Halona Cove (Eternity Beach), Honolulu - white and brown concrete building near green trees during daytime
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Halona Cove (Eternity Beach) Honolulu

4.8
·360 reviews·Honolulu, United States

A small, dramatic cove with golden sand, framed by lava cliffs, famous for its cinematic past and stunning ocean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise

Dramatic light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Halona Cove (Eternity Beach), Honolulu - white and brown concrete building near green trees during daytime

Halona Cove (Eternity Beach) Honolulu

Best Time

Sunrise

Dramatic light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small, dramatic cove with golden sand, framed by lava cliffs, famous for its cinematic past and stunning ocean views.

4.8
(360 reviews)

"This place is beautiful. Surprisingly it was not crowded. We really enjoyed it."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking is Limited

Parking near Halona Blowhole fills up fast. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path down to the cove is rocky and uneven. Wear shoes with good grip, not flip-flops.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Cove Beach

The Iconic Cove Beach

Sandy beach at the base of the cliffs

A small, picturesque sandy beach framed by dramatic lava rock cliffs, offering stunning ocean views.

Halona Blowhole Lookout

Halona Blowhole Lookout

Above the cove

Witness the powerful ocean spray erupting through a lava tube, a natural spectacle near the cove.

The 'From Here to Eternity' Scene

The 'From Here to Eternity' Scene

The cove itself

Revisit the legendary beach where a famous romantic scene from the classic film was shot.

Sea Cave Exploration

Sea Cave Exploration

At the back of the cove

Discover a photogenic sea cave, perfect for unique shots and exploring the coastal formations.

Planning Your Visit

Accessing Halona Cove

Getting to Halona Cove involves a bit of an adventure. While visible from the Halona Blowhole lookout, reaching the sandy beach requires navigating rocky paths. Be prepared for a steep descent and ascent, and always check wave conditions before entering the water.

Best Time for Photos & Solitude

For the most dramatic sunrise views and fewer crowds, aim for an early morning visit. The cove can get busy later in the day, especially when tour groups arrive. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more serene experience.

Best Times

When
Sunrise
Why
Dramatic light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Can get busy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Theres a secret elevator in the rocks to get to this beach. #oahu #beaches #hawaii #hiddengems
@bebedeeez
59.7K likes • 482K views

🚗 Parking is Limited

Parking near Halona Blowhole fills up fast. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path down to the cove is rocky and uneven. Wear shoes with good grip, not flip-flops. Reddit

Cockroach Cove, (Halona Beach Cove) never disappoints. 🌸✨🐚👙 #hawaiibeach #hawaiibeaches #hawaii #oahubeaches #oahubeach #oahuhawaii #beachesinhawaii #thingstodoinhawaii #hawaiitiktok #hawaiilife #honoluluhawaii #honolulu #honolulubeach #hawaiiswim #hawaiicheck #hawaiigirl #fyp #foryou #hawaiitiktokers
@biggglexi
48.4K likes • 379.9K views
reddit.com

Exploring a cave and hidden beach in Oahu.

🌊 Watch the Waves

Ocean conditions can change rapidly. Be cautious of strong waves and currents when swimming. Reddit

📸 Insta-Worthy Cave

The sea cave at the back of the cove is a popular spot for photos. TikTok

reddit.com

Halona Blowhole, Oahu Hawaii

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking is Limited

Parking near Halona Blowhole fills up fast. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path down to the cove is rocky and uneven. Wear shoes with good grip, not flip-flops. Reddit

🌊 Watch the Waves

Ocean conditions can change rapidly. Be cautious of strong waves and currents when swimming. Reddit

📸 Insta-Worthy Cave

The sea cave at the back of the cove is a popular spot for photos. TikTok

🤫 It's Not Truly Hidden

While scenic, it's easily accessible from the Halona Blowhole lookout. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(360 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Halona Cove is lauded for its breathtaking beauty, dramatic cliffs, and cinematic charm, offering a picturesque escape. Visitors appreciate the stunning turquoise waters and the unique sea cave, though the steep, rocky access and powerful waves require caution. It's a rewarding spot for those seeking scenic views and photo opportunities.

"Halona Beach Cove is a secret slice of paradise tucked between lava rock cliffs and turquoise waves. The golden sand, dramatic shoreline, and cinematic vibes make it unforgettable. Perfect for a scenic escape, photo ops, and soaking up Hawaiian beauty. A little adventure with a big reward. 😎"

Nam Do

"This place is beautiful. We came to see the blowhole and noticed this cove down below the viewing area. Surprisingly it was not crowded. We climbed down to it and really enjoyed it. Be careful the waves were pretty strong on the day we went."

jana hughey

"The view is stunning. The blue of the sea is gorgeous and I couldn't wait to get in. There is a sign saying it is dangerous and a restricted area but people were happy to risk their lives climbing down the rocks to get to it. So worth it! There's a cave at the back too, very instagramable. The water was crazy, the waves were crashing. The cliff side was beautiful, seeing the layers of rock. We went a couple of times. It did get busy at one point."

