Nanakuli Beach Park on Oahu
Nanakuli Beach Park is a 40-acre beach park that is located off Farrington Highway on Oahu’s west coast. With a well-protected beach all year round and a camping area to boot, there’s no wonder why the beach park is popular among locals for swimming and camping.
Named after the Hawaiian chief Poka’i, Nanakuli means “to look at the knee” in the Hawaiian language. Nanakuli is characterized by mild wave conditions even during winter months, which make it to beach to frequent when other beaches in the island are experiencing high surfs.
Nanakuli has a beautiful golden sand beach. Because it has a gently sloping coral sand shore, the beach is stable all year round. Anyone can swim here at anytime of the year without worrying about eroding sand or strong surf conditions. However, the northern part of the beach tends to be rough, which explains the presence of lifeguards in the park. If you want to swim safely, stay at the southern part of the beach where the waves are gentler.
Also referred to as “Subland” by locals, Nanakuli Beach is also the considered one of the best diving spots in Oahu. Plus, canoers, fishermen, and boogie boarders also constant the beach. In the middle of the park is a camping ground known as “The Flats.” It consists of 12 camping sites that tend to be populated by local campers.
However, Nanakuli is situated in the driest region of Oahu. Remember to drink plenty of water or juices to prevent dehydration while enjoying the surf or while sunning. Be sure to apply sun protection lotion or cream with SPF 15. Wearing wide brim hat and sunglasses will protect you from excessive sun exposure, too.
Services and amenities: lifeguards, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, phones, camping ground, baseball diamond, basketball courts, softball fields, children’s playground
5 Unique Things about Nanakuli Beach Park:
- The sand of Nanakuli Beach is calcareous.
- The name of the beach refers to a body part; it means, “to look at the knee.”
- Nanakuli Beach is well-protected from strong surf conditions all year round.
- Nanakuli has a camping ground locally referred to as “The Flats.” The Flats provide 12 camping sites.
- The beach has a stable sand condition, a characteristic attributed to its sloping sand made of corals and limestone.