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Honolulu, HI

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Ala Moana Beach

4.4 (79 reviews)

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:)
Nicole L.

Came to Ala Moana Beach to settle down and enjoy the beach before the Waikiki fireworks show started. This beach isn't as nice as other beaches we've been to in Hawaii, but still nice :-) We came here because we didn't want to deal with the parking situation by Waikiki beach. We stayed from when the sun was up, til sunset and enjoyed the Friday night Waikiki fireworks show.

Toan D.

Oʻahu's nickname is "The Gathering Place," and nothing says that more than Ala Moana Beach Park on a sunny afternoon--it's like half the island got the same memo. This beach park was built on old wetlands in the 1930s, then turned into a sandy paradise in the '50s. Magic Island was added in the '60s. Located across from Ala Moana Center and within a frisbee's throw from the swanky neighborhood of Kakaʻako, it's where locals come to exercise their ancestral rights of cooking meats over flame, talk story under a tree, surf and fish with da best friends. The water within the protective reef is quite calm, which makes it perfect for swimming, paddle-boarding or just frolicking but just watch your step. The bottom drops off precipitously. One minute you're in waist-deep water, the next you're free-diving to Atlantis. But it's not all beach vibes. There's tons of green space if you'd rather ponder about existence under a palm tree, play a robust game of flag football or bbq with 30 of your closest braddahs, sistas , unkos and cuzzins. And if you head toward the Diamond Head side of the park, Magic Island offers another chill beach area --super safe and perfect for families, sunset photos, or pretending you're in a Hawaiian travel brochure. Make sure you get Diamond Head in the background. Plenty of showers scattered along the beach to get that salt water of your skin. Lifeguards on duty from 8 am to 6:30 pm. Plenty of parking but fills up on the weekends. Best time to go is weekdays. Happy Gathering!!

Poke with views
Tara F.

Came here yesterday after our hotel concierge recommended it. Grabbed some poke and then went into the water which was so relaxing. There are no waves so it's very easy and you feel like you're in a pool. I really enjoyed it! Would highly recommend it!

Sunset
Joy F.

For Sunset, one of the places we go to is Ala Moana Beach Park - beautiful distant view of Diamond Head. Lots of sand volleyball players. Nice place to relax and if lucky, witness a rainbow too.

With the fam 10/22/2025
Rolly U.

Ala Moana Beach Park is a pretty big and convenient spot right in the heart of Honolulu. One of the best things about it is the location -- it's directly across the street from Ala Moana Center, so it's super easy to grab something to eat, do a little shopping, and then head over to the beach to relax. I really enjoy picking up takeout from the mall and eating by the water while watching the sunset. The views are beautiful, and the water is calm and nice for swimming or just floating around. However, the beach itself isn't perfect. The sand is a bit rough and not as soft as some of the other beaches on the island, and there are quite a few rocks when you go into the water, so you might want to wear water shoes. The park area is large and has plenty of space to walk, jog, or picnic, but it's also known for having quite a few homeless people around. Most keep to themselves, but it can make the area feel a little uncomfortable, especially if you're by yourself. I definitely wouldn't recommend coming here alone at night. Overall, Ala Moana Beach Park is great for its convenience, accessibility, and sunset views, but it's not the most peaceful or pristine beach on Oahu. Perfect for a quick dip or a lunch break by the water, but not necessarily a place I'd spend the whole day

Katherine P.

Great beach away from busy Waikiki but not too far either. It's located across the street from the mall. There's a huge parking lot but there's also a lot of activities there's so it does get busy. They have a path to walk or run and a park area especially to watch the sunset.

Hubby having a ball
Jocelyn C.

In 2019, we wanted to come here, but we ended up not having enough time so, after my work trip in 2024, in Honolulu, I chose this Beach to come to. It was also close by to our hotel & easy to get to by car. Also, it seemed as though, it still wasn't busy, which was great. Had a good time, relaxing after a week of work. Was it the best? I don't think so, but like I said, it was convenient, and we haven't been here until that time. Also, the water was a little bit murky. Some of our coworkers that live in Hawaii did warn us about that. We still wanted to check it out anyways. Highlight: We did see a turtle pop up his head in the water. :)

Li Y.

Home of our recent college reunion. Thrilled to see we could reserve a designated space in advance. And we were fortunate to grab the space at the very beginning of the Magic Island Parking lot. Important while planning this reunion for over a year to bring people from Canada, Taiwan, and continental United States together again. Appreciate the convenient and more thanks clean restrooms and showers. Also appreciate the GREAT abundance of shade in the area ! Because of proximity, parking was a breeze. Also convenient to our chosen host hotel, the Ala Moana Hotel which provided easy walking distance.

Beautiful day!
Haley N.

We really enjoy this beach! Tons of sand, great water access, easy parking, straight across from the mall. There are a few homeless people but they never bother and the beach can get a little littered because of the constant influx of people coming and going so be sure to pick up after yourself. TIPS & TRICKS: * There are lots of things that happen at Ala Moana Beach Park, races, yoga, paddle boarding, water polo. Just hop online and see what's happening when you're here! * Bring food and water and post up all day, it's a nice spot. Plus there is L&L BBQ right here as well if you're feeling like a local Hawaiian plate!

Beautiful ;)
Ben C.

Located across from the shopping mall for walkers. Large parking lot but fills up fast. Clean restrooms & showers. Expansive sandy beach to escape the tourist crowded Waikiki. Beautiful beach.

Susan B.

