Kahana Bay Beach Park Oahu
A serene Oahu gem offering calm waters, stunning mountain views, and a famous beach swing, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Kahana Bay Beach Park Oahu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Oahu gem offering calm waters, stunning mountain views, and a famous beach swing, perfect for a peaceful escape.
"Tranquility at its finest. It's a bit of a drive to get here but it's well worth it to get away from tourist."
Pack for the Day
Bring your own water, snacks, and beach gear as amenities are limited. :water_wave:
Capture the Swing
Arrive early to snag photos at the popular beach swing with fewer people around. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Beach Swing
Kahana Bay Beach Park
Capture unforgettable photos on the famous beach swing, a picturesque spot framed by lush mountains and the sparkling ocean.
Calm, Shallow Waters
Kahana Bay Beach Park
Perfect for families and casual swimmers, the bay boasts gentle, shallow waters ideal for wading and relaxing.
Stunning Mountain Backdrop
Kahana Bay Beach Park
Marvel at the dramatic Ko'olau Mountains that cradle the bay, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Plan for Limited Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Day
Bring your own water, snacks, and beach gear as amenities are limited. :water_wave:
Capture the Swing
Arrive early to snag photos at the popular beach swing with fewer people around. :camerawithflash:
Respect the 'Āina
Leave no trace and be kind to locals. Support local businesses. :heart:
Limited Cell Service
Expect spotty reception; embrace the chance to disconnect. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Day
Bring your own water, snacks, and beach gear as amenities are limited. :water_wave:
Capture the Swing
Arrive early to snag photos at the popular beach swing with fewer people around. :camerawithflash:
Respect the 'Āina
Leave no trace and be kind to locals. Support local businesses. :heart:
Limited Cell Service
Expect spotty reception; embrace the chance to disconnect. :iphone:
Gentle Waves
Ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, but not for serious surfing. :surfer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kahana Bay Beach Park is praised for its tranquil atmosphere, calm waters ideal for families, and stunning mountain views. Visitors appreciate its escape from tourist crowds and the picturesque beach swing. However, the limited restroom facilities and spotty cell service are noted drawbacks.
"Update: we came back and stayed longer to enjoy the tranquility here. The waves were gentle and the views were stunning. The shore had a sandy bottom , thus the color of the water was not as pretty as else where on the island. There were a lot of shady spot to lay out your towels and it was very clean. There were no bathrooms except for two pretty filthy ports-potties.. there were a couple changing stalls and a water faucet to rinse your feet off.
A nice little beach/cove right off the highway. There’s no service here, ie., no shower or bathrooms. Plenty of parking spaces. There were children practicing their outriggers here, so that was fun watching them."
Big Fish Dive Club
"Debatably my very favourite beach on the island. It’s usually fairly quiet, and the water is shallow and calm. You’re surrounded by ocean, beach, and mountains.. not sure what else you need 🥹 side note: the cell service in the area is limited
ALWAYS REMEMBER to respect the ‘āina (land) and leave it cleaner than you found it. Please show kindness to the locals and support local businesses ❤️"
Arielle McCarthy
"Beach is sandy with a very gradual slope. Can stand up even 40-50 ft from shore. Easy for kids to play and don't have to worry about scraping up on underwater rocks."
Brian Ward
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Kahana Bay Beach Park from Waikiki is by car, taking approximately 45-60 minutes via the H-1 E and HI-83 E. Public transportation is also an option; take TheBus route 60, which circles the island and stops near the park.
Yes, Kahana Bay Beach Park is accessible by TheBus route 60, which runs along the Windward coast. It's a convenient option if you don't have a rental car.
There is usually plenty of parking available at Kahana Bay Beach Park, even during busier times. It's a significant advantage for visitors arriving by car.
Kahana Bay Beach Park is located on Oahu's Windward coast, east of the North Shore. It's a scenic drive from both Waikiki and the North Shore.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage in state parks. Be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kahana Bay Beach Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty and amenities free of charge.
Kahana Bay Beach Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's a public park, so hours are typically aligned with daylight.
No advance booking is required for Kahana Bay Beach Park as it is a public access beach park. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are no specific entry restrictions for Kahana Bay Beach Park, but visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and follow park guidelines.
Yes, Kahana Bay Beach Park is a popular spot for camping, offering a unique opportunity to stay overnight and enjoy the tranquility. Reservations may be required.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The calm waters are great for families, and the scenic beauty is perfect for photography.
Restroom facilities are limited to a couple of port-a-potties, and there are foot-washing stations. Showers are available across the road.
Yes, the water at Kahana Bay is typically calm and shallow, making it excellent for swimming, especially for children and those who prefer gentle waters. +1
Kahana Bay is generally too calm for surfing, though occasional small swells might be present. It's more suited for paddleboarding or kayaking.
You might spot sea turtles, various bird species, and sometimes dolphins. Beach clean-ups often highlight the importance of protecting marine life here.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic beach swing is a must-capture. Also, frame shots with the majestic Ko'olau Mountains in the background and the serene coastline. 
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds for the beach swing. Late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow over the mountains and ocean.
Look for the palm trees overhanging the water and the reflections in the calm bay. The outrigger canoe practices can also make for dynamic shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations. If permitted, aerial shots can offer stunning perspectives of the bay, mountains, and coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While amenities are basic, the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination. Remember to pack all necessary supplies, including plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as facilities are minimal. The gentle environment allows parents to relax while the kids enjoy the ocean.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1The dramatic Ko'olau Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for any shot, especially during sunrise and sunset. Explore different angles, including the unique palm trees that arch over the water. The calm bay also offers opportunities for reflections and capturing the serene coastal landscape. Be prepared for limited cell service, so plan your content capture accordingly.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers
This is a place to truly disconnect. Embrace the limited cell service as an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Pack a picnic, find a shady spot under the ironwood trees, and simply enjoy the quiet beauty of this Windward Oahu gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Kahana Bay's Calm Waters
This tranquility also makes it a prime spot for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. While it's not typically a destination for serious surfers due to the lack of significant waves, the serene conditions are perfect for a leisurely paddle or for practicing outrigger canoeing, which is often observed here. The clarity of the water, while not always the vibrant turquoise seen elsewhere due to the sandy bottom, is still inviting for a refreshing dip on a warm Hawaiian day.
Capturing Kahana Bay: Photography Hotspots
+1The surrounding landscape itself is a photographer's dream. The lush, emerald green Ko'olau Mountains create a stunning natural amphitheater, offering breathtaking panoramic views that are particularly striking during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Look for unique angles, such as palm trees that seem to reach out over the water, or the reflections of the mountains in the calm bay. The presence of wildlife, like sea turtles, can also present wonderful photographic opportunities, though always maintain a respectful distance.
+1Embracing the Rustic Charm: Amenities and Tips
Despite the limited facilities, the park offers a peaceful escape. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility. Packing essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and beach towels is crucial for a comfortable visit. The park's location right off Kamehameha Highway makes it accessible, but its position also means it's important to be mindful of traffic when entering and exiting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit