Living on Oahu with my toddler, I’ve become somewhat of an expert when it comes to navigating Oahu’s beaches with a little one in tow. Our family has visited countless beaches across the island, experimenting with gear, testing out different locations, and discovering the best strategies to ensure that a day at the beach is safe, fun, and relaxing.
From scouting out the perfect shorelines for little ones to splash around in, to securing shade and packing the right gear, I’ve perfected all the essentials that make a beach day enjoyable for the whole family.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about the best family-friendly beaches on Oahu and some top tips to make your beach adventures seamless and memorable. Let’s go!
What to Pack for a Family-Friendly Beach Day on Oahu:
For the perfect beach day, packing the right gear is key. Living just a 10-minute walk from Kailua Beach, our family has had plenty of beach days with our toddler to know what works—and what doesn’t. After lots of trial and error, we’ve nailed down the essentials that make a beach day smooth and stress-free. These are the must-haves we never leave home without:
1. UPF Sunshirt With Hood
If your little one is anything like mine, hats rarely stay on for more than a minute. A UPF Sunshirt with a hood is my go-to for providing essential sun protection to prevent the sun from beating down on the top my baby’s head, without the hassle of battling an unwilling toddler trying to remove their hat every five seconds.
2. UPF Bathing Suit
As the UV Index in Hawaii is usually up around 11 (the highest rating possible), In addition to a sunshirt, I also make sure to always put my baby in a UPF-rated bathing suit for added sun protection. This suit by UV Skinz is a go-to favorite of mine for its durability on our little one, the fact that it fully covers his arms and legs, and the zipper that makes it super easy to put on and then peal off when wet.
3. Reusable Swim Diapers
Reusable swim diapers are a win-win—they’re better for the environment and work more reliably than disposable ones, which tend to get soggy after just a few minutes in the water. My favorite pick is the Green Sprouts reusable swim diapers which are super affordable and durable, staying in awesome condition after countless beach days. Also, don’t forget to pack an extra, our baby always manages to dirty his within minutes 😉
4. Baby-Friendly Water Bottle
If your baby is older than 6 months, a personal water bottle is a must for beach days in Hawaii’s strong sun. I love this kid-friendly pop-top water bottle from Thermos—it’s leak-proof, durable, and closes fully to keep the straw sand-free.
5. Reusable Wet Bag
A Reusable Wet Bag is essential for storing your little ones sandy, wet clothes, swim diapers. It keeps everything contained and ensures your other gear stays dry.
6. Large Brim Hat
If your baby will keep it on their head, a hat is a must-have for protecting your toddler’s eyes and face from the sun. I love the big straw options from Binky Bro, which are not only adorable but keep my baby’s full face shaded (in the rare occasions he keeps it on his head).
7. Folding Sun Tent
A small, round collapsible sun tent is a must-have our family-friendly beach days in Oahu. It’s lightweight and easy to throw in any bag, and provides crucial shade when it’s hard to find, especially at popular beaches. It creates a comfy spot for your little one to play, nap, or escape the sun.
Pro tip: The tricky part is collapsing it back up. Watch a quick YouTube tutorial before heading to the beach to avoid the frustration of struggling with a tent that won’t cooperate.
8. Baby Towel Poncho
Towel ponchos are practical and adorable. They dry off your toddler quickly, and keep them warm, and I love that they offer a quick layer of sun protection while he runs around, enjoying some fresh air on his skin before hopping back into his diaper.
9. Buckets/Pails
Buckets and pails, like these collapsable ones I love, seem basic and obvious but they are a toddler’s best friend. My baby boy can spend several longgg minutes pouring sand from one bucket to another, completely entertained!
10. Robust Jogging Stroller
If you’re planning to bring a stroller, and as parking can sometimes require a walk at beaches in hawaii, I recommend it, my family’s favorite stroller for beach adventures is our Thule jogging stroller. It’s built to handle sand effortlessly and has a spacious compartment underneath for storing all your beach gear. You’ll have room for towels, snacks, sunscreen, and everything else your family needs for a successful beach day.
The 5 Best Baby-Friendly Beaches on Oahu:
1. Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach is my local beach and my most favorite on all of Oahu. With its stunning turquoise, crystal-clear water on the windward side of Oahu, it’s a picture-perfect spot that feels like paradise. The beach stretches on for miles, from Kailua Beach Park in the east all the way to Castles Beach in the west (with a few different sections along the way), so you’re never short on beautiful sand to claim as your own for the day.
If you park at the main Kailua Beach Park entrance and head onto the beach there, you’ll find plenty of shaded spots to set up your family base. This is where we usually sit because we don’t need to bring our sun tent. One less thing to pack? Yes, please!
While the parking lots can get crowded, there are usually enough spaces and nearby areas to make finding a spot close to the beach pretty hassle-free.
Lastly, my favorite grab and go spot in Oahu, Kalapawai Market, is right next to the main entrance of Kailua Beach—perfect for grabbing picnic essentials, snacks, or a cold drink and some shady on a hot day. The breakfast burrito here is my go-to beach snack—delicious and satisfying, no matter what time of day.
One quick heads-up: Kailua Beach can get super windy. If the forecast shows winds over about 15 knots/mph, it’s better to look elsewhere. The strong winds tend to kick up sand, making it uncomfortable for little ones crawling or toddling around. Plus, the waves get bigger, which can be tricky for young kids.
2. Lanikai Beach
Just over the hill from Kailua Beach, about a mile away, lies the gem of the windward side: Lanikai Beach. Nestled in the charming Lanikai neighborhood, this beach consistently earns top spots on “best beaches in the world” lists—and for good reason. With its powdery white sand, pristine turquoise waters, and breathtaking views of the Mokulua Islands, it’s a slice of paradise.
