Electric Beach is a popular destination located on the southwest coast of the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It attracts many tourists throughout the year. The beach is near Kahe Point Beach Park, which has plenty of parking and public amenities. This coastal haven is a dream for travelers who want a secluded beach experience.
While many just happen to stumble upon the beach since it is easily accessible, some travel across the globe to relax in its waters. The beach is known as a hub for aquatic excursions and relaxation among locals and visitors, and yet it does not attract large crowds, making it the perfect vacation destination.
Where Does the Beach’s Name Come From and Where Is It Located?
The Beach’s Nickname
The Electric Beach is named after the environmental impact of the Hawaiian Electric Power Plant. The close proximity of the plant has impacted the biodiversity of the area in a surprisingly positive way. A clean water pipe that runs along the seafloor distributes warm water to a large offshore opening. The pipe water’s purpose is to cool down the nearby plant but is warmer than the ocean temperature. As a result of the warm water, marine life is attracted to the area and it flourishes there. This is why the beach is a great place for animal sightings and fun water activities.
How To Get to Electric Beach in Oahu
The beach is located on the southwest coast of the island. It takes an estimated 45 minutes to drive on the highway from Waikiki. Visitors who are staying in metropolitan areas can get to Kahe Beach Park easily since it is only a 25-minute drive away from the capital city of Honolulu. Travelers who are visiting the island should plan on taking public transportation like the bus as the simplest means of getting to Electric Beach. The Kahe Point Beach Park bus stop is a 10-minute walk from the Electric Beach, so if a leisurely walk to the water sounds nice, plan to go this slightly less expensive route.
What To Do While at Electric Beach
Electric Beach offers a number of fun activities to enjoy while visiting Oahu. Since marine life is thriving due to the power plant, many of these excursions have to do with observing animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can also appreciate the tranquil surroundings since the beach generally is not crowded.
Is Electric Beach Safe?
Yes, swimming is completely safe at Electric Beach. The local authorities do warn weaker swimmers to take precautions like using the buddy system or taking floatation devices into the water.
Experienced divers, snorkelers and swimmers are encouraged to visit the southern portion of Electric Beach. These experienced beach goers may get the chance to see spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals and eagle rays in the southern portion of the coast.
Although the beach is quaint, there is a strong current at times which might not be manageable for beginners, so they must be careful. For example, snorkelers will need to journey well into the beach’s waters to get a view of the deep water reef. Around 100 to 200 yards into the turquoise waters, the reef emerges and some currents may be a little strong. Strong swimmers are required for this snorkeling spot since the waters are about 20 to 40 feet deep.