I was walking along Diamond Head Road when I discovered the Makalei Beach Park.
I was on my way back to Waikiki after spending a few hours at Diamond Head Beach Park watching the surfers and flying the drone.
Arriving near Makalei Beach Park, I came across a group of tourists with Segways venturing into the park. That’s when I had the idea of following them, telling me that if the guide took them here it was for a good reason!
And I confirm, this place is a gem. Cherry on top, the park is connected to the Leahi Beach Park by a walkway along the waterfront, offering a beautiful and short walk !
Makalei Beach Park
The highlight of Makalei Beach Park is its small white sandy beach. This is mostly because it is not visible from the road. It’s the perfect place to escape the frenzy of Waikiki and stay with locals.
The swiming conditions are limited because of the reef. However you can find some sandbanks, your feet will thank you! The water is very clear and the place seems good for snorkeling.
The park provides a lot of shade. In the middle, under a huge Banyan, you’ll find a few picnic tables. Showers are also available which is very pleasant.
You will also cross a lot of surfers who enter the water here to reach some famous spots around. But with names like Suicides or Graveyards we do not really want to follow them !
At the end of the park, there is a stone seewall. You can see the waves crashing over it. Keep your distances if you don’t want to be watered !😉
On the right a few steps give access to the beach while on the left, a narrow walkway leads to Leahi Beach Park.
In theory it should take you only 5 minutes but the place is so photogenic…plan a little more time!
Leahi Beach Park
And here’s how you end up at Leahi Beach Park!
Nothing fancy here, even though the park is very peaceful and the ocean’s view still amazing.
The lawn is so thick it’s really comfy. This is the perfect place for a short break especially since many hummingbirds can be observed in the park.
Diamond Head overlooking the park, this one inherited its Hawaiian name: Lēʻahi
Informations
300 m
1h for both of them
Makalei Beach Park: 3111 Diamond Head Rd
Leahi Beach Park: 3187 Diamond Head Rd
No parking! But a correct walking distance. From the zoo, it takes about 20 minutes. By car, you can get closer and park around the Kapiolani Park on Kalakaua Ave or Paki Ave.
No Lavatory
No Lifeguard
