Secret Beach at Ulupau Head, also known as Pyramid Rock Beach, ranks among Oahu's most exclusive and restricted coastal destinations, accessible only to military personnel and their authorized guests through the Marine Corps Base Hawaii at Kaneohe Bay. The beach's isolation behind the security gates of the Mokapu Peninsula has preserved its pristine beauty, with dramatic views of the distinctive pyramid-shaped rock formation that gives the beach its nickname, and the turquoise waters of Kaneohe Bay stretching toward the Ko'olau Mountains creating a breathtaking backdrop that few visitors ever witness. The nearby Ulupau Crater, formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, adds to the area's geological significance and offers adventurous hikers spectacular panoramic views when range control grants access to the trail.
Active duty military members, military retirees, reservists, National Guard members, and Department of Defense civilian employees with proper ID cards are eligible to access this beach, and they may sponsor family members and friends as their guests by signing them onto the base. The beach offers excellent swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking conditions in the protected waters of Kaneohe Bay, where marine life thrives in the coral reefs and sea grass beds that characterize this side of Oahu. For those interested in hiking Ulupau Crater, advance coordination with range control is essential, as the approximately 1.5-mile trail crosses active training areas and requires obtaining keys and a radio to maintain contact with base personnel throughout the hike. The crater hike, rated as easy, rewards visitors with stunning 360-degree views of Kaneohe Bay, the Windward Coast, and on clear days, the neighboring islands. No commercial facilities or restaurants exist at the beach itself, but the nearby Kaneohe Marine Corps Base Exchange and commissary offer dining and shopping options for authorized patrons.
The best time to visit Secret Beach is during weekday mornings when military training activities are less likely to interfere with beach access and hiking permissions, though visitors should always call range control in advance to confirm the area is open, as training exercises periodically close certain sections of the peninsula. Access requires crossing the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base airstrip, and all visitors must check in at the main gate with proper identification and sponsorship if they are guests. Swimming conditions are generally calm and safe in the protected bay, though visitors should still be mindful of currents and marine life including jellyfish that occasionally drift into the area. The exclusive nature of this beach means crowds are never an issue, offering a level of solitude and natural beauty that is increasingly rare on Oahu. For military families stationed in Hawaii, Secret Beach represents one of the most valuable perks of base access, providing a slice of paradise that remains frozen in time while the rest of Oahu's coastline has become increasingly developed and crowded.
