11 Spectacular Places to Watch an Epic Sunset on Oahu
If you’re looking for the best places to watch a sunset on Oahu, look no further!
We’ve compiled a list of the best spots on the island to catch the perfect view of the sun as it sets. Whether you’re looking for a romantic place or somewhere to take your family, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your camera and get ready for an unforgettable Hawaiian sunset experience!
Our Top Picks: Sunset Beach, Tantalus Lookout, Kuilei Cliffs Beach, Waikiki Beach, Ka’ena Point, Ala Moana Beach Park, China Walls, Shark’s Cove, Waimea Bay, Koko Head, and Ko Olina Lagoons
1. Sunset Beach (North Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Sunset Beach is one of the best and most popular beaches on Oahu, and for a good reason! Judging by its name, you can tell that this beach is the perfect place to watch a sunset.
There’s nothing like watching the sun dip into the ocean while surrounded by palm trees and the sound of waves crashing.
The beach has perfect golden sand and the most beautiful sunsets we have ever seen. It’s also a great spot for surfing, so if you’re looking for some adventure, this is the place for you.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot, this is it. Sunset Beach is a perfect place to cuddle up with your significant other and watch the waves crash against the shore.
If you’re traveling with kids, don’t worry – they’ll have plenty of fun too. The beach is perfect for building sandcastles, playing in the water (summer months only, when the waves are calm), playing catch and other beach games, or just running around.
And when the sun finally sets, you can enjoy a beautiful Hawaiian sunset from the comfort of your beach towel or chair.
Note: Sunset Beach is probably the most popular spot on Oahu to watch a sunset. If you do not like crowds, consider going to some of the other places mentioned in this article, such as Shark’s Cove or Kuilei Cliffs Beach.
2. Tantalus Lookout (South Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
The Tantalus lookout is one of the most underrated places on Oahu. The views from the lookout point are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll be able to see Honolulu, Waikiki, and Diamond Head in the distance, as well as the gorgeous coastline.
The best part is that it’s easily accessible by car, so you won’t have to hike miles to get there. You park your car and walk a few steps to the lookout.
The lookout point is stunning during the summer when the sunset coincides with the golden hour. The colors are simply incredible, and you won’t be disappointed.
And, of course, the sunsets are irresistible. Watching day turn to night from such an amazing viewpoint is utterly breathtaking.
Also, if you love rainbows, this is the place for you. Tantalus Lookout is one of the best places on the island to see a rainbow, so keep your eyes peeled!
Note: The Tantalus Lookout is located on the island’s South Shore, so it’s the perfect place to watch a sunset if you’re staying in Waikiki or Honolulu.
3. Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park (Honolulu)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park is one of the best-kept secrets on Oahu. The beach is relatively unknown amongst tourists and usually pretty empty.
But don’t let that discourage you, because the views from Kuilei Cliffs are absolutely stunning.
While the swimming conditions here aren’t the best, the beach is known for its good surfing conditions and is perfect for windsurfing when the tradewinds are strong. You will need to take a short hike from the street parking to get to the beach. The hike is paved all the way and is about half a mile long.
The sunsets here are simply incredible. If you’re looking for a place to watch a slightly low-key sunset, Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park is the place for you.
4. Waikiki Beach (South Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
If you’re looking for a place to watch a sunset that’s easily accessible and near where most tourists stay, look no further than Waikiki Beach.
This beach is world-famous, and it’s probably the reason why many people go to Oahu. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and of course, watching a sunset.
The best part is that there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area, so you can grab a bite or a drink while you enjoy the view. And if you are staying in Waikiki, you can probably just walk to the beach from your hotel. Or if you are one of the lucky ones with a nice room, you can watch the sunset right from your balcony.
Keep in mind that Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii, so it can get pretty crowded, especially during sunset hours. But if you don’t mind a little crowd, this is the place for you.
5. Ka’ena Point (North Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
If you’re looking for a place that’s a little off the beaten path, head to Ka’ena Point on the North Shore. This is one of the most remote and beautiful places on Oahu.
The drive to Ka’ena Point is stunning, and the views once you get there are even better. You’ll be able to see the coastline for miles, and the sunsets here are out of this world.
The only downside is that it’s quite a drive from Waikiki (about an hour) and requires a time-consuming hike, so it’s not the most convenient place to watch a sunset if you’re staying in Honolulu or Waikiki.
But if you have a car and are willing to make the drive, then Ka’ena Point is worth visiting. You won’t be disappointed.
We always try to go to Ka’ena Point every time we visit the North Shore. The Ka’ena Point Hike is one of our favorite hikes on Oahu.
While the hike is super easy, keep in mind that it’s also very long (about 5 miles). The plus side is that the views are fantastic. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot some wildlife, such as monk seals, turtles, birds, and whales.
