Sandy Beach, Beach park on southeastern Oahu, United States
Sandy Beach is a beach park on southeastern Oahu featuring strong waves that break over shallow sand and underwater lava formations. The water offers different wave spots with varying conditions across the shoreline.
Sandy Beach, called Wāwāmalu in Hawaiian, lies along Kalanianaʻole Highway between Hanauma Bay and Makapuʻu Point. Waterman Mike Stewart called it the birthplace of progressive bodyboarding, a reputation built on its peaky shore break and consistent barrels. In October 2014 council member Stanley Chang proposed renaming it for Barack Obama; public opposition ended the plan.
Hawaiians know the beach as Wāwāmalu. Its surf zone of about 2,500 feet holds separate named breaks, from Full Point in the east to Gas Chambers in the west, and the westernmost rider is called Last Man's. Waterman Mike Stewart calls it the birthplace of progressive bodyboarding.
The park offers parking spaces, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas in a large grassy space for visitors. When the waves are strong, swimmers should be cautious and pay attention to local conditions.
The beach is known for its multiple distinct wave breaks such as Full-Point and Half-Point, each offering different surfing conditions. These separate breaks make it a preferred location for athletes training at different skill levels.
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