Waimanalo Beach

by Rebecca · October 2, 2024

So. I’ve been to 10-15 beaches this month, depending on how you want to count them (for example, should each of the four lagoons at the Ko’olina Resorts count as a separate beach? I don’t think so . . . ) but my choice for September’s featured beach has to be the one that feels like home – Waimanalo. It’s a 15-20 minute, stunningly beautiful drive for us (I catch my breath every time we pass Makapu’u and see that first glimpse of the Windward Coast).

Despite being the longest stretch of sandy beach on the entire island (~3 miles), despite having stunning views of several islands (most of which are bird sanctuaries), despite having excellent amenities which include shaded picnic tables and running fresh water, very few tourists actually come here. Us locals (hehe) basically have the place to ourselves, and we know how to pass a good time! The waves are perfect for casual boogie-boarding or playing in the surf. Families gather for barbecues on the weekend. Neighbors play fetch with their dogs. The teenage set plays beach volleyball and spike ball while the aunties and uncles listen to reggae and catch up with each other.

Our favorite parking spot, behind McDonalds on Kalanianaole

Riv showed us this parking spot, which is away from the “crowds” you find at Waimanalo Beach Park. It has easy access to the beach and is near a bathroom/shower.

We typically bring our super nice, new-to-us Tommy Bahama beach chairs, portable speaker, towels, and library books. I also have a small bottle filled with vinegar in case someone has a run in with one of the “blue bottles” (jellyfish) that come to the beach around the full moon.

There are different types of trees that make up the forests that line the edge of Waimanalo Beach. These are my favorite but I haven’t yet researched what they are. Anyone know a good tree identification app?