Ala Moana Beach Park is a sprawling 100-acre oceanfront destination that attracts over 4 million visitors annually, making it one of Oahu's most popular beach parks. The park features a protected swimming area with calm waters ideal for families, along with Magic Island, a man-made peninsula that extends into the ocean and offers stunning sunset views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline. With nearly 950 parking stalls, extensive green spaces, and full-service lifeguard stations, this urban beach park has been a beloved community gathering spot since its opening in 1934.
The beach offers excellent conditions for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in the protected lagoon areas. Tennis courts, softball fields, and beach volleyball areas provide additional recreational opportunities, while the extensive pathways are popular for jogging, walking, and cycling. The park hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the annual Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony each Memorial Day, which draws tens of thousands of participants to honor loved ones who have passed.
Swimming conditions are best during summer months from May to September when the waters are calmest, though the protected location makes it suitable for swimming year-round. Winter months from October to April can bring larger surf to the outer areas, but the inner lagoons remain safe for swimmers. Lifeguards are on duty daily, and the shallow, protected waters make this an excellent choice for families with young children. Parking fills quickly on weekends and holidays, with the best availability before 9 AM. After a day at the beach, visitors can walk to the adjacent Ala Moana Center, Hawaii's largest open-air shopping mall, which features over 160 dining options including The Mariposa, ELEVEN at Foodland Farms, Liliha Bakery, and the Hookipa Terrace food court with diverse local and international cuisine.
