Best beaches to relax/swim in the first week of January

Question

Hi there,

We are a family of four with 2 adults and two kids age 17 & 12. Looking for a beach (or two, or three) to hang out and relax in the first week of January. We enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Having facilities available would be a plus, though we prefer not to be “shoulder to shoulder” with other visitors.

Here’s what I have found:

Lanikai Beach/Kailua Beach Park

Waimanalo Beach

Ala Moana Beach Park

Ko Olina

Are these good for us to visit in January? Is Ko Olina open to public even though we don’t stay at one of its properties? Any other beaches you would recommend? Thanks for your help in advance.

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful family trip to Oahu, and you're looking for some relaxing beaches to enjoy swimming and snorkeling. January is a great time to visit, though the weather can be a bit cooler and there’s always a chance of higher surf on certain beaches, so it’s important to pick spots that are more sheltered and calm during that time of year. Let's take a closer look at the beaches you mentioned and see how they stack up for your family trip:

Lanikai Beach / Kailua Beach Park – Both of these beaches are consistently rated among the best on Oahu. Lanikai, in particular, is famous for its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere. Kailua Beach Park is nearby and offers facilities like restrooms and picnic areas. While both beaches are beautiful, they can get crowded at times, especially on weekends. However, they still maintain a relatively peaceful vibe compared to some of the more tourist-heavy areas. The water is generally calm here, making it great for swimming and snorkeling, especially near the offshore Mokulua Islands.
Waimanalo Beach – This is another hidden gem on Oahu, with fewer crowds than Lanikai or Kailua. Waimanalo Beach is beautiful and uncrowded, with soft sand and clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, relaxing, and even picnicking as it has shaded areas and picnic tables. The only downside is there are fewer amenities compared to other beaches, but it makes up for it in tranquility. This beach is more laid-back, so it’s ideal for those wanting to avoid crowds.
Ala Moana Beach Park – Located in Honolulu, this beach is a great option if you're looking for easy access to amenities like restrooms, food trucks, and plenty of parking. The beach is fairly calm, and the waters are usually good for swimming, though it can get crowded, especially during peak times. Ala Moana Beach is perfect if you want to combine beach time with a more urban experience, as it's right next to the Ala Moana Shopping Center. While it may be a bit busier than the other options, it’s still a solid choice for a day of swimming and relaxing.
Ko Olina – Ko Olina is a resort area, but the lagoons there are open to the public. The lagoons are man-made and well-sheltered, which makes them perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families. There are bathrooms, picnic areas, and food options nearby, which is great if you need facilities. While the area is more developed, it's still much less crowded compared to Waikiki. If you’re not staying at one of the resorts, you can still access the beaches, though parking might be limited during peak times. Ko Olina is a good choice for a more controlled, peaceful beach experience.

Regarding your question about Ko Olina, yes, the lagoons are open to the public, but you’ll want to check for any specific access restrictions or parking availability. It’s a great spot for families because of the calm waters and convenient amenities.

Other beaches you might want to consider:

Makapu'u Beach – Located near Waimanalo, this beach is known for its striking scenery and beautiful views. The waters can be a bit rougher here, so it’s best for relaxing and enjoying the scenery rather than swimming. However, the hike to Makapu'u Lighthouse offers some of the best views of the island.
Sunset Beach (North Shore) – If you're visiting in January, you'll want to be cautious here since it's prime time for big waves on the North Shore. However, if you're up for a bit of adventure and don’t mind observing from the shore, it’s a fantastic spot to watch world-class surfers.

In summary, Lanikai, Kailua, Waimanalo, and Ko Olina are all great choices for swimming and relaxation in January. If you're looking for calm waters and fewer crowds, Waimanalo Beach might be your best bet. Ko Olina offers the best amenities and controlled beach conditions if you're okay with a more resort-style experience. Ala Moana is convenient if you're staying in Honolulu and want to combine beach time with shopping and dining. Enjoy your trip to Oahu and have a fantastic time with your family!

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