Such a beautiful beach!! We recently came to Kawela Bay for a photoshoot. We loved it so much that we came back a few days later to swim. The only downfall is you have to leave your car on the main road and walk in. read more

This was my favorite beach on this trip. Never busy and a stunning locale. Beautiful water, calm (relatively) waters. Truly magical. read more

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We LOVE Kawela Bay. Up toward North Shore area near Turtle Bay resort is where you'll find this hidden gem. And trust me it literally is a GEM! We typically park on the side of the main road as there is public beach walk access across from Kahuku Land Farms and nearest to the bus stop shore side. The walk way is along the trail cared by Turtle Bay Resort and it shares horse riding so be cautious of all the horse droppings along the way! This bay is PERFECT for paddle boarding and kayaking, has clear waters for snorkeling or swimming, open shorelines for fishing from whipping to dunking. It's very quiet and shies far from busy tourist crowded areas. Always clean along the beach however be cautious of all the rocks! Best to have tubbies as well if you want to dip in the water without surprising yourself in pain wherever you step! LOL. Being part of Turtle Bay resort, respective rules to follow are no open fires, grills, and no open EZ tents. They have a couple more but those are the ones I remembered. Since no tents, there's a lot of trees along the shoreline to help assist with shade BUT when it coconut dropping season be aware with active falling Coconuts! (Just don't sit under them active trees!) You can figure that out by looking up for full mature coconut bunches and/or fresh Coconuts all around the areas around you. Last but not least, there are no trash cans in the area. So PLEASE malama the aina and pick up you opala!! Take care of the land and take your trash with you. read more

Kawela Bay - A beautiful bay for fishing along the shorelines and the ridges on the far right side! - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

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Returning home from Oahu I posed the question "what's your first memory when you think of this trip?" It was a ploy, dropping bait to get him to ask me "what was yours?" It worked. My most poignant memory was twice floating around in the empty waters of Kawela Bay. If you walk far in one direction on the expanse of land that Turtle Bay maintains, their conservation easement, you'll come upon the enticing Kawela Bay, one of Oahu's most secluded beaches. Much of the pristine beach is shaded and if anyone is there at all, they tend to congregate in one area. I walk past that area, down to where the houses are, where there's a patch of sun and pretty much nobody on the sand or in the water. Swimming there (in front of the green house, where there's minimal rocks and coral) is the equivalent of letting out a long breath of "Aaaahh...". The water here is as gentle and meditative as that in Waikiki Bay but almost completely empty. There's plenty of noted beaches on Oahu's North Shore but most of them aren't "bays". When you just want to float around in calm waters with no crowds, Kawela Bay is a stellar choice. Note: Kawela Bay is also accessible via footpath off the Kamehameha Highway; park on the roadside, across from the farm stands about 2 miles south of the Turtle Bay Resort. read more

Beautiful place to come visit, unwind, and relax. Gorgeous views. Be sure to wear flip flops if you're going to venture onto the rocks because they're super sharp and you will cut your foot. read more

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I came here with Michelle R. and my daughter a while back after an Elite event. We totally enjoyed the water along the beach. We wanted to hang out and my daughter wanted to get her feet wet. I managed to get some sun but didn't want to stay too long. There's a huge parking lot right in front. You have to literally walk down to get to the beach. Be careful as there's big and small rocks on the beach. There were small crabs and such along the beach so be careful. You can even find a lot of corral here. People were snorkeling as well. I would definitely come back here again. A cool spot to hang out! read more

Kawela Bay - Beautiful ocean views! - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

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Definitely a hidden gem. I guessed most visitors are in Turtle Bay. Here is really a good spot to relax or do photo session cuz literally no one was here. (*Be careful with the sharp corals in the water.) read more

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Beautiful with calm waters and shade from the trees. We parked at turtle bay and walked over following the trail that leads to the pillbox. You can park on the side of the road and it'll be a much shorter walk, but I like to take the scenic route (plus I needed the steps ). My kids and I enjoyed this bay there were quite a few other people here but not overly crowd. Enough to safely practice social distancing. We saw a few turtles in the water ( kept our distance). Reading other reviews it seems like this beach used to be more secluding ( hidden beach) . Hopefully it doesn't get too bad with too much people, but i do hope people can enjoy this place when they do happen to come . read more

