Fort DeRussy Beach Park

A Peaceful Slice of Waikiki

Next to Honolulu's famous coastline, Fort DeRussy Beach stretches for about 1,800 feet with soft, light brown sand that feels just right between your toes. Unlike its bustling Waikiki neighbors, this beach offers a more laid-back vibe while still showcasing those postcard-worthy Diamond Head views. The water here is calm and clear, thanks to a protective offshore reef that creates a natural swimming pool well-suited for families and those who prefer their ocean adventures on the gentler side.

Green Escape Behind the Sand

When you need a break from the sun, the park's inland area welcomes you with sprawling grassy lawns shaded by swaying coconut palms and magnificent monkeypod trees. This verdant retreat seamlessly connects to the beach, creating an excellent two-for-one outdoor experience. Barbecue grills dot the landscape, making impromptu cookouts entirely possible, while concrete picnic tables with overhead trellises offer shaded spots to enjoy your meal with a side of ocean breeze.

A walkway leads along the beach

Photo: Daniel Ramirez (CC BY 2.0)

Play All Day

Feeling active? Fort DeRussy offers plenty of options. The volleyball courts attract an interesting mix of locals and visitors, sometimes featuring evening games lit up against the Hawaiian night sky. The pickleball courts along the coastline let you play with a stunning ocean backdrop. Traditional tennis courts and open spaces for casual games round out the offerings, ensuring there's something for every type of recreational enthusiast.

Grassy area near the Hawaii Army Museum

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A Park With a Past

This isn't just any beachfront park - it's a piece of Hawaiian history. Named after General René Edward De Russy, these 71 acres once served as a military installation protecting Honolulu and Pearl Harbor from coastal attacks in the early 1900s. History buffs should make time for the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii housed in Battery Randolph, a former coastal artillery battery. Here you can explore military artifacts and learn about Hawaii's role in various conflicts, including World War II. The museum is free to enter, but they do appreciate donations if you're so inclined.

Prime Position

Situated in the heart of Waikiki, Fort DeRussy gives you that rare combination of accessibility and tranquility. You're still close to hotels, restaurants, and shops, but with noticeably fewer crowds than other parts of the famous beach stretch.

Palm trees on the park's white beach sands

Photo: Daniel Ramirez (CC BY 2.0)

Mother Nature's Evening Show

As day turns to dusk, the park transforms into one of Honolulu's premier sunset-watching spots. The sky puts on a nightly performance of orange, pink, and red hues that reflect off the Pacific in spectacular fashion. If you're here on a Friday evening, stick around for a bonus show - you'll have front-row seats to the fireworks display from the nearby Hilton Hawaiian Village.

The Practical Stuff

You can find all the essentials here - clean public restrooms, outdoor showers for rinsing off sandy feet, plus chair and umbrella rentals if you didn't pack your own beach gear. These thoughtful amenities make it easy to spend a full day exploring everything the park has to offer.

Nature enthusiasts might spot various bird species across the park's lush landscape. And if you're into marine life, grab your snorkel gear - the offshore reef area is known for sea turtle sightings, especially during morning or late afternoon excursions. Just remember to keep a respectful distance from these protected creatures.