Windward Coast Hidden Gems
Beaches 1-5: Dramatic Cliffs, Turquoise Waters & Trade Wind Breezes
Part II of Hidden Beaches Guide
By Jade KawanuiWindward Coast Hidden Gems
The Windward, or eastern, side of Oʻahu is known for its dramatic green cliffs, consistent trade winds, and stunningly turquoise waters. The ocean here is often more powerful and less predictable than on other parts of the island.
Windward Coast Beach Quick Reference
| Beach | Best For | Lifeguard | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Waimanalo | Long walks, family picnics | Yes | Yes |
| 2. Makapu'u | Scenery, expert bodysurfing | Yes | Yes |
| 3. Eternity | Photos, adventure | No | No |
| 4. Kaupo | Solitude, walking | No | No |
| 5. Bellows | Family fun (weekends only) | Weekends | Yes |
1 Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo is the beach you dream of when you picture Hawaiʻi. It's a magnificent, three-mile stretch of the softest, whitest sand you'll ever feel, bordered by swaying ironwood trees and looking out onto impossibly turquoise water. It has the same breathtaking views as its more famous neighbors, Kailua and Lanikai, but without the intense crowds and parking headaches.
🚗 Access & Parking
Main entrance at Waimanalo Beach Park has parking, restrooms, and showers. For quieter spots, try side streets like Laumilo Street with marked public access paths.
🏊 Best For
Sunbathing, long walks, family picnics, and photography. Waves are often gentle enough for swimming and boogie boarding.
💡 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
The sun on the Windward side is strongest in the morning. By mid-afternoon, the tall Koʻolau Mountains cast long shadows, and the wind picks up. For the best sunbathing and calmest conditions, plan your visit for the morning. Watch for Portuguese man o' war warnings.
2 Makapu'u Beach
Tucked at the base of towering, black lava sea cliffs of Makapu'u Point, this beach is a spectacle of raw, natural power. The sand is brilliant white, and the water is deep, sapphire blue. From the shore, you have a stunning view of Mānana Island (Rabbit Island) and the smaller Kaohikaipu Island. This isn't a beach for lounging and gentle swims—it's a place to witness the awesome force of the ocean.
🚗 Access & Parking
Makapu'u Beach Park has its own parking lot off Kalanianaʻole Highway, about 35 minutes from Waikīkī. Roadside parking often available nearby.
🏄 Best For
Breathtaking scenery, photography, and expert bodysurfing. Famous for powerful and often dangerous shorebreak.
⚠️ Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
Makapu'u Beach is not for casual swimming. The shorebreak is incredibly powerful and can cause serious injuries. Even on days that look calm, strong currents can be present. Heed the lifeguards' advice and observe conditions from the sand unless you're a highly experienced waterman.
3 Eternity Beach (Halona Beach Cove)
This tiny, picturesque cove earned its nickname after being featured in a famous love scene in the 1953 film "From Here to Eternity." Nestled between the Halona Blowhole and rocky cliffs, it feels like a secret world. When the water is calm, it's stunningly beautiful, but its accessibility challenge keeps the crowds away.
🗺️ Access & Parking
No signs for Eternity Beach. Park at Halona Blowhole Lookout. From lookout, look west for steep, rocky path down to cove. Arrive before 8 AM for parking.
📸 Best For
Photography, adventurous couples, and sunbathing on calm days. Very popular for romantic photos.
🥾 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
The descent to the cove is a scramble, not a walk. Don't attempt it in flip-flops—you need sturdy shoes with good grip. There are no lifeguards or facilities. The cove is exposed to the open ocean, and strong currents and waves can surge into the small space unexpectedly. Swimming is only advisable on the very calmest days.
🏖️ Beach Guide Navigation
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Beaches 6-8
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Planning & FAQTips & answers
🌊 Windward Coast Features
- Climate: Trade winds, morning sun
- Water Color: Turquoise blue
- Landscape: Dramatic cliffs
- Best Time: Morning hours
- Ocean Conditions: Often powerful
📍 Beaches 1-5
- 1. Waimanalo - Family-friendly
- 2. Makapu'u - Expert only
- 3. Eternity - Adventure
- 4. Kaupo - Solitude
- 5. Bellows - Weekends only
4 Kaupo Beach
This hidden stretch of coastline offers one of the most peaceful experiences on the Windward side. Kaupo Beach is a long, relatively undeveloped section of shoreline that provides the perfect escape for those seeking true solitude. The beach sits between more popular spots, making it easy to overlook.
🚗 Access & Parking
Look for small pullouts along Kalanianaʻole Highway between Makapu'u and Waimanalo. Limited to roadside spaces—be respectful of traffic and residents.
🚶 Best For
Solitary walks, meditation, photography, and beachcombing. Suitable for experienced swimmers on calm days.
🌊 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
This beach faces the open ocean, so conditions can change quickly. There are no facilities, lifeguards, or shade structures. Bring everything you need and prepare for a truly wild beach experience.
5 Bellows Beach
Bellows Field Beach Park is unique because it's only open to the public on weekends (Friday afternoon through Sunday night) and holidays. This military-controlled beach offers a pristine stretch of white sand with excellent swimming and boogie boarding conditions.
🚗 Access & Parking
Enter through main gate on Kalanianaʻole Highway. Show ID at security checkpoint. Ample parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available.
👨👩👧👦 Best For
Weekend family outings, camping (with permits), swimming, and bodyboarding. Protected location ideal for less experienced swimmers.
📅 Jade's Know Before You Go Tip
Since it's only open on weekends, Bellows can get busy with local families. Arrive early for the best parking and to secure a good spot on the sand. The camping here is some of the best on the island if you can get a permit.
Ready for South Shore Secrets?
Continue your hidden beach journey with quieter pockets near Waikiki and Diamond Head.
Explore South Shore Beaches