Electric Beach is the number one snorkeling spot on the West Coast.
Located in an area of stunning coastline, it’s a beach that attracts a wide variety of marine life!
The warm water discharged from the power plant right in front of the beach raises the sea temperature, drawing in countless colorful fish, sea turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals.
That’s actually how the beach got its name, “Electric Beach”—from its proximity to the power plant.
It’s a hidden gem of a beach, so it’s often less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing time!
Photo Spots at Electric Beach
Electric Beach is also a popular destination for tourists looking for Instagram-worthy photo spots.
The tracks of the Hawaiian Railway, which operates a tourist train between Kapolei and Electric Beach every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, are especially popular!
Although there’s no station here, this spot serves as the train’s terminus because the view is so spectacular.
Try taking a picture sitting on the tracks for a quintessential Hawaiian shot!
There are other spots to enjoy the classic Hawaiian scenery, like the benches facing the ocean.
You’ll often see yachts moored offshore, which adds a nice touch to your photos too!
How to Enjoy Electric Beach
There are many ways to have fun at Electric Beach!
The sandy area at Electric Beach narrows abruptly, creating large waves at the shoreline.
This makes it a great spot for lounging on the sand or playing in the surf.
The area is rich in nature, so you might spot a mongoose just by taking a walk nearby. You can also see Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles from the top of the cliffs.
One of the great things about Electric Beach is that you can enjoy it even without going for a swim!
Still, the most fun activity is definitely snorkeling.
The area about 50 to 100 meters straight offshore is highly recommended.
This is where the warm water from the power plant is discharged, attracting a multitude of fish and sea turtles.
Dolphins also frequent this area, so if you’re floating around midday, you might get to swim with them!
Whether you’re a strong swimmer or not, it’s a beach that everyone can enjoy, so be sure to visit if you have the chance.
Information on Dolphins at Electric Beach
Many people come to Electric Beach specifically to see and swim with dolphins.
Being able to see dolphins right from the beach is the most unique feature of this spot!
However, you might not see them at all if you go at the wrong time or place.
At Electric Beach, the prime time to see dolphins with a high probability is from around 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Dolphins generally travel south from the north in the morning, so they tend to arrive later in the morning rather than at dawn.
You’ll need to swim a fair distance offshore, but you’ll be rewarded with sightings of sea turtles and fish as well, making it an irresistible spot for wildlife lovers.
By the way, Hawaiian monk seals are often found napping on the rocks near the beach rather than in the water.
There are no lifeguards on duty, so beginners should be cautious when snorkeling alone. However, the sea is relatively calm from spring to summer, making it an ideal time for swimming.
Be aware that the current can be strong due to the discharge from the power plant, so be sure to bring fins and a life jacket!
Basic Information about Electric Beach
| Name | Electric Beach |
| Address | 92-201 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | None |
| Time required | Approx. 15 minutes and up |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Parking | Yes (Free) |
Recommended Transportation to Electric Beach
Rental Cars & Turo – Your Private Vehicle for Exploring Hawaii Freely
Nearby Areas
The Ultimate Guide to Popular Tourist Spots on Oahu’s West Coast