Every Beach Has Its Own Story

Now that I'm retired, going to the beach is a weekly occurrence for me. There is something about the sights, sounds, and smell of the ocean along with the feel of the warm sand that takes me to my "happy place". Because there are too many beaches to mention I want to highlight a few of my favorites. While looking through my pictures, notice that there is room to spread out with your beach chair and towels. It's never terribly crowded unless an event is occurring nearby bringing in the crowds.

Unfortunately, each week we hear on the news that a visitor to Hawaii was injured or killed in the water. Some were swimming in water that was to rough while others were jumping into the water in dangerous areas or getting knocked off the rocks and into the water from a large wave. Most of these can be prevented. Be aware and be safe near the water.

Bellows Beach
This is absolutely my favorite beach in the whole world. We have been coming to this beach for decades. It is located on a military installation and is accessible with the military ID card. Those without an ID card can access the beach on the weekends. Bellows beach has soft sand and blue water. There are no rocks, coral or seaweed to step on. The view of the Ko'olau mountain range also adds to the experience. This is one beach that you will want to pay attention to the surf report. The water is good for boogie boarding and occasionally stand up paddle boarding (SUP) or kayaking if the water is not too rough. Snorkeling and surfing are not suitable activities at this beach. When our children were toddlers, we would bring a blowup swimming pool and fill it with water so they could be safe at the beach when the waves were too big.

Queens  Beach
This particular beach is near Waikiki, but closer to Kapiolani Park and the zoo. I like this beach because there is plenty of parking, a large grassy area nearby and it is less crowded than Waikiki beaches. Be sure to bring your water shoes since there are rocks and coral in the water. Also bring your snorkel since the fish swim near the coral.  Lifeguards, showers and restrooms are available. When you're done swimming this is a fun area for people watching.

Ko Olina Lagoons
Near the west side of Oahu are the four man-made lagoons of Ko Olina. This is a resort area but the beaches are open to the public. There is limited parking for lagoons 1–3 and a bigger parking lot available near lagoon four. The water is protected from big waves which makes it clear for snorkeling on calm days. Most people enjoy playing in the water or relaxing on floatation devices. I know from experience that beach umbrellas are not allowed on the beach. Showers and restrooms are available.

Hickam Beach
This is another beach that can only be accessed with a military ID card since it is located on Hickam Air Force Base. Although it's a small beach there's plenty to do in the calm water. On weekends, you can rent a stand up paddleboard or kayak. The beach is near the Honolulu airport and you will get a close-up view of planes heading out to the runway. If any military ships or submarines  are headed to the Pearl Harbor entrance, you'll get a good view. Lifeguards, showers, restrooms and a snack bar are nearby.

Waimea Bay
This beach has two seasons. In the summer months you will find waters great for snorkeling, floating and swimming. There is a large rock that is popular to jump off. A sign is posted nearby about the dangers of jumping and suggest you don't. I think it's there for liability reasons and after looking at this picture it seems no one pays attention to it. During the Winter months, the surf is up and surfing competitions are held here. It is best to watch the expert surfers safely from the shore. This is not the time for swimming. Lifeguards, showers and restrooms are available. Parking is very limited.

Hanauma Bay
This is a very popular beach with tourists, but if you want to snorkel and see lots of fish this is the place to go. Before entering the beach area you will need to watch a short video on beach preservation. Snorkel sets are available to rent, but I preferred to bring my own. Lifeguards, showers and restrooms are available. It will be more crowded that other beaches and parking may be limited.