Magic Island, also known as Aina Moana, is a man-made peninsula located in Honolulu, Oahu. It is a popular recreational area for both locals and tourists, offering stunning views of the Diamond Head volcano and the Waikiki skyline. Originally constructed in the 1960s as part of a land reclamation project, Magic Island has become a beloved gathering place for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor activities. The peninsula is surrounded by calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing. One of the main attractions of Magic Island is its beautiful beach, which features soft sand and gentle waves. Visitors can relax on the shore, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Magic Island Beach
Magic Island Beach (view panorama) is part of Ala Moana Beach Park, a popular Honolulu city beach, located between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Many local residents and visitors alike come to Ala Moana Beach Park and adjacent Magic Island to swim, bodyboard, surf, picnic or exercise (jogging, walking, etc.).
Even though it's called Magic Island, this is actually a man-made peninsula. The small curved beach is located at the end of the peninsula. Most people prefer to swim at Ala Moana Beach instead of at Magic Island Beach. The reason is that the ocean bottom at Magic Island Beach is a bit rocky in some areas and the sand is not as smooth. Also, the swimming area here is a lot smaller.
Magic Island Beach has a rock barrier, so it is protected from incoming waves. However, when the surf is up, the waves can still wash over the rocks, so then it's best stay away from the barrier. Also, it's not a good idea to swim in or through the openings of the rock barrier because the current can be strong in this area. Magic Island Beach is backed by a large grassy area with trees and picnic tables.
The Magic Island peninsula (made of dredged coral) was built onto the reef off Ala Moana Beach Park in the 1960s (completed in 1964). It was supposed to be the location of a new resort hotel, but the hotel was never built. So the peninsula was instead turned into a public park. The peninsula was later renamed to 'Aina Moana (meaning “land from the sea”), but people seem to prefer the name Magic Island and still call it that way today.
Magic Island Beach Overview
- Small sandy beach at the end of the Magic Island peninsula (view panorama)
- Protected from waves by a rocky barrier
- No shade on the beach, but beach is backed by a grassy area with trees
Ala Moana Beach Park and ʻĀina Moana (Magic Island)
At the beginning of the twentieth-century, this stretch of coast makai of Ala Moana Boulevard was the site of the Honolulu garbage dump, which burned almost continually. The residue from burned rubbish was used to reclaim neighboring wetlands (which later were more commonly referred to as “swamp lands.”)
In the 1920s, Kewalo Basin was constructed and by the 1930s was the main berthing area for the sampan fleet and also the site of the tuna cannery, fish auction, shipyard, ice plant, fuel dock and other shore-side facilities.
In 1928, a channel was dredged through the coral reef to connect the Ala Wai Boat Harbor and the Kewalo Basin, so boats could travel between the two. Part of the dredge material helped to reclaim swampland that was filled in with dredged coral.
When the area became a very popular swimming beach, the channel was closed to boat traffic.
The City and County of Honolulu started cleaning up the Ala Moana area in 1931. They used funds provided by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal Project to create a city park in the Ala Moana area.
Back in the early twentieth century, most playgrounds consisted of large areas of pavement used to get children off of the street and had no aesthetic value.
In 1933, Harry Sims Bent was chosen as the park architect for the City and County of Honolulu. Bent’s design went beyond the modern level and into the realm of art deco, allowing for play, as well as contact with nature. His works at Ala Moana include the canal bridge, entrance portals, sports pavilion, banyan courtyard and the lawn bowling green.
President Roosevelt participated in the dedication of the new 76-acre “Moana Park” in 1934 (it was later renamed Ala Moana Park in 1947.) During his visit to the islands, Roosevelt also planted a kukui tree on the grounds of the ʻIolani Palace.
Ala Moana Park was developed on a swamp and the Honolulu garbage dump.
In the mid-1950s, reef rubble was dredged to fill in the old navigation channel (between Kewalo and the Ala Wai); it was topped with sand brought from Keawaʻula Beach (Yokohama Beach) in Waianae.
At the same time, a new swimming channel was dredged parallel to the new beach, extending 400-feet offshore; in addition, the west end of the fronting channel was closed by a landfill project that was part of the Kewalo Basin State Park project. A large fringing reef remained off-shore protecting the beach area.
Reportedly, in 1955, Henry Kaiser was the first to propose building two artificial islands and six hotels over the fringing reef. His proposal included inlets for boats, walkways and bridges. He called it Magic Island and offered to pay the $50-million cost. (Sigall, Star-Advertiser)
In 1958, a 20-page booklet was sent to Congress to encourage them to turn back Ala Moana Reef to the Territory of Hawaiʻi for the construction of a “Magic Island.” Local businessmen and firms paid half the cost and the Territory paid half through the Economic Planning & Coordination Authority) (Dillingham interests were among contributors, Henry J. Kaiser interests were not.) (Honolulu Record, February 13, 1958)
The booklet puts forth the argument that “Tourist development is our most important immediate potential for economic expansion,” and displays pictures of the crowded Waikiki area to show the lack of room for expansion. Then it directs the reader’s attention to land that can be reclaimed from the sea by utilizing reefs, especially the 300-acre area of Ala Moana Reef. (Honolulu Record, February 13, 1958)
It was supposed to be part of a new high scale beachfront resort complex with a half-dozen hotels that would have included two islands built on the fringing reef, offshore of the Ala Moana Park.
The Interest of the Dillingham’s in developing off-shore areas is obvious, since Hawaiian Dredging is the only local company large enough to undertake such sizable dredging operations.