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This is s beautiful secluded beach to watch surfers, learn to surf or just enjoy the magnificent trees. There is no designated parking so people park on the side of the road. The walk into the park is filled with tropical birds and beautiful trees. The largest banyan tree on Oahu is in the park. This tree is a must see, an amazing labyrinth of aerial roots. It is an easy walk to the beach where student surfers learn to use boards. The undeveloped beach is lovely with crystal blue waters and gentle waves. There are no bathroom facilities at the park that I saw. read more

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Kawela Bay is a private residential neighborhood next to the Turtle Bay Resort. The Bay is a designated Turtle Sanctuary and no power boats are allowed. It was historical in that the "Ali'hi" (King) was the only one who could take fish from the sacred pond and anyone who violated that custom was put to death. It is a National Whale Sanctuary as well which includes the Bay plus 5 miles outside the Bay. There are 28 private residences, one being the oldest home on the North Shore and situated in the center of Kawela Bay. Turtles are often on the beach and are protected by Federal law which prevents anyone from touching or harassing them in any way... read more

Definitely one of the better hidden gems on the North Shore of Oahu! It's not too far from those staying at Turtle Bay Resort. There are a few other people also exploring the beach but not nearly as crowded as beaches in Waikiki. Waters are fairly calm for the most part. Best to park on the side of Kamehameha Highway across from the Kahuku Land Farms stand. You'll go through a short stretch of forest before you pass the Banyan Tree and eventually reach the shore. It's not that far of a walk. read more

Amazing location for calm waters and we saw several turtles swimming! Only reason I gave this a 4 star was no restrooms and water was murky. Over all parking was ample and don't forget the fruit stand across the street before heading to the beach! We highly suggest parking along side the road such an easy walk to the water. read more

A beautiful hidden away beach located in Oahu. My family and I came here back in August 2018. We had a picnic at this beach and it was honestly the second best beach to visit. Not only is this place not as crowded as the popular beaches such as Waikiki. There was also a huge Banyan Tree in the middle of the park. There were no parking spots at this beach so just a warning you will have to park on the side of the road. As well as there are restrooms but they are porta potties. Overall I would recommend this spot 5/5 stars! read more

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Want to rate it low to keep everyone away but...it is beautiful. Best place for peaceful quiet in the early morning. I grab a malasada at the Penny's Malasadas truck about 2 miles away and head over most mornings for yoga and a sweet treat after coffee with neighbors. We love how everyone that goes seems to feel the same reverence for this bay that we do. Pack it in and pack more out... read more

Kawela Bay - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

Simply one of the best beaches on the North Shore of Hawaii! Stayed at Turtle Bay and decided to take a short walk over here to see how this beach was... To my surprise, it's seriously a hidden gem. Our second day at the Turtle Bay resort, we arranged a day for paddle boarding for a large group of us gals and they basically told us to meet at this beach and they will drop all the board and stuff. So it seems the locals know this is a great place as well. It's a calm, quiet, and clear water beach with lots of privacy and next to no one else around. If you're looking to avoid large crowds and some quiet time to yourself, you should go here. We had lunch under some trees that over look part of the beach... Talk about awesome! Maybe it's a seasonal thing but definitely did not smell anything out of sorts and didn't come across any wild animals... Try it out, snorkelling can be nice if the water stays clear, and perfect for paddle surfing. read more

Kawela Bay - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

It's a bay, it's a lagoon... it's a lot calmer then the coral infested beach of Turtle Bay resort. I walked into this area when I was doing the Green Trail walk from Turtle Bay. Looking for various Lost locations. This was one of them. read more

This was one of the most beautiful spots we visited. I almost hate telling everyone about it because it wasn't crowded, was restful, and I can't wait to go back again. We just drove by and said oh we should stop here... next time I will stay for much much longer!! read more

