Sandy Beach is a popular beach on O'ahu's southern shore that's particularly popular for exciting bodyboarding and body surfing opportunities. Additionally, the sand at this beach is known for being fine and soft, making it a relaxing place for taking it easy even when the waves are creating large barrels.

While anyone can visit this beach and enjoy the sand, the water is typically better suited for experienced swimmers and surfers. The currents and waves can be intense, so be wary when you venture out into the water. Most visitors spend about an hour or 2 here.

Sandy Beach in Honolulu - one of the highlights of 8 Best Beaches in Honolulu (Read all about Honolulu here)

photo by Glenn Cando (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

Sandy Beach highlights

The most iconic aspect of Sandy Beach is the array of shore breaks. In these spots, you'll find extensive opportunities for bodyboarding and surfing, making it one of the most popular areas around Honolulu for riding the waves. Consistent barrels are the norm here, so you can enjoy opportunities for riding all day long.

When visiting this beach, you'll also find yourself near the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. There you'll find tranquil walking paths and a wide array of vibrant flora showing off some of the best that Hawaii has to offer.

photo by Daniel Ramirez (CC BY 2.0) modified

Good to know when visiting Sandy Beach

Before you visit Sandy Beach, it's essential to know that the water is not for the inexperienced. The shore breaks can be extremely intense. During high surf, the rip currents are incredibly dangerous, so going out in the water is something that should be reserved for surfers and bodyboarders with extensive experience.

Be sure to keep an eye out for local warnings about the beach. You'll find hazard warnings for both the beach and the offshore area. Remember, it's never safe to swim here. The currents and waves are only suitable for experienced surfers and bodyboarders.

photo by Robert Linsdell (CC BY 2.0) modified

Sandy Beach in Honolulu

Location: Honolulu, HI 96825, USA

Open: 24/7

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Where to stay in Honolulu

View from room
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
8.0 out of 10, (7858)
The price is $299
per night
$412 total
includes taxes & fees
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
On the beach, beach towels
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
8.8 out of 10, (3780)
The price is $239
per night
$340 total
includes taxes & fees
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Outdoor pool, open 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, cabanas (surcharge)
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
9.2 out of 10, (2160)
The price is $289
per night
$388 total
includes taxes & fees
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
Property amenity
OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
9.4 out of 10, (2284)
The price is $369
per night
$494 total
includes taxes & fees
OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Outdoor pool, open 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, free cabanas, sun loungers
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites
9.0 out of 10, (1007)
The price is $222
per night
$306 total
includes taxes & fees
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites
Fireplace
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
8.4 out of 10, (2472)
The price is $320
per night
$438 total
includes taxes & fees
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Terrace/patio
Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
8.4 out of 10, (1358)
The price is $169
per night
$253 total
includes taxes & fees
Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Beach/ocean view
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
8.8 out of 10, (2960)
The price is $377
per night
$504 total
includes taxes & fees
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
View from room
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
9.2 out of 10, (2007)
The price is $440
per night
$580 total
includes taxes & fees
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Lobby
Waikiki Malia
8.6 out of 10, (1453)
The price is $143
per night
$210 total
includes taxes & fees
Waikiki Malia

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