Beaches / Coastlines, Oahu

If you really want to enjoy the natural beauty of Oahu's shoreline, head well further north from the city center. Take Route 83 all the way upto the North Shores where there are very few crowds. The beaches are not as shallow and tame like the ones near the city and so a bit of caution is absolutely required. As these places are far off and less traveled, if you are staying late, resist the temptation to swim after sunset since the currents are stronger and there will be hardly anyone to hear your pleas for help if one is required.

To reach Barber's Point Lighthouse take H-1 west from Honolulu, 30-45 minutes, to exit #1. This Is Kalaeloa Blvd. Follow it to the end, then turn right onto Olai St. which ends in Germaine's Luau Parking Lot. You will see the lighthouse to your right.

The 71 ft. automated lighthouse as named for Capt. Henry Barber whose brig, "Arthur," wrecked on a coral shoal off this point in 1796. It is not open to the public but may be photographed from the beach..

If you are at all the independent traveler type, rent a car one day and check out the rest of the island...you know, the parts where people actually live. Just don't gawk or embarrass us mainlanders in any other way :) Some really nice, uncrowded beaches away from Honolulu...

Hanaumu Bay is a wide and sheltered bay is set in a rugged volcanic ring on the south eastern side of Oahu. The water is the most gorgeous sapphire and turquoise colour. A great area for snorkelling amongst the coral and marine life.
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Laie Point also offers a great view of Windward Oahu, not often seen by visitors to the island. Here Margaret and Nadine try to compete with the view.

Just across from Kualoa Ranch are some great areas to pull over and get some great shots of China Man's Hat, and the Windward side of Oahu. It doesnt get much nicer then this...

Although Oahu is the most populated island of the Hawaiian chain. If you look you can still find the deserted beach.

Saw some turtles along the shore when we were coming in from surfing and ended up spending the morning with them.