Sand Island Beach

This is a hidden gem. An explorers paradise. It is secluded on an island 20 minutes outside of the main tourist area. Diverse Waterfront Options: If you like calm sandy beaches this place has it. If you like big waves landing on a rocky shoreline this place has it. There’s even a calm harbor on the far side that probably has good snorkeling/fishing. The main beach is protected by a man made sea wall and even has a man made lagoon perfect for little kids (see photos). Plenty of amenities: There is ample free parking, a lot of picnic tables and benches, there are bathrooms and shower stations. The bathrooms were locked when I was there however I suspect I was just there before they opened them. There were portable toilets available as well. There were a bunch of trees for shade spaced out however I have seen other beaches with more shade. Wildlife: It’s the only place I’ve seen the Indian mongoose in Hawaii and there were a bunch of them on the airport side of the island. There were also so many birds for the birdwatchers out there. I also noticed a bunch of cats on the island. Planes and Ships: The island is in the departure path of the islands international airport a plane spotters dream. This island is also at the inlet for a major international shipping port so you can observe the occasional large ships coming and going. This place also has a lot of history with so remaining infrastructure. This place has so much to offer: -Diverse Waterfront -Ample Amenities -Wildlife -Planes and Ships -History

Great beach! A lot quieter than alamoana, but just as large with picnic tables, BBQ pits, toilets, showers, fields, and plenty of parking. It's a lot more run down than others areas, but it's worth it for lesser crowds. The beach is pretty rocky, and you may have to walk or drive down further west to go swimming. Nice quiet surf spot, too, with not that far of a paddle.

Hidden gem. This may ruin it for those of us who enjoy a peaceful uncongested beach experience. Parking is always good, bathrooms are in service, and it's the only place I've seen monk seals. My first choice for a chill beach day.

A lot of invasive kiawe cleared out near the comfort station. Looks much better now. However, people fed the enormous cat colony out there. Some places smell strongly of cat pee and be careful of stepping on feces. Some vagrants still camp out within the kiawe that remain. Overall though, the park is much cleaner and safer than a few years ago.