Visit to the west side Oahu – explore away from the touristy areas

The west side or leeward side of Oahu is often overlooked for a travel destination on the island. Although the resort development at Ko’olina is quite a nice destination on its own and the public is allowed to visit the lagoons and shopping venues here without being a guest so that’s nice. But if you are looking for more nature, beaches and fun things to do here on the western side of the island keep reading below for all the highlights of cool places to visit on the leeward side. In my experience on visiting the west side of Oahu, these are the must do attractions or activities to enjoy here.

You’ll find that the Ko’olina and leeward (west) side is by far the least visited area on Oahu, making it perfect for travelers seeking to escape the crowds.

Passing through the scenic Waianae Mountains on the Mauka (upwards area) you’ll find little development after the main resort areas of Ko’olina. But there’s plenty of outdoor adventure, beaches and fun that you can easily enjoy here on the west side of Oahu all the way to the end at Ka’ena Point.

Explore the west side of Oahu for beaches, adventure and old Hawaii

Best beaches on the west side (leeward) of Oahu

There’s plenty of beautiful beaches without the crowds of Honolulu to enjoy here on the leeward side of the island and just an easy drive from Honolulu / Waikiki area.

The west side of Oahu has a significant Native Hawaiian population. When visiting local beaches and towns like Waiʻanae, show respect by keeping noise levels down, cleaning up trash, and being mindful that these are residential communities, not tourist attractions. Consider supporting local businesses rather than bringing supplies from Honolulu.

Electric Beach

Located just north of the Ko’olina resorts area close to Nanakuli is Electric beach. Locally called Kahe Point Beach Park, the beach is named for the nearby electric power plant. The power plant creates warmer waters and attracts a lot of sea life in the area and attracting plentiful sea life and making this a perfect spot to go for snorkeling a diving fun and it is free to do here. You’ll find a lot of fantastic tropical fish in the area in a colorful array of shapes and sizes.

Location: 92-301 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei (across from the power plant) Parking: Free lot with approximately 25 spaces, fills quickly by 9am on weekends Facilities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, limited shade Best for: Snorkeling, diving, sunset viewing Not recommended for: Beginning swimmers, small children Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for smallest crowds and calmest water conditions

Ma’ili Beach

This quiet beach park is located along the Farrington Highway and offers a family-friendly spot to enjoy on the west side. The beach stretches for nearly a mile with soft golden sand and typically gentle waves, making it suitable for children.

You’ll find plenty of parking and good amenities to include restroom, showers, parking and outdoor exercise equipment for cardio fun.

Location: 87-021 Farrington Highway in Waiʻanae, is a 40-acre coastal park on Oʻahu’s leeward side. Known for its long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, the park offers amenities such as restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, a playground, and ample parking. Lifeguards are on duty during the day, enhancing safety for swimmers and surfers.

The park features popular surf spots like Green Lanterns and Tumbleland, and activities include swimming, snorkeling (on calm days), bodyboarding, and fishing. Camping is permitted with a valid permit, and the expansive grassy areas are ideal for picnics and recreational activities. Visitors should be cautious of strong currents and high surf, especially during winter months. The park’s location offers scenic views of the Waiʻanae Mountains, making it a favored spot for both relaxation and outdoor fun.

Makaha Beach

A very popular and family friendly beach on the west side, Makaha Beach is truly a hidden gem. This beach is famous with local surfers for the fantastic surf breaks that draw them in.  Locate in the Waianae area and fronting the Waianae mountains, you’ll get gorgeous mountain to ocean views here and even more spectacular sunsets if you hang out later in the afternoon to evening time frame.

Location: 84-369 Farrington Highway in Waianae on Oʻahu’s leeward coast. This 21-acre beach park is known for its golden sands and clear waters, making it a favored spot for surfing, especially during the winter months when waves can reach up to 25 feet. Amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, parking, and lifeguard services.

The beach is also popular for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving during the calmer summer months. Visitors should be cautious of strong currents and shore breaks, particularly in winter. Makaha Beach Park offers a more secluded experience compared to other Oʻahu beaches, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a less crowded environment.

Ko’olina and Lagoons

There are four large lagoons and beach areas the front these crescent shaped lagoons in the resort area. These are free and open for the public to enjoy but know that they are busy especially lagoon one and two which have resorts on them, making them a very popular spot to park and enjoy some beach time. The parking lots are always busy and fill up quickly, but lagoons three and four are probably the easier lagoons to find parking. You can also enjoy a nice walk on the shoreline trails to reach all the lagoons and even hang out for a bite or drink in any of the resorts.

