Makaha Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Makaha which includes rugged coastline, mountains and island images
Surf's up at the birthplace of Hawaii's big-wave surfing, an attractive half-moon beach known for its surfing, swimming and bodyboarding opportunities.

With huge swells during the winter, Makaha is one of the most popular surfing spots on O’ahu. During the winter the waves can get up to 25 feet (7.5 metres) or more. If you are in Makaha at this time of year and are not a surfer, visit the beach anyway and enjoy the thrilling action from your beach towel. 

Don’t miss Buffalo's Big Board Surfing competition in February where surfers ride on huge, old-style surfboards and canoes. Other events include tandem surfing and team bodyboarding. Makaha has a prominent place in surfing history. In 1954, the world's first international surf competition, the Makaha International Surfing Championship, was staged here.

Surfers aren’t the only ones who can enjoy this 1-mile (1.6-kilometre) long half-moon sandy expanse. The warmer months bring calm waters suitable for swimming, snorkeling and bodyboarding, making it popular with families. Go for walks along the shore and sunbathe the beach is wide so there is a lot of space to spread out. Although the ocean is a lot calmer in the summer, it’s a good idea to check with the lifeguard about ocean conditions before you go in.

Makaha Beach is on one of the hottest and driest parts of O’ahu. Bring an umbrella with you as there isn’t a lot of shade, and pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Situated on the west side of the island the beach can be buffeted by strong winds from April to October.

Among the facilities are restrooms, showers and a few picnic tables. The nearest restaurants and bars are in the town of Makaha that borders the beach. Makaha is situated 30 miles (48 kilometres) northwest of Honolulu. Parking at the beach is free. If you don’t have a car use the regular bus service from Honolulu.

Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei
Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei
3.5 out of 5
725 Manawai Street, Kapolei, HI
The price is ₹21,190 per night from 4 Apr to 5 Apr
₹21,190
per night
4 Apr - 5 Apr
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Kapolei. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,013 reviews)
"The breakfast buffet and supper restaurants was a bonus. Close to the lagoons for families to enjoy the ocean’s. Away from the busyness of downtown Waikiki"

Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024

Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
2.5 out of 5
84-1021 Lahilahi St, Waianae, HI
Stay at this beach condo in Waianae. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and a beach locale. Popular attractions Papaoneone Beach and Aki's Beach are located nearby. ...
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
5 out of 5
92-1001 Olani Street, Kapolei, HI
The price is ₹82,961 per night from 4 Apr to 5 Apr
₹82,961
per night
4 Apr - 5 Apr
Stay at this luxury resort in Kapolei. Enjoy free WiFi, 4 outdoor pools and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (598 reviews)
"Wonderful hotel and the staff were amazing"

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
2.5 out of 5
84-1021 Lahilahi St, Waianae, HI
Stay at this beach condo in Waianae. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and a beach locale. Popular attractions Papaoneone Beach and Aki's Beach are located nearby. ...
Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach
The Beach Villas at Ko Olina by Real Select Vacations
The Beach Villas at Ko Olina by Real Select Vacations
4 out of 5
92-106 Waialii Place, Kapolei, HI
Stay at this 4-star beach aparthotel in Kapolei. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Ko Olina Lagoon 2 and Ko Olina Golf Club ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (54 reviews)
Beach Villas
"Great people, property, and location as always."

Reviewed on 8 Dec 2023

The Beach Villas at Ko Olina by Real Select Vacations
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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