Located on the North Shore of the island, Sunset Beach
Park is one of Oahu's finest beaches for swimming and
snorkeling during the summer when the water is calm.
During the winter the beach is a favorite place for surfing. Then waves
often times reach 15 to 20+ feet, which makes Sunset Beach
a real surfer’s paradise.
The crystal clear, blue water with its wonderful tidepools
and the soft two-mile-long sandy beach attract visitors
from all over the world. If you are new to the island, keep
in mind that strong currents, known as the Sunset Rip,
occur in the area. There are moving channels of water against
which is very difficult to swim. Before you get into the
water, ask the lifeguards for details about where the
Sunset Rip and other hazards may occur.
If you prefer to stay dry, take a moment to explore and
walk along this fine beach. Guessing from its name, Sunset
Beach has some of the best sunset views you can see on Oahu.
There are picnic areas on the beach. Free parking is available
on the street.
Sunset Beach Park in Bullet Points
One of Oahu's finest beaches for swimming and snorkeling
during the summer
One of world's best surfing beaches during the winter
when waves reach 15 to 20 feet
Crystal blue water with wonderful tidepools
Soft two miles long sandy beach
Be aware of strong currents called the Sunset Rip
in the area
Ask the lifeguards for details about the Sunset
Rip and where other hazards on the beach may occur
Sunset Beach is located between Kawela and Waimea on Oahu’s
North Shore. It’s about a 40-mile drive from Waikiki. From
Waikiki, take the H1 freeway west until you reach the Likelike
Highway (63). Exit H1 onto the Likelike Highway (toward
the mountains) and stay on it until you pass through the
tunnel and emerge on the windward side of the island. Exit
Likelike and drive onto Kahekili Highway (83) north. After
you pass the town of Kahuku, it’s about ten more minutes.
When you see a long and wide white-sand beach on your right,
this is Sunset Beach. If you don’t have a car, you can take
bus number 55 (Kaneohe Circle Island), which leaves from
Ala Moana Center in Honolulu. The bus stops right there
at Sunset Beach. Ask the driver if you don’t know the area.
Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