When in Hawaii, visiting a beach is a must! The beach wasn't too packed when I was there. Visitors were swimming, chilly, lounging, BBQing, running, etc. This beach is not as beautiful as other ones around Hawaii but it is good enough. I was really there only for taking some photos with my swim wears hehe. Didn't stay too long here since the sun was beaming that day and it got hot. Parking is free!

Kenny C.

Good place to take video and photos !! It's called magic island for a reason . Fun fun fun !!

Keahi L.

Times have changed guys. This beach is safer than before (security, well lit, recently remodeled), clean (some of the clearest waters I've seen on this side of the island, functioning showers, lots of trash cans, people cleaning the beach daily of litter), and it's conveniently located close to everything! Easy to find on Google Maps, lots of parking, and the sense of community? CRAZY! If you ever need to witness the statement that Hawai'i is a melting pot I encourage you to come here on a Saturday morning at 5:30 AM. People from all over are enjoying the splendor of our state. Always felt welcomed and have had good conversations with strangers here.

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4 years ago

Beautiful beach with park and calm water. The sand was a little rocky but overall, very beautiful beach!

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Ask the Community - Ala Moana Beach

Are we able to have bouncy houses?

Yes I've seen bouncy houses there but you may want to check with the park services to see if you need a permit

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Review Highlights - Ala Moana Beach

“For Sunset, one of the places we go to is Ala Moana Beach Park - beautiful distant view of Diamond Head.”

Mentioned in 15 reviews

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - Turning back and remembering town dock features so I know where to come back to

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar

4.8(134 reviews)
12.3 mi

If you haven't made a visit yet to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, do it asap because this is a once in a…read morelifetime experience. I had the hesitation to book it due to the fact my son is on the spectrum and wasn't sure how he was going to react during the experience. Took the chance and made a reservation through Hawaii Ocean Sports. They took us on a boat to access the beautiful Sandbar. It's nestled in the middle of the ocean 3 miles stretch of sand. Unfortunately, we ended up doing the afternoon tour where high tides took place water level up to our necks. During our ride there, we were served lunch consisting of a turkey sandwich, fruits, and a cookie. Very filling as we were on to our destination while we listened to live music entertaining us along the way. Snacks, towels, drinks, and a bar are available for additional cost. As we approached the Sandbar, we were required to do a brief safety class before heading into the beautiful water. My kids and I were surprised how magnificent the Sandbar was. Definitely a true paradise where our dreams came true. I didn't think I would ever experience this kind of beauty. My son and I were terrified at first as we entered the water, but our life jackets saved us as we were floating. Lots of activities offered which are part of the package including SUP, kayaking, volleyball, snorkeling, or relaxing at the dock while sipping on drinks. We mainly enjoyed ourselves floating in the ocean. The current did get a little rough as it started to pour rain right before heading back to the marina. One advice is to head out early onto the boat before everyone does because the changing and bathrooms can get wet with dirty grounds. Music was blasting with great hits as we ended the day. Made my son and I stand up desiring to dance. Truly this is an unforgettable magical experience. You bet I will make a reservation again when we return to Oahu next year!

Beautiful place make sure you have enough information about the tides and how high the water is at…read morethe Sandbar Island. Kaneohe Bay Ocean Spots took us there. People who work there have great souls and with them this adventure was great even though the water was high.

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar
Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - Shortly after I came back, a stand-up paddler I met at the sandbar came back as well

Shortly after I came back, a stand-up paddler I met at the sandbar came back as well

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - SUP! (Included in "ticket")

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SUP! (Included in "ticket")

Hunakai Beach

Hunakai Beach

4.1(31 reviews)
4.7 mi

This is a nice stretch of beach for walking with companions (human and/or canine) or relaxing with…read morea book. I think this area of the ocean may be for stronger swimmers; it looks like the bottom is of wading height until further out toward the ocean. There are no lifeguard posts and the waves can get pretty choppy on windy days. We see more kiteboarders/kitesurfers than swimmers. This is perfect for folks who wish to get fresh air but away from crowds, esp during covid time. We also always see people fishing, maybe next time I'll ask what for! If you walk far enough (which isn't very far) you will reach Waialae Beach Park where you can take care of business! There are security cameras on the bathroom buildings. There are shower areas inside and outside and the water pressure is quite strong. I was told there is toilet paper too! Beach access is via several points along Kahala Avenue, where you can also find plentiful parking. Alternatively, I suppose you could park at Waialae Beach Park. #40

Peaceful and secluded. Definitely not the prettiest beach in the world, but in a place where the…read morecrowds seem to take over pretty much everything, it's nice to find some solace in the sand. And the reason why it's so peaceful?! It's tucked behind a residential neighborhood. Parking is on the street only and there's not much of it. So, it'll be a short journey to get there, but this is what also deters the big crowds. The sand isn't the softest and the views aren't amazing, but the sunsets are pretty and the water feels good. There are no facilities here either (except for one large garbage can near one of the entrances). You gotta pack it in, pack it out, and use the restroom before you go unless you're a local who lives in the area. Had a little picnic here and it was really enjoyable. The few people that I come in contact with were really friendly. Most of them were walking their dogs on the beach, so I feel like this is the local dog beach in town. There's a nice breeze on this side, so it's a great beach to come to when that hawt Hawaii heat attacks. It's also really clean. If you're looking to escape the crowds and don't mind a longer trek, Hunakai Beach will do you right.

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Hunakai Beach
Hunakai Beach
Hunakai Beach

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Ala Moana Beach - beaches - Updated October 2026

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