Sandy Beach – Oahu, Hawaii, USA

Sandy Beach — known locally as “Sandy’s” or by its Hawaiian name Wāwāmalu — is one of Oahu’s most thrilling and scenic shorelines. Located on the island’s southeast coast between Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Makapuʻu Lookout, it’s renowned for its powerful shore break that crashes directly onto the sand.

This makes Sandy Beach a world-famous spot for experienced bodyboarders and bodysurfers, but a risky choice for casual swimmers. The waves here form fast and heavy, breaking in shallow water over hidden lava rocks — earning the beach its nickname, “Break Neck Beach.”

🌅 Scenery & Atmosphere

Sandy’s is raw, untamed Hawaii — a stretch of golden sand framed by rugged cliffs and open ocean views. The powerful surf, booming wave sounds, and panoramic backdrop make it a photographer’s dream and a favorite for sunrise watchers, kite flyers, and surf spectators. The early morning light over turquoise water is unforgettable.

🧭 Location & Access

You’ll find Sandy Beach off Kalanianaʻole Highway, about a 25-minute drive east of Honolulu. The beach lies between Hanauma Bay and Makapuʻu Point, making it an easy stop on a scenic Oahu coastal drive.

• Parking: Free lot available, but it fills quickly on weekends.

• Public Transit: Limited; best accessed by car or tour.

🏖 Facilities & Amenities

• Restrooms and outdoor showers

• Grassy picnic area with tables

• Food trucks and shave ice stands nearby

• Lifeguards on duty daily

⚠️ Safety Tips

• Not recommended for swimming due to strong shore break and rip currents.

• Always heed lifeguard warnings and posted flags.

• Never turn your back on the ocean — waves can appear suddenly.

• Spectators are safest watching from the sand or grassy area.

🕓 Best Time to Visit

• April – October: Calmer weather, best light for photography.

• Winter: Big waves and dramatic surf (watch only, not swim).

• Early mornings: For the calmest winds and best sunrise views.

✨ Quick Highlights

• Expert bodyboarding & bodysurfing hotspot

• World-famous powerful shore break

• Excellent sunrise photography

• Lifeguard-supervised

• Near Hanauma Bay & Makapuʻu Lookout