Waialae Beach Park (sometimes called Kahala Beach) is a city beach park located east of Waikiki next do Waialae Country Club & Kahala Resort. Its a narrow beach with soft sand, lapping surf and loads of palm trees along the shore.
Waialae Beach Park is sometimes called Kahala Beach because it sits so close to Kahala Resort, sharing the some of the shoreline. This larger area of Honolulu is called Kahala as well – Kahala Mall, Kahala Community Park, etc.
Waialae is smaller than other beach parks around Oahu. But it does have parking, restrooms, and covered picnic tables.
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Frequently asked Questions About Waialae Beach Park
Where is Waialae Beach Park?
Waialae Beach Park is in East Honolulu on the other side of Diamond head from Waikiki
How do I get to Waialae Beach Park from Waikiki?
Getting to Waialae Beach Park from Waikiki is super easy! Almost a straight shot.
Take Kalakaua Ave until it forks with Monsarrat Avenue. Vere left on to Monsarrat, going around the back side of Diamond Head and turns into Diamond Head Road. Turn left onto Paikau Street, left on Kahala Avenue. You’re getting close when you feel like you’re about to cross from a public road to a private road over a small stream. The entrance to the parking lot is just on the other side of the stream!
Is there parking at Waialae or Kahala Beach?
Yes! There is parking at Waialae Beach Park. Its free, public parking. Its usually almost full. Somehow I’ve gotten the last spot or two every time I’ve gone. There’s a steady rotation of folks so if you don’t see a spot at first, just hang back and wait.
Is there a lifeguard at Waialae Beach?
No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Waialae Beach Park.
Are there restrooms at Waialae Beach?
Yep! There are public restrooms and showers at Waialae Beach Park.
Can I Waialae Beach a good spot for surfing?
Its is not typically a good spot for surfing. Doesn’t mean you can’t try!
Are there places to eat near Waialae Beach?
The beach is nestled in a neighborhood of Honolulu. There are no restaurants or vendors within walking distance of the beach.
Is Waialae Beachwheelchair accessible?
This beach park is wheelchair accessible!
Hi! I’m Alison, your chaos coordinator, toddler briber, and parent commiserator. Oh! And Oahu family photographer!
As the ringleader of my own 4-boy circus, I know how hard getting family photos can be.
I run my photo session like a party. I give you something TO DO so you don’t feel awkward wondering, “Where do I put my HANDS?!”
Dad is playing with the kids, everyone forgets what’s ACTUALLY happening, and you look amazing bc you’re actually enjoying yourself. #whoknewphotoscouldbefun
Fast. Fun. Done.
The views at Waialae Beach
Views from Waialae are of both Koko Crater and the ridge around Hanauma Bay at Koko Head Park.
Diamond head is close, but not visible.
Facilities at Waialae Beach
There is free public parking at Waialae Beach Park, although it tends to fill up. Many people choose to have small weddings here because its a quiet beach with few people, beautiful but still city operated and close to Waikiki.
There are showers, public restrooms, picnic tables a covered picnic area and a bridge over the Waialae Stream. There’s also a wide green space for playing.
The Kahala Resort
The Kahala Resort is a luxury hotel (y’all, they have dolphins) that sits at the end of Kahala Road. You can walk to their property from Waialae Beach. All beaches are public domain in Hawaii so you have the freedom to stroll up to their property line, which is marked with signage.
Kahala Beach is the shoreline just in front of The Kahala.
Waialae Beach Park Family Photos
Waialae Beach is one of my favorite places to do family photos for a BUNCH of reasons:
- Its close to Waikiki. A 15 minute drive and easy Uber ride.
- Fewer people to work around.
- Palm trees and greenery line the narrow beach instead of tall high rises and houses.
- It has toilets and easy parking!
- The geography lends itself to day time or evening photos with great light.
- Soft sand means we can PLAY!
Other Places to Take Family Pictures
The beaches on Oahu beg to be photographed but so do the mountains! I personally love lots of palms and bright blue waters. But I am not a fan of super early mornings before sunrise. Are you?!
Many of these locations have great light outside of sunrise and sunset so don’t be afraid to ask questions!
- Kualoa Park
- Waimanalo Beach
- Lanikai Beach
- Paradise Cove
More Resources for Oahu Family Photography
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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