Kaimana Beach, also known as Sans Souci Beach, sits at the eastern end of Waikiki between the historic War Memorial Natatorium and the Kaimana Beach Hotel, serving as a beloved local escape where Honolulu residents come for daily ocean swims in calm, protected waters far from the frenzied tourist scene of central Waikiki. The beach is protected by a wide offshore reef creating shallow, sandy-bottom conditions usually calm enough for safe swimming even when other Waikiki beaches experience choppy surf, making it particularly popular for morning swims before trade winds pick up later in the day. Critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals have recently begun visiting Kaimana Beach and even birthing pups on the sand, while Hawaiian green sea turtles are regular visitors to the reef, creating exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities rare in urban Honolulu.
The beach offers a wider expanse of sand compared to many Waikiki beaches, complemented by a spacious grassy lawn lined with coconut trees where locals hang hammocks, barbecue with friends, and gather for casual beach parties in a relaxed atmosphere that feels distinctly local rather than touristy. The shallow reef close to shore and protective breakwater create virtually wave-free conditions ideal for beginning swimmers and families with young children, while also providing excellent snorkeling opportunities where tropical fish congregate around coral formations. Surfers use the beach as an access point to paddle out to Old Man's, a popular offshore surf break. The combination of sandy beach and grassy park area creates versatile space for both water activities and land-based recreation, with lifeguards on duty providing safety monitoring. The protected waters and gentle conditions make Kaimana one of the safest swimming beaches in all of Waikiki.
The best time to visit Kaimana Beach is early morning when the water remains glassy calm before afternoon trade winds arrive, and when local swimmers gather for their daily ocean exercise creating an authentic community atmosphere. The eastern Waikiki location at the base of Diamond Head provides spectacular sunrise views and slightly fewer crowds than the main Waikiki Beach area. Parking can be found along Kalakaua Avenue or in nearby Kapi'olani Park, though spaces fill quickly on weekends. The beach's local character means fewer tourists and a more relaxed vibe, though visitors are welcome to join the regular community of swimmers, snorkelers, and beachgoers who consider Kaimana their neighborhood beach. For dining, the Barefoot Beach Cafe serves food and drinks beachside, while the nearby Hau Tree restaurant at the Kaimana Beach Hotel offers upscale oceanfront dining under a century-old hau tree. The area also provides easy walking access to Waikiki's extensive restaurant and shopping options, combining the best of both worlds—a local beach experience with tourist amenities nearby.
