Sunset Beach Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Oahu Visitors Bureau (OVB)/Bianca Photography
Photo provided by Oahu Visitors Bureau (OVB)/Bianca Photography
Photo provided by Oahu Visitors Bureau (OVB)/Bianca Photography
Sunset Beach
Photo by Karin Cao


Go to this beach early to watch some of the wildest surfing on O’ahu and stay late for some of the island’s most beautiful sunsets.

O’ahu’s North Shore has the biggest winter waves, ideal for international surf competition. If you’re an expert surfer, you must try the challenging waves of Sunset Beach. If you’re a beginner, watch the pros here and then practice your technique at a gentler beach without Sunset’s treacherous shallow reef breakers. 

In milder summer conditions enjoy the waveless waters of Sunset Beach for wading, snorkeling and skimboarding, always with caution, in case hazardous conditions arise. Lifeguards man Sunset Beach, posting red or black flags when swimming is considered dangerous, a very frequent occurrence during winter. Don’t ignore the warnings.

When the cautionary flags are visible, take pleasure in non-swimming activities. The long sandy beach is great for jogging, building sandcastles or enjoying a lazy read in the sun. Walk along the shore watching for ocean animals: whales, dolphins, tortoises or monk seals. 

Pick up takeout breakfast, lunch or dinner to enjoy at the beach. Then, sit mesmerized watching the waves, often reaching a 30-foot (9-meter) height. Even without surfers, the powerful waves are a spectacular sight. When strong competitors ride the giant rollers, you’ll be amazed at their balance and bravery. Sunset Beach hosted the Duke Kahanamoku Classic surfing competition from 1965 to 1984, bringing the spectacle of competitive surfing to the eye of the public via regular television coverage. Walk a short distance southwest to see surfers on Banzai Pipeline where giant waves create tunnels of water. 

Sunset Beach is aptly named. Stake out a spot in the area before dusk on at least one day during your trip. Watch the giant red ball of the sun sinking into the horizon behind the crashing surf. The sunset is especially beautiful with light clouds reflecting dwindling rays onto the water. 

Parking at Sunset Beach is limited arrive early to secure a spot. Reach the area in under an hour from Honolulu on the direct inland route or take a slightly longer scenic drive along O’ahu’s eastern shore with plenty of opportunities to stop for great photos and memories.

Plan a trip to see Sunset Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Waikiki Resort Hotel
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

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Bright, clean, airy Rocky Point Beach 1 bedroom loft. Steps to beach & bike path

Bright, clean, airy Rocky Point Beach 1 bedroom loft. Steps to beach & bike path

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Bright, clean, airy Rocky Point Beach 1 bedroom loft. Steps to beach & bike path
Surfer's Paradise: Two Floors Ocean View Home, Walking Distance to Sunset Beach

Surfer's Paradise: Two Floors Ocean View Home, Walking Distance to Sunset Beach

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Surfer's Paradise: Two Floors Ocean View Home, Walking Distance to Sunset Beach
Beautiful "Beachfront" House on the Beach at Sunset Beach Paradise on the Beach

Beautiful "Beachfront" House on the Beach at Sunset Beach Paradise on the Beach

Sunset Beach
Beautiful "Beachfront" House on the Beach at Sunset Beach Paradise on the Beach
Sunset Oceanfront Hale Kalea - Beach Cruisers!

Sunset Oceanfront Hale Kalea - Beach Cruisers!

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SUNSET BEACH OHAU HAWAII -  BEST VIEW ON THE NORTH SHORE

SUNSET BEACH OHAU HAWAII - BEST VIEW ON THE NORTH SHORE

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The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay

5 out of 5
57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, HI
The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay
Turtle Bay One Bedroom

Turtle Bay One Bedroom

Haleiwa
Turtle Bay One Bedroom
SUMMER SPECIALS AUG\SEPT! ONLY 3400/MONTH.  JUST STEPS TO SUNSET BEACH/BACKYARDS

SUMMER SPECIALS AUG\SEPT! ONLY 3400/MONTH. JUST STEPS TO SUNSET BEACH/BACKYARDS

Sunset Beach
SUMMER SPECIALS AUG\SEPT! ONLY 3400/MONTH. JUST STEPS TO SUNSET BEACH/BACKYARDS
Beachfront Cottage at Log Cabins

Beachfront Cottage at Log Cabins

Haleiwa
Beachfront Cottage at Log Cabins
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach in Haleiwa, Hawaii, is perfect for a beach vacation, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets, thrilling surfing, and leisurely biking. Engage in various beach activities and sports, or relax at a beach club. Don’t forget to book your tee time for a round of golf nearby. With its vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty, Sunset Beach offers an unforgettable experience for tourists from Canada.

Shopping

In Sunset Beach, you can explore local shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Waikele Premium Outlets, 30.6km away, for a variety of brands. The Mililani Farmers' Market, 24.1km away, and Chinatown Markets, 20.9km away, offer local goods and fresh produce.

Recreation

Experience the Turtle Bay Palmer Course for a serene golf outing amidst lush landscapes, located 6.4km from Sunset Beach. For relaxation, head to Malaekahana State Recreation Area, 12.9km away, where you can unwind in nature. Indulge in luxury at the Hawaii Polo Club, 16.1km from your stay.

Adventure

At Kuuloa Kai Charters, 12.9km from Sunset Beach, immerse yourself in thrilling water sports amidst stunning ocean views. For hiking enthusiasts, Crouching Lion and Makiki Trail, located 15 and 16.4km away respectively, offer breathtaking scenery and adventurous trails that showcase Hawaii's natural beauty.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Art...is, 12.9km away, where culture meets romance. For a cinematic adventure, visit Doris Duke Theatre, 212.9km away, offering family-friendly entertainment. Don't miss Hawaii Theater, 43.5km away, blending culture and family fun for an unforgettable evening!

Find the best attractions near Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach in Haleiwa, Hawaii, offers a delightful mix of stunning beaches and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy beautiful sandy shores, picturesque sunsets, and the vibrant local culture. Whether you're looking to relax by the bay or immerse yourself in outdoor activities, Sunset Beach provides a perfect backdrop for your Hawaiian getaway. Explore the area's charm and make unforgettable memories at this idyllic destination.

  • Turtle Bay Beach: Located 6.4km from Sunset Beach, Turtle Bay Beach offers a serene escape with its stunning sandy shores and inviting waves. Enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun or exploring the warm waters, perfect for families and couples alike.
  • Polynesian Cultural Center: Situated 12.9km away, the Polynesian Cultural Center immerses visitors in the rich traditions and vibrant cultures of the Pacific Islands. Experience captivating performances, authentic cuisine, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the heritage of Polynesia.
  • Turtle Bay: Just 6.4km from Sunset Beach, Turtle Bay is a picturesque bay known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you want to hike scenic trails or enjoy beachside relaxation, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Best time to go to Sunset Beach

Visitor numbers around Sunset Beach is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Sunset Beach is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.5°F (22.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
March72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April74.5°F (23.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May76.1°F (24.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June77.7°F (25.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August79.2°F (26.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September79.3°F (26.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October78.4°F (25.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.5°F (24.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sunset Beach

For a budget-friendly vacation to Sunset Beach, take advantage of free access to attractions like Turtle Bay Beach and Banzai Pipeline. Visit during cheaper months like May and October to November, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, especially on Tuesdays. Consider using Expedia to compare room rates, search for last-minute deals, and bundle your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to filter for eco-friendly options and arrange prices from lowest to highest for the best deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sunset Beach are May and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Sunset Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sunset Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Sunset Beach is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by bundling your hotel stay at Sunset Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.