Kaaawa Beach

"This is a wonderful beach for children, especially small ones! Because it's within walking distance of where I live, this is one of my favorite beaches for a quick break whenever I need fresh air, some sand between my toes and a refreshing swim in the ocean.  Kaaawa Beach is actually two beaches, which have kinda different vibes. This is the north section. Please see "View of "Jurassic Park" Beach" for the south section. At high tide, they are divided by a small rocky outcrop but at low tide, you can easily walk between the two.  Although it's right on the main road (the Kamehameha Highway,) it feels like a different world once you're on the sand or in the ocean.  When I first moved to this part of the island several years ago, I actually dismissed this beach because it's so close to the road. Having been to so many other more secluded or expansive ones on Oahu, I assumed it would be a disappointment. Thankfully, I was completely wrong and  instantly fell in love with this sweet little place.  Thanks to the shallow water and outlying reef, which breaks up the big swells, the waves here rarely get hectic or dangerous (apart from in a storm) making it perfect for families with children and not-so-brave swimmers.  At the very north end of the beach, there is a volcanic rock "swimming pool," which breaks the oceanic movement even more and makes a wonderful place for a very tranquil swim.  In addition to the shallow, tranquil water, some other things that make this such a very child-friendly beach are:  ~~ There are several tree formations/little nooks which provide good shade where you can set yourself up for a great day in the sun, without always being in the blazing sun. ~~ You can park on the road near where you want to spend time, so you can easily jump back into your car and grab anything you might need or have forgotten. ~~ There is a lovely shave ice stall right across the road if you want a treat or some drinks.  ... It's also great for grown-ups! There are also restrooms, changing facilities and an outdoor communal rinse-off shower to the south at the beach park entrance.  For any swimming outside the "swimming pool" area, you might want to consider wearing water shoes as there is random coral on the ocean bed. I am a big fan of these, espacially for kids, as one little coral knick can take ages to heal! (Please see Useful Tips for more.)  >> The first 14 photos below are mine.>> ~~~~~~~~~~ // ~~~~~~~~~~ // ~~~~~~~~~~ NEARBY ACTIVITIES & POINTS OF INTEREST: The hub of activities in this area is mainly at Kualoa Ranch. They offer several tours and experiences, including a Jurrasic Adventure Tour, Horse Riding, Ziplining, an Ocean Adventure, Electric Mountain Biking, ATV Raptor Tour, a Hollywood Movie Sights Tour, Eco and Farming Tours and others. Best to check their website and book in advance if possible. This is a very popular place and tours fill up quickly! (www.kualoa.com/kualoa-tours-activities) The Macadamia Nut Farm, about a mile south of Kualoa Ranch is also wrth a visit for the very tranquil setting and unique snacks and gifts. (www.macnutfarm.com) ~~~~~~~~~~  //  ~~~~~~~~~~ // ~~~~~~~~~~ FACILITIES:   Communal open-air rinse-off showers, restrooms and enclosed changing areas.  LIFEGUARD: None.  DIRECTIONS: The main part of Kaaawa Beach is almost directly across from the elementary school. (Imagine going to school here!)   Coming from the south, about a mile after Kualoa Ranch, you'll cross a small bridge over a little river into Kaaawa Village. The first beach is "Jurassic Park View Beach" (Kaaawa Beach Park South.)  You'll pass the very small parking lot and park facilities. Then, after you pass a small shave ice stand on the mountain ("mauka") side, this is Kaaawa North Beach. You can see the lava rock pool from the road at low tide and can stop anywhere along here. Coming from the north, be on the lookout for the small beach right after Swanzy Beach Park. Swanzy Beach Park is right across from the 7-11 and not a very desirable beach to stop at. PARKING:  There is only roadside parking here. Be sure not to park on people's lawns on the mountain, or "mauka" side.   BUS:  The bus stop is Kaaawa Beach Park / Kaaawa Elementary School. From the bus stop, walk a minute or two north from the little beach park, parking lot and facilities. You can either walk on the road at high tide or on the beach at low tide. Bus #60.   FOOD & DRINK NEARBY:  Within walking distance, you'll find a small shave ice stand across the main road with outdoor seating. This is a very friendly mini-food trailer in someone's yard, which has become more permanent than "pop-up" due to it's popularity..  You'll also find a 7-11 and Uncle Bobo's about a quarter of a mile to the north. The 7-11 has many snacks and bites to eat which are only available in their Hawaii chains.  Uncle Bobo's has a rotating menu of ahi tacos, chilli rice bowls, various types of BBQ and other local specialties. Opening days vary by the season but generally from noon to 5pm.This is a small take away which sometimes has outdoor seating."

"Kaaawa Beach must be added to your bucket list! With the ocean and Mountain View’s in the background, this makes for the best picturesque location! Please note: 🏝️Small beach. 🏝️Limited parking in a high theft area. 🏝️No restrooms. 🏝️Perfect for pictures! 🏝️Waves vary on height. "

"Picture-perfect beach on the East side of the island near Jurassic Valley. Bathrooms & outdoor showers on site to change and rinse off sand."