6. Ala Moana Beach Park (Magic Island Beach, South Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Ala Moana Beach Park is located just outside of Waikiki, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a place close to all the action.
This beach park has plenty of amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and a restroom. And, of course, the beach itself is stunning.
The sunsets here are simply incredible, and you’ll be able to see the skyline of Honolulu in the distance.
If you’re looking for a place to watch a sunset close to Waikiki but not as crowded, then Ala Moana Beach Park is your answer.
Keep in mind that Ala Moana Beach Park is a popular local spot and gets extremely crowded during weekends and holidays. So if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, we recommend going during the week and on non-holidays.
7. China Walls (South Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
China Walls are a popular spot for cliff jumping on Oahu, so if you’re into that sort of thing, this is the place for you. If not, don’t worry; I don’t cliff jump myself but come here for the spectacular views.
The views from the top of the cliffs are unique and beautiful, and the sunsets here are out of this world.
If you’re looking for a place to watch a sunset that’s a little more adventurous, then China Walls is the place for you. Just be sure to use caution if you decide to cliff jump, and always check the tide before doing so. If you choose to jump, do so at your own risk. Never feel pressured to do something you’re not comfortable with. Above all, do not underestimate the power of the ocean.
8. Shark’s Cove (North Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Shark’s Cove is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu, but it’s also an incredible place to watch a sunset.
The views at Shark’s Cove are breathtaking, and you’ll be able to see the sunset right into the ocean. It’s truly a unique and memorable experience.
If you’re looking for a place to watch a slightly more relaxed sunset, then Shark’s Cove is the place for you. Just be sure to get there early as parking is limited and tricky to find.
9. Waimea Bay Beach Park (North Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Waimea Bay Beach Park is one of the most popular beaches on the North Shore, and for good reason.
The beach is known for its large waves in the wintertime, so it’s a popular spot for surfing. But the beach is still beautiful and worth visiting even if you don’t surf.
Waimea Bay is known for its famous cliff jump and favorable swimming conditions in the summer months.
The sunsets here are blissful, and you’ll be able to see the waves crashing (winter only) against the cliffs in the distance. It’s truly a sight to see.
Unlike Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay doesn’t get as crowded during sunset, so it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the show.
While you’re at Waimea Bay, don’t forget to check out Waimea Falls right across the street. Waimea Falls is one of the best and easiest waterfall hikes on Oahu.
10. Koko Head (East Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Koko Head Crater is one of the best hikes on the island of Oahu. The views from the top are mesmerizing. You’ll be able to see amazing views of Honolulu, Sandy Beach, Diamond Head Crater, and Hanauma Bay.
The hike itself is pretty challenging, but it’s worth it. And the best part is watching the sunset from the top of the crater.
While Koko Head is known as one of the best places to watch the sunrise, its sunsets are just as spectacular. Koko Head is where you need to be if you’re looking for a place to watch a slightly more adventurous sunset.
Just remember that the hike is pretty open, so it will get very hot during the daytime. Be sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. And don’t forget your camera!
See Also:
The Top 5 Sunrise Hikes on Oahu
The Best Hiking Shoes for Hawaii in 2022 (The Ultimate buying Guide)
11. Ko Olina Lagoons (West Shore)
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Ko Olina Lagoons are spectacular and one of our favorite places to catch a sunset on the island.
These four lagoons are located on the island’s leeward side, offering fantastic sunset views without the trade winds.
The lagoons are also extremely calm and tranquil, making them the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day.
There are four man-made lagoons at Ko Olina featuring gorgeous white sand beaches.
If you’re looking for a place to watch a slightly more relaxing sunset, then Ko Olina Lagoons are your answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What beach is the best for sunset in Oahu?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are many incredible beaches on the island of Oahu. However, our top three picks are Sunset Beach, Tantalus Lookout, and Kuilei Cliffs Beach.
What side of Oahu is sunset?
Sunset is on the west side of Oahu.
What time is golden hour in Oahu?
Golden hour is the hour before sunset or the hour after sunrise. Check the time of sunset/sunrise before heading out to ensure you catch golden hour!
Why is sunset so early in Hawaii?
Sunset is early in Hawaii because Hawaii is located closer to the equator than other US states. The closer you are to the equator, the earlier the sunset. Due to this, there is no difference in how long the day is in the winter and the summer months.
Hawaii also does not practice daylight savings time, which means that during parts of the year, the sun is setting an hour earlier than it would on the mainland.
The Verdict: Best Places to Watch the Sunset on Oahu
There are many incredible places to watch a sunset on the island of Oahu. Some of the best places to watch a sunset include Sunset Beach, Tantalus Lookout, Kuilei Cliffs Beach, Waikiki Beach, Ka’ena Point, Ala Moana Beach Park, China Walls, Shark’s Cove, Waimea Bay, Koko Head, and Ko Olina Lagoons,
So get out there and enjoy all of these unforgettable views!
Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, Aloha!
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