Malaekahana State Recreation Area
The beach at Malaekahana is a mile-long crescent of sand bordering relatively well-protected ocean waters that are good for swimming when the surf is not too large. This is also a good beach for surfing and bodyboarding. Three campgrounds at Malaekahana are surrounded by pine trees and have camping facilities including security as well as a hut to get shelter from the rain. Forty campsites are available as well as 10 small grass shacks, five furnished camping yurts with electricity and six rustic beach houses. This beach and wooded beach park is located just north of the town of Laie.
Great For
Swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, shore fishing, picnics, camping, and islet exploring.
Highlights
The scenic offshore island called Mokuauia (Goat Island) can be visited by wading or swimming across the channel at low tide if ocean conditions are calm (check with lifeguards first). Malaekahana State Recreation Area begins at Makahoa Point and extends all the way to Kalanai Point.
Need to Know
A rocky seafloor makes reef shoes a good idea if you are going to be doing lots of ocean exploration. More local residents than tourists visit this beach so it is a good place to meet some residents. Camping is allowed at Kalani Point with a permit. You can also camp at Makahoa Point for a fee, or rent a cabin there.
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic tables, barbecue grills, outdoor showers, camping areas, drinking water, payphone, parking.
Lifeguard
No
Access
Malaekahana Bay and Malaekahana State Recreation Area are located between Laie and Kahuku on the Oahu’s northeast coast about 35 miles from Waikiki. Take the H-1 freeway west to the Likelike Highway (Hwy. 63) and go through the tunnel in the mountains to the windward side. Go north on Kahekili Highway (Hwy. 83) past the Polynesian Cultural Center and just past Laie.