Makaleha Beach Park
Makaleha Beach Park is a peaceful and remote beach on Oahu's North Shore, known for its long white-sand shoreline, excellent shade, and scenic seclusion. A bit hidden from the main road, it's perfect for a picnic, a quiet swim, or snorkeling when the surf is calm.
Makaleha Beach Park, Oahu
Makaleha Beach Park (view panorama) × is one of the lesser-known beaches on Oahu's North Shore, located about 13 miles (21 km) west from popular Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay.It is beautiful with a long and curved sandy beach, azure blue waters and trees that provide ample shade.
The beach park is easy to miss from Farrington Highway, so many people drive right by it. It is accessible via a narrow beach access trail (look for a blue sign that says “public right-of-way to beach" which is hidden behind bushes and sometimes parked cars), located right across from the driveway to the Dillingham Lodge. There is no designated beach parking lot, only roadside parking.
After a 5-minute walk on the beach access trail you'll reach Makaleha Beach. It is backed by fenced-off private property where horses are being kept. The nearshore waters right where the beach access trail ends are rocky. But if you walk a little bit to the west (left), there is a sandy channel in the reef.
When the ocean is calm, the snorkeling can be good here. In the winter months (November to March), Oahu's North Shore often gets pounded by high surf. There are no lifeguards stationed here. The beach park also has no facilities.
Key Features of Makaleha Beach Park
- Scenic and secluded: A quiet spot away from the crowds with panoramic North Shore views.
- Shady shoreline: Ironwood trees provide plenty of shade, making it ideal for long beach days.
- Snorkeling potential: Calm summer days reveal a sandy reef channel perfect for snorkeling.
- Hidden entrance: Beach access is via a short trail off Farrington Highway, across from Dillingham Lodge.
- No facilities: There are no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards—plan accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you park at Makaleha Beach Park?
There is no designated parking lot. Roadside parking is available near the public beach access trail.
Is the beach suitable for swimming?
Yes, when ocean conditions are calm. Avoid swimming in winter due to high surf and lack of lifeguards.
Is it a good place to snorkel?
Yes, in the summer months. There is a sandy reef channel west of the access point with clear water and marine life.
Is there shade on the beach?
Yes, plenty of trees along the beach offer natural shade throughout the day.