Mokuleia Beach

Simple, secluded Mokule'ia Beach Park is a hidden gem on Oahu and a pawfect place to bring your dog for a relaxing day on the beach. The white sand beach is located near the westernmost point on Oahu, about as far away as you can get from the urban energy of Honolulu without leaving the island, and is better known among locals than tourists. 

The park provides some basic amenities to cater to human comfort, including picnic tables, port-a-potties, and an outdoor shower, but there are few shops nearby. You'll definitely want to bring your own supplies, including waste bags, water, and sunscreen.

As with most Hawaii beaches, you'll need to keep your dog on a leash at Mokule'ia Beach, even when you go into the water together for a swim. Mokule'ia is also one of the beaches that restricts dogs to areas below the high tide line, which is usually marked by seaweed and other debris. 

Trees and shrubby island foliage grow all the way up to the edge of this scenic beach and mountains rise in the background. If the scenery somehow looks familiar, it may be because you've watched Lost, as much of the show's first season was filmed here. If you notice people falling from the sky, don't be alarmed that the show is coming to life—nearby Dillingham Airfield is a popular location for skydiving.

Mokule'ia Beach is a popular destination for windsurfers, too, especially in the winter when the Kona winds are blowing. Winter can be a treacherous time for swimmers, though, as the winds produce strong rip currents. There is a shallow reef just off of the beach and jagged rocks along the shore, so step and swim carefully and watch out for your dog's tender paws. 

If you want to enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii's beaches without the crowds or commercialism, bring your dog with you to spend the day at peaceful Mokule'ia Beach.