Is Lanikai Beach the Best Beach on Oahu?
Is Lanikai Beach the best beach on the island of Oahu? In our opinion, YES. Lanikai is our favorite beach on Oahu and the one place we never get tired of visiting.
While many other gorgeous beaches on the island also offer unique experiences, Lanikai Beach stands out for its stunning turquoise waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views of the nearby Mokulua Islands.
Yes, I know there are other beaches on the island, such as Waikiki Beach, known for its bustling atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. On the North Shore, you can find world-renowned surfing spots such as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. On the west side, the beautiful Ko Olina Lagoons are known for their family friendly beaches and luxurious resorts.
But what makes Lanikai Beach so special? Let’s dive into some of its unique features and why it should be at the top of your list when visiting Oahu.
Lanikai Has the Best Views
Our favorite thing about Lanikai Beach is undoubtedly the stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. These two small, picturesque islands are just a 30—to 45-minute kayak ride from Lanikai Beach.
Whether you like Lanikai Beach or not, we can all agree that the views of the Mokulua Islands are breathtaking.
Whether you’re lounging on the soft sand, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or taking a stroll along the shore, you can always catch a glimpse of these beautiful islands.
The Sunrise at Lanikai is Spectacular
We have watched many sunrises over the years, but nothing beats the sunrise at Lanikai Beach. Okay, maybe there are other places with equally or better sunrises, like Haleakala National Park and the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island, but we’re talking about Oahu here, so please stay with us!
If you’re an early riser (or not), we highly recommend waking up early at least once during your stay on Oahu to catch the sunrise at Lanikai Beach.
It is a magical experience, with the sun rising over the Mokulua Islands and casting a beautiful glow over the entire beach.
It’s a Perfect Beach for Water Activities
Lanikai Beach is not just a pretty face; it also offers plenty of water activities for visitors. The calm waters and soft sand make it ideal for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak and explore the Mokulua Islands up close.
A Photographer’s Paradise
With its stunning scenery and picturesque views, Lanikai Beach is a popular spot for both amateur and professional photographers.
The soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic backdrop of the Mokulua Islands provide endless opportunities for capturing the perfect shot.
Don’t ask me how many times I came here pretending to be a professional photographer. But you know what? You don’t even have to try that hard because the scenery makes it easy for you!
You Can Hike the Famous Lanikai Pillboxes Trail
If you’re looking for a little adventure, the Lanikai Pillboxes Trail is one of the best hikes on Oahu.
This popular hiking trail offers breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach and the surrounding islands from the top of two old World War II pillboxes.
The hike is short (only 1.8 miles round trip), but it can be steep and challenging in some sections, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear, be safe, and bring plenty of water.
Note: If you’re a local, you can take a different route called the Lanikai Pillbox Trail backway. This trail is longer than the main one that most people use, and we only recommend it for locals.
It’s Close to Kailua Beach Park
We love combining a visit to Lanikai Beach with a trip to Kailua Beach Park, just a few minutes away.
Kailua Beach Park offers another stunning slice of paradise that’s well worth a visit. Known for its powdery white sand and vibrant turquoise waters, Kailua Beach is often less crowded than Lanikai, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for beachgoers.
The beach is also renowned for its excellent windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions, thanks to the steady trade winds that grace its shores.
With plenty of picnic areas, showers, and restrooms, Kailua Beach Park is perfectly equipped for a complete beachside relaxation and fun day.
Combining our time at Lanikai Beach with a visit to Kailua Beach Park always gives us the best of both worlds.
It’s Close to Kailua Town
After soaking up the sun on Lanikai Beach and exploring, don’t miss the chance to venture into Kailua Town.
Just a short drive from Lanikai, Kailua Town is a charming hub of local culture, offering an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Strolling through the town, you’ll find everything from unique boutiques selling handmade goods to cozy coffee shops perfect for relaxing after a day in the sun.
While there, don’t forget to get shave ice from the famed Island Snow, one of the top places on Oahu for Shave Ice.
Should You Go to Lanikai Beach?
We obvisouly love Lanikai Beach and think it’s a must-visit spot on Oahu, but we recognize that it may not be for everyone.
In the spirit of keeping things positive in this article, we won’t discuss its potential downsides.
Instead, here is a separate article that discusses why Lanikai Beach might not be the best fit for everyone.
To be clear, we highly recommend taking a trip to Lanikai Beach and experiencing its stunning beauty for yourself!
