Kahana Bay Beach Park

Oahu Beach Guide

Kahana Bay Beach Park

Kahana Bay Beach Park is a peaceful windward Oahu bay known for Koolau Mountain views, ironwood shade, Huilua Fishpond, fishing, picnics and camping with a permit.

Great Beach for Picnics
Great Beach for Picnics

Kahana Bay Beach Park, Oahu

Surrounded on three sides by the majestic Ko'olau Mountains, Kahana Bay is one of the best-kept secrets of windward Oahu. The crescent shore is set against a beautiful backdrop of ironwood trees and the steep and lush Ko'olau Mountain Range. The sandy beach is a great spot for sunbathing, and the ironwood trees provide plenty of shade for a picnic. On the south end of the bay where Kahana Stream enters the ocean is an ancient Hawaiian fishpond called Huilua.

The waters are generally calm, but few people go swimming here because the water is murky from the runoff of Kahana Stream and the nearshore ocean bottom is rocky. Local residents like to camp here during weekends, so this is when the beach can get busy. A camping permit is required. See here for info on how to get a permit.

Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

5.0

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 3 rated visitor reviews, plus 1 unrated comment.

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Lani Laumua

Wed Jul 16, 2025

My twin sister and I were baptized here long time ago. Love this place.

Ian

Mon Jun 04, 2018

I proposed to my girlfriend here, it is absolutely magic

E.H.Dixon

Sun Sep 23, 2012

Very scenic views when the rains aren't clouding them; water is warm and chest-level out to about 400 meters from shore, the mountains surround the bay and the parasailers make their landings on the beachfront near the mouth of Kahana Stream. The terminus of the stream is swimmable, the water is cold and clear(spring-fed), but there are dozens of local kids diving from the heavily trafficked bridge that passes 10-12' overhead. Grounds are fairly well maintained, but facilities are cleaned once or twice weekly; so, by Saturday afternoon, the Port-o-potty isn't fit for man nor beast! All in all a nice park, but book early and guard your site carefully...lots of car, foot(loud music) and animal traffic day and night!

John

Tue Feb 14, 2012

One of the most scenic locations on the island! Swimming isn't really possible here, but the views are fantastic!

Location, Parking and Directions

Kahana Bay Beach Park is located along Kahana Valley Road and Kamehameha Highway near Kaaawa on Oahu's windward coast. Parking is available near the beach park, with restrooms and showers nearby. The bay sits between Kualoa and Hauula, close to Kaaawa Beach Park, Kualoa Regional Park and the entrance area for Kahana Valley.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kahana Bay Beach Park located?

Kahana Bay Beach Park is located along Kahana Valley Road and Kamehameha Highway near Kaaawa on Oahu's windward coast.

Is Kahana Bay Beach Park good for swimming?

Kahana Bay Beach Park is not one of Oahu's best swimming beaches. The water can be murky from Kahana Stream runoff, and the nearshore bottom can be rocky. Swimming should only be considered during calm, clear conditions.

Can you camp at Kahana Bay Beach Park?

Yes. Camping is popular at Kahana Bay Beach Park, especially on weekends, but a valid camping permit is required. Check current Honolulu camping rules before planning an overnight stay.

What is Huilua Fishpond?

Huilua Fishpond is a historic Hawaiian fishpond near the south end of Kahana Bay, where Kahana Stream enters the ocean. It is one of the cultural features that makes the bay significant.

What facilities are available at Kahana Bay Beach Park?

Kahana Bay Beach Park has restrooms, showers and parking, but no lifeguards. Visitors should bring their own water, food and beach or camping supplies.