You Absolutely Need To Visit Hawaii S Underrated Pokai Bay

As the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu boasts 112 miles of stunning coastline and more than one hundred different beaches. Oahu is also the most populated of the islands with nearly one million residents, which means that, unfortunately, many of the best beaches on the island are often crowded. Luckily, if you know where to look, you can still find hidden beaches across the island perfect for when you want to get away and truly soak in the beauty of our island paradise — without all of the crowds. Today, we’re headed to one of our favorite underrated sandy beaches, and we can’t wait to share this slice of paradise with you.

Welcome to Pokai Bay Beach Park! Located on Oahu’s leeward coast between Waianae and Makaha is this beautiful stretch of pristine, white sand perfect for your next beach day — especially in the summer.

Marlon Bu/Flickr

The west side of the island is often overlooked by tourists, but the hot, dry climate makes it the perfect beach to visit when it’s overcast on the Windward coast — and the ideal spot to watch the sunset at the end of a long day.

Michael Jones/Google

Pokai Bay is also the most protected by on the leeward coast, and features calm, crystalline waters year-round.

tburt50/Google

Protected by a breakwater that blocks high surf from entering the bay, Pokai Bay is an idyllic swimming beach, and is popular among local families and novice surfers.

Larry Mayfield/Google

The recreation opportunities at Pokai Bay are endless, as this is also a popular spot for fishing, stand up paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Luis Rodriguez/Google

Nestled between the small boat harbor in Waianae and Kane’ilio Point, Pokai Bay is home to the Pililaau Army Recreation Center, which was acquired by the federal government in 1918.

Masagi Okamoto/Google

At the beach park, you will find a lifeguard, bathroom, showers, and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a day at the beach.

Eugene Kim/Flickr

Thanks to its location far away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, Pokai Bay is the perfect place to get away from it all. It’s not often crowded during the week, but can be packed with locals on the weekends.

808 BUDS/Google

Backed by the lush, verdant Waianae Mountains, it doesn’t get any prettier than this 15-acre beach park that features fine, white sand and sparkling blue waters.

Nandor Szotak/Google

Pokai Bay Beach Park is located at 960 Bayview St. #85, Waianae, HI 96792, and is quite the stunning slice of paradise, wouldn’t you agree?