What makes Lanikai Beach truly special for me, though, is its tranquil vibe and calm, almost lake-like waters. The gentle waves are perfect for families, making it easy to enjoy the water even with a baby in your arms. Whether you’re wading or floating, the peaceful environment is ideal for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of Oahu.
Another fun perk is the entrance at the end of Kaiolena Drive, which features a Toy Library stocked with beach toys like buckets, pails, and shovels for kids to borrow. It’s such a thoughtful touch that adds to the family-friendly atmosphere. Plus, if you’re into snorkeling, Lanikai Beach offers some decent spots right off the shore so don’t forget your travel snorkel gear!
The one downside to Lanikai Beach is the parking situation. Since it’s nestled in a residential area, there’s only street parking, which can be tricky to find, especially on weekends. Arriving early or during weekdays is your best bet.
3. Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a paradise for families, offering pristine, calm waters that are perfect for babies or toddlers to splash and play in along the shoreline. As a protected marine reserve, this bay is not only stunning but also teeming with wildlife, such as Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles, which I’ve been lucky to spot more than once during my visits.
What also makes Hanauma Bay stand out is its strict visitor limits. Only a certain number of people are allowed in each day, keeping the crowds manageable, the water crystal clear, and the marine life thriving. There are also plenty of lifeguards, making this beach extra safe and giving parents extra peace of mind.
If you’re into snorkeling, Hanauma Bay is a dream. Beginners can stick to the shallow waters, while more adventurous swimmers can head outside the reef for a bit more excitement. Either way, the underwater world here is totally mesmerizing and worth exploring.
Hanauma Bay is easily one of my favorite beaches on Oahu, but getting there does require a bit of planning. Tickets to enter are released at 7:00 a.m. HST two days before your visit date (for example, tickets for a Saturday visit go live on Thursday at 7:00 a.m.), and they sell out in mere minutes.
Pro-tip to snag tickets: Create an account on the Hanauma Bay website beforehand to speed up the checkout process.
If you missed out on tickets, don’t worry—there’s another option. Some tour companies offer transportation to Hanauma Bay, which is a more expensive option but includes access without the hassle of securing your own tickets in advance.
4. Kaiona Beach Park
Kaiona Beach Park is a hidden gem for families looking for a laid-back, peaceful beach day away from the usual crowds. This local favorite offers a unique blend of convenience and natural beauty, making it a perfect beach for families with babies or toddlers in tow.
One of my favorite features at Kaiona Beach Park is the large, fenced-in grassy area right by the beach—an ideal spot to let your little one run around safely while still enjoying the ocean view. There’s even a pavilion for picnic lunches or small gatherings, adding an extra layer of convenience for family outings or celebrations.
For those who prefer natural shade, Kaiona Beach Park has you covered—literally ;). Trees along the shoreline provide plenty of shady spots, so you can skip the hassle of setting up a beach tent if you’d rather pack light.
The water here is perfect: calm, shallow, and a stunning shade of turquoise. It’s great for little ones to splash around safely, and for older kids or parents, the protected waters make for excellent snorkeling right from the shore.
5. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is a fantastic family-friendly beach on Oahu to visit—but only during the summer months! In the winter, this iconic North Shore spot transforms into a spot for professional surfers with massive waves that make the shoreline too risky for families.
In the summer, however, Waimea Bay is a paradise for parents and kids. The crystal-clear, turquoise water is incredibly calm, with virtually no waves, making it ideal for little ones to splash around safely. The expansive shoreline offers plenty of space to run, play, and set up your beach day essentials without feeling cramped.
For added fun, there’s excellent snorkeling here, and for the adventurous older kids or adults, the iconic Jump Rock at Waimea Bay offers the perfect spot for a thrilling jump into the water. It’s always a highlight of our trips here!
Lastly, Waimea Bay is perfectly located to round out a day exploring the North Shore. Before or after your beach visit, you can head to Waimea Valley for a scenic hike and waterfall swim, or make your way to Haleiwa to enjoy some charming shops and delicious local eats.
Essential Beach Tips for Visiting Family-Friendly Beaches on Oahu:
Now that you’re ready to go with the essential gear and have a list of the best beaches to explore, here are some practical tips to ensure a fantastic day in the sun. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, enjoying a solo dip, or keeping an eye on the whole family, these tips will help you make the most of your family beach day in Oahu:
- Pull your stroller backward in the sand. If you’re bringing a stroller, dragging it backward is much easier than trying to push it through soft sand. Turn it around to save your strength and your patience 🙂
- Take advantage of beaches with toy libraries. Some beaches, like Lanikai Beach mentioned above, have free community toy libraries where you can borrow buckets, shovels, and other fun items for kids. I love toy libraries for keeping my toddler entertained without the extra packing.
- Master the Sun Tent Fold Before Leaving Home: If you’re bringing a collapsible sun tent, watch a YouTube tutorial on refolding it before you go (or watch it a few times). I’ve seen so many parents struggle with folded tents popping back open, flinging sand everywhere, only to give up and lug the whole thing back to the car fully expanded. Save yourself the hassle and master the fold ahead of time!
- Don’t hesitate to ask the lifeguards. Don’t be shy. Lifeguards are there to keep you safe and are always happy to help with safety and water questions. Anytime I’ve approached them about conditions before jumping in the water with my surfboard, they’ve gladly shared tips and even thanked me for checking before doing something unsafe.