The Ko Olina Beach Lagoons, situated along Aliʻinui Drive in Kapolei on Oʻahu’s leeward coast, comprise four crescent-shaped, man-made lagoons—Kohola, Honu, Naiʻa, and Ulua—designed to offer calm, protected waters ideal for families and novice swimmers. Each lagoon features sandy beaches, grassy areas, and a paved seaside path connecting them, making it easy to explore the entire stretch on foot. Amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and wheelchair access. While there are no lifeguards on duty, the lagoons’ design provides a safe environment for swimming and snorkeling.

Public parking is available near each lagoon from sunrise to sunset on a first-come, first-served basis, with Lagoon 4 (Ulua) offering the largest lot. Visitors should note that certain activities, such as alcohol consumption, loud music, and the use of non-reef-safe sunscreen, are prohibited to maintain the area’s tranquility and environmental integrity.

The lagoons are adjacent to several resorts, including the Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu, Disney’s Aulani Resort, and Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, providing additional dining and recreational options within walking distance.

Mermaid Cave

The Mermaid Cave is located in Nanakuli Beach Park and there’s really no map of where to find them here which is a mystery. But if you are resourceful, you can search and find it online and make this a unique adventure.

Finding Mermaid Cave: The cave is located along the shoreline near Tracks Beach in Nanakuli. From Farrington Highway, turn onto Zablan Beach Park access road. Park legally on nearby streets (not in front of residents’ homes) and walk along the shoreline heading north for approximately 1/4 mile. Look for a flat reef area with a small opening. GPS coordinates: 21.3539° N, 158.1292° W.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: Mermaid Cave should only be visited during low tide and calm ocean conditions. Check daily tide charts before planning your visit. Never enter the cave alone, and avoid visiting during winter months (November-February) when wave conditions can change rapidly. Several rescues occur here annually due to visitors being caught by sudden wave surges.

Hiking trails on the west side of Oahu

Ka’ena Point

Kaʻena Point State Park, situated at the westernmost tip of Oʻahu, offers a rugged and remote coastal experience. Accessible via two main trailheads—the Keawaʻula (Waianae) side at the end of Farrington Highway and the Mokulēʻia (North Shore) side—this park is renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance. The Keawaʻula section features a large sandy beach suitable for experienced surfers and swimmers during calm summer conditions, with lifeguard services and a comfort station available.

In contrast, the Mokulēʻia section offers a more secluded experience with rocky coves, tide pools, and sand dunes, but lacks facilities and lifeguards. Both trails lead to the Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve, a protected habitat for native seabirds like the Laysan albatross and the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.

Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem and are advised that amenities are minimal—bringing water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear is essential. The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Stay for the gorgeous sunset around Ka’ena Point area for a quiet and magnificent time in this desolate landscape

Maili Pillbox

This is locally known as the Pink Pillbox hike with a trail that leads to the bright pink bunkers that are located on the top.

The Māʻili Pillbox hike, also known as the Puʻu O Hulu Trail or Pink Pillbox, is located on Oʻahu’s leeward coast in Waiʻanae. The trailhead is near 87-1005 Oheʻohe Street, with street parking available along Kaukama Road. This 1.3-mile out-and-back trail is considered moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of approximately 600 feet. The hike ascends a dry, sun-exposed ridge, offering panoramic views of the Waiʻanae coastline and valley.

Along the way, hikers encounter several World War II-era pillboxes, including the notable Pink Pillbox, painted in 2015 to raise breast cancer awareness. The trail lacks shade and facilities, so hikers should bring water, wear sun protection, and exercise caution due to loose rocks and steep sections. The trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Mount Ka’ala Trail

Mount Ka’ala Trail – Oahu’s Highest Peak For adventure seekers looking for a genuine challenge, Mount Ka’ala Trail leads to the highest peak on Oahu at 4,025 feet above sea level. This demanding 7-mile round-trip hike features:

• Steep, often muddy terrain requiring proper hiking boots
• Spectacular views of both the leeward and windward coasts
• Native Hawaiian cloud forest ecosystem at the summit
• Unique bog environment with rare endemic plants
• Stunning panoramic views of the entire island on clear days

The trail begins at the end of Waianae Valley Road and typically takes 5-7 hours to complete round-trip. The upper portion includes some rope-assisted climbs and can be treacherous when wet.

There are also rope and rock-climbing areas around Mount Ka’ala to enjoy if you’re into more into this type of adventure sport.

