Magic Island is a popular tourist destination located in Honolulu, Hawaii. This man-made peninsula is situated on the south coast of the island of Oahu and is known for its stunning views of the ocean and skyline. The island is surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush green parks, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. One of the main attractions of Magic Island is its picturesque lagoon, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The waters are clear and calm, providing the perfect environment for water sports and recreational activities. Visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and even go for a boat ride to explore the surrounding waters.
Magic Island
Honolulu is a photographer’s dream. Between stunning beaches, gorgeous waterfalls, huge waves on the north shore, and the urban cacophony of Waikiki, there is no shortage of photographs. With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to start.
If you are staying in Waikiki, one easily accessible location is Magic Island. I recently spent a few hours exploring Magic Island, a small man-made peninsula near the harbor. I was impressed by the variety of shots that this location offered.
My primary reason for visiting this location was to try and capture a twilight shot of Waikiki. I scouted out locations in the afternoon and eventually decided on a spot on the east side of the peninsula. I wanted to create a panoramic stitch of the shoreline. Actually capturing the shot provided some unexpected challenges. Each shot required a 30 second shutter speed. In addition, I was shooting towards an active harbor. In between shots I had to wait for passing boats since otherwise the lights on the boats created unnatural streaks in the water. For these reasons, it took seven minutes to capture the seven shots in this panorama. Seven minutes is a long time during twilight when light and color are constantly changing. However, in the end I was pleased with the result.
After dusk quite a few spectators started staking out spots along the eastern shoreline. Every Friday night the Hilton Hawaiian Village runs a fireworks show. I waited around after twilight for the show to start and was able to capture some nice images of the fireworks from the same location.
View fullsizeHilton Hawaiian Village Friday night fireworks.
In addition to night vistas, Magic Island offers some great views and shots during the day as well. I particularly liked the waves crashing into the rocks on the southwest face of Magic Island. I stacked a polarizer on top of a 6-stop neutral density filter to enable a long exposure and capture the water with motion blur. The waves varied widely so taking multiple shots yielded different looks.
Other subjects of interest during the day were more shots of the Waikiki skyline, the Magic Island lagoon, palm trees, banyan trees, and boats passing by on their way to and from the harbor.
View fullsizeA rainbow arches over Waikiki during the day.
View fullsizeWaikiki skyline and Diamond Head during golden hour. This is an 8-shot panoramic stitch.
Magic Island - Honolulu, Hawaii - Sandy Peninsula for Shore Diving, Sightseeing and Weddings
Magic Island is not actually an island at all. It is a manmade peninsula and rocky point bordering the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, located within the perimeter of 76-acre Ala Moana Beach Park. Although formally christened in 1972 as "Aina Moana,'' or "land from the sea,'' it is unlikely that anyone other than local residents would be familiar with Magic Island by that name.
Completed in 1964, the peninsula was built on thirty acres of reclaimed shallow reef. The original concept was to create a new resort hotel complex here that would cover two additional islands. But the project died soon after the first stage of reclamation was accomplished, so the area was converted into a public park.
Noted for its picnic and swimming areas, Magic Island offers visitors white sand beaches and a lagoon protected by a rocky breakwater. There are wide grassy spaces for sports and recreation, picnic tables for day-trippers, and trails that can be used for cycling and inline skating.
Off to the east are beautiful views of Waikiki and Honolulu, backed famous Diamond Head and fronted by the yachts moored nearby. In fact, the panorama is so stunning at dusk that Magic Island has become the last stop for sunset photos on deluxe Oahu wedding packages. Many a couple has taken their vows here, too. Romantic "barefoot in the sand'' ceremonies are popular, and there is no charge for use of the crescent-shaped beach or parking facilities.
During the daytime, Magic Island can be quite crowded, especially when there are surf advisories on the North Shore that drive water sports enthusiasts to the south. The surrounding waters have been rated among Hawaii's top spots for shore diving, home to spotted eagle rays, surgeonfish, stonefish, checkered cowries, turtles, coral and other sea life. Both snorkelers and scuba-divers use the beach as an easy access point for underwater excursions.
By late afternoon, the sandy shore empties out a bit. Walkers, joggers and Frisbee throwers take over, joined by tourists having their photos taken beside the coconut palms. The picnic tables are popular hangouts for local residents, their friends and families, too.
