Kaimana Beach
Kaimana Beach, located at the eastern end of Waikiki, offers a spacious stretch of sand, calm water protected by a reef, and a rich history. Popular with families, it’s a convenient and scenic beach just a short walk from the heart of Waikiki. The beach also holds historical significance as the landing site of the first trans-Pacific telegraph cable in 1902.
Kaimana Beach, Oahu
If you're staying in Waikiki, Kaimana Beach (view panorama)× , named after the nearby hotel, is just a stroll away and a nice beach to go to. Walk toward Diamond Head, along Kapiolani Park on your left, and you'll get to Kaimana Beach. It is located between the War Memorial Natatorium and the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel.
Kaimana Beach is relatively wide, unlike Waikiki Beach, which is narrow in many areas. It is a nice family beach and many locals like to go here because it is protected by a wide reef and because the nearshore ocean bottom is shallow and sandy. The beach is also an access point for surfers, who paddle out to surf at the popular surf spot Old Man's.
Kaimana Beach (view panorama) × is also the place where an important historic event took place on December 28, 1902. The steamship Silvertown, which came from San Francisco and had laid a submarine cable from California to Hawaii, anchored here after a 12-day crossing of the ocean. The end of the cable was brought ashore through the Kapua Channel at Kaimana Beach, in a canoe steered by David Pi'ikoi Kahanamoku, an uncle of Duke Kahanamoku (who is perhaps the most remembered and respected Hawaiian surfer).
This cable was the first telegraphic link between Hawaii and the U.S. mainland. The first message was sent to President Theodore Roosevelt in Washington D.C. on January 1, 1903. Up until today, remnants of the cable, which was abandoned in 1951 for newer communication systems, still lie on the ocean floor in the channel at Kaimana Beach.
If you're swimming in this channel, be aware that the current can be quite strong, especially after a high tide when the water is flowing out. Ask the lifeguard on the beach if you're not sure about the tides and wear fins if you plan to swim further out.
Key Features of Kaimana Beach
- Wide sandy beach located at the eastern end of Waikiki
- Calm, reef-protected water ideal for swimming and families
- Historic site of the first submarine cable from California to Hawaii
- Popular access point for surfers heading to Old Man’s break
- Nearby park areas with shade and picnic spots
- Watch for strong currents in the Kapua Channel, especially after high tide
| |||||||
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kaimana Beach located?
It’s at the eastern end of Waikiki, between the War Memorial Natatorium and the Kaimana Beach Hotel, near the base of Diamond Head.
Is Kaimana Beach good for swimming?
Yes, the beach is protected by a reef, has a sandy bottom, and is usually calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Are there strong currents at Kaimana Beach?
Yes, the Kapua Channel near the beach can have strong currents, especially after high tide. Ask lifeguards before venturing far out.
What is the historical significance of the beach?
Kaimana Beach was the landing point for the first submarine telegraph cable between Hawaii and the mainland U.S. in 1902.
Are there facilities at Kaimana Beach?
Yes, the beach has showers, a lifeguard station, and nearby parking.