Insider's Guide to the Best Beaches on the Big Island

With drone video of the beaches so you can really check them out!

I have been fortunate to call Hawaii home since 2001. My children were born and raised amid its beautiful beaches. During their early years, we gravitated towards beaches that offered shade and calm waters, ideal for little ones. As they grew older, their adventurous spirits led them to play in the waves and embrace boogie boarding. Eventually, they took to surfing and enjoyed scuba diving alongside us. I've put together a curated list of my favorite beaches and the fun activities each one offers.

Hapuna Beach

Embrace Paradise: Powdery White Sands and Turquoise Waters Await!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. -7.30 p.m. Gates close at 8 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TmDrzpMiyQDAriYi6
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.982/-155.830?19.402,-155.827,8

Hapuna Beach, renowned as one of Hawaii's top beaches, stretches nearly half a mile of white sand along the Big Island's Kohala Coast. The name "Hapuna" means "spring" or "pool" in Hawaiian. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and bodyboarding, with winter months offering the chance to see migrating whales.

Snorkeling is best on the southern edge in calm summer conditions, with Waialea Bay nearby for better options. Lifeguards are on duty, but ocean safety is essential. The area sees low rainfall, so reef-safe sunscreen is crucial. Although picnic areas exist, there’s little natural shade, making umbrellas useful.

Hapuna Beach is also part of the Ala Kahakai coastal trail, providing hiking through Kohala's coastline and ancient paths.

Beach Amenities:

• ADA Accessible
• Food Concession
• Lodging
• Picnic Pavilion
• Picnic table
• Restroom
• Showers
• Trash Cans
• Water Fountain
• Lifeguard

Special Notes:

• Entrance Fee for Non Residence $5 Children under 3 free
• Parking Fee for Non Residence $10 per vehicle
• Commercial PUC $25 and up

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Swimming
• Boogie Boarding
• Snorkeling (along southern edge on calm day)

Waialea Bay - Beach 69

Find Your Slice of Paradise Under the Shade!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. -7.30 p.m. Gates close at 8 p.m.

Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TmDrzpMiyQDAriYi6

Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.982/-155.830?19.402,-155.827,8

Beach Amenities:

• Picnic table
• Restroom
• Showers
• Trash Cans
• Water Fountain
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Swimming
• Snorkeling (diverse and spread across the bay where there are several different reef areas to explore with plenty of marine life)

Waialea Bay, or Beach 69, is a top snorkeling spot on the Big Island, located south of Hapuna Beach. Established as a Marine Life Conservation District in 1985, it protects marine life, allowing for species like dolphins and humpback whales to be seen in winter. The beach remains unspoiled by hotels, making it ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Mornings offer better water conditions, while afternoons tend to be crowded.

The beach features white sand and rocky areas, with optimal snorkeling in summer. The bay drops to about 30 feet, with the best reefs at mid-bay and the north end. There are no lifeguards, but showers and restrooms are available. Snorkelers can see diverse marine life around the coral and rocks. Shaded areas under Kiawe trees provide relaxation, but visitors should wear shoes due to falling thorns. For boogie boarding, Hapuna Beach is recommended.

Kukio Beach - Uluweuweu Bay

A Sea Turtle Paradise: Discover Beauty and Breathtaking Sunsets!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. to Sunset + 30 minutes

Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUJThG7qBGZH6ae4A

Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.819/-156.001?19.231,-156.003,8

Beach Amenities:

• Restrooms
• Showers
• Sea Turtles
• Paved Walkways to beach
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Paddle Boarding in the morning
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Beach Going
• Sea Turtle Watching
• Sunset Watching

Located north of Kikaua Point Beach Park on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, Kukio Beach boasts white sands about 18 miles from Kailua-Kona. Access is through the Four Seasons Hualalai Resort, surrounded by coconut palms and lava rocks. Water shoes are advised due to the rocky shore. Visitors should bring fresh water, snacks, hats, and reef-safe sunscreen, as shade is limited.

Swimming and snorkeling are not ideal due to murky waters, but calm mornings are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Winter swells can impact board sports, yet visitors may see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and spinner dolphins. Kukio Beach links to Kikaua Point Beach Park, which has a lagoon, restrooms, and showers.

Kukio Bay features part of the 175-mile Ala Kahakai Trail, a National Historic Trail established in 2000, preserving Hawaiian culture with archaeological sites, fishponds, and ancient dwellings.

