With the spiky Kualoa Ridge in the background, Chinaman's Hat offshore, and palms swaying in the breeze, it is not surprising why Kualoa Regional Park is considered one of the best beaches in windward Oahu. Add to that, Kualoa is never crowded, making it one of the finest spots to relax and unwind.

The stunning Kualoa Regional Park is located on the northern edge of Kaneohe Bay along Kamehameha Highway. As part of the historic Ko`olaupoko ahupua`a region, it is also a place to be immersed in Hawaii's ancient and sacred history. In fact, Kualoa means "long ancestral background" in Hawaiian. For instance, the Mokoli'i islet (more popularly known as Chinaman's Hat), is said to be the fluke of the tail of a dragon cut by the goddess Hi'iaka (Pele's younger sister). The place is also considered sacred because of the whalebones that used to wash up on the shore of Kualoa.

Covering a total of 150-acres, the coconut palm-fringed beach park is also the largest park in windward Oahu. With spacious grassy lawn with lots of shades and picnic benches, Kualoa is a family beach ideal for picnicking, beachcombing, walking, or sunbathing. The park is also generally windy, making it one of the best spots in the island to fly kites.

Because of the beach's shallow inshore pool, Kualo is also ideal for snorkeling. Generally, the waves are calm and peaceful so visitors can swim here all year round. When tides are low, you can even swim to Mokoli'i or Chinaman's Hat! Watch for occasional strong currents, though, as well as for the Japanese man-of-war or Bluebottle carried by current during strong Northeast trade winds. If you're stung, see a lifeguard on duty for aid.

Services and amenities: lifeguards, picnic areas, barbecue grills, restrooms, showers, phones.