WAIMANALO BEACH
Windward Beach
Waimanalo Beach, a lesser-known gem on Oahu's windward coast, is popular with locals for good reason. As the shoreline comes into view, the breathtaking beauty of the azure ocean waves, powdery white sand, and majestic emerald mountains create an idyllic scene that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Waimanalo Beach offers visitors ample space to unwind and bask in the sun. The 3-mile-long beach also encompasses Sherwoods Forest and Bellows Beach, making it one of the longest beaches on Oahu.
Fans of the Hawaii-based, Hawaii-filmed television show, Doogie Kameāloha, will recognize this iconic beach as the home beach for the Kamealoha family. The show's creator, Hawaii-born Kourtney Kang, drew inspiration from her own family's frequent visits to this beach.
The clarity of Waimanalo's water makes it a perfect spot for swimming and bodyboarding. However, beachgoers should be cautious of ocean waves, as well as Portuguese man o' war and jellyfish that come closer to shore depending on lunar and tidal conditions. The Waikiki Aquarium maintains a calendar for when to expect influxes of jellyfish.
What should you do if you experience a sting? The best first aid is to rinse with vinegar or sea water to remove any residual stingers and then immerse the affected area in hot water or apply a hot pack for at least 20 minutes.
What should you definitely not use to treat it? Do not use alcohol, ammonia or fresh cold water, or scrape or rub the sting site. Ice packs should be avoided, as they do nothing to inactivate the venom.
What remedy can you purchase? StingNoMore, a fast-acting relief cream developed by jellyfish researcher Dr. Angel Yanagihara, a professor at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology and the John A. Burns School of Medicine.
The local community's presence at Waimanalo Beach is unmistakable, and its residential location makes it a true family spot. The sense of belonging and connection to the land is palpable, and it's a privilege to witness each time you visit.