Overview
Sunset Beach is a stunning coastal destination known for its golden sands, world-class waves, and breathtaking sunsets. It's a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and relaxing by the ocean.
Renowned for its beautiful sunsets and as a prime surfing location, especially during winter big wave competitions.
Location
Address
Oahu, Hawaii
Neighborhood: North Shore
Coordinates
21.647500, -158.205800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Late afternoon
Best sunsets and fewer crowds after tourist hours
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and sunny
- • Spring break vibes
- • Flower blooms
summer
Hot and sunny
- • Summer concerts on the beach
- • Extended daylight
autumn
Mild and pleasant
- • Whale watching season begins
- • Fall foliage
winter
Cooler and wetter
- • Winter big wave surfing
- • Northern lights visibility
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check surf conditions
- Bring sunscreen
- Respect local culture
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (for surfing/swimming)
- • Strong currents
- • Sharp coral
Medical facilities: First aid available at nearby lifeguard stations
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual beachwear, Rash guard for sun protection, Flip-flops or water shoes, Nude or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not typically required, but park early on weekends
- • Local tourism websites
- • Not applicable
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
North Shore Hawaii
Size: 35 MB
Features: Surf reports, Weather updates, Local event listings
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and shops
Charging Stations: Limited, check local businesses
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Distance: 45 km
Travel Time: 45-60 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 35 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Cultural significance, beautiful sunsets, great surfing
Historical Significance: Ancient Hawaiian fishing grounds, surfing heritage
Insider Tips
- Best shave ice is from Matsumoto's in Haleiwa
- Early morning surf sessions are less crowded
Local Recommendations
- • Try shave ice at nearby stands
- • Visit historic Haleiwa town
- • Ask locals about secret surf spots
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main beach area
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots of the beach and waves
Result: Stunning sunset photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Waimea Valley
Distance: 5km
Walking: 60 min
Type: Park
Banzai Pipeline
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Surf Spot
Haleiwa Town
Distance: 7km
Walking: 90 min
Type: Historic Town
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during weekdays"
- "Best for surfing in winter"
- "Sunset is a must-see"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (23)
Oahu Ultimate Circle Island Tour Full Day Experience
Kauai: Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail
Maui: Coast of Ka'anapali Beach Sunset Dinner Sail
Haleakala Classic Vehicle Sunrise Tour with Breakfast
Waikiki Friday Fireworks Cruise with E Sea Diver (Shuttle Option)
BYOB Sunset Cruise Waikiki
8 Hour Circle Island Jeep Tour
Waikiki Sunset Cruise and Iconic Views with Swimming
Small-Group Luxury Tour: Road to Hana and Ka'eleku Cavern Day Trip
2.5 Hour Super-Raft Sunset Cruise
Oahu Unveiled: Tailored Luxury Private Island Tour
Waikiki to Diamondhead: Sunset BYOB Cruise
Uniquely Personalized Private Island Tour on Oahu, Hawaii
Best of Oahu's North Shore in small group (Se Habla Español)
Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus
Private Full-Day Circle Island Guided Small-Group up to 6 (Se habla Español)
Private Hawaii Pearl Harbor Tours and North Shore (up to 12 people )
Private Circle Island Full Day up to 14 people (Se habla Español)
Oahu Custom Private Circle Island and Mini Circle Island Tours
Oahu Personalized Private North Shore Highlight Custom Tour
Private Pearl Harbor & North Shore tour (Se habla Español)
Private Oahu Full Circle Islander Tour with Pickup
Oahu Customizable Private Community Service Voluntourism Offer
Quick Info
Available Tours
22
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free