Best Oahu Beaches

Ala Moana Beach Park is a calm, family-friendly beach between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Protected by a shallow reef, ideal for swimming, picnicking, and photos of Diamond Head.

Honolulu beach tours

This calm, half-mile beach is protected by an offshore reef, making it one of the safest places to swim on Oahu. It’s especially great for kids, beginner swimmers, and anyone looking for an easy, relaxing dip. This beach delivers the best of Oahu without the crowds.

Just outside Waikiki

Minutes away with a laid-back vibe

No extra costs

No fees for Ala Moana Beach Park

Great for all ages

Nice calm waters with gentle slope

Amenities & food

There are restrooms & food stands

Self-guided spot

Anything longer than a ʻphoto stopʻ

More information about

Ala Moana Beach Park stops

Ala Moana is ideal for a laid-back beach trip with Diamond Head views, shaded picnic spots, and easy access to local eateries.

Thanks to the offshore reef, the waters are calm and gentle year-round. Making this one of the most consistently swimmable beaches on the island.

Lifeguards are posted from sunrise to sunset, and facilities like restrooms with outdoor showers are available nearby.

Featured excursions for

Ala Moana Beach near Waikiki

Whether you’re capturing a quiet sunset, photographing the city skyline, or attending the Floating Lantern Festival, Ala Moana Beach is a must-visit for photographers and beach lovers alike. Here are a few of our favorite private tours that include this family favorite:

Mini Circle Island

Oahu Specialty Tour

Frequent Questions

About seeing Ala Moana beach

Ala Moana is a great place to pause your day, cool off, or catch a sunset. Its central location and easy access make it a great spot to give back to the island during your visit. So keep scrolling for some frequently asked questions about what to know before you go.

Ala Moana Beach Park is located on the south shore of Oahu, just west of Waikiki in Honolulu. The park spans about 100 acres and includes a half-mile stretch of sandy beach. It’s easily accessible by car, bus, bike, or on foot.

If you’re coming from Waikiki, it’s a short ride or scenic walk along Ala Moana Boulevard. There’s plenty of parking, and public transit stops nearby but of course, weʻre happy to take you.

Ala Moana stands out for its calm, reef-protected waters, making it a favorite for swimmers, stand-up paddlers, and families. Unlike the surf-heavy spots nearby, it’s great for relaxing and safe swimming.

Magic Island, a man-made peninsula at the park’s east end, adds a scenic walking path, lagoon, and sweeping views of the city and Diamond Head.

The park is open daily from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. While the beach itself is technically accessible 24/7, amenities like restrooms and parking lots follow park hours.

Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit. That way, you’ll avoid the crowds and catch cooler weather and beautiful light.

No reservation is needed for casual beach days, walks, or swims. But, a permit from the City and County of Honolulu may be required if you’re planning an event, a large picnic, or using tents and equipment.

Check in advance if you’re organizing something formal or with a group.

Yes, apart from the options we listed for guests on Your Private Tours, here are a few to keep in mind:

  • The park closes and facilities are locked during that time.
  • Pets are not allowed in the park.
  • Open fires are prohibited; use designated grills only.
  • Feeding birds and wildlife is discouraged.
    Commercial activity requires a special permit.

Following these rules helps keep Ala Moana clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.

Looking for more beaches

Similar activities & close spots

Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or even participate in a beach cleanup, Oahu’s best beaches are just around the corner. Looking for other calm swimming spots or photo-friendly views? We’ve got you covered.

But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more breathtaking Oahu beaches.

These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.

Top Tour featuring Ala Moana

Related Excursions & Tours

More tours to experience Ala Moana Beach

Ala Moana is a favorite for locals, families, and photographers alike. Want to make it part of your trip? Here are a few standout private tours that feature this relaxing spot. From laid-back afternoons to golden hour moments, Ala Moana Beach Park is always a special site.

Pearl Harbor Tour

Circle Island Tour

Positive impact tour

Ala Moana Beach Park has something to see any time of day, from laid-back afternoons to golden hour sunsets. Snap city views, watch paddle boarders cruise by, or just soak in the sun and scene.

Choose Route

Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!

Plan By Time

Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.

Tour Locations

Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.

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More ideas from Halia Private Tours

Here in Hawaii, we treat guests like family. That means care, respect, and aloha in everything we do. We love keeping you in the loop with local tips, stories, and island favorites. You’re always welcome to check out what’s happening across Oahu.

If you like Ala Moana Beach Park, we’ve got more stories and tips to share. Check out these blog posts for local insights and other great spots to explore around the island.

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More great Oahu beaches tours

Are these Ala Moana Beach tours not quite the vibe you’re after? No worries. We’ve got a few similar routes that might be a better fit. That way, you and your family can find the perfect place to kick back and enjoy precisely the day you want.

Oahu Combo Tour

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Not sure which Oahu beach tour is right for you? Please take our quick tour quiz or head to the footer for easy links. We’ll help you find the one that fits.