Kuilima Cove

Oahu Beach Guide

Kuilima Cove

Kuilima Cove is a small protected North Shore beach near Turtle Bay, known for calm water, sandy entry and beginner snorkeling.

Kuilima Cove Sunset
Kuilima Cove Sunset

Kuilima Cove, Oahu

Kuilima Cove on Oahu's North Shore. It is where resort guests go swimming, but the beach is also open to the public. The beach lies in a protected cove between two limestone points, Kuilima Point or Kalaeokaunu (which means "the point of the altar") to the west and Kahuku Point or Kalaeokamanu (which means "the point of the birds") to the east. The former was named for an altar that was once located on the point and used by Hawaiian fishermen. Residents have called the beach Kalokoiki, "the little pool" in the past; today, the cove is known as Kuilima Cove .

Swimming and snorkeling is good here, but during high surf, be aware of a strong rip current that runs out of the cove and into the open ocean along Turtle Bay Point (the peninsula on which the resort is located). In case of high surf, it is better to stay near the shore. You can access the beach through the resort's public parking lot.

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Debora

Fri Feb 24, 2012

We stayed for 4 nights at the Turtle Bay Resort in the summer of 2010. We loved this beach because we could actually go swimming there (contrary to a few other nearby beaches, which were too rocky to even enter the water). We also liked that hotel service was available at the beach. We loved sipping Mai Tais while sunbathing on this beach.

Photo gallery

Browse Kuilima Cove photos featuring the protected beach, clear cove waters, Turtle Bay Resort views and scenic North Shore Oahu shoreline.

Location, Parking and Directions

Kuilima Cove is located near 57-091 Kamehameha Highway in Kahuku, beside the Turtle Bay resort area on Oahu's North Shore. From Haleiwa, follow Kamehameha Highway east toward Turtle Bay; from Laie or Kahuku, follow Kamehameha Highway west toward Turtle Bay. Use the public beach access parking near the resort area, then follow the short walking route to the cove. Parking is limited, so follow posted signs and use only designated public access spaces.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kuilima Cove located?

Kuilima Cove is located next to Turtle Bay on Oahu's North Shore, near Kahuku and the Turtle Bay resort area.

Is Kuilima Cove good for snorkeling?

Yes. Kuilima Cove can be good for beginner snorkeling when surf is low and the water is clear. Stay near shore and avoid stepping on coral.

Is Kuilima Cove open to the public?

Yes. Kuilima Cove has public beach access through the Turtle Bay resort area, with designated beach access parking nearby.

Are there lifeguards at Kuilima Cove?

No. There are no lifeguards at Kuilima Cove, so visitors should use caution, especially during high surf or when currents are moving near the cove opening.

What is Kuilima Cove best for?

Kuilima Cove is best for swimming, beginner snorkeling, family beach time, calm-water photos and a relaxed Turtle Bay area beach stop.