We have summarized the highly recommended beaches in the Waikiki and Ala Moana areas into one comprehensive guide.
Although it is the most urban area in Hawaii, there are actually several popular beaches, including Waikiki Beach!
They are located close to each other and easily accessible, and since each has its own characteristics, there are various ways to enjoy them.
They are introduced in alphabetical order, so please look for them according to where you want to go and what you want to do.
→Complete Guide to Popular Spots in Waikiki and Ala Moana – Definitive Edition
Best Beaches in Waikiki and Ala Moana
We have compiled only the beaches located in the Waikiki and Ala Moana areas.
If you find a place you are interested in, please use the link to the detailed article under each heading.
Ala Moana Beach
Ala Moana Beach is a vast park and ocean spreading out right in front of Ala Moana Center.
The beach has a total length of about 1 kilometer, and since it is also a spacious grassy park, it is a place of relaxation where locals visit to unwind!
You can spend your time in various ways, such as swimming, exercising, picnicking, and having a BBQ, but it is a spot that is surprisingly unknown to tourists.
Because it is a little far from Waikiki, it has a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
The classic Waikiki Beach is great, but the beautiful and less crowded Ala Moana Beach is also recommended!
→See more about Ala Moana Beach
Kaimana Beach
Kaimana Beach is a hidden gem swimming spot located just outside of Waikiki.
It is a quiet beach that does not get too crowded, and it is known as a beach that is more popular with locals than tourists!
It is also famous as a place where you can often encounter the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, of which there are only about 400 around the island of Oahu.
Right in front of it, there are actually many highly rated cafes and restaurants, such as Hau Tree, which is famous for its eggs Benedict.
It is a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy a relaxing swim close to Waikiki.
Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is a calm and popular beach at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
It has a beautifully shaped sandy beach that looks like an arch, stretching from the adjacent Ala Wai Yacht Harbor to the hotel’s pier!
In 2014, it was even selected as the No. 1 beach in the United States due to its water clarity and beauty.
Because it is designed to prevent large waves from entering, it is a perfect spot for young children to make their beach debut.
Also, since a system is in place to filter and keep the seawater clean, you can swim in beautiful water at any time!
You do not need to be a hotel guest to use it, so please feel free to visit it as a standalone beach.
→See more about Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a spot that boasts overwhelming popularity as the most famous beach in the world.
It is a central presence in Waikiki that everyone visiting Hawaii will likely go to at least once!
Actually, its total length is as large as about 3 kilometers, and it is roughly divided into eight areas.
It is surprisingly unknown, but each area has a different charm, so we recommend experiencing all eight locations.
When it comes to Hawaiian scenery, Waikiki Beach is the standard, so please enjoy it to the fullest!
How to Access Waikiki and Ala Moana
Waikiki and Ala Moana are the closest areas, taking about 0 to 15 minutes from central Waikiki.
As for access methods, we recommend “tours” if you prioritize safety, comfort, and efficiency; “rental cars or Turo” if you prioritize freedom; and “Biki or Waikiki Trolley” if you prioritize sightseeing.
Recommended Transportation in Waikiki and Ala Moana
Complete Guide to Biki – Bikeshare for Freely Exploring Waikiki and Honolulu
Complete Guide to Waikiki Trolley – Sightseeing Bus to Efficiently Visit Popular Spots
Complete Guide to Taxi and Uber – Ride-Hailing Services for Easy Travel in Hawaii