Waimanalo Beach Park sits on Oahu's windward coast where some of the island's most spectacular sunrises illuminate three miles of pristine white sand backed by the dramatic Koolau Mountain Range, creating postcard-perfect views that rival any beach in Hawaii. The beach's eastern location means it captures the first light of day, transforming the sky into brilliant shades of pink, orange, and gold as the sun rises over the Pacific Ocean—making early morning visits particularly magical for photographers and sunrise enthusiasts. Adjacent to Waimanalo Beach Park lies Bellows Field Beach Park, a beach accessible to the public only Friday through Sunday and national holidays, featuring exceptional camping facilities with tent sites directly on the sand under towering ironwood trees that have made it one of Oahu's most sought-after beachfront camping destinations.
The beach offers excellent bodysurfing and boogie boarding conditions with consistent shore break waves that attract experienced wave riders, while the sandy bottom and absence of large rocks make it safer for swimming than many other Oahu beaches. Beach volleyball courts dot the sand under shady ironwood trees, providing natural cooling during the warmer afternoon hours. The cooler, breezier climate on the windward side creates comfortable conditions year-round, though trade winds can pick up in the afternoons. Bellows Beach Park, when open on weekends, expands the recreational opportunities with camping permits available for three-day stays (2 for up to six people), basketball courts, pavilions, and over 110 beachfront lodging units primarily reserved for military personnel, though public beach access remains available during weekend hours. Both beaches feature lifeguards on duty, restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas with BBQ facilities.
The best time to visit Waimanalo Beach Park is at sunrise for the stunning views and before crowds arrive, or on weekday mornings when parking is more readily available and the beach remains relatively uncrowded. Bellows Beach Park operates on a weekend-only schedule for public access (Friday through Sunday and federal holidays), with camping permits releasing weeks in advance and filling quickly due to high demand for this rare opportunity to camp directly on a Hawaiian beach. Hawaiian green sea turtles occasionally haul out on the sand to rest, and visitors should maintain the legally required 10-foot distance. Winter months can bring larger shore break waves that create excellent bodysurfing but potentially dangerous swimming conditions for inexperienced ocean users. For dining, nearby options include Kalapawai Market at 41-865 Kalanianaole Highway offering fresh coffee, deli sandwiches, and locally sourced groceries since operating as a Waimanalo staple, Hawaiian Island Cafe for local plate lunches including Loco Moco and breakfast sandwiches, Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack (closed Sundays and Tuesdays), and Ai Love Nalo for vegan options, while Kailua Town just 15 minutes north offers extensive additional dining including Boots & Kimo's famous macadamia nut pancakes and Buzz's Original Steak House.
