A real Oahu paradise on Waimanalo Beach
When you think of a tropical paradise, you are likely thinking about Waimanalo Beach. Flaunting cotton-white sands and groves of lonely ironwood trees on the south-west side of rugged Oahu, this mountain-backed stretch of pristine coastline is where the travel brochures go to get their Hawaii money shot. It's easy to see why with the lapping Pacific glowing turquoise against the shore, the volcanic peaks with their green forests glimmering above, and the soft salt breezes rolling in around the clock. When it comes to Waimanalo Beach vacation rentals, there's everything on offer, from beachfront villas to luxury condos with bubbling hot tubs.
Sea life galore in Waimanalo Beach
One of the reasons so many people make the hop over the Koolau Mountains from Honolulu to Waimanalo is the acclaimed Sea Life Park Hawaii. This multi-pool aquarium and wildlife center is packed with splashing sea lions and bottlenose dolphins. You can strike items off of your bucket list by swimming with the majestic mammals or spend your day learning all about the unique underwater fauna of the Pacific Ocean. There's enough to keep the whole family busy just steps from all of the Waimanalo Beach vacation rentals on offer.
Wallowing on Waimanalo Beach
Grab a book, set up the hammock and unwind in one of the salt-washed Waimanalo Beach vacation rentals. No one could blame you â that's precisely what this Pacific-side corner of Oahu is best for: relaxing. But it's not all R&R with the sound of the waves in the background â there are also stunning panoramic lighthouse treks around the rocky headlands in the area, as well as forest walks and volcano hikes. There are whale-watching and dolphin encounters to be had in the marine parks. There's loads of activities to do every hour of the day, if you choose to take a break from your relaxation!
Waimanalo Beach is a seascape to remember
Waimanalo Beach has everything you'd want from a Hawaiian paradise. Long, soft stretches of sugar-white sand merge with a sky blue ocean, all shrouded by the rugged rises of the Koolau Mountains and their patches of forest above. The coast to the south gives way to the craggy cliffs of Makapuu Point, where black-rock coves come dotted with salty waves and patches of green seaside meadow. Dolphins, whales, sea lions and more all inhabit the waters here, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled to spot them all.
How to get to and around Waimanalo Beach
Fly into Daniel K. Inouye Intl. Airport (HNL), the closest airport, located 15 mi (24.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Kapolei, HI (JRF-Kalaeloa), which is 24.7 mi (39.8 km) away.