Makaha Beach Park Honolulu
A stunning west O'ahu beach known for its dramatic mountain backdrop, powerful winter waves, and local charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best waves for surfing
Makaha Beach Park Honolulu
Best Time
Best waves for surfing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning west O'ahu beach known for its dramatic mountain backdrop, powerful winter waves, and local charm.
"Beautiful beach in Makaha. The view of the mountains and sunset is incredible."
🚗 Secure Your Car
Be mindful of car break-ins on the west side. Don't leave valuables visible.
🌊 Respect the Waves
Strong currents and waves can be present. Always check conditions and heed warning signs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Mountain Backdrop
The entire beach
Stunning mountain range meets the Pacific, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheater. Perfect for sunset views.
Winter Surfing Waves
Main surf breaks
Catch impressive waves during the winter months, a draw for experienced surfers seeking a challenge.
Local's Paradise
Makaha Beach Park
Experience a more laid-back vibe compared to Honolulu's busy beaches. A favorite among locals for its natural beauty.
Planning Your Visit
West Side Safety & Respect
Ocean Conditions Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Secure Your Car
Be mindful of car break-ins on the west side. Don't leave valuables visible.
🌊 Respect the Waves
Strong currents and waves can be present. Always check conditions and heed warning signs.
🥽 Snorkel the North Reef
Explore the north reef for a good snorkeling spot, especially near the turtle cleaning station.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunset views with the mountains are incredible. A must-see!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Secure Your Car
Be mindful of car break-ins on the west side. Don't leave valuables visible.
🌊 Respect the Waves
Strong currents and waves can be present. Always check conditions and heed warning signs.
🥽 Snorkel the North Reef
Explore the north reef for a good snorkeling spot, especially near the turtle cleaning station.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunset views with the mountains are incredible. A must-see!
🎒 Pack Essentials
Limited facilities. Bring your own food, water, and shade.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makaha Beach Park is praised for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic mountain backdrop, and less crowded atmosphere compared to Honolulu's popular beaches. Visitors enjoy the beautiful sunsets and the powerful waves, though caution is advised due to strong currents and a steep drop-off. Some concerns exist regarding parking and the availability of facilities.
"Beautiful beach in Makaha.
Many travelers worried about safe in the Waianae and Makaha beaches but I feel safe in this beach.
The wave is little strong but no matter to swim. Just take care children.
I can enjoy beautiful sunset on the beach.
Front side is Pacific ocean, back side is incredible mountain, beautiful sunset in the sky...
I didn't see any turtles or whales, but just being there was amazing.
If you visit this town, please come and enjoy this jewely beach."
Micky K
"Really nice beach that's quieter than the Honolulu beaches. Fairly steep beach that quickly drops off beyond standing depth. The waves were also a bit rougher than some of the other beaches so definite care should be taken with smaller kids and weak swimmers. The view of the mountains was beautiful at sunset and thr bigger waves were a lot of fun to swim / float in. We didn't see any bathrooms although the park states they have them. It's a long beach though so maybe we were not close to them. Parking can be a bit sketchy along the highway."
Brian Ward
"I have always loved Makaha Beach and also the Makaha Beach Cabanas where I lived many years and also had my 1999 sunset wedding. The west side is such a beautiful place with so many private like areas."
Nancy Scheel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makaha Beach Park is located on the west side of O'ahu, about an hour's drive from Honolulu. The most common way to get there is by car, taking H-1 West and then following signs for Farrington Highway (Route 99) north. Public transportation is available via TheBus, but it can be a long journey with multiple transfers.
Parking is available along the highway near the beach, but it can be 'sketchy' and fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared for limited options.
The beach itself is a white-sand stretch, but the terrain can be steep and drops off quickly. Access to the park facilities might vary, so it's good to be prepared for a natural beach environment.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the west side of O'ahu, including Makaha Beach Park, as it offers the most flexibility and convenience.
While there aren't dedicated shuttle services specifically for Makaha Beach Park, some tour operators might include it as part of a west side tour. Otherwise, car rental or TheBus are your primary options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Makaha Beach Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the beach and its amenities free of charge.
Makaha Beach Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check local park schedules for any specific closures or event timings.
No, tickets are not required for Makaha Beach Park as it is a public beach. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
There are no specific restrictions on bringing food and drinks to Makaha Beach Park, but it's encouraged to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
Yes, Makaha Beach Park is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery and a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the busier Honolulu beaches.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Makaha Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenic views. In the winter, it's a great spot for surfing. Snorkeling is also possible, particularly on the north reef.
Swimming is possible, but be aware that the waves can be strong and the beach drops off quickly. It's best suited for confident swimmers, and caution is advised for children. +1
While not guaranteed, it's possible to spot turtles, especially near the north reef. Whale sightings are more common during the winter months.
The park is stated to have restrooms, but some visitors have noted difficulty finding them or that they may not be well-maintained. It's wise to come prepared.
For calmer waters and fewer crowds, weekdays are ideal. Sunset offers spectacular views of the mountains. Surfers prefer the winter months for larger waves.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Makaha Beach Park itself has limited facilities, and there are no on-site restaurants or food vendors. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for your visit.
You'll need to drive a bit to find dining options. The nearby towns of Waianae or Kapolei offer a range of local eateries and fast-food restaurants.
Yes, picnics are a great idea for Makaha Beach! Pack a lunch and enjoy it with the beautiful ocean views. Just remember to clean up after yourself.
There are grocery stores in the nearby town of Waianae where you can stock up on supplies before heading to the beach.
On the west side, you'll find local Hawaiian plate lunches, seafood, and casual dining options. Don't miss trying some local favorites!
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic mountain backdrop, especially at sunset, is a photographer's dream. The powerful waves also make for dynamic shots. Look for sea turtles for unique wildlife photos.
Absolutely! The combination of the ocean, the silhouette of the mountains, and the vibrant colors of the sunset makes Makaha Beach a prime spot for stunning sunset photography.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon leading up to sunset, offers the most beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great opportunities for capturing the turquoise water.
The entire stretch of the beach offers great views. For a slightly elevated perspective, consider the areas near the park entrance or along the coastal road.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting, and a polarizing filter can enhance the ocean and sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Due to limited facilities, packing all essentials like snacks, water, and shade is crucial for a comfortable family outing. While the park is stated to have restrooms, their availability and condition can be inconsistent, so plan accordingly.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
The powerful breaks offer a thrilling challenge. If you're a beginner surfer, however, it's advisable to seek out calmer spots like Pokai Bay or Nanakuli on the west side. Beyond surfing, the north reef at Makaha Beach offers a decent spot for snorkeling, particularly around the turtle cleaning station.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
Beyond sunsets, the powerful waves offer dynamic subjects for action shots. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, which can add a unique element to your wildlife photography. The less crowded nature of this beach compared to Honolulu's hotspots also allows for more unobstructed shots and a peaceful photography experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Makaha Beach
When the surf is up, Makaha can be a spectacle to watch, even if you're not participating. The consistent swell makes it a consistent break for those who know how to handle it. Always be aware of the ocean conditions and respect the local surf etiquette.
Safety and Local Considerations
Beyond personal safety, respecting the local community and its customs is paramount. Makaha is a cherished spot for residents, and visitors are encouraged to be mindful and appreciative of the local culture. Heeding warning signs about ocean conditions is also crucial, as strong currents and waves can pose a risk.
Exploring the West Side's Natural Beauty
Beyond the beach itself, the west side offers opportunities for exploring natural beauty. While Makaha is known for its surf, nearby areas might offer calmer waters for snorkeling or kayaking. The drive along the coast provides scenic vistas and a glimpse into a different side of O'ahu.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit