Waimanalo Beach HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waimanalo Beach, Hawaii.
1. Waimanalo Beach
PRISTINE WHITE SAND PARADISE
Waimanalo Beach is a secluded beach with soft white sand and strong waves ideal for body surfing and boogie boarding. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and find shade under pine trees that create a serene ambiance. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for beachgoers to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Oahu's windward coast.
2. Bellows Field Beach Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH HAVEN
Bellows Field Beach Park offers gentle waves that are perfect for younger children to enjoy swimming and water play. The park features extensive facilities including picnic areas, camping sites, and ample parking for visitors. Its location along the beautiful Waimanalo coastline makes it a favorite weekend destination for local families.
3. Makapu'u Beach
PREMIER BODYSURFING DESTINATION
Makapu'u Beach stretches more than 1,000 yards of sandy shoreline and is considered the premier bodysurfing beach in Hawaii. The powerful shore break attracts experienced bodysurfers who come to ride the waves at this picturesque location. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular views of offshore islands and the historic Makapu'u Lighthouse perched on the nearby cliffs.
4. Kaiona Beach Park
TRANQUIL LOCAL TREASURE
Kaiona Beach Park is a beautiful and less-crowded beach spot that offers a more authentic Hawaiian experience away from tourist crowds. The calm waters make it ideal for families with children, and it's a known habitat for Hawaiian green sea turtles that can often be spotted resting on the shore. Visitors should be aware that parking is limited and should secure their belongings as recommended throughout Hawaii.
5. Sea Life Park Hawaii
MARINE LIFE ENCOUNTERS
Sea Life Park Hawaii offers visitors up-close encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life through interactive exhibits and educational shows. The park is situated with stunning ocean views and also features preservation programs for native Hawaiian species. Visitors can enjoy swimming with dolphins, watching sea lion shows, and learning about marine conservation efforts.
6. Saint Catalina Seaside Chapel
SCENIC OCEANFRONT WORSHIP
Saint Catalina Seaside Chapel is located at the entrance of Sea Life Park and offers a beautiful setting overlooking the ocean and park grounds. The chapel's stunning architecture and oceanfront location make it a popular spot for weddings and quiet reflection. Visitors are drawn to the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
7. Waimānalo District Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION HUB
Waimānalo District Park serves as a central recreation area for the local community with sports facilities, playgrounds, and open spaces. The park hosts community events, sports tournaments, and cultural gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the lush surroundings and see how local residents engage in recreational activities.
8. Olomana Golf Links
MOUNTAIN VIEW GOLFING
Olomana Golf Links offers players spectacular views of the Ko'olau Mountains while enjoying a round of golf. The 18-hole course provides challenges for golfers of all skill levels with its varied terrain and strategic layout. Although the course conditions may vary, the friendly staff and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile experience for golf enthusiasts.
9. Waimanalo Bay Beach Park & Recreation Area
SPACIOUS BEACH ACTIVITIES
Waimanalo Bay Beach Park & Recreation Area is a spacious paradise with soft powdery sand and gentle waves perfect for a relaxing day at the beach. The park features picnic tables and ample space for beach activities such as volleyball, frisbee, and football games. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of turquoise waters against the backdrop of lush green mountains that define the Windward Oahu landscape.
10. Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
SCENIC COASTAL HIKE
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail offers hikers a paved path leading to spectacular panoramic views of Oahu's southeastern coastline. The moderately difficult hike takes visitors to the historic lighthouse perched on the cliffs above the deep blue Pacific Ocean. During winter months, this vantage point serves as an excellent whale watching location where visitors can often spot humpback whales migrating through Hawaiian waters.
11. Waimanalo Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
Waimanalo Farmers Market showcases fresh local produce, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts from area farmers and artisans. Visitors can sample authentic Hawaiian foods and agricultural products while interacting with local vendors. The market provides insight into the agricultural heritage of the area and supports the sustainable farming community of Waimanalo.
12. Kualoa Ranch
MOVIE SITE ADVENTURE TOURS
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve offering visitors a chance to explore iconic movie filming locations through their Jungle Expedition Tour and Hollywood Movie Sites Tour. The working cattle ranch features dramatic mountain ranges and lush valleys that have served as backdrops for films like Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-O. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours including ATV rides, horseback adventures, and cultural experiences that highlight Hawaiian heritage and natural history.
13. Lanikai Beach
TURQUOISE WATERS PARADISE
Lanikai Beach is consistently rated as one of the world's most beautiful beaches with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers stunning views of the Mokulua Islands, which serve as a picturesque backdrop for photos and kayaking adventures. Although a short drive from Waimanalo, this half-mile strip of paradise provides a perfect complement to any Windward Oahu beach exploration.
14. Waimanalo Country Farms
AGRITOURISM FAMILY EXPERIENCE
Waimanalo Country Farms offers visitors a chance to experience Hawaii's agricultural side through seasonal farm activities and u-pick opportunities. The family-owned farm is known for its sweet corn, sunflower fields, and panoramic views of the Koolau mountains. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, seasonal events like pumpkin patches, and fresh local treats including their famous frozen pineapple Dole Whip.
15. Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack
LOCAL PLATE LUNCH FAVORITE
Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack is a beloved local eatery serving authentic Hawaiian plate lunches featuring marinated steaks and garlic shrimp. The casual roadside restaurant attracts both locals and tourists looking for generous portions of traditional Hawaiian comfort food at reasonable prices. Their signature dishes are prepared with fresh local ingredients and served with the classic plate lunch sides of rice and macaroni salad.