Malaekahana Bay

Oahu Beach Guide

Malaekahana Bay

Malaekahana Bay is a peaceful northeastern Oahu beach known for long sand, Goat Island views, camping, fishing and calm-day ocean activities.

Beach Near Laie
Beach Near Laie

Malaekahana Bay, Oahu

Malaekahana Bay is located on Oahu's northeastern shore between La'ie and Kahuku. The bay has a long white-sand beach that works well for beach walks, games on the sand and quiet shoreline time. Conditions can be good for bodyboarding and surfing, especially when the surf is up. Currents can be strong, though, and there are no lifeguards on this beach.

Just offshore at the south end of the bay is Moku'auia Island, also known as Goat Island. In very calm, low-tide conditions, some visitors wade, swim or paddle across. The crossing goes over shallow reef and can have currents, so do not attempt it when the water is rough, windy or unclear. Water shoes can help protect your feet from reef and rocks.

Goat Island has a sandy beach and green sea turtles may be seen in the area. The center of the island is a protected seabird nesting area and is off limits. Stay away from nesting zones, avoid disturbing birds or burrows and keep to areas where access is allowed.

Malaekahana is also known for fishing and nearby camping. Before planning a beach stay, check current access, permit and campground rules for the section of the bay you plan to use.

Visitor Reviews

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Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 rated visitor review.

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Ina

Thu Feb 23, 2012

When I came to this beach for the first time in the summer of 2003, it immediately reminded me of a Robinson Crusoe type beach. The entire stretch of the bay was empty that day, the water was calm and azure blue and a rope was dangling from a beachfront ironwood tree. It was a great scene! I have visited this bay many times since then and simply love it. It's perfect for a long beach stroll or jog because the sand is soft and you don't sink in as much as on other Oahu north shore beaches.

Location, Parking and Directions

Malaekahana Bay is located along Kamehameha Highway between La'ie and Kahuku on Oahu's northeastern shore. The La'ie-side access near 56-335 Kamehameha Highway is commonly used for reaching the beach and viewing Goat Island. From Kaneohe, follow Kamehameha Highway north through Kahana Bay, Hauula and La'ie. From Kahuku or the North Shore side, follow Kamehameha Highway south toward La'ie. Parking and access vary by section of the bay, so use marked public access areas and follow posted signs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Malaekahana Bay located?

Malaekahana Bay is located between La'ie and Kahuku on Oahu's northeastern shore, along Kamehameha Highway.

Can you walk to Goat Island from Malaekahana Bay?

In very calm, low-tide conditions, experienced visitors may wade, swim or paddle to Goat Island. The crossing goes over reef and can have currents, so do not attempt it in rough conditions.

Is Goat Island a protected area?

Yes. Goat Island, also called Mokuauia, is a seabird sanctuary. Visitors should stay away from nesting areas, avoid the island interior and never disturb birds or burrows.

Are there lifeguards at Malaekahana Bay?

No. Malaekahana Bay does not have lifeguards, so visitors should check surf, currents, tide and wind before entering the water.

What is Malaekahana Bay best for?

Malaekahana Bay is best for beach walks, fishing, camping, quiet shoreline time, Goat Island views, bodyboarding and surfing in suitable conditions.