Lanikai Beach Park, Kailua

This is reputed to be one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches—and that is high praise indeed. The aquamarine waters, smooth white sands and gently swaying palm trees epitomize South Pacific Paradise. Of course, when the wind is up, the hordes of energetic windsurfers quickly dissolve any fantasies of being marooned on a tropical island. Still, most of the time, the beach is fairly quiet, and even when it's not, one must gape a bit at the natural beauty of it. Note: As with all Hawai'i beaches, conditions are changeable. Check with the lifeguards or locals before entering the water, and always use caution.