Kawela Bay - Kawela Bay! Beautiful! - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

This is my absolute favorite beach on the island to take my family too. I have children ranging from 1-10 and this place is amazing. The waves are almost small enough to let my 1 year old play by herself without any assistance most days. Some days they are a little higher but never too much for my 4 year old. Every time we have gone there has never been more than 10-15 people in the water in the entire bay. Very secluded and relaxing. There are no showers or restrooms, but if you plan ahead you'll be fine. No need to bring an umbrella or shelter with you, since the trees provide shade almost all the way to the water. By far my favorite "relax" beach on the island. read more

This place is so beautiful. And a more hidden gem- it's a bit hard to find because you kinda have to stop along the road and just park somewhere and walk in... but it's wonderful and private and the bay is shielded from the wind. The sunset is marvelous here, and it's so peaceful. I had to come back the next day because it was so lovely. read more

Ahhh...I have to tell you...for somone who tells tourists where to go and what to do in Paradise I sometimes have to admit it's nice to still come here and be alone...The funniest thing about the last time I went here was the only person on the beach was a guy who watched my video and you know what....I was cool with dat...lol. Before I get into the details about this Private and secluded beach I want to start this review with pulling about another persons review...because we all know how much I love to do that. I never name the crack head idiots that write Bull reviews but considering so few know about this place and there are only two other reviews I'm sure you will guess my following comment... Quote: "We walked into this secluded area but like all the other remaining secluded areas, the water was too rough and coming almost right onto the bank. There was really no beach just a bank." I'm only going to post this one idiotic line...This is a well protected bay...No wave or rough waters are ever found here even in dead of winter because of the reef system. This is one of the few places in winter you can swim and snorkel with Honu in this protected bay. The rest of this mainlanders review is just as much a joke...So I won't waste your time...the guy posted a few pics...his own images don't back up his rough water claims...it's laughable. What ticks me off is ignorant morons who don't know jack about these islands and choose to write bulls#$% about very special and sacred Hawaiian location...He says this is where Lost was film...so what, so have other movies...What he doesn't tell you about is the history...why would he...He knows nothing about this amazing and historical place. KAWELA BAY is a beautiful and secluded well known secret bay where locals go to get away from the tourist crowds. This is a 30-60 min walk along the coast from Turtle Bay Resort. If you take your time and stop here and there and take pictures it will take you a little longer to reach the secluded Kawela Bay. You will pass several secluded beaches where I have seen Hawaiian Monk Seals and Honu Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles sun bathing themselves on the beaches along your journey. If lucky as you venture in the forest and out along the shore you may hear Amazon Parrots in the trees above so keep your eye out for them. Remember, the ocean waves outside the Bay during your walk will differ between summer and winter months. however once you make it to the BAY the reef system protects you from the waves even in the dead of winter. It's always as smooth as a babies bottom in the bay, perfect for the entire family. Although you can attempt to walk the entire way just along the shore until you reach the bay from the turtle bay resort it is wise from time to time to enter inland through the forest where walking along the shore and sharp coral may be a little dangerous. Use your head and if you feel it's best to walk the trail inland for a few and then head back to the shore do so. I DO! When you finally get close to Kawela bay you will come to a point where there is a single pillbox. Once passing the pillbox you will come to a small grass area to your right where you can chillax in the shade over looking Kawela bay. Have a snack or if you packed a picnic and bottle of wine this is a good place to enjoy that before you head inland once again into a little spooky forest straight out of an episode of Lost. Guess what, it was a spooky forest seen in one of the episodes of lost. The land here is sacred...These are Hawaiian ancient burial grounds...When you come out of the forest and arrive at the secluded bay get comfortable, take a dip in the bay, sunbath and just become lost in paradise where very few tourist ever see. While you come and go to this sacred place...know that the Hawaiian People as well as people like me fight to keep this place sacred and un distrubed...One day if some get their way Hotels and Resorts will line this beach covering these graves...Lets pray this never happens because if it does it will be a GOD DAMN SHAME and an embarrasment to the state of Hawai'i. If you want to understand what this place means to the Hawaiian people you will watch this Video so when you go you have a better understanding of this sacred place and cherish the moments you have at this beautiful magical place. VIDEO: SAVE KAWELA BAY: http://youtu.be/kAl5P4AD0p8 read more

