Watching a beautiful Hawaiian sunset is one of my favorite things to do in Hawaii. It doesn’t matter if they’re spectacular hues of red and orange, cotton-candy-colored or moody shades of violet. It never disappoints. My dad liked to look for the elusive green flash – and he claimed to see it often! Although all you really have to do is go outside to enjoy a Hawaiian sunset, we know a few spots that are better than others. So keep reading for the best places to catch the sunset on Oahu.

Watch the Sunset on Oahu on a Pretty Hawaiian Beach

Sunset Beach

The name says it all! Located on Oahu’s famed North Shore, this beach is renowned for massive swells during the winter months. The ocean is calmer during the summer, but the sunsets and butterscotch sands are pretty year-round. After the sun goes down, drive into Haleiwa and grab dinner at the Haleiwa Beach House. If you’re looking for something more casual, grab something to go from one of the many food trucks and eat on the beach while you watch nature show off.

Magic Island

Magic Island is a peninsula located on the end of Ala Moana Park. Grassy picnic areas, white sandy beaches and a shallow lagoon make this beach perfect for families. Additionally, turquoise waters and picture-perfect views of Waikiki and Diamond Head make it popular for weddings. The west side of the peninsula boasts an amazing sunset view – maybe the best sunset on Oahu.

Kaimana Beach

Kaimana Beach, also known as Sans Souci Beach is a just short walk from the heart of Waikiki, in Kapiolani Park. The best sunsets here are in the winter months, but truly all year round is perfection.

Waikiki Beach

Just another reason why Waikiki Beach is so iconic. Boasting one of the best sunset views on Oahu, this mainstay packs a sunset punch that is hard to beat. Pro tip: Grab a cocktail from The Beach Bar at the Moana Surfrider and sit on the low concrete wall that faces the beach. You’ll be enjoying your Mai Tai with your toes in the sand while you wait for the green flash.

Watch the Sunset on Oahu From the Water

Catamaran Sail

Along Waikiki Beach you can find several catamarans that offer hour-long sails. These excursions off the shores of Waikiki and out past Diamond Head are one of the best things to do on Oahu. In fact, every single one of our All Inclusive Waikiki Vacation Packages includes a morning catamaran sail. If you’re looking to catch the sunset from the ocean, most offer a sunset sail too.

Sunset Dinner Cruise

For a more formal experience, opt for a sunset dinner cruise over the catamaran sail. Also included in our Waikiki Beach All Inclusive Vacations, feast on steak, lobster and sip champagne as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Watch the Sunset on Oahu From a Lookout

Tantalus Lookout

Hands down, one of the most stunning views on Oahu! You’ll get a bird’s eye view of Diamond Head, east Oahu, downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. Bring a blanket and watch the day fade from the grassy area, or you can watch from the viewing area.

Lanikai Pillboxes Hike

This moderate hike is located on Oahu’s eastern side, in the town of Kailua. You’ll enjoy a lovely view of the exclusive Lanikai neighborhood and the Mokolua Islands. If you stay for the sunset be sure to bring headlamps and head back while there’s still light in the sky. Exercise caution and never hike alone.

Watch the Sunset on Oahu While You Dine

While there are many restaurants on Oahu that offer breathtaking sunset views – these are our favorites!

Michel’s Hawaii (Kaimana Beach)

The Hau Tree (Kaimana Beach)

The Signature Prime (Ala Moana)

Barefoot Beach Cafe (Kapiolani Park)

The Chart House (Ala Wai Boat Harbor)

Our Hawaii All Inclusive Vacation Packages are the ultimate way to experience Oahu. World-class hotels, exciting activity and excursion options and mouth-watering dining will make it a trip to remember. Contact us today to get started.