Also known as Eternity Beach, this picturesque cove featured in the 1953 Hollywood film From Here to Eternity, starring Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr, and has had the nickname ever since. With its crashing surf and secluded feel it makes the perfect location for a romantic movie, but is also ideally suited to those looking for a quieter, more scenic alternative to Waikiki.
You’ll find free parking for the beach at the top of the cliffs in the area signposted for Halona Blowhole. If the tide is high and a large swell is running, take the time to watch the impressive plumes of water that spout through the gap in the rocks.
The path to the beach is a steep climb down the rocks. Once you reach the sand, pick your spot, put down your towel and prepare for some serious Hawaiian-style relaxation. If the water is calm then this is a great place to swim. Strap on a snorkel and mask and you might just spot green sea turtles gliding about beneath the surface. Avoid swimming during rough sea conditions, as currents here can be extremely strong. More confident swimmers might enjoy bodysurfing, while children can play in the tide pools at the east end of the beach.
Fishermen can try their luck at the popular Bamboo Ridge on the west side of the beach. So named for the abundance of bamboo fishing poles that were once regularly seen here, this spot has seen many large fish hauled in.
Keep one eye out to sea during the winter months for the migrating humpback whales. Halona Cove and the cliffs at Halona Blowhole are two of the best places to whale watch during migration season.
Halona Cove is located just over 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Waikiki. Parking is free, but be sure to remove valuables from sight. If you feel like exploring, continue driving east around the coast and the road will bring you to yet more stunning coves and beaches.
