good swimming beaches near Honolulu?

I usually go to Maui but I may need to go to Oahu for a medical consult. I have never spent time there, just two day trips when I had to go from Maui for medical treatment. Now I live here is the continental US. Are there any calm and clean swimming beaches in or near Honolulu? This would be early fall. I would probably stay in Waikiki and take a taxi around. I think I used Charleys last time, is that still a good idea? I rented a car on the first day trip from Maui and it was pretty awful driving around Honolulu, Google maps was mixed up. Thanks for any input.

If you’re staying in Waikīkī and are looking for calm, clean beaches near Honolulu for swimming (especially in early fall) — ideal if you don’t want a rough surf before traveling — there *are* several good options. Some of them are right in or near Waikīkī, and others are a short taxi or rideshare away. Below are some of the top picks and what to expect at each.

Recommended Calm & Clean Swimming Beaches Near Honolulu / Waikīkī

• Ala Moana Beach Park / Magic Island (adjacent to Ala Moana) — Just west of Waikīkī and easy to reach by taxi or local bus. The beach is protected by an offshore reef, which keeps the water calm almost all year round — a great place for swimming, paddle-boarding or relaxing without big waves. There are lifeguards, restrooms and shaded grassy areas, so it’s also comfortable and convenient for a low-stress swim day.
• Kūhiō Beach Park (Waikīkī) — Within walking distance of many Waikīkī hotels. Because seawalls and breakwaters shelter portions of the beach, the waters are often calm and well-suited for casual swimming or floating. It’s a good choice if you don’t want to venture far or deal with a long taxi ride.
• Kaimana Beach (near Diamond Head / eastern end of Waikīkī area) — A quieter, more relaxed beach compared with the main Waikīkī strip. The surf is often gentler here, and it’s a good alternative if you want a more peaceful, less touristy vibe but still stay relatively close to where you're lodging.
• Ko Olina Lagoons (west Oʻahu) — If you’re willing to take a taxi or rideshare for about 30–45 minutes from Waikīkī, this collection of four man-made lagoons is known for calm, protected water, soft sand, and resort-style amenities. The lagoons are well-suited for families or anyone wanting a gentle swim without strong surf, and they tend to be less crowded than Waikīkī at peak times.
• Kailua Beach Park / Lanikai Beach — if you are up for a short driver or longer taxi ride out of Honolulu — These are further from Waikīkī but are among Oʻahu’s most beautiful, calm and natural-feeling beaches. Kailua tends to have gentle waves and good facilities (restrooms, parking, nice sand). Lanikai is especially prized for soft sand, clear water and a serene atmosphere — ideal for a more relaxed beach escape, though access and parking can be trickier.