Kaiaka Bay Beach Park
Kaiaka Bay Beach Park is a large, grassy oceanfront park located in Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore. It's a peaceful spot for camping, picnics, and scenic views of the mountains and coastline. While swimming is limited due to the rocky shore and runoff, the park offers cultural intrigue with its famous balancing rock and ample open space to relax.
Kaiaka Bay Beach Park, Oahu
Located on Oahu's North Shore on the Kaiaka Point peninsula in Haleiwa (view panorama)×, this spacious (53 acre) beach park is a great spot to relax, have a picnic or play ball games. Because it is located on a peninsula and no major street is nearby, it is quiet here.
Kaiaka means "shadowy sea" in the Hawaiian language. The ocean in this area looks brown and murky and indeed as if a shadow has fallen on it. The swimming conditions at the west end of the peninsula are poor because of soil runoff from the nearby Paukauila and Kiki'i Streams. Also, there are many sharp rocks at the water's edge on that side, as well as a dark, detrital sand beach. The best area for swimming is at the east end of the peninsula where there is a sandy beach. But it's more like a dip into the water rather than a swim because of the rocks in the water.
From the park one can enjoy nice views of the Waianae Mountains and the neighboring Haleiwa beaches and coastline. Located in the park is what looks like a giant stone mushroom. It is a so-called balancing rock, and legend has it that it floated ashore from the distant land of Kahiki. In Hawaiian the name of this large limestone is Pohaku Lana'i.
There are many picnic areas in the park, and several designated campsites are at the northern end of the peninsula. A permit is required to camp here. More info on how to get a permit. However, there is no shade in this area. It's a large open grassy area.
Key Features of Kaiaka Bay Beach Park
- Large peninsula park: 53-acre park (view panorama) × with expansive grassy fields ideal for recreation and gatherings
- Scenic and peaceful: Offers great views of the Waianae Mountains and a quiet atmosphere
- Pohaku o Lana'i rock: A balancing stone tied to Hawaiian legend and cultural history
- Designated camping areas: Overnight stays allowed with permit; mainly used by local families
- Limited swimming: Sandy entry at east end, but sharp rocks and murky water deter swimmers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaiaka Bay Beach Park good for swimming?
Swimming is possible at the east end, but conditions are not ideal due to rocks and runoff. Caution is advised.
Can you camp overnight?
Yes, the park has designated campsites. A permit is required.
What is the significance of the balancing rock?
The Pohaku o Lana'i is a large limestone rock said to have floated from Kahiki. It holds cultural meaning for Native Hawaiians.
Is this a good spot to watch the sunset?
Yes, the park's open west-facing location makes it great for catching a North Shore sunset.