Ala Moana Beach Park

The Basics

Ala Moana Beach Park’s calm, shallow water is ideal for swimming and wading, making this a particularly kid-friendly spot. There are surfing and stand-up paddleboard rentals and lessons available, though many beachgoers just choose to relax on a beach towel or watch the vivid sunset from shore. Picnic tables for self-catering are located near the beach.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Ala Moana Beach Park is ideal for beachgoers of all ages.

• There are lifeguards on duty, showers, restrooms, and picnic tables available.

• Don’t forget your towel, sunscreen, and drinking water.

How to Get There

Conveniently located between downtown Honolulu and Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach Park is easily reached on foot, by bus, or by car. There is a large, free parking lot fronting the beach, but spots fill up by afternoon, especially on weekends.

When to Get There

Ala Moana Beach Park is open year-round during daylight hours. It can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so arrive early to snag a good spot on the sand. Oahu has a mild, tropical climate with hotter days in summer and a rainy season typically from November to March.

Magic Island

Just next to Ala Moana Beach Park is a man-made peninsula officially named Aina Moana but known locally as Magic Island. Originally built in 1964 to house a resort that never materialized, today Magic Island is a public park and a favorite spot for walking, jogging, and enjoying the view—in fact, many claim that Aina Moana is the island’s top sunset watching spot. There is a small beach with a lagoon for swimming, but the water can be rough and not as calm as Ala Moana Beach Park.