Ranked one of the best beaches in the world and one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu, Lanikai (“heavenly sea”) Beach, also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, offers mesmerizing and endless vistas of soft powdery white sand, clear azure blue water, and calm surf. Located in the town of Kailua, this beach is popular with local families and is an idyllic spot for swimming and relaxing. This isn’t an ideal spot for snorkeling though, with its minimal reef patches. There is no public parking, but during the week, neighborhood parking is open, and street parking is free. Because parking is scarce, it’s better to park at Kailua Beach’s parking area, which is a short 10-minute walk away. From Lanikai, you can see Nā Mokulua in the distance. Known locally as “the Mokes,”these islets are protected seabird sanctuaries with access allowed only on the Northern Moke which is usually accessed by kayak or outrigger canoe.