Ko Olina Lagoon 4, known as Ulua Lagoon, is a sheltered crescent beach on Oahu's west shore prized for calm swimming, golden sand, and vivid sunsets.
Ko Olina Lagoon 4, or Ulua Lagoon, sits at the southern end of the four-lagoon Ko Olina resort community on Oahu's west coast. The lagoons were created in the late 1980s when rock breakwaters were constructed to carve sheltered coves out of the otherwise rough coastline, giving the area a distinctive blend of natural Hawaiian scenery and thoughtfully designed infrastructure.
The lagoon's calm, clear water makes it accessible to swimmers of all abilities. Along the basalt breakwaters, snorkelers often spot green sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and the occasional octopus resting in the shallows. The sandy bottom slopes gently, and the protected inlet keeps wave action minimal throughout most of the day.
Ulua Lagoon sits adjacent to several resort properties, and the surrounding walkway connects all four Ko Olina lagoons in a scenic coastal path popular with joggers and strollers. Food and refreshments are available at nearby resort venues within easy walking distance of the beach.
For visitors seeking a quieter alternative to Waikiki, Ko Olina Lagoon 4 delivers a genuinely relaxed Oahu experience rooted in the natural beauty of Hawaii's leeward shore.
Visit during the early morning hours to secure a parking spot and enjoy the lagoon before the midday crowds arrive.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, as the calm, clear water makes snorkeling along the rocky edges of the breakwater rewarding.
Stay through sunset, as Ko Olina's west-facing position makes Ulua Lagoon one of Oahu's finest spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Pack water shoes for navigating the rocky areas near the breakwaters where reef fish tend to congregate.
Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available near the lagoon, so plan to rinse off before heading back to your accommodations.
Sail Ko Olina at sunset with drinks and light appetizers
Cruise a 53-foot catamaran, snorkel vibrant reefs, and enjoy lunch with complimentary drinks
Sail Ko Olina on a 53-foot catamaran with guided snorkeling and lunch
Experience Polynesian dance, dining, and interactive traditions by the ocean