Yokohama (Keawaula Beach)

Getting There:   Traveling from Honolulu, follow signs toward Waianae: the H1 turns into Farrington highway (93) as you reach the west side of the island. Continue on Farrington highway until you reach the yellow gate marking the end of the road and Yokohama will greet you. As you drive through the yellow gate you will likely see cars parked on both sides of the road and in the parking lot on the right. Park wherever you find a spot, or continue a little further for a more secluded spot on the beach.

Typically, the further you go the less people there are... this is mainly because ocean access is limited due to rocks/reef. Many people fish from the rocks but if you plan on getting in the water then park between the yellow gate and the lifeguard tower. This is the best stretch of beach for swimming.

The Beach:  When you step onto the beach you will feel the soft sand underfoot and see the beautiful stretch of turquoise water... this is contrasted by the steep green* mountains paralleling the beach. Lay your towels/chairs/blanket in the sand and begin soaking up the Hawaiian rays. 

*green is dependent on the season... but beauty remains year-round.

If you are in the mood to do something besides relaxing on the beach then there are some other options to be had:

• A hike/walk to Ka'ena Point 
• Shore fishing
• Snorkeling (on occasion one may see pods of dolphins)
• Swim/Surf/Boogie Board:

Depending on the time of year, and tides, a few nice beach breaks will form: one in front of the lifeguard tower and one directly in front of the parking lot. Swimmers usually prefer the parking lot break while surfers and bodyboarders crowd the lifeguard break. On a big day you will see tourists and locals alike washing up onto the shore covered in sand and smiling from ear to ear. 

Notes:

• There are many stores on the west side to stop and pick up last minutes essentials but drive too far and you will be out of luck. Stop somewhere near Waianae for last minute essentials.

• Be cautious when entering/exiting the water... The waves are powerful and can be dangerous. Heed the warning signs if they are present. 
• Be respectful of the beach and of the locals... Use the trash cans provided to dispose of your garbage when you leave. 

• This is, arguably, one of the best places to watch sunset on Oahu.. Bring a camera to capture a nice evening landscape, or use the great natural light and your phone to snap an award winning selfie. 
• There are showers and restroom facilities at this beach but you might want to bring your own toilet paper.
• In the winter time, with a good pair of binoculars, you may see whales breaching in the distance... They tend to frequent the west side.