Oahu Beach Guide

Wawamalu Beach

Wawamalu Beach is a rugged southeast Oahu beach near Sandy Beach, with wild coastal views, strong surf, fishing, sunrise light and no lifeguards.

Plan Your Visit

Wawamalu Beach, Oahu

Wawamalu Beach is located on Oahu's southeastern shore, near the popular Sandy Beach Park and Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline. Few people come to Wawamalu Beach, mainly because this is not a good beach to go swimming. The nearshore ocean bottom is rocky. The beach itself is sandy with some lava rocks at the water's edge, but there is no shade. The beach also doesn't have any facilities. Once in a while Hawaiian monk seals may visit Wawamalu Beach, like the one that can be seen in the photo gallery below.

Wawamalu Beach sits along the Kalanianaole Highway coastal route, where the shoreline is rugged and exposed. It is better for fishing, photography, wave watching and a short scenic stop than for swimming.

Key Features

Rugged southeast Oahu beach between Sandy Beach Park and Makapu'u
Open coastal setting with rock, sand, surf views and strong sunrise light
No lifeguards, no large beach-park lot and limited roadside-style parking nearby
Not a casual swimming beach because surf, current and rough coastal conditions can be dangerous
Often visited for fishing, coastal photos, surf watching and a quieter stop along the drive
Close to Sandy Beach Park, Halona Beach Cove, Makapu'u Beach Park and the Makapu'u Lighthouse area
Located along Kalanianaole Highway, so use care near traffic and park only where allowed
The beach is exposed to wind and waves, and conditions can change quickly along this coast
Bring water and sun protection, since shade and services are limited at the beach
Stay back from rocks and ledges when surf is breaking along the shoreline

Wawamalu Beach

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is Wawamalu Beach different from Sandy Beach?

Wawamalu is quieter and more rugged, with a rockier coastal feel and fewer facilities. Sandy Beach is larger, more active and famous for powerful shorebreak and bodyboarding.

Is Wawamalu Beach good for swimming?

No. Wawamalu is exposed to strong surf, current and rough coastal conditions, and there are no lifeguards. Most visitors stay on land for views, fishing, photos or surf watching.

Why do people stop at Wawamalu Beach?

People usually stop for sunrise light, coastal photos, fishing, surf watching and the open southeast Oahu scenery. It is a rugged roadside beach, not a full beach-day park.

What is near Wawamalu Beach?

Sandy Beach Park is nearby to the west, while Makapu'u Beach Park and the Makapu'u Lighthouse area are farther east. Hanauma Bay, Halona and Hawaii Kai are also close along the same coastal drive.

Is Wawamalu Beach good for sunrise?

Yes. The southeast-facing coast can catch beautiful early light, especially on clear mornings. Arrive carefully, park legally and stay aware of traffic along Kalanianaole Highway.