Sunset Beach is set on a two-mile stretch in Pupukea on the North Shore of Oahu, about a 39-mile drive from Waikiki in Honolulu. Living up to its name of being a spectacular place to watch the sunset, this beach also offers a variety of fun water activities for the whole family to enjoy throughout the year.
Summer visitors to Sunset Beach will find calmer waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or body-boarding. Winter at the beach boasts huge waves soaring to 30-plus feet, perfect for seasoned surfers to test their skills while spectators watch in awe.
Sunset Beach - one of the highlights of 8 Best Beaches in Honolulu and 10 Best Things to Do in Winter in Honolulu (Read all about Honolulu here)
Sunset Beach highlights
A lifeguard is on duty for most of the day at Sunset Beach because the area is known for its choppy waters. Parents should keep an eye on their little ones and heed any warning signs. For those who prefer to stay onshore, the soft sand is perfect for relaxing and taking in spectacular ocean views.
Along with its impressive sunsets, the beach is also known for its high-profile, end-of-year events, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing series and the Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational, which honors the memory of Hawaiian surfing champ Eddie Aikau.
Good to know when visiting Sunset Beach
An array of amenities awaits couples and families at Sunset Beach. Visitors will find restroom and shower facilities at the park across the street. There are also shady areas and several picnic tables, as well as free parking. There are usually several food trucks located nearby.
For those who want to explore the local area, Sunset Beach is not far from Waimea Bay and Ehukai Beach Park, home to the famous Banzai Pipeline surf reef break. Haleiwa Town is located nearby and offers a variety of dining options, including Ted’s Bakery, where you will find the original chocolate haupia pie.
Sunset Beach
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Where to stay in Honolulu
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites
Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
