Sandy Beach

Sandy Beach is a small east Molokai cove near mile marker 22, with clear calm-day water, a deeper nearshore bottom, offshore reef protection and a narrow coastal-road setting.

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Sandy Beach, Molokai

Sandy Beach on Molokai's east shore is a small roadside pocket of sand and one of the better swimming beaches on the island when conditions are calm. The nearshore ocean bottom is deeper here than on many other Molokai beaches, so it's easier to enter the water without having to walk on reef and rocks. The water is also clear here while many other beaches on Molokai's south and east shore have murky water.

There is a reef a little further offshore, which protects the beach from strong currents. However, a rip current occasionally forms along the south point of the beach.

Sandy Beach, located after Rock Point near mile marker 22, is the last sand beach before Halawa Beach Park. The road to Sandy Beach and beyond is narrow and has many blind curves. It is described on this scenic drive page.

Key Features

Small east Molokai cove near mile marker 22
Located along East Kamehameha V Highway
Sits after Rock Point and before Halawa Beach
Last sandy beach stop before Halawa Beach Park
Clearer water than many nearby south and east Molokai beaches
Deeper nearshore bottom makes ocean entry easier in calm conditions
Offshore reef helps shelter the cove from some strong currents
Rip current can occasionally form near the south point
Narrow coastal road has blind curves near the beach
Limited roadside parking means stopping safely matters

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sandy Beach located on Molokai?

Sandy Beach is along East Kamehameha V Highway near mile marker 22 on Molokai's east shore, after Rock Point and before Halawa Beach.

Is Sandy Beach good for swimming?

Sandy Beach can be good for swimming when the ocean is calm because the nearshore water is deeper and clearer than at many nearby beaches.

Why is the water clearer at Sandy Beach?

The nearshore bottom is deeper here than at many nearby south and east Molokai beaches, and an offshore reef helps shelter the cove in calm conditions.

What ocean hazards should visitors watch for?

A rip current can occasionally form near the south point of the beach, and the ocean should be avoided when surf, wind or current is active.

What should visitors know about the road?

The road near Sandy Beach is narrow and has many blind curves. Drive slowly, watch for oncoming traffic and park only where there is safe room.