Each 4th of July, the city holds a huge fireworks display above Magic Island, which can be seen from hotel windows all along Waikiki. Thousands gather in the park to get a close-up view. This is also the venue for the annual Honolulu Family Festival, with thrill rides, dozens of food stalls, live entertainment, and games. Each August, it draws tens of thousands with free admission and a complimentary shuttle service. All proceeds from the festival go toward the upkeep and beautification of Ala Moana Beach Park.
Along those lines, each October the Hawaii Chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors joins local government entities and volunteers at Magic Island for an annual beach clean up. Typically, 500 people show up to gather trash from the shore and shallows. Free bento lunch boxes and printed t-shirts are provided, which turns the half-day clean-up campaign into a much anticipated social event.
Unfortunately, Magic Island became a preferred location for homeless squatters not long ago. As a result, the park area is now open only from dawn till dusk and overnight camping has been banned.
Magic Island is located on the east end of Ala Moana Beach Park at 1201 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814. Visitors should plan to arrive early on weekends and holidays; the parking lot fills up quickly.
Talk Story – What is Magic Island?
Magic Island came into being during the early 1960’s when the east side of the park was closed and a landfill project added a 30-acre peninsula that jutted out into the ocean. It was supposed to have been the home for a new resort area that would have included two more islands. That development did not happen, however, and eventually, the whole area became a public park. In 1972, the local name of Magic Island was officially changed to Aina Moana Park, which means land from the sea, but many still call it by its original name. The island is known for its fireworks displays, the adjacent Ala Wai boat harbor, Kewalo Basin park and boat harbor, great surfing, and sandy beaches, and is a favorite to those who live nearby.
Kakaako is a prime location between Honolulu and Waikiki, drawing those who desire a high rise condominium lifestyle with views of Magic Island and the surrounding areas. Why drive? Very nearby is the Blaisdell concert hall and arena, major shopping, and of course, the ocean.
Talk Story with Jeanne E Buboltz, RB—A series of stories focusing on the history and lifestyles of Oahu. Hawaii is a special place and so are the people. Follow me as we discover the lifestyle best suited for you. Whether you are seeking a casual beach house, a downsized retirement home, a golf course fronted resort home-away-from-home, a grand residence with a superb view, or a high rise condominium, the choices available to you through Hawaii Life Real Estate’s services are many.
I would love to hear your memories of Oahu perhaps of the Territorial Days, as I too experienced growing up out Koko Head way.
Contact me for additional information and an appointment to discuss the fine properties now for sale in the area of Magic Island. Aloha!
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Visitors can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and even go for a boat ride to explore the surrounding waters. The island also features several picnic areas and barbecue pits, making it a popular spot for family gatherings and picnics. The grassy fields and palm trees create a tropical ambiance, perfect for spending a leisurely day outdoors.
There are also walking paths and jogging trails for those who enjoy a more active lifestyle. For those who are interested in history and culture, Magic Island is home to several monuments and statues. One of the most famous is the Duke Kahanamoku statue, honoring the legendary surfer and Olympic swimmer. The statue has become an iconic symbol of surfing and is a must-visit for surf enthusiasts. Overall, Magic Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural attractions. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, participate in water sports, or simply enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Magic Island is the perfect destination for you..
Reviews for "Delightful Discoveries at Magic Island in Hawaii"
1. John - 2/5 stars - I was really excited to visit Magic Island Hawaii, but I ended up being disappointed. The beach was overcrowded and dirty, with trash scattered everywhere. The water was murky and not suitable for swimming or snorkeling. Overall, it was not the paradise I had envisioned. I would not recommend this place for a relaxing beach day.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars - My experience at Magic Island Hawaii was extremely underwhelming. The attractions were limited, and the ones that were there seemed outdated and poorly maintained. The park facilities were dirty and in need of repair. It felt like the management didn't put much effort into making this place enjoyable for visitors. I regretted wasting my time and money here.
3. Mark - 2/5 stars - I had high expectations for Magic Island Hawaii, but I left feeling disappointed. The beach area was crowded with noisy tourists, and it was impossible to find a quiet spot to relax. The water visibility was poor, making it difficult to enjoy any snorkeling or swimming. The overall atmosphere was chaotic and not worth the visit.
4. Emily - 2/5 stars - Magic Island Hawaii fell short of my expectations. The beachfront was packed with people, making it difficult to find an empty spot to set up towels. The lack of shade or sun umbrellas also made it uncomfortable to stay for long. Additionally, the amenities such as restrooms and showers were poorly maintained and unclean. I wouldn't recommend this place for a relaxing beach day.