Among the many beaches that Hawaii has to offer, Lanikai Beach stands out as a true gem.
This beautiful beach, which is located on the east side of Oahu, is a must-visit for anyone that’s traveling to Hawaii.
But why this beach is out of all the hundreds that you can find?
To answer that question, we’ll be listing down some reasons why Lanikai Beach should be on your Hawaii travel bucket list. From its soft white sand to its crystal-clear waters, the list goes on!
Let’s get started and discover why Lanikai Beach is a must-see destination when visiting Hawaii.
Powder-Soft Sand
One of the main reasons to visit Lanikai Beach is its powder-soft sand. This pristine beach features a long stretch of white sand that feels like silk under your feet. Unlike other beaches that have a rough or coarse texture, Lanikai’s sand is incredibly fine and soft, which makes it ideal for sunbathing, strolling, and playing beach games. You can sink your toes in the sand and enjoy a relaxing day under the sun, feeling the soft grains of sand massaging your feet. Additionally, the fine sand creates a picturesque landscape that perfectly complements the azure waters of the Pacific, creating a stunning contrast that is a feast for the eyes.
Crystal Clear Water
The water at Lanikai Beach is so clear that you can easily spot fish swimming around your feet, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The visibility is excellent, allowing you to see the colorful underwater world clearly. The water is also very calm and shallow, making it ideal for those that are traveling with families and children.
Fun fact: If you are visiting this beach between the months of May and October, you may even spot sea turtles swimming around in the water.
The View Of The Iconic Mokulua Islands
Lanikai Beach offers a spectacular view of the iconic Mokulua Islands, which are two small islets that are located off the coast of Oahu. The view of these beautiful islands is breathtaking and a must-see for anyone visiting Hawaii. The islands are surrounded by crystal-clear waters and provide a stunning backdrop for photos.
Note: You can even take a kayak or paddleboard out to the islands to explore them up close. There are also some boats around the beach that can take you on these tours.
Perfect Spot for Kayaking
The calm and crystal-clear waters at Lanikai Beach make it an ideal location for kayaking enthusiasts of all levels. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you can explore the beauty of this beach and its surrounding areas by renting a kayak and paddling out to the nearby Mokulua Islands.
Kayaking around Mokulua Islands will give you an unforgettable experience of a lifetime, as you get up close and personal with the islands’ wildlife, including sea turtles, fishes, and a variety of bird species.
World-Class Snorkeling
Lanikai Beach boasts an incredible underwater world that is a must-see for any snorkeling enthusiast. With its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, it’s no wonder that it is considered a world-class snorkeling destination. The beach is home to a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures that you can observe up close. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer, the calm and clear waters of Lanikai Beach make it the perfect spot for snorkeling.
If you’re planning to visit this beach, don’t forget to pack your snorkeling gear and explore its vibrant underwater world!
Amazing Sunrise Views
One of the most mesmerizing reasons to visit Lanikai Beach is to witness the breathtaking sunrise views. The horizon is painted with stunning shades of orange, pink, and purple as the sun emerges from the ocean, making it a perfect way to start your day and capture some beautiful photos.
There’s a hiking trail near this beach that offers some of the best sunrise or sunset views in the area.
The Hike to the Lanikai Pillbox
Talking about the hiking trail, we meant the Lanikai Pillbox.
Lanikai Beach is not only famous for its beach activities but also for its breathtaking hiking trails. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike, which is just a short walk from the beach.
This moderate hike is approximately 30 minutes and takes you up to the World War II-era military bunkers, offering spectacular panoramic views of Lanikai Beach and the surrounding islands.
Reminder: The trail can be challenging at times, but the scenery is definitely worth it!
Low-Key Vibe
Lanikai Beach is one of those places where you and your family can just relax and forget about the rest of the world.
Unlike some of the more crowded beaches on Oahu, Lanikai is relatively low-key and peaceful. The beach attracts a mix of locals and visitors, but it never feels overcrowded or overwhelming. And with its clear waters, gentle surf, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, Lanikai is considered by many as the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the island vibes.
If you’re looking to catch up on some reading, have a picnic with friends, or simply doze off in the sun, you’ll find plenty of space and serenity at Lanikai Beach!
Its Beach Houses
Lanikai Beach is home to a number of beautiful beach houses, which you can book through Hawaiian Beach Rentals, making it the perfect destination for those looking to rent a vacation property.
These beach houses offer stunning views of the ocean and the Mokulua Islands, and provide a great base for exploring the area. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Lanikai Beach’s beach houses offer a comfortable and luxurious experience.
Not only that but staying in a beach house allows you to fully immerse yourself in the laid-back Lanikai lifestyle, and enjoy all the beach has to offer right at your doorstep.
Beautifully Landscaped Surroundings
Last but certainly not least, Lanikai Beach is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Hawaii.
From towering palm trees to lush tropical foliage, the scenery is truly breathtaking. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the colorful wildlife that calls this area home. So take a stroll along the beach and immerse yourself in the beauty of Lanikai’s surroundings, the perfect ending to a perfect day at this incredible destination.
These 10 reasons are just a few of the many that make Lanikai Beach a must-visit destination for travelers to Hawaii.