Best Beaches on the North Shore of Oahu

Some people think that all the Hawaiian Island of Oahu has to offer is Waikiki and Waikiki Beach. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. Some of Oahu’s best beaches can be found on the North Shore. Depending on wind conditions and the time of year, you may want to visit some of Oahu’s best beaches up North Shore to escape the crowds and craziness in Waikiki. As you know, not all beaches are created equal. So, with this article, I’ll help you discover the best beaches on Oahu’s North Shore.

Let me preface this by saying that while the sea at the North Shore beaches is calm from May to October, during the winter months the North Shore is for expert surfers only. Sure the North Shore is still beautiful, but the Pacific does become fierce here from November through April. Check conditions before going near the water.

One of my favorite beaches on Oahu’s North Shore is Sunset Beach. While the sand on some Hawaiian beaches can be gravelly and rough on the feet, Sunset Beach’s sand is perfect and it extends into the ocean, so you can leave your reef shoes back at the hotel. And there’s so much of it, so many areas to lay out without being elbow to elbow with any neighbors. In fact, I was there on the 4th of July and pretty much had the entire beach to myself with the exception of a few friendly locals. Bring your snorkel gear and head near the lifeguard station – the water’s usually very clear and there are tons of fish. Of course, Sunset Beach is up North Shore, so visit during the summer months, between May and October.

Unlike Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay Beach Park is often crowded. But it’s worth wading through the human sea to get to the actual waters here. In the summer, the ocean’s as calm as a kiddy pool. (During the winter, waves can reach up to 40 feet high). Definitely bring your snorkeling gear here (during the summer; during the winter all you’ll need is a Last Will and Testament). There are a lot of fish and even many turtles. You’ll probably see some cliff-divers. Watch, but I don’t suggest trying it yourself.

Finally, if you rented an off-road vehicle (I have a Jeep Wrangler), now’s when it will definitely come in handy. Because you’ll have to use it to get to Hawaii’s best kept secret – Hidden Beach. Hidden Beach lies past the end of the pavement on Farrington Highway up North Shore. Travel a little over a mile on the dirt road using your four-wheel drive. Fifteen telephone poles past the metal gate and across from Pole 196. You’ll probably find yourself lucky enough to be the beach’s only visitors. The view and tranquility are unreal. If the ocean’s calm, try snorkeling. Whatever you do, I promise you’ll enjoy it at one of the most beautiful spots in Hawaii on Oahu’s North Shore.

Be sure to check out my articles on snorkeling and kayaking on Oahu. In the coming days, I’ll be introducing you to the best beaches on Oahu’s windward side, leeward side and the Waianae Coast.

Aloha and mahalo for reading!