Hukilau Beach Park: Ultimate Guide for First Timer’s

Welcome to Hukilau Beach Park in Hawaii, located between La’ie and Kalani Points. The Park is part of a long sand beach that runs between La’ie and Kalani Points.

This blog post will provide you with EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW about the park, including how to get there, positives vs negatives, where to stay, safety tips, and much more.

Why you should visit, and why you should NOT visit.

Let’s get started.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Location and Access: Hukilau Beach Park is on Oahu’s north shore, 37 miles from Honolulu, accessible by car or public transport.

• Pros and Cons: The beach is serene with calm waters in summer and picturesque views but has limited amenities, no restrooms, no lifeguards, and closed parking on Sundays.

• Highlights: Enjoy turquoise waters, wildlife, and cultural workshops. Activities include star gazing, exploring Goat Island, and bird watching around rocky cliffs and old banyan trees.

Location of Hukilau Beach Park & How to Get There

Hukilau Beach Park is located on the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii (55-692 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie HI 96762).

It is approximately 37 miles from Honolulu International Airport and can be easily accessed by car or public transportation. Hukilau Beach Park is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

To get there by car, take the H1 freeway west towards Wahiawa and then follow Kamehameha Highway until you reach Laie. The park is located just north of the Polynesian Cultural Center. You can rent your car via the widget of Rentalcars below.

If you prefer to take PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, there are several bus routes that stop near Hukilau Beach Park. You can also book a shuttle or tour bus service from your hotel or other popular tourist areas.

DID YOU KNOW: The park gets its name from the word “hukilau“, which is a traditional Hawaiian fishing method that involves casting a large net from the shore and pulling it in with the help of community members.

What are all the beaches in Oahu, Hawaii? Take a look at the map below!

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Is Hukilau Beach Park Worth A Visit?

Below we listed out positive and negative points as we experienced them during our afternoon on Hukilau beach.

Positive Points

1. Serene Environment: Hukilau Beach Park offers a peaceful and relatively uncrowded setting, making it a beautiful beach perfect for relaxation and solitude. You will not find many visitors on the sandy beach.
2. Calm Waters: During the summer, the beach’s calm water conditions make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
3. Picturesque Views: The beach provides stunning natural scenery, making it a great place for picnics and photography.
4. Cultural Significance: The beach holds historical and cultural value due to its association with the traditional Hawaiian fishing method, the hukilau (see above).
5. Free Parking: Hukilau Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. You can also find street parking nearby for easy access to Hukilau beach.

Negative Points

1. Limited Facilities: The beach has limited amenities, there are picnic tables and an outdoor shower but there are no restrooms.
2. Closed Parking on Sundays: The parking lot is closed on Sundays, which might inconvenience visitors planning a weekend visit.
3. Seasonal Variability: While the waters are calm in summer, they can be rough during other seasons, limiting safe swimming opportunities.
4. No Lifeguards: The absence of lifeguards can be a concern for safety-conscious visitors and families with children.

Highlights

Hukilau Beach Park has quite a few highlights, hence why it is such a popular destination for locals.

Turquoise Waters

is a nature lover’s paradise and offers stunning sights to behold. It is a perfect beach with gorgeous and clean surroundings, boasting turquoise waters with soft, white sands that are perfect for beach relaxation.

Hukilau Beach Park is also surrounded by small rocky cliffs that create a beautiful, contrasting view. You can take a relaxing walk along the rocky cliffs while bird watching, which is a popular activity in the park.

What’s more, watching the breathtaking sunrise or sunset views is a must-have experience in the park.

Wildlife and Plant Species

Hukilau Beach Park is home to various flora and fauna species that are unique to Hawaii. Goat Island, a nearby wildlife preserve, is also accessible from the Hukilau Beach Park parking lot.

Some wildlife species that you are most likely to see are Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Monk Seals and a variety of bird species.

INSIDER TIP: The park has information boards that inform you on the island’s different plant life.

Moreover, one of the nature highlights of Hukilau Beach Park is being able to spot the BANYAN TREES that are over a century old around the park.

Hawaiian Cultural Workshops

Occasionally, the local community organizes Hawaiian cultural workshops at Hukilau Beach Park.

These workshops include traditional fishing demonstrations, hula dancing, and lei-making classes. It’s an excellent way for visitors to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture and learn about the island’s rich heritage.

Star Gazing

Last but not least, the absence of city lights makes Hukilau Beach Park an ideal spot for star gazing.

The clear, unobstructed night sky offers a fantastic view of constellations and sometimes even the MILKY WAY. During the night, you can find a lot of couples who enjoy the stars and each other on the beach…

For more information on Hukilau Beach Park in Hawaii, check out Hawaii-Guide.com.

Overview of Hukilau Beach Park on the North Shore

Let’s take a look at some of the history of Hukilau Beach Park.

In 1947, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints organized a hukilau (fishing method) in La’ie to raise money to replace their wooden chapel, which had burned down.

Because the hukilau was so popular, the visitor industry asked the La’ie community to continue this fishing method as a visitor attraction. So for years, it was held on this beach.

In 1970, the state determined that it was a commercial endeavor that needed to be taxed, the community found the hukilau to be unprofitable and quit this popular event.

But up until today, the beach here is known as Hukilau Beach.

BE AWARE: Hukilau Beach parking lot is closed on Sundays in line with the town’s practices.

Btw: do you know you could also complete the beautiful North Shore Oahu hikes in Hawaii? Go check it out!

