Going to the beach is not just about pleasure, but it’s also good for the body and mind. The calming effects of the sun, sand, wind and the ocean make the beach a perfect place to relax and relieve stress. Did you know that basking in the sun for as little as 10 minutes can already give you a day’s dose of Vitamin D? Your body can store the excess Vitamin D that you absorb while you’re at the beach. But don’t forget to wear reef-friendly sunblock to protect you from the sun’s UV rays. There are also many opportunities for exercise when you’re at the beach. Walking in the sand, going for a swim, and surfing the waves are just examples of fun activities that can stimulate the body.
Oahu has incredible must-see beaches on the east side. We’ll be more than happy to take you to these stunning beaches when you book our Waterfall and East Side Tour.
Lanikai Beach
Describing this beach as stunning is probably an understatement. Lanikai Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches not just in Oahu but in the world. The turquoise waters go on and on for miles and seeing the glistening waters will give you the urge to jump right in. The site is ideal for sunrise viewing if you want to appreciate its unparalleled beauty.
The name Lanikai means “heavenly ocean,” which matches perfectly with the tranquility and beauty of the location. Nestled in the area of Lanikai in Kailua, this immaculate beach has about half a mile of soft sand. The two offshore islands called the Na Mokulua or “The Mokes”, create a lovely backdrop for any photo. Needless to say, Lanikai Beach is Instagram-worthy!
Aside from swimming and snorkeling, another good way to experience Lanikai is by kayaking. The water is generally calm and ideal for this fun water activity. The wind is also great for sailing and windsurfing.
Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach is loved for its 2-mile stretch of incredibly soft, white powder sand. The turquoise waters surrounding the park are so vivid that the place looks surreal. Imagine walking barefoot on this picturesque site that looks like it came out from a postcard. You have to see it to believe it.
It was formerly called Camp Kailua but it was converted to a beach park in 1940. The area has picnic tables, picnic shelters, barbecue pits, beach volleyball courts, restrooms, and showers for your convenience. It’s a perfect bonding place for families and friends. Adventure lovers who visit Kailua Beach Park can go kayaking, kite surfing, or stand-up paddling.
Every fourth of July, the whole town and visitors flock to the park to watch the annual display of fireworks over the bay.
Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo’s clear blue waters, sloping white sand, and rows of majestic ironwood trees make this beach stand out. Dig your toes in the soft sand and take a stroll along this scenic beach. The brilliant azure waters make this Oahu gem a paradise. Even on a cloudy day, the blue hue remains vivid.
The waves are not too high and often break close to shore. The small shore-breaking waves make it an ideal fun site for beginners and kids looking for a friendly surf time. It’s a good location for body surfing and boogie boarding.
Waimanalo is also perfect for a beach picnic. You can grab some takeout Ecuadorian delicacies from nearby small restaurants.
Makapuu Beach
When you reach the Makapuu Point Lookout, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most scenic views of the windward side of Oahu. The popular highlights of this lookout are the Makapuu Lighthouse and the stellar view of Makapuu Beach Park below.
Makapuu Beach lies in a bay that resembles a cove. The beach has two sections which are separated by a large lava rock pile and a sand dune. The dark lava rock mountain seems to stand guard as it casts its silhouette. It’s a favorite destination for enthusiastic body boarders and body surfers. Pro surfers venture to Makapuu Point for an adrenaline rush.