Oahu Beach Guide

Kaloko Beach

Kaloko Beach is a rugged southeast Oahu coast stop near Sandy Beach and Ka Iwi, with lava rock, ocean views, surf watching and occasional monk seal visits.

Plan Your Visit

Kaloko Beach, Oahu

Kaloko Beach on Oahu's southeastern shore is easy to overlook. Most people visit the neighboring Sandy Beach Park and pass by this one. The main reason is that Kaloko Beach isn't a swimming beach. The nearshore ocean bottom is rocky. Also, there is no shade on the beach, so it's not a good picnicking spot either. The best thing to do here is to enjoy the view and take pictures. The Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline state park begins here.

Key Features

Rugged southeast Oahu beach near Sandy Beach Park and Ka Iwi
Better for scenery, lava-rock views, beach walks and surf watching than swimming
Rocky ocean bottom and no lifeguards
Informal roadside parking near Kalanianaole Highway
Hawaiian monk seals sometimes rest on quiet beaches in this area
Wide ocean views toward the Ka Iwi and Makapuu coast
Good short stop for photos, walking and watching waves from land
No full beach park facilities at the beach
Rough water and uneven rocks make water entry a poor choice
Keep a respectful distance from any monk seal or other wildlife on the beach

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Hawaiian monk seals visit Kaloko Beach?

Yes, Hawaiian monk seals sometimes rest on quiet rocky beaches along this part of Oahu. If you see one, stay well back, keep dogs away, avoid blocking its path to the ocean and let it rest without crowding it.

How is Kaloko Beach different from Sandy Beach?

Sandy Beach is the busy bodyboarding and shorebreak beach nearby. Kaloko Beach is much more rugged, with lava rock, reef, informal parking and a quieter feel focused on views, walking and watching the ocean.

Is Kaloko Beach part of the Ka Iwi coast?

Kaloko Beach is close to the Ka Iwi coastal area, where the southeast Oahu coast opens into lava-rock points, tidepool pockets, dry cliffs and wide ocean views toward Makapuu.

Why is Kaloko Beach not a swimming beach?

The nearshore bottom is rocky and uneven, and waves can push water hard against the lava edge. Most visitors keep this as a viewing, walking and surf-watching stop rather than a place to get in the water.

What kind of stop is Kaloko Beach?

Kaloko Beach is a short, rugged coast stop for people who like open ocean views, lava rock, wave photos and quieter scenery between Hawaii Kai, Sandy Beach and Makapuu.