The Ultimate Family Guide to Honolulu Beaches

The best family beaches in Honolulu are Ala Moana Beach Park, Waikiki, Kailua Beach Park and the Ko Olina lagoons, and with small kids Ala Moana is the easiest day. It has a big grassy park for picnics next to the sand, a large free parking lot, and lifeguards every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Waikiki has four guarded stretches with food steps from the sand, but parking is expensive. Kailua is the turquoise-water beach a short drive over the mountains, and the Ko Olina lagoons have rock barriers against the big waves but no lifeguards.

Beach Name	Key Amenity	Booking Options
Waikiki Beach	Restrooms & Showers	View Details →
Ala Moana Beach Park	Picnic Tables	View Details →
Kailua Beach Park	Restrooms & Showers	View Details →
Ko Olina Lagoons	Walking Paths	View Details →

Waikiki Beach

If you are looking for convenience, Waikiki Beach is the most accessible spot in town. You have endless food options just steps from the sand.

• Lifeguards: Waikiki has four lifeguarded stretches, Dukes, Kuhio, Queens and Kapiolani Park, each guarded every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Hawaii Ocean Safety). Swim in front of a tower.
• Key Amenities: The area features public restrooms, showers, and plenty of beach gear rentals.
• Tip: Skip the hunt for a street spot and use a nearby hotel’s valet.

Good to know: Parking is limited and expensive, so budget for it or take a rideshare.

Ala Moana Beach Park

For a slower day, Ala Moana Beach Park pairs a long beach with a big park.

• Lifeguards: Guarded every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Hawaii Ocean Safety). Set up in front of the tower with small children.
• Key Amenities: There is a large grassy park area perfect for family picnics.
• Tip: Put a pop-up tent on the grass for a shaded base.

Good to know: The large free lot fills up on weekends. Arrive before 9:00 AM.

Kailua Beach Park

If you don’t mind a short drive, Kailua Beach Park is where locals go for turquoise water and soft sand.

• Lifeguards: Guarded every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Hawaii Ocean Safety). Check the flag and ask the lifeguard before children swim.
• Key Amenities: Full restrooms, showers, and picnic areas are available for easy clean-ups.
• Tip: Rinse off at the public showers before the car to keep sand off the seats.

Good to know: Street parking rules are strictly enforced, so read the signs.

Ko Olina Lagoons

The Ko Olina Lagoons are four man-made lagoons on the west side, next to the resorts.

• The Beach: Rock barriers block the large waves. The lagoons are not on the state lifeguard list, so an adult stays in the water.
• Key Amenities: Well-maintained walking paths connect the lagoons, making stroller travel easy.
• Tip: Pack light. The walk from the lot to the lagoon is short.

Good to know: Public parking is limited and enforced, so arrive early.

FAQs About Family Beaches in Honolulu

Are these beaches safe for toddlers?

With an adult beside them, in front of a lifeguard. Ala Moana, the four Waikiki stretches and Kailua Beach are guarded every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Ko Olina lagoons are not on the state’s list of lifeguarded beaches (Hawaii Ocean Safety), so do not count on a guard there.

Do I need to rent a car to visit these beaches?

While a car makes things easier, many of these spots are accessible via public transit or ride-shares, which can save you the stress of parking.

What is the best time to visit for a relaxing day?

Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, and arriving before 9:30 AM gets you parking near the beach.

---

Honolulu is one of the 11 US beach towns that average 70°F or better in December, all compared in our guide to warm beach towns in December.

More Family Travel Guides for Honolulu:

• Best Family Hotels with Pools in Honolulu
• Family Activities in Honolulu