Kukio Beach is located in the Kukio Club, a gated community but remains public via the Four Seasons entrance, between the 87 and 88-mile markers north of Kailua-Kona.

Kikaua Point

Family Fun Awaits: The Ideal Spot for Young Adventurers!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. to Sunset + 30 minutes

Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KvHVd6uV5ynMMVwD9

Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.819/-156.001?19.231,-156.003,8

Beach Amenities:

• ADA Accesible
• Restrooms
• Showers
• Water
• Natural Shade
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Paddle Boarding in the morning
• Swimming
• Safe for children and non swimmers

Kikaua Point Beach Park, located 17 miles from Kailua-Kona, can be accessed via Kukio Golf Resort. All Hawaiian beaches are public; visitors need to obtain a pass at the security gate. Arriving by 9:00 AM is recommended due to limited parking.

A short paved trail leads from the parking lot to the beach, which includes restrooms, showers, and drinking water. It's wise to bring water, snacks, and an umbrella. The beach features palm trees, shaded spots, and a grassy area by a small lagoon.

This family-friendly beach is great for children with its calm, shallow waters, but be cautious of sudden drops near the rocks. 

To reach Kikaua Point Beach Park, drive 17 miles north on Highway 19 and turn left at Kukio Nui Drive (mile marker 87). Notify the security guard upon entrance and proceed to the parking lot. The park closes half an hour after sunset. If the lot is full, Kukio Beach can be accessed from the nearby Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Kua Bay - Manini'owali Beach

Ride the Best Waves: Your Boggy Boarding Adventure Awaits

Hours: 8:00am to 6:30pm Gates Close at 7:00pm
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nWymP7UYq12NHV3z5
Surf: https://www.surf-forecast.com/breaks/Kua-Bay
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.795/-156.029?19.210,-156.025,8

Beach Amenities:

• Lifeguard
• Picnic table
• Restroom
• Showers
• Trash Cans
• Water Fountain

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Swimming
• Snorkeling (diverse and spread across the bay where there are several different reef areas to explore with plenty of marine life)

Maniniowali Beach, or Kua Bay, is a beautiful beach within Kekaha Kai State Park on the Big Island, known for its soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. The bay features three sandy crescents separated by lava rock formations. Although stairs were added in 2018, access can still involve navigating lava outcroppings, especially in winter.

Popular among locals and tourists, the beach gets crowded during weekends and peak seasons; visiting in the morning is recommended for a quieter experience. It's great for spotting dolphins, whales in winter, and Hawaiian Monk Seals, with stunning sunsets as a bonus.

There is limited shade, so it's wise to bring hats, reef-safe sunscreen, and an umbrella. Amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, and outdoor showers at the entrance. Remember to pack water and snacks!

Makalawena

Secluded Serenity: A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty

Hours: 8:00 a.m. -7.00 p.m. Gates close at 7 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1p8gUgwsenC799xM8
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.795/-156.029?19.210,-156.025,8

Makalawena

Beach Amenities:

• None

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Boggy Boarding
• Swimming

Makalawena Beach provides a tranquil, crowd-free experience on the Big Island, reachable mainly by foot due to difficult terrain. Located in Kekaha Kai State Park, it features pristine white sands and multiple crescent-shaped sections alongside Mahaiula and Maniniowali Beaches.

Renowned for its beauty and rich marine life, Makalawena Beach is perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and snorkeling among lava rocks. Visitors should bring water, reef-safe sunscreen, snacks, and sun protection. While swimming is generally safe when calm, caution is needed due to strong currents and no lifeguards. The nearby Opae’ula Pond is vital for coastal bird habitats, making this beach a memorable escape for those willing to hike.

Pine Trees - Kohanaiki

Catch the Perfect Wave: Surf's Up at Pine Trees

Hours: 5:30 a.m. -9.00 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XnGXShvSAVPRUi8o8
Surf: https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/pinetrees/5842041f4e65fad6a7708ded
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.698/-156.046?19.111,-156.042,8

Beach Amenities:

• ADA Accessible
• Bathrooms
• Camping – Get Permit
• Showers
• Parking
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Surfing
• Beach Going
• BBQ
• Gatherings
• Camping
• Sunset Watching

Located about 7 miles north of Kailua-Kona, Kohanaiki Beach Park, or Pine Trees Beach, is known for its heliotrope and hau trees. It attracts local surfers for its consistent waves; beginners may want lessons at Kahaluu Beach Park.

