Alan Davis Beach, officially designated as part of the Ka'iwi State Scenic Shoreline, sits at the southeastern tip of Oahu where the island's dramatic volcanic cliffs meet the cobalt blue waters of the Kaiwi Channel, offering one of the most rugged and photogenic coastal landscapes on the island. Named after Alan Sanford Davis, a former head trustee of the Campbell Estate who leased 3,000 acres here for his Wawamalu Ranch from 1932 to 1946, the beach carries a poignant historical footnote—the devastating tsunami of April 1, 1946, destroyed the Davis family home that once stood on this remote coastline. Today, the beach is best known among adventurous visitors for its cliff jumping opportunities and fascinating tide pools rather than traditional swimming, with the nearby Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail providing spectacular aerial views of this wild stretch of coastline from the ridgeline above.
The beach's location just a short detour from the popular Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail makes it an appealing add-on for hikers who want to explore beyond the paved overlook path, though reaching the actual beach requires navigating a steep, unmaintained trail down the volcanic rock face. The tide pools along the rocky shoreline teem with marine life including sea urchins, small fish, and colorful reef creatures, creating natural aquariums for patient observers willing to spend time exploring the crevices and pools at low tide. While a surf spot bearing Alan Davis's name exists elsewhere on Oahu, this eastern beach is not known for surfing but rather for its raw, undeveloped beauty that stands in stark contrast to the manicured resort beaches on other parts of the island. The remote location means there are no nearby restaurants or shops, though the town of Waimanalo, about 15 minutes north along the coast, offers local dining options including Keneke's for plate lunches and Naturally Hawaiian Gallery & Gifts for Hawaiian-made products.
The best time to visit Alan Davis Beach is during calm summer months when ocean conditions are safest for tide pool exploration, as winter swells create dangerous waves and powerful currents that make water activities extremely hazardous. There are absolutely no facilities at this beach—no parking lot, no restrooms, no showers, no lifeguards—making it suitable only for experienced ocean-goers who understand the risks of swimming at an unguarded beach with rocky entries and strong currents. Visitors typically park along the shoulder of Kalanianaole Highway near the lighthouse trail and hike down, requiring sturdy footwear and caution on the loose volcanic rock. The cliff jumping that has made this spot popular on social media should only be attempted by experienced jumpers who have carefully assessed water depth, current conditions, and entry points, as serious injuries have occurred here. Despite the challenges and risks, Alan Davis Beach rewards adventurous visitors with a glimpse of Oahu's wild, untamed coastline where nature remains in charge and the power of the Pacific Ocean is on full display.