Exploring Goat Island (Mokuʻauia Island)

Just off the coast from Hukilau Beach Park lies Goat Island, also known as Mokuʻauia Island, offering stunning views and public sandy beaches.

• How to access Goat Island: Check local tide charts or consult with knowledgeable locals before crossing over, and always exercise caution while walking through the water.
• What you can expect when visiting: Take in panoramic views of Oahu’s northeastern coastline and enjoy watching seabirds nesting in their natural habitat, but bring any necessary supplies as no facilities are available on the island.

Where to Stay

When you plan a visit to Hukilau Beach Park in Hawaii, there are several accommodation and camping options to consider that cater to different budgets. We stayed in the Turtle Bay Resort, but for your convenience, we have added other recommended places. CHECK THEM OUT BELOW!

To book all our accommodations when we travel, we always use Booking.com. They have the best prices and very flexible cancellation policies depending on the accommodation you choose.

Luxury

For a luxurious stay, consider booking a room at the Turtle Bay Resort. This upscale resort offers beachfront rooms and villas, a golf course, a spa, and multiple dining options. It’s located a bit north of Hukilau Beach Park but the amenities and views make it worth the drive.

Mid-Budget

For a mid-budget option, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore. It’s located close to Hukilau Beach Park and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. This hotel provides a good balance of comfort and affordability.

Budget

If you are a budget-conscious traveler, you should consider staying at the Backpackers Vacation Inn and Plantation Village. This hostel-style accommodation is located near Hukilau Beach Park and offers basic amenities for a comfortable stay.

Necessary Precautions

Visiting Hukilau Beach Park can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to take certain precautions into account.

• Monitor Weather and Ocean Conditions: The currents at the beach can get strong, particularly during the winter months. Always check the weather and ocean conditions before going swimming or snorkeling.
• Swim Safely: The beach is generally good for swimming, but waves can get large. It’s recommended to only swim at protected beaches and during calm conditions. Always swim with a buddy and know both your own and your partner’s swimming abilities.
• Sun Protection: The Hawaiian sun can be intense. Make sure to apply a lot of sunscreen, wear a hat, and take regular breaks in the shade to avoid sunburn.
• Respect the Environment: Help preserve the natural beauty of the beach by not littering, disturbing wildlife, or removing any natural resources. Stick by the Leave No Trace Principle.
• Stay Hydrated: The heat can cause dehydration quickly, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Mind Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings while enjoying the beach to prevent loss or theft.
• Wear Reef Shoes: If you plan to walk to Goat Island, wear reef shoes to protect your feet from uneven rocks and coral, especially during low tide.

For information about lifeguarded beaches on Oahu and real-time updates on current ocean conditions, visit Oahu’s beach safety website.

Conclusion

Hukilau beach is a paradise.

This ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE will help make your trip to the beach an unforgettable experience.

Plan your trip accordingly, enjoy the scenic views and luxury accommodations, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Let us know in the comments how your trip went!

FAQ

Is Hukilau beach good for snorkeling?

Yes, Hukilau Beach is often cited as a good spot for snorkeling. The clear waters provide good visibility and are home to a variety of fish, particularly near the reef on either side of the beach. However, it’s always important to check the current weather and water conditions before going snorkeling, as waves can get larger and currents stronger under certain conditions.

Does the town on Hukilau beach have bathrooms?

The beach has minimal amenities, allowing it to maintain its serene and unspoiled character. There are showers available for rinsing off after a swim. It also offers picnic tables and grassy areas that are perfect for a leisurely picnic or a yoga session. However, it may not have public bathrooms or lifeguards on duty. Always remember to check the current conditions and facilities before your visit for the most enjoyable and safe beach experience.

What is the most secluded beach in Oahu?

Makua Beach and Mokule’ia Beach are often mentioned as some of the most secluded beaches on Oahu. They’re known for their beautiful scenery and relative lack of crowds. However, seclusion can vary based on factors like the time of day or year. Always remember to respect the environment and local regulations when visiting these locations.

Is there a pink sand beach on Oahu?

While there are various unique and beautiful beaches on Oahu, it appears there isn’t a pink sand beach on the island. The Hawaiian beach often associated with pink sand is Kaihalulu Beach, but it’s actually located on Maui, not Oahu. This beach is also more accurately described as having red sand, due to the erosion of nearby red lava cinder cliffs. Oahu is home to a variety of stunning beaches with different types of sand, including white and black, but a pink sand beach doesn’t seem to be among them.

What is the prettiest beach on Oahu?

Lanikai Beach is often considered one of the prettiest beaches on Oahu. It’s praised for its clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and the stunning view of the Mokulua Islands off in the distance. However, beauty is subjective and Oahu offers a wide array of stunning beaches each with their own unique charm.

What is the clearest beach in Honolulu?

One of the beaches in Honolulu known for its clear waters is Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This beach is popular with both locals and tourists for snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest local updates for current conditions.

Where not to swim in Oahu?

Certain surf areas like Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline should be avoided by inexperienced swimmers, especially during the winter months when waves can reach 20-30 feet.

What is the nicest beach in Honolulu?

Waikiki Beach is arguably the most famous beach in Honolulu, known for its beautiful white sand, clear water, and views of Diamond Head Crater in the distance.

Is Hukilau Beach good for body surfing?

Yes, Hukilau Beach has waves that are good for body surfing, boogie boarding, or light surfing, especially in the winter time until middle of September. The beach is usually not very crowded and has showers to rinse off the salt and sand.