Sandy Beach Park

Sandy Beach Park is a famous east Oahu bodyboarding beach near Hawaii Kai, known for powerful shorebreak, strong surf, lifeguards and coastal views.

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Sandy Beach Park, Oahu

Sandy Beach Park is located on Oahu's southeastern shore. With its pounding waves and powerful shorebreak, it is popular among experienced bodyboarders and bodysurfers. This beach is known as one of the most dangerous beaches in Hawaii, and people call it "the beach of broken necks" or "Broke Neck Beach" for a reason. Sadly, numerous people have become paralyzed after enjoying the waves at Sandy's. Others have drowned. For general ocean safety, see these Hawaii beach safety tips.

On most days of the year, you will see red warning flags and signs posted on the beach that warn people about the dangers: strong currents, dangerous shorebreak, high surf and sharp coral. Even if the ocean looks calm, which is rare here because there are waves on almost every day of the year, be aware that dangerous currents may still be present.

Many people come to Sandy Beach Park to watch the waves, take photos and relax on the beach. There is no shade on the beach itself. The beach park has a large grassy area with picnic tables, restrooms and showers.

Key Features

Famous east Oahu bodyboarding and bodysurfing beach
Known for powerful shorebreak close to shore
Notorious nickname: Broke Neck Beach
Lifeguards are on duty at Sandy Beach Park
Popular for surf watching, photos, beach walks and coastal views
Not a casual swimming beach on most days
Strong current and sudden wave force can be dangerous
Located between Hanauma Bay and Makapu'u
Close to Halona Beach Cove and Halona Blowhole lookout
Ask lifeguards before entering the water

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Sandy Beach nicknamed Broke Neck Beach?

Sandy Beach earned that notorious nickname because of its powerful shorebreak and history of serious neck and back injuries. The wave can break very close to shore, so even strong swimmers should think carefully before entering.

Why is Sandy Beach famous for bodyboarding?

The steep shorebreak creates fast, powerful waves that attract skilled bodyboarders and bodysurfers. It is exciting to watch from the sand, but the same wave energy can be dangerous for anyone without experience.

Is Sandy Beach good for casual swimming?

No. Sandy Beach is not a casual swimming beach on most days because of the heavy shorebreak, strong current and sudden wave force near shore. Ask lifeguards before considering the water.

How is Sandy Beach different from Makapu'u Beach Park?

Both beaches can have powerful surf, but Sandy Beach is especially known for its close-to-shore break and bodyboarding scene. Makapu'u has a wider scenic beach setting below the cliffs and offshore islands.

What can you do at Sandy Beach without going in the water?

Many visitors come to watch bodyboarders, take photos, walk along the sand and enjoy the southeast Oahu coastline. The drive between Hanauma Bay, Halona and Makapu'u also makes this area a scenic part of the coast.