Moniqa Kaur

What People Like

Stunning turquoise waters
Dramatic cliff scenery
Cinematic 'Eternity Beach' vibe

What People Dislike

Steep, rocky access
Strong, dangerous waves

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive to Halona Cove, which is located along the scenic southeastern coast of Oahu, near Hanauma Bay. Parking is available at the Halona Blowhole lookout. Public bus routes also serve this area, offering a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

Parking is available at the adjacent Halona Blowhole lookout. It can get very crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, Halona Cove is located just below the Halona Blowhole lookout. You can see the cove from the lookout point and then carefully descend the rocky path to reach the beach. Reddit

The drive itself is along a main highway, but the parking area can be busy. The path down to the cove is steep and rocky, requiring careful navigation. Reddit

For the best photo opportunities, consider visiting during sunrise for soft light and fewer people. The drive along the coast offers scenic views as well. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Halona Cove is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Access is free for everyone. Reddit

Halona Cove is accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there is natural light for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

While beautiful, Halona Cove has strong waves and currents, and the path down can be treacherous. Signs often warn of dangerous conditions. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Swimming is possible, but it's advised to be extremely cautious due to powerful waves and undertows. Many visitors prefer to admire the view or dip their feet rather than swim extensively. Reddit

While generally open, there might be temporary restrictions due to ocean conditions or safety concerns. Always heed any posted signs or warnings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The sandy beach itself, the sea cave at the back, and the rocky cliffs offer stunning backdrops. The Halona Blowhole lookout also provides a great vantage point for wider shots. TikTok

Sunrise offers beautiful golden light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the turquoise water is still vibrant. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near protected marine life or private property. It's best to check local regulations before flying. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the dramatic landscape. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Consider a waterproof camera or protective case if you plan to get close to the waves. TikTok

The sea cave is a popular spot for unique shots. You can also try to capture the powerful spray from the Halona Blowhole in the background. TikTok

🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience

Visitors can relax on the beach, explore the sea cave, take photos, and enjoy the scenic views. Some brave souls swim, but caution is advised due to strong waves. TikTok

It can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience. Reddit

Bring sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, a towel, and wear sturdy shoes. A waterproof bag for your belongings is also a good idea if you plan to get close to the water. Reddit

There are no direct facilities like restrooms or showers at the cove itself. You'll find these at the nearby Halona Blowhole lookout area. Reddit

While beautiful, the steep, rocky path and strong waves make it less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. Older children might enjoy exploring. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Halona Cove offers stunning scenery, but it's important to note that the access path is steep and rocky, which can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit If you do visit with family, consider keeping the exploration to the Halona Blowhole lookout for easier viewing. If you decide to descend, ensure children are closely supervised and wear appropriate footwear. The strong waves also mean swimming might not be suitable for younger kids. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

This cove is a paradise for photographers! The dramatic cliffs, the iconic sea cave, and the vibrant ocean colors provide endless visual inspiration. TikTok Aim for sunrise for the best light and fewer crowds, allowing you to capture the cove's magic without distraction. TikTok Don't forget to explore the cave for unique shots and consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the stunning landscape. TikTok

❤️ Couples & Romantics

Known as 'Eternity Beach' due to its role in the classic film, Halona Cove offers a wonderfully romantic and picturesque setting. Reddit The secluded feel, dramatic scenery, and the sound of the waves create an intimate atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a quiet moment together, enjoying the breathtaking views and perhaps reminiscing about the iconic movie scene. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain: Getting to the Sand

Reaching the sandy shores of Halona Cove is part of its charm, but it requires careful navigation. The cove is situated below the main Halona Blowhole lookout point. While you can see the beach from above, descending requires traversing a steep and rocky path. Travelers often advise wearing sturdy footwear like hiking shoes or sneakers, as flip-flops can be slippery and unsafe on the uneven lava rock. Reddit The descent can be challenging, especially after rain when the rocks might be slick. Always assess the conditions before you go down and be mindful of loose rocks. Reddit

Once you reach the beach, you'll find a small, picturesque cove. The dramatic jagged cliffs surrounding it create a sense of seclusion and natural beauty. It's a rewarding spot for those willing to make the effort, offering a more intimate beach experience compared to larger, more accessible shores. TikTok Remember that the climb back up can be more strenuous than the descent, so pace yourself and stay hydrated. Reddit

Ocean Safety and Conditions

Halona Cove is known for its stunning beauty, but also for its powerful ocean conditions. The waves here can be strong and unpredictable, with undertows being a significant concern. While some visitors do swim, it's crucial to exercise extreme caution. Reddit Signs at the location often warn of dangerous conditions, and it's wise to heed these warnings. If you're not an experienced ocean swimmer, it's best to stick to wading or simply enjoying the view from the shore. Reddit

Ocean photographers and videographers often capture the dramatic wave action crashing against the lava rocks. TikTok If you plan to enter the water, always check the surf report and observe the ocean's behavior for a while before deciding. Never turn your back on the ocean, and if you're unsure, err on the side of caution. The beauty of Halona Cove is best appreciated when experienced safely. Reddit

A Cinematic Past and Photographic Present

Halona Cove holds a special place in cinematic history, famously serving as the backdrop for the iconic beach scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the 1953 film From Here to Eternity. Reddit This cinematic legacy adds a layer of romance and nostalgia to the already stunning location, making it a pilgrimage site for film buffs. Reddit

Beyond its film fame, Halona Cove is a photographer's dream. The dramatic lava rock formations, the vibrant turquoise waters, and the sweeping ocean vistas provide endless opportunities for breathtaking shots. TikTok The sea cave at the back of the cove is particularly popular for its unique textures and light play, offering a more intimate and artistic subject. TikTok Visiting during sunrise or sunset can yield spectacular lighting conditions, enhancing the natural beauty of the cove. TikTok Whether you're a professional photographer or just enjoy capturing memories, Halona Cove offers a visually rich experience. TikTok

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