Wailupe Beach Park

Wailupe Beach Park is a small east Honolulu beach park between Kahala and Hawaii Kai, with reefy water, bay views, fishing, paddling and a neighborhood setting.

Wailupe Beach Park, Oahu

Wailupe Beach Park is a small neighborhood park in east Honolulu, located in Aina Haina. The beach is very narrow and the water looks brown and murky. It's not a good beach for swimming because the nearshore ocean bottom is too shallow and there is a coral reef.

The beach park is mainly frequented by fishermen and local residents who come here for a picnic. It is easily accessible since it is located along Kalanianaole Highway. Some surfers also enter the ocean here to get to the surf spots Wailupe, Kim's, Suicides and Bones offshore.

Even though it's a small park and water activities, except for fishing, surfing and kayaking, are not really possible, restrooms, showers and picnic tables are available.

The adjacent Wailupe Peninsula is man-made. In the early 20th century, a fishpond was located here. In the 1930s, the company Hawaiian Dredging filled it up with coral and rocks, which came from building the adjacent boat channel. The peninsula is now a residential community.

Key Features

Small east Honolulu beach park between Kahala and Hawaii Kai
Reefy, shallow water with rocky areas
No lifeguards at Wailupe Beach Park
Neighborhood beach setting with limited parking
Popular for fishing, paddling, short walks and bay views
Kayaks and paddleboards may launch in calm conditions
Swimming is limited by reef and shallow water
Close to Kawaikui Beach Park and Kuli'ou'ou Beach Park
Near the Maunalua Bay shoreline
Park respectfully and avoid blocking nearby homes

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Wailupe Beach Park different from Waialae Beach Park?

Wailupe Beach Park is farther east, closer to Hawaii Kai and Maunalua Bay. Waialae Beach Park is closer to Kahala, the Kahala Hotel and Waialae Country Club.

Is Wailupe Beach Park good for swimming?

Swimming is limited because the nearshore water is shallow, reefy and rocky in many areas. Calm days may allow careful wading, but this is not a wide sandy swimming beach.

Why do people go to Wailupe Beach Park?

People usually come to fish, paddle, launch a kayak, walk briefly along the shore or enjoy a quiet east Honolulu water view. It is a small neighborhood beach park, not a large beach-day destination.

Can you paddle from Wailupe Beach Park?

Kayaks and paddleboards are sometimes launched from the area when conditions are calm. Check wind, tide and reef conditions before going out, and avoid shallow reef areas.

What should visitors know about parking?

Parking is limited near Wailupe Beach Park and close to homes. Park only where allowed, do not block driveways and keep valuables out of sight.