Cromwell's Beach, also known as Cromwell's Cove, is a hidden gem tucked away in the exclusive Black Point neighborhood near Diamond Head, offering one of Oahu's most colorful and intimate swimming spots with its vibrant turquoise waters and protected rocky cove. This small beach remains relatively unknown to tourists despite its proximity to Waikiki, largely because there are no official signs marking the access point at the end of Kulamanu Place off Diamond Head Road, making it a favorite secret spot among Honolulu residents. The beach sits just a stone's throw from Doris Duke's Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design, and the cove's calm, sheltered waters create a natural swimming pool perfect for snorkeling and observing Hawaiian green sea turtles that frequent the area.
The beach serves primarily as a launching point for surfers paddling out to Brown's, a popular surf break located beyond the reef, and during certain seasons the beach becomes a hub of activity as board riders make their way through the protected cove to reach the break. Swimming and snorkeling are the main attractions for non-surfers, with the rocky shoreline and reef creating habitats for colorful tropical fish, octopus, and other marine life. While there are no restaurants or shops directly at the beach due to its residential location, nearby Kahala Mall, just a short drive away, offers dining options including Whole Foods Market and local favorites like Olive Tree Cafe, known for its Mediterranean cuisine. The exclusive Kahala Hotel & Resort, located nearby along Kahala Avenue, features several upscale dining options including Hoku's restaurant.
Visiting Cromwell's Beach requires some planning as parking is extremely limited, with only a few free street parking spaces available near the southern end of Kulamanu Place, and visitors must be respectful of local residents' driveways. The best time to visit is on weekday mornings when parking is more readily available and the water conditions are calmest. The beach has no facilities whatsoever—no restrooms, no showers, no lifeguards—so visitors should come prepared and exercise caution in the water. Access to the beach involves navigating a narrow, unmarked pathway between residential properties, and the rocky entry into the water requires reef-safe footwear. Despite these challenges, those who make the effort are rewarded with one of Oahu's most pristine and crowd-free swimming spots, where the water shimmers in shades of aquamarine rarely seen elsewhere on the island.
