Looking for the best beaches in Oahu for a family swim? You’re in luck – this Hawaiian island is packed with gorgeous spots where the water is calm, the sand is soft, and the kids can splash safely. From gentle lagoons to easy snorkelling bays and even a waterfall swim, these are the places we actually took our kids and would happily return to. Here’s my personal list of the best swimming beaches in Oahu for families, with some tips thrown in.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is a free public park right near Waikiki. It’s perfect for younger kids as the water is clear and calm. It also doesn’t seem to be as crowded as the main Waikiki beach. I can’t work out why, though, because it’s much nicer!
This is my top pick of the best swimming beaches in Oahu with kids, as it’s conveniently located near all the shopping and amenities of Waikiki.
Waikiki Beach
I thought Waikiki Beach was nice, but it didn’t live up to the hype for me. Probably because it was too similar to the beaches back home in Australia. I found it hard not to be tempted by the Hilton Lagoon nearby, as the sand was nicer.
Whilst not one of my absolute favourite beaches in Oahu, it’s still a fantastic place to cool off due to the location. We loved floating on our backs with the famous Diamond Head and resort buildings in the background against the blue sky.
The Windward Coast
I thought all of the beaches on the Windward Coast were just beautiful, particularly if we’re talking about the colour of the water. There is plenty of sand for younger kids who aren’t yet ready for the waves. Just hire a car, or take a bus and go exploring these Oahu beaches on your own!
The Hilton Lagoon
The Hilton Lagoon is a human-made lagoon (free and open to the public) in front of the well-known Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki.
I’m not usually a fan of human-made when it comes to beaches and swimming, but this Oahu swimming spot is perfect for kids as the water is calm with a gradual slope towards a deeper section in the middle. There are snack shops and facilities nearby.
If the water temperature was not noticeably cooler than the ocean, this would be my top pick for the best beach in Oahu with kids (even if it’s not technically a traditional beach). If you bring a picnic rug and set up around the lagoon on a Friday evening, you will get a great view of the Friday night Hilton fireworks display.
Ko Olina Beach Park Lagoons
The Ko Olina Beach Park is worth a visit! However, you will need some form of transportation to get there, as it’s located on a part of the island that isn’t particularly central to anything.
We spent a day exploring the Wai’Anae Coast of Oahu and paid a visit to these four white-sand lagoon beaches, which are open to the public.
Waimea Bay and Pipeline
Unless you are a surfing family, the North Shore beaches in Oahu might be a little too much for young kids. However, I still want to include this as we had a fantastic time just playing in the sand on the shoreline and watching the surfers. In addition, some days are calmer than others; it’s just that we happened to visit on a day when the swell was really pumping.
We would all love to see this in action during big wave season!
Waimea Falls
Although technically not a beach, whilst you are visiting the North Shore, make sure you take the short 20-minute walk to Waimea Falls through the lovely Waimea Valley. It’s a great swimming spot! There’s an entrance fee, but it’s well worth it due to the beautifully maintained grounds.
Snack shop and facilities are also available. When you reach the falls, you’ll find a lifeguard on duty as well as life jackets for use.
Hanauma Bay State Park
Hanauma Bay is a must-see and one of the best beaches on the island of Oahu. The entrance fee isn’t much, and there is also a snack bar, gift shop and facilities here. Catch the regular tram if you’re not inclined to walk down the steep path to the water.
Car parking is limited, so you’ll need to get here early and/or prebook your tickets to guarantee entry. The water is really calm and a great place for the kids to learn to snorkel.
Oahu might be known for its world-class surf, but there’s no shortage of safe, family-friendly places to swim. Whether you’re after a calm lagoon near the action of Waikiki or a peaceful beach on the Windward Coast, you’ll find plenty of spots that are perfect for kids. These were our favourites for swimming and relaxing as a family, and in our opinion, they’re some of the best beaches Oahu has to offer. Happy splashing!
FAQ: Best Beaches in Oahu for Families
Ala Moana Beach Park is ideal for toddlers. It’s calm, shallow, and protected from waves. Plus, it’s close to amenities and less crowded than Waikiki.
Yes! Ko Olina Lagoons and the Hilton Lagoon both have nearby facilities, shade options, and calm water. Hanauma Bay also has some shaded areas (you’ve got to get in quick though) and is great for snorkelling with kids.
Hanauma Bay is a top pick. The water is clear and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty. Life jackets are available, and it’s a great place for kids to spot tropical fish.
Not necessarily. Some beaches like Waikiki, Ala Moana, and the Hilton Lagoon are walkable if you’re staying nearby. For Ko Olina or the Windward Coast, a car or shuttle is recommended.
Nope! The Hilton Lagoon is open to the public and free to enjoy. It’s one of the most accessible calm-water spots in Waikiki for families.
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