Ma'ili Beach Park
Ma'ili Beach Park is a spacious beach on Oahu's leeward coast, known for its long white sand, excellent surf, and dramatic sunsets. With lifeguards, facilities, and a designated camping area, it's both scenic and family-friendly. Though the surf can be rough, it's a great spot for experienced surfers and for soaking in local charm.
Ma'ili Beach Park, Oahu
This is a long white-sand beach located along Farrington Highway on Oahu's west shore (view panorama)× . The 40-acre park is named after the small town of Ma'ili. Much of the shoreline is lined by rock shelves. In the winter months, the beach gets pounded by high surf and strong currents can be present on any day. There is a spacious park with plenty of room for a picnic. A popular surf site called Green Lanterns is just offshore near the mouth of Ma'ili'ili Stream, and another one called Tumbleland is near the center of the beach. Camping is allowed at Ma'ili Beach Park, but a permit is required. For more info on how to get a permit.
Inland from Ma'ili Beach Park is the Naval Radio Transmitter Facility Lualualei (NRTF Lualualei). The two tallest masts are 1,503 feet (458 m) tall. When they were built in 1972, they were the tallest man-made structure in the Western Hemisphere at the time. The facility is used to transmit high and low frequency radio signals to communicate with Navy vessels including submarines throughout the Pacific. Both the Navy and the Coast Guard use this facility.
Key Features of Ma'ili Beach Park
- Expansive beach and park: Over a mile of soft white sand, plus grassy picnic areas and trees for shade
- Surf and bodyboard friendly: Popular with experienced surfers - watch for winter swells and currents
- Camping allowed: Overnight camping with a permit - great for weekend getaways
- Facilities and safety: Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, and parking available
- Monk seal sightings: Hawaiian monk seals are known to rest on the beach here
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp overnight at Ma'ili Beach Park?
Yes, camping is permitted, but you'll need to obtain a camping permit from the City & County of Honolulu.
Is the beach good for swimming?
Swimming is possible but caution is advised. There are strong currents, especially during winter months.
What facilities are available?
The beach park has showers, restrooms, lifeguard stations, and free parking areas.
Are there any wildlife sightings?
Yes, Hawaiian monk seals are occasionally spotted napping on the sand. Please keep a respectful distance.