Waiʻalae Beach Park, also called Kahala Beach, is a quiet shoreline in Honolulu’s Kahala area, beyond the busier Waikīkī beaches. Shallow water and a calm shore suit a family swim or an easy snorkel, though the sand can be coarse and rocks are scattered near the water. Shaded picnic tables sit beside a grassy area, with restrooms, changing facilities and showers nearby. Bring food and beach shoes, then settle in for a picnic or a relaxed afternoon by the water.
A quieter stretch of Kahala shoreline
Waiʻalae Beach Park is in the Kahala area of Honolulu, just beyond the hotels and busier beaches of Waikīkī. Its calm setting and shallow water make it a place to slow down, swim close to shore or spread out a picnic. The beach is also used for snorkeling, though a shallow reef lies offshore and can make swimming less straightforward.
Sand, facilities and planning your visit
The shore has coarse sand, with rocks mixed in near the water. Beach shoes can make wading more comfortable. A grassy area beside the beach has shaded picnic tables, and park facilities include restrooms, changing areas and showers for rinsing off after a swim.
There is a small free parking lot, and spaces can be limited. Bring your own food and drinks because there are no nearby stores or vendors. The park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Take valuables with you rather than leaving them in the car.
FAQ
Is parking free at Waiʻalae Beach Park?
The park has a small free parking lot. Spaces are limited, so arriving early may help.
Are there restrooms and showers?
Yes. The park has public restrooms, changing facilities and showers.
Is Waiʻalae Beach suitable for children?
The water is shallow near shore and is often calm, which can suit families. The sand is coarse and rocks are scattered along the shoreline, so beach shoes are useful.
What are the park’s opening hours?
Waiʻalae Beach Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