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I'm sorry. I just can't give this beach 5 stars. I don't want anyone else to come here!!! I want it to be mine, ALL MINE. This beach is always so empty and I love it and I admit that I'm a horrible sharer. But since you're taking the time to read this, this beach is one of the best on the island. I park at Turtle Bay and walk on over. It's quite a trek but it's beautiful. I love walking past the horses and through the forest, I visit the bunker and finally lay out my towel where I've never seen more than 10 ppl. The water is always calm and flat ... just ridiculously relaxing. So if you're looking for a beach to go to, I highly recommend anywhere in Waikiki... far far away from this beach. :) Thank you! read more

Our family used to just call this "The Secret Beach," because, for a long time, it was a well-kept secret. Yes, it's close to the Turtle Bay resort, but it's quite a hike from their parking lot. You can also access the beach from the highway, and I understand that is a shorter trek. So, what happened? Well, someone created some new roads that go directly to the beach from Turtle Bay. They're not paved, but they are wide and easily accessible. These roads are frequently used by the SUP and kayak rental companies. Because of this, the beach is now much more crowded than I'd remembered from my last visit a couple of years ago. To add insult to injury, one of the employees of the SUP rental company brought his two neurotic dogs along for the day. He kept them tied up on the beach, and they barked and howled the entire time the group was out on the water. So much for peace and quiet. In Colbert M's recent review, he mentions that the water was murky from recent rains. When we visited, it had been a long time since the last rainfall, but the bay was much more murky than I'd remembered. I hope that is just a temporary problem. At any rate, the conditions for swimming and snorkeling were terrible. Sadly, I can no longer recommend this beach. read more

I discovered this little gem in 1996. While living in Pearl City, on my days off, I'd load up the SUV with my trusty Labrador, Zack, a cooler, and pick up a six pack and look for adventure. While driving toward Turtle Bay resort along the North Shore, I spotted a pull out along Kam Hwy and an opening in the fence. I decided to investigate. Zack and I walked through a delightful forest with a huge Banyan tree along the way, then came out on a deserted beach with lots of palm trees. Zack was in heaven, as he'd grab a fallen coconut and spend a couple of hours stripping the husk off interrupting me a few times to throw it in the water for him so he could chase it. I very rarely saw another human being except when a horse group would ride by from Turtle Bay. For a few years this little area was paradise and I kept the knowledge of it to myself. Then it would have gotten 5 stars, but over the years, more people discovered it and more development has come in. It's just not worth the trip anymore, unless you just happen to drive by. read more

5.25.13. HAHA. I just noticed Julie H. & Jennifer M.'s reviews...and I am following suit! (good thinking ladies)!! This is a great place to come for beginner paddle boarders!! My friend Ana just purchased one and wanted to teach me how to do it! Although we are locals, we could easily pass for tourists on this side of the island especially since we are basically "townies" haha. Some girlfriends and I were staying at Turtle Bay for the weekend and we really wanted to make use of my friends spanking new board. We asked a staff member at Turtle Bay where we could go on the TB premises. She was super helpful--I wish I had gotten her name down--and directed us to head down the road (2 min drive) to Kawela Bay and gave us expicit instructions on how to get there and what to look for. Basically, the beach access point is across the street from the Kahuku Land Farms stalls along Kamehameha Highway. You can park along the side of the road in the grass, and find the entrance. You'll have to go through some "forest", but it's not that far of a walk. The bay itself is pretty calm, and makes this location ideal for (beginner) paddle boarders! It didn't seem to be that crowded either; I hope it stays this way!! Water was also very pristine, and if you keep an eye out you may spot a turtle or two! I believe that TB also uses this "forested" area for their horseback riding tours? You can catch them walking by when you're on the beach. Overall, love this place but like other reviewers I am hoping that this doesn't become too crowded!! Yelp 365 Challenge: #144/365 read more

