Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park - Honolulu - O’ahu - Hawaii
Quick information of Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park
- Located at the foothill of Diamond Head's mountains
- Small beach surrounded by towering sea cliffs
- Excellent for surfing but poor swimming
A lesser-known beach on the lower sides of Diamond Head Crater, Kuilei Cliffs, or Diamond Head Beach Park, is situated just outside of Waikiki, on the lower flanks of Diamond Head Crater. During the nineteenth century, mariners gave this region its name in honour of alleged diamond crystals that were discovered in the cliffs. Although it was subsequently discovered that the crystals were in fact ordinary calcite rather than expensive jewels, the name remained in use.
The shorebreak at this beach is consistently high and there may not be as many visitors. The beach itself, depending on whether or not the tide is high, can be rather small, yet it offers much more seclusion than most other beaches. Because a reef forms the ledge that extends down the coast, the shoreline and sea might be rocky. When the tradewinds are blowing hard, this beach is also a favourite destination for local windsurfers.
The view from Kuilei cliffs is wonderful, especially around sunset when the colors shift to gold, orange and pink. Visitors can see the peak of Diamond Head Crater and the concrete bunkers that line its crest if you look up and to the side. To the south of the lighthouse is a meandering paved route that goes down to the beach below, which may be reached from the parking lot. You may take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or join the friendly surfing community out on the waves. Entering the sea should be done with caution, since the reef extends into the shallows, making footing unstable and potentially dangerous in some spots.
Be aware that there are no amenities at Kuilei cliffs other than a shower and a drinking fountain. This also implies that there is no lifeguard on duty, so swim at your own risk.
