Best beaches in east Oahu, Hawaii :: Best free things to do in Oahu

ALOHA!

Oahu is said to have over 100 beaches.

The vast majority of Oahu beaches are available to the public and are FREE!

And…

There are white sand beaches too.

Now, if you want to get away from Waikiki or Honolulu, you can head to the east side of Oahu, aka windward Oahu.

Some of the best Oahu beaches are on this side of the island!

And, if you’ll be swimming, you’ll want to make sure you go for the best sunscreen for Hawaii.

The list: Best beaches on the east side of Oahu

ALL of these beaches come with amazing views.

Now, here are 5 more reasons to love Hawaii!

1. Lanikai Beach

Cost: FREE!

This is where you go so you can lay on the white sand beach right in front of the picture perfect Mokulua islands aka the Mokes.

Lanikai Beach is the perfect post-hike recovery following the Lanikai Pillbox Hike.

There are a couple of downsides to Lanikai Beach though: parking can be a problem, and there’s no bathroom around.

Still, this beach has been called one of the best beaches in the world by prominent travel magazines.

2. Kailua Beach

Cost: FREE!

Kailua Beach is the neighbor of Lanikai Beach.

It’s a short 15 minute or so walk to get between the 2 beaches, and you’ll come across some amazing views when you do so!

Unlike Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach has proper beach facilities (like a bathroom and lifeguards) so it can make for a higher level of convenience.

You’ll get the white sand beach at Kailua Beach too!

3. Waimanalo Beach

Cost: FREE!

If you want to go to a beach not many first-time visitors to Hawaii go to, head to Waimanalo Beach.

This is on the way to Kailua when you’re coming from Waikiki, so you can also make a stop here on your way.

And again, amazing views with a white sand beach.

4. Hanauma Bay

Cost: $25

Hanauma Bay is one of the best Oahu snorkeling spots.

5. Makapuu Beach

Cost: FREE!

If you go on a circle island driving tour around Oahu, you’ll pass by Makapuu Beach.

But not many visitors to Hawaii stop for the beach here.

This beach can have powerful waves so it’s also said to be a good beach for boogie boarding.

You can buy boogie boards when you’re on Oahu at the ABC convenience store that’s pretty much on every corner in Waikiki.

As with all water activities, make sure you take proper precautions.

Right near this beach is one of the best Oahu hikes, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, which can be a good place to go during whale season for a chance at spotting whales.

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HAPPY BEACH TIME IN EAST OAHU!

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