Safety Beach and Hiking Advisory

Exploring West Oʻahu’s leeward coast offers scenic hiking trails and inviting beaches. However, the region’s dry climate and rugged terrain necessitate careful preparation. Here’s a concise safety guide for hiking and swimming in this area:

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Hiking Safety in West Oʻahu

1. Stay Hydrated and Protected

-Carry ample water; the leeward side’s heat and limited shade can lead to dehydration -Apply reef-safe sunscreen and wear a hat to shield against sun exposure – Opt for sturdy, closed-toe footwear; avoid flip-flops to prevent injuries

2. Plan Ahead

Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your route and expected return time -Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost and to protect native vegetation Pack essentials: a flashlight, extra batteries, snacks, and a fully charged phone.

3. Be Weather-Wise

-Check weather forecasts before setting out; sudden rain can make trails slippery -Avoid hiking during peak heat hours; early mornings are typically cooler

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Swimming Safety on the Leeward Coast

1. Choose Safe Swimming Spots

Swim at lifeguarded beaches where professionals monitor condition. Be cautious of strong currents and shore breaks, especially during high surf condition.

2. Understand Ocean Hazards

Never turn your back to the ocean; rogue waves can catch you off guard. Avoid swimming near rocks or reefs to reduce injury risk. If unsure about conditions, consult with on-duty lifeguards before entering the water.

3. Practice Safe Swimming Habits

Swim with a buddy; never swim alone. Enter the water feet first to avoid unseen hazard. Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming; it impairs judgment and coordination.

West Side Oahu Time Planner

If you want to explore all these sites in one full day, here’s a sample itinerary of how you can do it with time and travel built in.

• Ko’olina Lagoons: 2-4 hours (plus travel time)
• Electric Beach snorkeling: 1-2 hours
• Ka’ena Point hike: 3-4 hours round trip
• Mermaid Cave exploration: 1 hour (time visit with low tide)
• Wet’n’Wild Hawaii: Full day activity
• Ka Makana Ali’i shopping: 2-3 hours

Most visitors underestimate travel times on Oahu. Allow 45-60 minutes to drive from Waikiki to Ko’olina and an additional 30 minutes to reach the northern beaches, depending on traffic.

Lifestyle and Entertainment fu

Ka Makana Ali’I Mall

This large-scale mall on the west side is over 1.4 million square feet of shops and fun. With over 150 shops, restaurants, hang out spots and a nice movie theater, it’s the spot to go for shopping and dining in the area. Family friendly you’ll find a farmers’ market, yoga experience, live music venues, story time and many more activities. Check out their calendar at www.kamakanaalii.com.

Wet and Wild Hawaii

This family friendly water park is one of the most popular attractions in Oahu located on a dead-end road behind the Waianae Mountains.  You’ll find more than 25 water activities and attractions to enjoy at this park and it is fun for both kids and adults to enjoy on the grounds.

Kapolei Commons

Oahu’s Kapolei Commons is another great addition to the West Side with this shopping mall. You’ll find a nice movie theater, plenty of retail stores and boutique mom and pop shops, and high-quality restaurants making this a local shopping and eating venue in the area.

Check out these other posts on visiting Oahu

A visit to the Ko’olina resort area

Easy Oahu hikes to do

Fantastic adventure tours in Oahu

Popular snorkeling spots around Oahu

Explore the top beaches of Oahu

Best Hikes in Oahu

Conclusion to visiting the West side of Oahu

Although the areas around the west side of Oahu tend to be more local and not as touristy, outside of the resort area of Ko’olina, the country side is truly like old Hawaii all the way to Haena point with gorgeous landscape, beaches and outdoor areas to explore.

Hope that this gives you a look at what to do and see on the west side of Oahu and you’ll enjoy visiting the leeward side of the island soon.

Author Bio – Noel Morata

Having lived in Hawaii for over 15 years, I’ve explore all the historic and cultural sites, tried delicious traditional food, fusion and local style dishes and learned a lot about growing and sustainability.

Hawaii for me is ever changing and I visit many of these places regularly for inspiration, changes that may occur, seasonality and cultural practises. I hope to share with you all the fascinating things and places I’ve learned grown appreciation for and hope that you will find the information helpful to visiting the islands.

Having lived in Hawaii for over 15 years (2007-2022), I’ve explored all the historic and cultural sites on Oahu, with particular focus on the west side where I love to hang out As a frequent visitor, I’ve noticed West Oahu is typically less crowded and off the radar for most visitors to the island. It’s a fantastic place to explore all the way down to Ka’ena Point Park area.