Ala Moana Beach Park
About Ala Moana Beach Park
Golden Sands and Blue Waters
Nestled between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu on Oahu, Ala Moana Beach Park spans a generous 100 acres of prime Hawaiian coastline. The park's crown jewel is its half-mile stretch of gold-sand beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply wiggle your toes in the warm Pacific sand.
The beach is protected by a shallow reef offshore, creating a calm open ocean swimming area that attracts around 4 million visitors each year. Just a heads-up though - the ocean floor drops off rather quickly, so if you're not confident in your swimming abilities, it's best to stay in the shallower areas. Thankfully, lifeguards keep watch daily, adding an extra layer of safety to your beach day.

Calm Waters and Family-Friendly Swimming
If you're traveling with little ones or just prefer calmer waters, this beach is a good option. Ala Moana Beach is famous for its tranquil, clear waters that create a natural swimming pool feel. The gentle conditions make it well-suited for floating on your back, swimming laps, or trying your balance on a paddleboard.
The park also features Magic Island, a human-made peninsula with a shallow lagoon that feels like nature's kiddie pool. Protected by breakwaters, this sheltered cove creates tide-pool-like conditions where children can splash around safely and adults can enjoy a peaceful dip without battling waves.

Recreation and Relaxation
Beyond the beach, Ala Moana offers sprawling grassy areas shaded by majestic banyan trees and swaying palm trees - ideal spots to spread out a blanket for a picnic or fire up one of the park's BBQ grills. For the more actively inclined, you'll find tennis courts, volleyball courts, and basketball courts scattered across the grounds.
The paved jogging trail that loops around the park stretches for about three miles, offering a scenic workout with refreshing ocean breezes and beautiful views. On any given day, you might spot yoga classes, tai chi groups, or fitness bootcamps taking advantage of the expansive lawns.

Scenic Beauty
Ala Moana offers some beautiful views. From certain vantage points, you can take in the deep blue ocean, Honolulu's urban skyline, and even Diamond Head crater in the distance. As evening approaches, find a comfortable spot to witness what many consider some of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island, with the sun sinking into the Pacific in a display of orange and pink hues.
The palm trees silhouetted against turquoise waters make this park a popular spot for wedding photographers and social media pictures.

Rich History
Before becoming the treasured park it is today, Ala Moana was once a swampy marshland. In the 1930s, it was transformed through an ambitious land reclamation project. The park was officially dedicated in 1934 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who aptly named it "The People's Park."
Today, it's one of Hawaii's most historic and frequently visited public spaces, used by both locals and tourists. Throughout the year, the park hosts meaningful cultural events, including the poignant Memorial Day Lantern Floating Ceremony, where thousands gather to honor loved ones.

Visitor Information
You can enjoy the park daily from 4 AM to 10 PM. All the basics are covered with clean public restrooms, outdoor showers to rinse off the salt and sand, and food options when hunger strikes. If you're looking for a taste of local flavor, L&L Hawaiian BBQ serves up authentic plate lunches at reasonable prices right in the park.
One word of advice about parking - it can get tight, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is your best bet for snagging a spot. The park's location right next to Ala Moana Shopping Center makes it easy to combine a morning of retail therapy with an afternoon of beach relaxation.
All Features & Facilities
Active Recreation
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Water Features & Activities
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Top Restaurants Near Ala Moana Beach Park
JINYA Ramen Bar - Honolulu
312 feet1118 Ala Moana Blvd Ste 100, Honolulu, HI 96814
Modern Japanese restaurant serving authentic ramen with rich tonkotsu broth and quality appetizers in a stylish setting.
Tangö Contemporary Cafe
443 feet1288 Ala Moana Blvd #120, Honolulu, HI 96814
Modern eatery serving creative dishes blending Scandinavian, Asian, Hawaiian and American flavors in Kaka'ako.
Merriman's Honolulu
528 feet1108 Auahi St #170, Honolulu, HI 96814
Upscale Hawaiian restaurant featuring fresh local seafood, creative dishes, and live music entertainment.
Hawaii Yacht Club
531 feet1739 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Waterfront dining venue offering delicious cuisine with spectacular ocean views and friendly service.
Namaste Indian & Nepalese cuisine
0.3 miles1778 Ala Moana Blvd STE 213, Honolulu, HI 96815
Authentic Indian and Nepalese restaurant serving flavorful curries, momos, and traditional dishes with friendly service.
Sushi ii
0.4 miles655 Ke’eaumoku St #109, Honolulu, HI 96814
Inventive sushi rolls and fresh sashimi served in a cozy strip-mall location with excellent omakase options.
Top Hotels Near Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra
978 feet410 Atkinson Dr, Honolulu, HI 96814
Relaxed hotel featuring ocean views, outdoor pool, and convenient access to Ala Moana shopping.
Prince Waikiki
0.2 miles100 Holomoana St, Honolulu, HI 96815
Modern high-rise hotel featuring luxury rooms, multiple dining options, spa services, and stunning marina views.
Paniolo at The Equus
0.2 miles1696 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815
A polished boutique hotel featuring casual rooms, an outdoor pool, and a laid-back cafe with bar.
Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu
0.3 miles1775 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contemporary harborfront resort with sleek accommodations, multiple dining options, and dual pool areas.
Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites
0.4 miles1777 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Upmarket harborfront hotel featuring outdoor pools, stunning ocean views, and convenient beach access.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
0.5 miles2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Beachfront resort featuring high-rise accommodations with spa services, dining options, and recreational activities.