If your looking for a chill beach to just lay out.. Maybe do some paddle boarding.. This is the place for you.. I take my dogs down here and let them run.. Sometimes you will see some movies being shot here such as lost and Alvin and the chipmunks .. But I have to say .. If you can find it.. It's relaxing and beautiful .. The Hawaii I love read more

Kawela Bay - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

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Very beautiful place, right next to the Turtle Bay resort... This is great for photo shoots, but try to not hang out here alone, and don't stay late or after dark, especially if you have nice cameras ... I had my portrait photo shoot here around 5-6 pm, the pictures came out beautifully, just don't stay here past 7 pm... read more

A lot of people gave this beach low reviews as a point of sarcasm, mine isn't. My wife and I parked along the highway and walked through the side of the locked gate and followed the man-made path of trampled grass. We had no idea where we were going but followed the music. We finally ended up at a fairly empty and secluded beach and discovered that the music was coming from the Turtle Bay Resort which was a little ways away but clearly visible. The water was calmer than most other Oahu beaches but very murky, which pretty much seemed par for the course at all beaches on Oahu. There was nothing special about this location with the exception of the spectacular sunset we watched and the fact that there were only a few other people there. Considering the fact that we drove here from the west side of the island, it was pretty much a waste of time. read more

I have to say that I'm in agreeance with Julie :) Rating low to discurage the tourists. Now I know what you're thinking...look at my picture, I'm obviously a haole ;) but I love the crystal blue waters and I want to keep them that way! This beach is amazing! The water was beautiful and snokeling around the reef patches in the calm water was refreshing. The only downside...picking up trash! SERIOUSLY PEOPLE, if you are going to go to a beach, pick up after yourselves!! It's not really how I had pictured a relaxing morning at the beach, but oh well. I helped make it prettier...if that's even possible. Anywho, for now, this beach remains a secret. I really don't plan on telling many of my friends because I would hate to see it turn into a party spot. All in all; enjoy the beach, respect 'aina! read more

Not a good spot to surf, but I did not come here for that purpose. I had a photoshoot, and it is a great spot for that purpose--I do feel there are other places on the East Side but this beach was not packed with tourist at the time we went. I rather enjoyed the wooded area, and felt very relaxed. I will come back here just to relax on the beach and get my vitamin D in. Overall, a good place for kids to take a dip. read more

It's a hassle to find and there are more beautiful and easier to access beaches on Oahu. We had to hike through a dark and creepy jungle area and constantly be on the lookout for falling coconuts (that could kill a person) to get to the bay. Once we got there there was a narrow strip of sand along the bay made even narrower if you are there during high tide (our beach towels were drenched by the rising water). We learned that the ocean water was murky because it rained a few days earlier and the flood waters run off into the bay with who knows what kind of pesticides and other chemicals from the farms on the other side of the highway from the bay. We didn't see much sea-life in the water but we did see a turtle with a huge tumor growing out of its hind quarter. Ughh! Sharks Cove or Malaekahana are much better options. read more

I went to Kawela Bay hoping to see something magnificent. We went in August 2010, on Sunday about 12:30 pm. According to other reviews it was supposed to be this hidden secluded beach---which it was, for the most part. It was to be the place where some of the scenes from Lost were filmed---where they were. And it was to be this ideal beach that you could have all to yourself. It was a beach but not what I had read on other reviews. We went to Turtle Bay resort and asked if we could access it from there. The lady at the parking entrance said yes, but told us it would take about 25 minutes to walk to the bay from Turtle Bay resort. She said for us to head back out, head north about 2-3 minutes until we came to a local farmer's stand. Park in front, then head into the land that says "private no trespassing." One internet guide said that they actually asked Turtle Bay resort if they prosecute for trespassers and the security said no, they let people go on. Well we went in. There was a guy watching a construction site there and he never said anything to us. It was like walking into a forest. It was really cool to see all the banyan trees, including the grove from Lost where the people would always stop and hear the whispering voices. But we walked up to the one place where there was a beach and it was crowded with college students and some other people. So we walked back into the forest and walked down hoping to find another area There was a homeless lady walking around looking for stuff and so we passed her up. We walked into this secluded area but like all the other remaining secluded areas, the water was too rough and coming almost right onto the bank. There was really no beach just a bank. So we ate our lunch, took some photos and took off. After reading the other reviews about secluded beaches I was just let down. I would not go back. We went to Sunset Beach and that was awesome! Just beautiful, long beach, wide beach area, not very busy, good facilities, and lovely water. A little rough so i don't know if good for kids, but the rest was great at Sunset read more

