Malaekahana Bay

Malaekahana Bay is a long northeastern Oahu beach between Laie and Kahuku, with white sand, camping areas, Goat Island views and seasonal surf.

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Malaekahana Bay, Oahu

Malaekahana Bay is located on Oahu's northeastern shore between La'ie and Kahuku. The bay has a long white-sand beach that works well for beach walks, games on the sand and quiet shoreline time. Conditions can be good for bodyboarding and surfing, especially when the surf is up. Currents can be strong, though, and there are no lifeguards on this beach.

Just offshore at the south end of the bay is Moku'auia Island, also known as Goat Island. In very calm, low-tide conditions, some visitors wade, swim or paddle across. The crossing goes over shallow reef and can have currents, so do not attempt it when the water is rough, windy or unclear. Water shoes can help protect your feet from reef and rocks.

Goat Island has a sandy beach and green sea turtles may be seen in the area. The center of the island is a protected seabird nesting area and is off limits. Stay away from nesting zones, avoid disturbing birds or burrows and keep to areas where access is allowed.

Malaekahana is also known for fishing and nearby camping. Before planning a beach stay, check current access, permit and campground rules for the section of the bay you plan to use.

Key Features

Long white-sand bay between Laie and Kahuku
Northeastern Oahu beach with Goat Island views
Camping is available in designated sections with the proper permit or reservation
No lifeguards are on duty at the bay
Currents and surf can be strong, especially when conditions change
Popular for beach walks, fishing, bodyboarding, camping and quiet sand time
Goat Island, also known as Mokuauia, is offshore from the Laie side
Goat Island is a seabird sanctuary, so protect nesting areas and wildlife
Different access points serve different sections of the bay
Check surf, tide, current and campground rules before you go

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Oahu Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Goat Island such a big part of Malaekahana Bay?

Goat Island, also known as Mokuauia, sits just offshore from the Laie side of the bay and shapes many of the beach views. It is one of the main landmarks people notice from the sand.

Can you reach Goat Island from Malaekahana Bay?

Some experienced visitors wade, swim or paddle across in very calm, low-tide conditions, but the crossing can be risky. Reef holes, currents and waves can make the route harder than it looks from shore.

Why is Goat Island protected?

Goat Island is a seabird sanctuary, so the center of the island should be avoided to protect nesting birds. If you go near the island, stay on permitted coastal areas and give wildlife plenty of space.

How is Malaekahana Bay different from Hukilau Beach?

Malaekahana Bay is longer and more spread out, with camping areas and Goat Island views. Hukilau Beach is closer to Laie town and has its own local history connected with hukilau gatherings.

Is Malaekahana Bay a good camping beach?

Yes, camping is one of the main reasons people know Malaekahana. Use the correct permit or campground reservation for the section you plan to stay in, and check current rules before you go.