Makaha Beach Park

Oahu Beach Guide

Makaha Beach Park

Makaha Beach Park is a scenic west Oahu beach known for summer swimming, winter surf, lifeguards, diving, picnics and sunset views.

Beach Canoe
Beach Canoe

Makaha Beach Park, Oahu

Makaha Beach Park is located on Oahu's leeward (west) coast and offers good swimming, bodyboarding and surfing conditions. The swimming is better in the summer months when the ocean is generally calmer here (but exceptions are always possible). In the winter months, the surf is often times up and there is a strong shorebreak and rip currents. This is when Makaha Beach is only suitable for experienced surfers. Before going into the water, pay attention to all signs posted at the beach and ask the lifeguards about the current ocean conditions.

If you want to swim, enter the ocean in the middle section of the beach where there is no reef. Surfers usually prefer the northern end of the beach because this is where the waves break on the reef (near the hotel). However, it's only recommended for experienced surfers. Especially during low tide the reef is close to the water's surface and it is sharp.

Makaha Beach Park is located on the driest side of the island, so especially in the summer months it is hot and dry here. Bring enough water and sunscreen and maybe even a beach umbrella because there is not much shade on the beach.

Makaha Beach Park is one of the more popular beach parks on this side of the island, but nevertheless the beach is hardly ever crowded. The busiest times are the weekends when local residents come here with their families to picnic and relax. There are a few picnic tables, restrooms and showers.

Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

4.4

Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on 10 rated visitor reviews.

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Bonnie

Tue Mar 11, 2014

We have lived here many years and enjoy both the locals and the newcomers. It is truly one of the best beaches in the world. There is a turtle cleaning station, Makaha Caverns which is great for snorkeling, dolphins further out. Take a look on google earth to get to know the underwater layout, so you know the reef. It's true, in the summer it's best for swimming, winter only if you know what you're doing. Riptides can pull you sideways so get out before you're too tired to get back in. All in all, perfection. The beach itself has beautiful sand that my kids love to play in. Enjoy watching the surfers in the winter months, and bring your boogie board.

MDE

Fri Jul 22, 2011

Beautiful beach and nice quiet area. Yes, there are some homeless people but nobody bothers anyone. They live outside because they can! The weather, the beach, the water and sealife are all amazing. I would go back in a heartbeat!

JK

Wed May 11, 2011

MANY HOMELESS THERE IN "TENT CITY" ON THE BEACH USING PUBLIC RESTROOMS AS ONLY MEANS OF
WASHING, ETC. ALL OF OAHU IS BEAUTIFUL, BUT THERE ARE SOME MANY POOR AND HOMELESS ON MAKAHA SIDE. CHILDREN GO TO SCHOOL WITH NO REAL ADDRESS.

mark

Thu Feb 17, 2011

one of two beaches on the west side of ohau to go to swim at as you can relax,sunbathe,and swim the next time i go back to hawaii i know exactly where to go

Craig

Jan 22, 2011

Nice beach to stop at but not a nice area to stay the week at during a vacation. Lots of sketchy homeless people in this area. Need to drive a long way to find any decent restaurants.

Location, Parking and Directions

Makaha Beach Park is located at 84-369 Farrington Highway in Makaha on Oahu's leeward coast. From Kapolei, follow Farrington Highway west through Nanakuli, Ma'ili and Waianae toward Makaha. From Waianae, continue northwest on Farrington Highway until the beach park appears on the ocean side of the road. Parking is available at the beach park, and TheBus Route C also serves the Waianae Coast from Honolulu.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Makaha Beach Park located?

Makaha Beach Park is located at 84-369 Farrington Highway in Makaha on Oahu's leeward coast.

Is Makaha Beach Park good for swimming?

Makaha Beach Park can be good for swimming in calmer summer conditions, especially near the middle section of the beach. Winter surf and rip currents can be dangerous.

Is Makaha Beach Park good for surfing?

Yes. Makaha is one of Oahu's classic west shore surf spots, especially in winter. The northern reef break is best for experienced surfers.

Are there lifeguards at Makaha Beach Park?

Yes. Makaha Beach Park has lifeguards, and visitors should ask them about surf, rip currents, reef and low-tide hazards before entering the water.

What facilities are available at Makaha Beach Park?

The park has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking and lifeguards, making it one of the more practical beach parks on Oahu's west shore.