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Gorgeous secluded beach where the water is calm and so many gentle sea turtles swimming around. If you are surfing or paddle boarding be careful as there is alot of coral and you WILL get hurt. Absolutely awesome beach! read more

Wow... A 1 star? from so many. This spot is amazing. We love this beach cove and the kids can make small beach hunts or collect sea glass for hours. head towards Turttle Bay and and explore the bunker and small purple cave. I wish I knew how to post pictures on here. read more

Worst parking lot ever. Since they put in the walmart on a pier here, the place has just gone straight down hill. There are rogue cows and maniacal chickens that live in the water and Nessie vacations here to feed on her winter vacations. I hear this beach was built on a landfill site, but what do I know. read more

Kawela Bay is one of the most serene places in all of Hawaii...protected by a private community but accessible via Kam Hwy and the Turtle Bay, it is indeed a magical place. Many residents of the bay live there part time with a handful full time - almost never more than 10 people on the entire 1/2 mile white sandy beach, the Bay is protected with a reef which makes swimming, paddle boarding and snorkeling, ideal. One of the homes that is on the beach, is the oldest home on the North Shore. The residents are very protective of the area and especially the sea turtles which often come up in the late afternoon to rest... A beautiful walk along the shoreline from Turtle Bay and through the Banyan Forests is a magical experience. At the point of the bay is an old concrete bunker which was manned after the attack on Pearl Harbor and still remains as a chill reminder... Weddings are often performed at the Bay and for pure relaxation and quite, it is hard to beat. This is one of the most beautiful bays in all of Hawaii - read more

Kawela Bay - View of Kawela Bay from the oldest home on the North Shore - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

This beach SUCKS!!! I've been all over the island and this is by far the worst. Lots of trash, not groomed at all, and it really doesn't have much of a view. It didn't help that there was no sun when we got here either- overcast the entire time. Beer bottles and beer caps on the beach... lovely. read more

Kawela Bay - Beer bottles and rusty metal bar sticking out of the sand...nice - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

Our first trip here. What a find, I almost hate to write a review and assist letting the secret out. It would be a SIN against nature and the state of Hawaii to build a resort here. The fruit stand across the street is also a treasure. We saw lots of colorful fish and turtles. There were 20 people at one time was not crowded. We spent time at Turtle Bay snorkeling in the public area also. At Turtle Bay the water was clear and we saw whales playing beyond the reef. We rented snorkeling gear at Turtle Bay to use at both locations. $10.00 mask, snorkels and fins for the full day. read more

Following suit, not a good spot. ;) The beach is littered with debris from the forest. Leaves and debris in the water. Hard to find, loooong walk to the water, little shoreline, no sun, and murky waters. You don't know what could be lurking under that murky water...let alone the coral and rocks are painful to step on. Don't let a falling coconut hit you on the way out..or in. read more

Kawela Bay - Murky water. Sharks below? - Beaches Near Me - Kahuku, Hawaii

I loved this beach, every time I go recently it's not worth the hassle. Not worth the drive, parking on the street, walking through the woods etc. The beach has been very crowded lately, even the secluded thinner stretch. There is dead coral everywhere, and tours are even starting to occur here. I love the banyan tree at the beginning of the walk in. I wish it was still a secret :( read more

Very boring and locals get mad if you look like a tourist. Don't waste your time, go to a better beach that's easier to reach!