The Best North Shore Oahu Beaches to Visit

The North Shore of Oahu is home to the most beautiful and laid-back beaches in the world. White sand beaches with stunning coastline views added with twinkling turquoise water. If you’re heading to the North shore beaches soon, I’ve outlined all the best ones to explore in this guide “The Best North Shore Oahu Beaches to Visit”.

Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)

Beautiful beach in Hawaii Laniakea beach

girl sitting behind a huge turtle at Turtle Beach in Oahu

Laniakea Beach is home to hundreds of sea turtles and is one of the cutest little beaches I have ever laid my eyes on. The best part is, you can snorkel with the sea turtles! It’s extremely important that you stay back 10ft from the sea turtles at all times. Make sure to bring your own snorkel and goggles because they don’t rent them there, it’s a small local beach.

Pupukea Beach Park

This hidden gem is located near Waimea Bay and Three Tables. Pupukea Beach Park is also known as shark’s cove. It’s a secluded cove with a rocky coastline that has calm waters in the summertime. Making it great conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Do note to get to the ocean you do need to climb down a steep dirt path.

Turtle Bay Resort

At the beginning of the “Seven Mile Miracle”, where world-class surf begins, is the Turtle Bay Resort. It’s the perfect home base when staying on the North Shore. There is no shortage of amenities when staying here and the views from the rooms are unbeatable. Finally, you’ll want to catch a sunrise or sunset at this beach. They’re straight magical and I loved watching the surfers shred!

Ka?a?awa Beach

One of the many filming locations of the show Lost is Ka?a?awa Beach. This beach has beautiful cliff-side views and was a lot quieter than most of the other beaches we visited. We noticed many people car camping here since they have showers and large bathrooms. There is even a swing hanging from one of the trees here but was only a rope when we arrived.

Three Tables Beach

Three Tables got its name from the three sections of flat reefs that appear on the surface of the ocean during low tide. It’s a prime spot for snorkelers and divers alike. The water is only 15 feet deep so you’ll be able to see all kinds of colorful fish and underwater lava tubes.

Haleiwa Beach Park

Haleiwa Bay Beach Park is known for calmer waters on the famous north shore. It’s a great spot for fishing, scuba diving, and beginner surfing. Adjacent to the park are picnic tables that are a great spot to post up for a BBQ.

Sunset Beach (pipeline)

A surfer’s dream. The Banzai pipeline is notably the most popular reef break in the world. It is incredibly dangerous and you should not attempt to surf this break unless you are a skilled surfer. We decided to post up here with some White Claws for sunset and watch the surfers shred and I highly recommend you do the same.

Travel Tip: there is a food truck market right across the road from Sunset Beach and they have great places to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

Lanikai Beach

Ok, this beach is technically not on the North Shore but I had to add this gem to the list. The pictures speak for themselves. The rich aqua blue water makes it prime snorkeling conditions. Do note, that this beach is quite small and does get packed pretty easily. Try to get here on the early side! Finally, it’s the perfect spot to relax after hiking the infamous Lanikai Pillbox hike.

Well, there you have it! Mahalo for reading my “Best Beaches on the North Shore Oahu to Visit”. Is there any beach I left off this list that needs to be added? Let me know below!