Oahu Beaches for Kids Who Love to Explore
I love snorkeling. Love it. And I used to actually go snorkeling before having kids. Shark’s Cove (Pupukea Beach Park) was always a favorite location. Once you scramble over the boulders in the shallows and plunge into the deep water you’re treated to a fantastic snorkel spot. Lots of fish, giant turtles, and some cool underwater topography to explore.
I spent a lot of time there in the past and I never thought it was one of the best Oahu beaches for kids. The surge can be strong (especially in the winter) and knock you into sharp rocks and urchins. Additionally, most entry points are tricky, rock-scrambling affairs. If you have small children, enter near the bathroom on the west side of the cove (toward Three Tables and Haleiwa). Here you will find a shallow, sandy entry. This area is typically full of parents with babies and toddlers splashing in the shallows and jumping off rocks or crab hunting.
Bring along goggles, a dip net, and some reef shoes (the rocks are sharp) and you’re set for the day. You can even slip across the street to one of the tasty food trucks or Foodland for supplies. We opted for a slightly sandy beach pizza which is extra delicious when consumed at sunset. The beach gets hot during the day and a bit crowded, but mornings and evenings are perfect.
We visited following some heavy rains and the normally blue, clear water was transformed into a murky brown. It may not have been the smartest thing to do, but we braved it anyway and had it mostly to ourselves.
Looking for More Toddler Fun on Oahu?
If you have a little explorer, head over the Keiki Monday archives for more kids activities on Oahu. And don’t forget to sign up for the Little Bird Post below to receive monthly updates on Oahu family fun!