The Dillingham interest in the current “Magic Island” project is more obvious because of the immediate increase in value it would bring to Dillingham land mauka of Ala Moana Boulevard. (Honolulu Record, February 13, 1958)
The Dillinghams figure to do the dredging and construction of Magic Island, itself, of course, and it must be recalled that the original Dillingham idea was to use Ala Moana Park for hotels and apartments and build the reef island for a park. (Honolulu Record, May 15, 1958)
But now that Magic Island is being proposed as a hotel and apartment site, it doesn’t mean for a moment the first plan has necessarily been abandoned. There is good reason to fear Ala Moana Park may be wiped out entirely so far as the people of Oahu are concerned if they don’t keep alert and guard” against every effort to encroach upon it. (Honolulu Record, May 15, 1958)
Substantial changes were made from the more extensive original plan for the Ala Moana reef; rather than multiple islands for several resort hotels built on the reef flat off of the Ala Moana Park, in 1964 a 30-acre peninsula, with “inner” and “outer” beaches for protected swimming, was constructed adjoining the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor and Ala Wai Canal outlet.
The project stopped after the development of “Magic Island,” leaving the State with a man-made peninsula, which they converted into a public park.
In 1972 the State officially renamed Magic Island to ‘Āina Moana (“land [from the] sea”) to recognize that the park is made from dredged coral fill. The peninsula was turned over the city in a land exchange and is formally known as the ‘Āina Moana Section of Ala Moana Beach Park, but many local residents still call it Magic Island.
Between 1955 and 1976 the beach eroded, and in 1976, more sand was brought in from Mokuleʻia on the north coast of Oʻahu.
Magic Island Oahu:
The Unintentional Beach Park that Everybody Loves!
For starters, the picture across the top of every page on this site was taken from Magic Island Oahu looking back across the park toward Waikiki. That picture may tell you everything you need to know about this popular Hawaii beach park. It's gorgeous. especially in the late afternoon!
If you want more than just my picture, however, here’s some additional information…
The 30-acre peninsula that is Magic Island Oahu was initially constructed in 1964 to be the location of a luxury resort complex. The land was literally reclaimed from the sea by building atop a shallow reef. Then the resort was never built (thank goodness) and the newly-created land was repurposed as a public park. In 1972, the park’s name was officially changed to Aina Moana, meaning land from the sea; but in 30+ years of living here, I don’t think I’ve ever heard anybody call this park anything other than Magic Island.
Visitors can relax on the shore, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. Lifeguards are present to ensure the safety of swimmers, making it a great place for families with young children. In addition to its beach, Magic Island boasts several well-maintained grassy areas with picnic tables and barbecue facilities.
Reasons to love Magic Island Oahu:
Located at the east end of Ala Moana Beach Park, Magic Island Oahu would have made a spectacular resort! Instead, it’s a fabulous park! This centrally located site has hosted countless barbecues, parties, weddings, events and more! There are plenty of shade trees. Paths throughout the park are in constant use by joggers. The park has its own sheltered lagoon; and the surf just beyond the peninsula can be some of the best in Honolulu.
Parking is usually great during the work week, but it can fill up fast on weekends. If you choose to go on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, you may find it best to arrive early or later in the afternoon.
Many locals take advantage of these amenities by hosting family gatherings and cookouts. The park is also equipped with showers, restrooms, and ample parking spaces, making it accessible to visitors. For those looking for some exercise, Magic Island offers a paved walking and jogging path that stretches around the perimeter of the peninsula. This scenic path is popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor workouts. Apart from the recreational activities, Magic Island also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. These include cultural celebrations, concerts, and food fairs, which showcase local talent and cuisines. The park's open-air amphitheater provides a venue for these events, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Overall, Magic Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a haven for relaxation. Its idyllic location, breathtaking views, and recreational amenities make it a go-to destination for those seeking a tropical escape on the island of Oahu..
Reviews for "Art in Paradise: Discovering the Magic of Oahu's Art Scene"
1. Kim - 2 stars
I recently visited Magic Island Oahu and was quite disappointed with the experience. The beach was overcrowded with tourists, making it difficult to find a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, the water was quite murky and not very inviting for swimming or snorkeling. The facilities were also lacking, with limited restroom options and no showers available. Overall, I did not have a pleasant time at Magic Island and would not recommend it to others looking for a peaceful and enjoyable beach experience.
2. Mike - 1 star
Magic Island Oahu was a huge letdown for me. The beach was dirty and littered with trash, which really took away from the natural beauty of the area. The water was also polluted and smelled awful, making it impossible to enjoy a swim. The whole place felt very run down and neglected, with unkempt grass and crumbling picnic areas. I was highly disappointed with my visit to Magic Island and would advise others to find a different beach to visit on Oahu.
3. Katie - 2 stars
I had high expectations for Magic Island Oahu, but unfortunately, they were not met. The beach was extremely busy and noisy, with families and large groups everywhere. It was impossible to find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Additionally, the parking situation was a nightmare, with limited spaces available and no clear organization. The beach itself was average at best, with nothing particularly special or unique about it. I was underwhelmed by my visit to Magic Island and would not go back.
4. John - 2 stars
My experience at Magic Island Oahu was far from magical. The beach was crowded and lacked any sort of tranquility or peace. There were vendors constantly hawking their wares and loud music blaring from speakers, which made it difficult to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The water was also polluted and filled with debris, making it uninviting for swimming. Overall, I was not impressed with Magic Island and would not recommend it to those seeking a peaceful beach experience.