When you arrive at this beautiful spot, better known to locals as Halona Beach, you may well recognise it from its starring role in the 1953 film From Here to Eternity. The kiss shared by Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr here at Halona is still remembered fondly, which is why to this day some still know it as Eternity Beach. You too can come here to enjoy a quieter and more sedate environment than the busier Waikiki Beach.
When you arrive, lay your towel on the pristine sands and while away the hours under the sun. Or head into the water and, if you're a confident swimmer, try your hand at bodysurfing. Younger visitors, meanwhile, can enjoy playing in the tide pools which you'll find towards the east end of the beach.
If you're a keen fisherman, then you're in luck. Head for Bamboo Ridge towards the west end of the beach where you can try for a catch. Bamboo fishing poles once dominated the shoreline here, but though these have disappeared, you may still manage to haul a big catch.
For a taste of underwater adventure, you can go snorkelling and try to spot the green sea turtles beneath the surface. Keep an eye out for them even if you're lounging on the beach, as you may get to see them when they come up for air. Look out also for the humpback whales that pass through the seas here during the winter when they migrate. Make sure you visit the Halona Blowhole too, from which you may get to see whales. Even when migrating season ends, you can see water spouting here at high tide as the creatures spray plumes of water through the rocks when the waves come in.
Situated about 16 kilometres east of downtown Honolulu, Eternity Beach is easy to reach by car. You can park free of charge at the top of the cliffs. Drive further east to admire the stunning coves and beaches in the region. Remember, however, that currents here can be powerful, so if the surf is big, it's best to avoid the water.
