Best Loved Local Beaches on Oahu

I partially grew up on the Island of Oahu, living in the beautiful suburban community of Hawaii Kai. It's the same community that has the Kona Brewing Co., and where "50 First Dates" was largely filmed. It's charming for tourists and locals alike. We have Koko Head Crater, Hanauma Bay and the infamous Blow Hole, all jam-packed into an eventful day trip from Honolulu. It's also home to some of the best loved-beaches on the island. On this list I will flush out some carefully preserved local secrets to finding the best beaches on Oahu.

1. From Here to Eternity, a.k.a Cockroach Cove.

Growing up this was my absolute favorite beach! It's where they filmed the movie of the same name with Frank Sinatra, in that nostalgic scene where he is rolling around on the sand kissing the leading lady. Locals tend to call it Cockroach Cove, but it's proper name is actually Halona Beach (NB: no one calls it that but tourists). It is right beside the blowhole lookout off of Kalanianaole Highway. The cove is not abundant with sand, but there are some brilliant tide pools that kids love to hunt for tiny fish and sea urchins in, and there is a long tunnel that has been carved into the cliff and connects the beach to the other side of the highway. The cove itself is fun to climb all over, and use as a natural platform to jump off into the crystalline waters. However, the waves can be quite strong here so do be careful and don't go too far out over the rocks or risk getting swept off of them by a rogue blast of wave.

72 Kalanianole Highway Honolulu, HI 96805

2. Bellows Beach

You can only visit the best parts of Bellows beach by driving onto the Bellows Air Force base, and you have to gain entry permission from the on duty guards; but as long as the beach isn't being used for training on that day, or if you have a friend with a military pass then you should be able to access the pristine beach. I love this beach because of the lush trees that run parallel its entire length, for the quietude, and of course for the unsurpassed mountain views. Also, my best friend from childhood got married here in 2015 and that was pretty wonderful too! The Air Force base can be accessed off of Kalanianaole Highway, just past Waimanalo Beach on the island's south-east side. There are campsites available too and I would highly recommend staying there for a few days if you can swing it.

41-43 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795

3. Baby Makapuu

Travel blogs typically recommend Makapuu beach, which is very pretty--however, Baby Makapuu is where it is at. Or "Baby Maks", as locals say. Unlike its nearby big brother, Baby Makapuu is very tame with the waves, making an ideal spot to learn how to surf. The beach is popular for families with small children, as they can swim in the shallow, non-violent water or hunt for treasure in the beach's tide pools. The beach is just down Kalanianaole Highway from Cockroach Cove.

41-95 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795

4. Waimanalo

Like Bellows, Waimanalo is beyond picturesque. This is a long stretch of tree-lined beach, with gentle surf that is perfect for boogie boarding and top-of-the-line-views of the surrounding majestic cliffs. What makes Waimanalo special is that locals are often barbecuing out on the beach, and the smell of pulled pork or the prospect of a cold Rainbow Ice from one of the many little Icy stands is unbeatable. Loads of people pull their trucks up to the surf and open up their hatches. You can camp, you can get married, you can see all your Uncles and Aunties at once! Basically, it is the epitome of positive Hawaii vibes.

41-741 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795

5. Waimea Bay

Not exactly a well-kept secret, Waimea Bay is a must on any travelers list. It reached international fame after the Beach Boys came out with their 1963 release "Surfin' USA". But the beach was known even before that for the burgeoning surfing community of North Shore, where the pristine surf breaks have been ridden since 1957. In 1984 the first Quilksilver big wave competition was held here, and it has been held every year since then in January. The waves are strongest in winter in Hawaii, but beyond that there is no real weather change to signify seasonal differentiation. Though the waves here can be pretty daunting if you're new to surfing, the water is pretty calm until you get far out so you can swim and play at leisure. And be sure to jump off of the very tall rock, aptly known as "The Rock"!

61-031 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712-1304

6. Camp Erdman

On the far north eastern shore of Oahu, the YMCA has 10 acres of beautiful beach they reserve for a summer camp; however, it is open to the public and as you hike westward along the beach it becomes increasingly rocky approaching Ka'ena Point. While you can hike Ka'ena Point to the other side of the island, it should be noted that you cannot drive around that way, so it is definitely an in and out situation unless you Uber it! Fun fact, this is also the beach where much of the show "Lost" was filmed.

69-385 Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI 96791

7. Makaha Beach Park

The Leeward side of Oahu is much less traversed by the typical tourist, this is partially because it is a bit of trek to drive out to. Also, it has an unfair reputation as being slightly adverse to tourists--however, as long as you are respectful and friendly you will find nothing but welcoming hospitality here. The Leeward side of the island is affectionately known as "the desert" by locals because it is much more dry and arid, as you'll notice from the landscape. The beaches are supreme and have excellent surf, really almost on par with the north shore and definitely less crowded. The surf here feels a bit more like a "real" Hawaiian experience than surf on North Shore, simply because it is less commercial and less well-known. Makaha is probably the local favorite for good surf and there are some pretty spectacular coral reefs nearby too. If you take a boat far enough out you'll be sure to see dolphins and sea turtles.

84-369 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792

8. Yokohama Beach Park.

At the very tip of the Leeward side of Oahu you'll find Yokohama beach, which is absoultely incredible for views and hiking. While the beach itself is rocky, there is something arresting about being at the very tip of the island and gazing out over the undulating mountains behind you. Hike out to Ka'ena Point, or just sit back and watch the sunset.

HI-93 Farrington HWY Waianae, HI 96792

9. Sandy's Beach

Last but not least, back on the island's east side is the turbulent but idealistic Sandy's Beach. It's very hard to miss if you're driving along the coast as it skates right along side of it. This beach is popular for boogie boarding but note that it can get very, very rough so do not underestimate the power of the surf break, unless you want to end up in a washing machine tumble. Also, the current can be rather strong so while many opt to swim out past the surf break, it is easy to get pulled down the beach. This beach is gorgeous for a long stroll, building the perfect sandcastle, flying kites (avid community of kite flyers here) or just appreciating the beauty that is Hawaii.

432 Kaumakani St, Honolulu, HI 96825