Swimming is limited due to rocky bottoms, but the beach is great for surfing, barbecues, and sunsets. Camping is allowed with a permit from Thursday to Monday, and early arrival is recommended. Access gates are locked from 9 PM to 5:30 AM.

Kohanaiki Beach Park is along the Kohanaiki Trail, an ancient route connecting communities and notable for its ahupua’a land use system. The Kohanaiki Club preserves the area’s history and promotes environmental efforts, with trails leading to historic sites.

Old Airport

Sizzle and Chill: The Ultimate BBQ Retreat by the Sea!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. -8.o0 p.m. Gates close at 8 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oJKd5M8gp21wDqaa6
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.643/-156.000?19.060,-156.003,8

Beach Amenities:

• Restrooms
• Showers
• Pavilions
• Picnic Tables
• Parking
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Surving( advanced)
• Scuba Diving (advanced)
• BBQ
• Gatherings
• Sunset Watching

The old Kona Airport, established in the 1940s, closed in 1970 for a larger facility. The original runway is now a parking lot, and the former terminal is a public beach park pavilion. After Kona International Airport opened, the runway hosted drag racing until it became the Kona Airport State Recreation Area in 1976.

This area is popular among locals, featuring a rocky shoreline, easy beach access, parking, and picnic tables with sunset views. The southern section includes sports fields, tennis courts, the Kona Community Aquatic Center, and the Makaeo County Pavilion, along with gardens and walking trails. Note that the park occasionally attracts homeless individuals, and the city is working on housing solutions.

The beach is known for high surf, appealing to experienced surfers. It has a lava rock entry and sandy channels at the calmer southern end. Caution is advised due to sharp coral and rough conditions, but it's great for sunset picnics near Kona town.

Scuba diving here is for advanced divers due to difficult entry. Entry points are at the south end by the hockey rink and the north end via a short trail. The area boasts rich coral, marine life, and formations like arches and caves.

For calmer waters, additional sandy areas are available for swimming.

Magics – White Sands Beach

Good Waves, Great Grub: Steps from Magics Restaurant!

Hours: 6:00 a.m. -11.00 p.m..
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/huLyxDCvQ1GZXRs66
Surf: https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/magic-sands-beach/5842041f4e65fad6a7708dee
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.643/-155.973?19.557,-155.965,8

Beach Amenities:

• Restrooms
• Lifeguards
• Picnic Area
• Outdoor Showers

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Boogy Boarding
• Swimming
• Sunset Watching

Previously known as White Sands Beach Park, Magic Sands Beach is famous for its sand that can completely disappear overnight due to high surf, which erodes the beach, exposing dark lava rock. Once the swell subsides, the sand gradually returns, keeping the beach clean.

Located about 3 miles south of downtown Kailua-Kona along Alii Drive, Magic Sands Beach provides easy access to shopping, dining, and beachside bars. This picturesque beach, framed by coconut palms and lava rocks, is popular but can get crowded, especially on weekends.

The beach features a sandy ocean bottom with gradual declines, offering swimming opportunities in calmer summer months. However, winter swells can create rough conditions and rip currents, making it ideal for boogie boarding. The beach is monitored by a lifeguard.

Magic Sands overlooks La’aloa Bay, a sacred area with significant cultural sites, including the ruins of the Haukalua Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple. Preservation efforts for these historical sites were ongoing throughout 2023.

Kahaluu Beach Park

Great Snorkel Beach

Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2vXH54GaUYth3m6D6
Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Surf: surf at kua bahhttps://www.surfline.com/surf-report/kahalu-u-bay/5842041f4e65fad6a7708e19?camId=5e5d5cc5d41a653d0c2d2138
Weather: https://www.windy.com/-Webcams-Kahaluu-Keauhou-CDP/webcams/1671509383?19.557,-155.965,8

Beach Amenities:

• Lifeguards
• Restrooms
• Outdoor Showers
• BBQ
• Picnic Areas

Activities:

• Surfing
• Snorkeling
• Beach Going
• BBQ
• Gatherings
• Boogie Boarding

Kahaluʻu Beach Park, a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, is renowned for its vibrant marine life and cultural significance. Once an ancient Hawaiian fishpond, this iconic beach has evolved into one of the Big Island's best snorkeling spots, with calm, clear waters and a thriving coral reef teeming with colorful fish and honu (sea turtles).

Located about 5 miles south of downtown Kailua-Kona along Alii Drive, Kahaluʻu Beach Park offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and amenities. Framed by lava rock formations and bordered by swaying palm trees, this beach provides a tranquil yet lively atmosphere, ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.

