The beautiful Hawaiian island of Oahu not only captivates tourists with its stunning beaches and mesmerizing sunsets, but it also offers incredible sunrise locations that will leave you speechless. There’s something truly magical about seeing the first sunbeams brighten the horizon over some of the most breathtaking views in the world.
Oahu has several incredible sites where you can witness the absolute majesty of daybreak, whether you’re looking for a tranquil time, a chance to explore, or an incredible photo shoot. We’ll highlight some of the top locations on the island in this guide so you don’t miss out on the best spots for an Oahu sunrise!
Makapu’u Point
Start your day at Makapu’u Point on the southeast shore on the windward side of Oahu, just a short drive from Waikiki. This famous site gives an absolutely breathtaking vantage point from which to watch the sunrise over the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. The jagged, rocky cliffs and foaming seas below are bathed in a golden glow as the sun rises above the horizon.
We parked in the Makapu’u Beach Park parking lot and walked over to the rocks overlooking the ocean. The waves crashing against a golden sky created an incredible backdrop for a sunrise time-lapse. We spent two mornings here because the view was that mesmerizing.
Makapu’u Beach Park
You can also venture down to Makapu’u Beach Park for some beautiful sunrise pictures. It’s a popular spot for photographers capturing wedding and family photos in the morning light. The intense waves, crystal blue waters, white sand, and black mountains are ideal landscapes for enjoying some gorgeous golden hour photos right before and after sunrise. Grab your beach blanket and relax while you take in the stunning views of the Oahu sunrise.
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
If you’re up for a pre-dawn adventure, the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail is the perfect hike to capture an Oahu sunrise. This moderate-level trail rewards you with incredible views of the coastline and small nearby islands. In the winter and spring months, you might even be rewarded with a whale sighting.
You’ll want to start your hike at least an hour before sunrise, so you can make it to the top before the sun peaks over the horizon and have time to enjoy the incredible view at the top.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The Lanikai Pillboxes Hike is a must-do experience if you’re looking for a little adventure and stunning Oahu sunrise views. It’s located near the windward coast, about 40 minutes from Waikiki. You’ll find military pillboxes (former World War II bunker) with views of the Mokulua Twin Islands and Lanikai Beach after hiking up this moderately difficult, very popular tourist destination. It’s a short but steep hike, with big rewards at the end.
If you start your climb at least 30 minutes before sunrise, you’ll arrive at the first pillbox just in time for the morning sun to a golden glow over the Lanikai’s stunning coast. Choose a spot on top of the pillbox and take in the beauty of Oahu’s eastern coast as the golden sun rays create epic panoramic views. It’s truly breathtaking.
Sandy Beach Park
Sandy Beach Park on Oahu’s southern coast offers one of the best sunrises you’ll ever see. This beach is known for its powerful shorebreak, a favorite among bodysurfers. It also offers a mesmerizing dawn experience.
Arrive early and watch the sky turn shades of orange and pink as the sun rises. The intense, breaking waves add to the thrill of the experience. This is a rugged, wild shore and the perfect backdrop for an Oahu sunrise.
Halona Blowhole Lookout
Halona Blowhole is just a short walk from Sandy Beach Park. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Oahu sunrise, this is it. This famous Oaho blowhole is especially active in the winter months when big waves coursing through the lava tubes underwater lava tubes cause the blowhole to spout geysers up to 30 feet in the sky. It’s powerful and offers the most incredible view if you’re lucky enough to capture it.
(Note: Visitors should use caution and stay back from the blowhole, as the strong currents and violent waters can unexpectedly cause serious injury or death.)
Halona Beach Cove
Below the jagged cliffs lies the famous Halona Beach Cove, famously known as Eternity Beach, which has been featured in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and From Here to Eternity. It’s also an amazing spot to capture an Oahu sunrise.
You can access the beach park via a short hike down from Halona Blowhole Lookout Parking Lot. You’ll hike down the rocks to the beach park below. The current here can be very strong, so please use caution when approaching the water.
Koko Head Crater Hike
Hiking up the challenging Koko Head Crater before dawn is guaranteed to be a rewarding experience. This intense hike straight up the crater is anything but easy. But it’s a must-do for any adventure lover! If you can push through to the top you’ll be rewarded with a breath-taking panoramic view of an Oahu sunrise.
You’ll feel as if you’re experiencing pure magic as the golden rays peek over the horizon and cast stunning hues on the island below. So set your alarm, grab some water, comfortable hiking shoes, and a headlamp, and get ready for a morning hike that will make you feel like you can conquer anything.
Waikiki Sunrise
If you’re staying in Waikiki and don’t want to drive out of the area for the sunrise, you can still enjoy stunning views of a Waikiki Sunrise on Oahu from the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. We stayed at the Sheraton Waikiki but could make the walk in a little over 10 minutes. The view of Diamond Head and the shimmering ocean makes this one of the best places to watch an Oahu sunrise.
The lagoon is a public beach and is also an amazing spot for swimming if you have little ones with you. The calm waters make this a great place to let little ones splash around and also a great spot to float around on a raft without any worries. Come for the sunrise and stay for the day.
Wrapping Up
Oahu, with its diverse landscapes and natural wonders, offers a variety of spectacular sunrise spots to kickstart your day in the most enchanting way on this beautiful island. Whether you choose to witness the Oahu sunrise from gorgeous beaches or embark on the best sunrise hikes, each location promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
So, set your alarm, grab your camera, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Oahu’s sunrise. Let the magic of the sunrise on Oahu inspire you as you capture the beauty and create unforgettable memories. It is absolutely worth the lost sleep.
