural state.
🌊 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
The lack of development means this beach retains its natural beauty but also its natural dangers. Strong currents and shore break make swimming risky. Come here for the scenery and sense of isolation rather than water activities.
19 Nanakuli Beach Park
Nanakuli offers a chance to experience a working Hawaiian community beach. This spot provides insight into local life while offering good swimming and picnic opportunities. Visitors who show respect for the community are warmly welcomed.
🚗 Access & Parking
Located right off Farrington Highway in the town of Nanakuli. The park has parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.
🌺 Best For
Cultural immersion, family activities, and experiencing authentic local Hawaii with community interaction.
🤝 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
This is a community beach where locals gather for family celebrations and daily life. Show respect by keeping noise levels reasonable, cleaning up after yourself, and greeting people with a friendly aloha. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the real Hawaii.
20 Kahe Point Beach Park (Electric Beach)
Kahe Point gets its nickname "Electric Beach" from the nearby power plant, but don't let that scare you away. The power plant's warm water discharge creates a unique ecosystem that attracts tropical fish and provides some of the island's best snorkeling.
🚗 Access & Parking
Located on Farrington Highway near the power plant. Limited parking along the roadside. No official facilities.
🤿 Best For
Snorkeling, warm water swimming, and observing tropical marine life in unique warm water environment.
🐠 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
The warm water from the power plant creates a unique snorkeling environment, but be aware that currents can be strong near the discharge pipes. The area closest to shore is usually calm and perfect for snorkeling. This spot can get busy on weekends, so visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
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