The waters at Kahaluʻu are typically calm year-round, thanks to the reef’s natural breakwater. This makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling and paddleboarding, though conditions can vary during high surf or seasonal changes. The park is equipped with picnic tables, restrooms, and outdoor showers, ensuring a comfortable visit for beachgoers. Lifeguards are on duty to monitor the water and ensure safety.

Kahaluʻu Beach Park is also rich in Hawaiian history. It is home to sacred sites such as the Haukalua Heiau, and its reef is part of a protected marine sanctuary. Conservation efforts are ongoing, with local organizations working tirelessly to preserve the coral reef and educate visitors about the importance of reef-friendly practices.

This picturesque beach is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ocean adventure on the Big Island.

Two Step

Step into the Best Snorkeling Experience on the Island!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. -9.0 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KYj6D6Z1rqCEViyE9
Weather: https://www.windy.com/?19.458,-155.923,16,m:edBaPi

Beach Amenities:

• Picnic table
• Limited Parking
• Porta Potty

Activities:

• Scuba Diving
• Snorkeling

Honaunau Bay, or Two Step Beach, is a beautiful turquoise bay on the Big Island, known for excellent snorkeling and scuba diving among coral reefs. The north side has a sandy area for beginners, while experienced divers explore deeper waters. Dolphins are often spotted here.  

Nearby, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a significant historic site where ancient Hawaiians sought refuge. Covering 182 acres, it offers insights into Hawaiian history and culture, making it a great pre-snorkel stop. Arrive early, as the park opens at 7 AM, and dress respectfully.  

For snorkeling, avoid the National Park’s parking lot; use the one-way street before the gate for limited roadside parking. Morning offers the best snorkeling visibility, as conditions worsen in the afternoon. The beach features a smooth lava rock ledge for water entry; for sandy beach experiences, visit nearby locations.

Black Sand Beach - Punaluu

Contrast in Beauty: Palm Trees, Sea Turtles, and Soft Black Sands!

Hours: 24 hours a day
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vZveDMsCETphCeHD7
Surf: https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/black-sand-beach/655d1ee22eaca84b38d918e6
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.133/-155.503?2024091221,18.987,-155.504,10,m:edRaPd

Beach Amenities:

• Picnic table
• ADA Accessible
• BBQ Pits/Grills
• Camping
• Pavilion
• Restrooms

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Sea Turtle Watching

Punaluu Black Sand Beach, situated between Pahala and Naalehu on the southeastern Kaʻu coast, is renowned for its black sand, unique geology, endangered wildlife, and rich Hawaiian history. The name "Punaluu" means "spring diver," referring to the area's freshwater springs utilized by ancient Hawaiians. The beach's black sand is formed from basalt created by cooled lava meeting ocean water.  

Swimming and snorkeling are possible, particularly at the calmer northeastern end. Water shoes are advisable due to the rocky bottom, and there's a freshwater tidepool for wading. 

Punaluu is a habitat for Green Sea Turtles and endangered Hawksbill Turtles, which bask on the warm sand to regulate their body temperature. This beach is a beautiful spot for wildlife viewing.

Green Sand Beach

A Rare Delight: Explore One of Only Four Green Sand Beaches in the World!

Hours: 24 hours a day
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n2cv2JwNfcSmeFpW8
Weather: https://www.windy.com/18.936/-155.647?2024091221,18.790,-155.647,10,m:edRaPd

Green Sand Beach - Papakolea

Beach Amenities:

• none

Activities:

• Hiking to Green Sand Beach
• Cooling off if surf is not too high

Papakolea Green Sand Beach, one of only four green sand beaches worldwide, is a must-visit for adventurous beachgoers and hikers. Located about 3 miles from South Point (Ka Lae) in Mahana Bay, it features unique green sands formed from olivine, a mineral resulting from the erosion of a nearby cinder cone.

Access to Papakolea requires a 5.5-mile round-trip hike with a modest elevation gain of 275 feet. The trail is uneven, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Hikers should bring water and snacks, as there are no amenities. The path offers incredible views, but the beach area can be steep, needing careful navigation.

Visitors can hire locals with off-road vehicles for a fee, though this practice is against regulations.

Papakolea is ideal for photography, sightseeing, hiking, and bird watching. While the scenery is stunning, swimming can be dangerous due to strong surf, so caution is advised.