Hawaii is a dream destination for beach lovers with its pristine waters, golden sands, and lush green surroundings. Here are the top 5 beaches in Hawaii that you must visit:
- Lanikai Beach: Located in Oahu, Lanikai Beach is known for its turquoise waters and powdery white sand. The beach is great for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing.
- Kaanapali Beach: Located in Maui, Kaanapali Beach is a popular spot for surfing, snorkeling, and swimming. The beach also features several restaurants, bars, and shopping outlets.
- Poipu Beach: Located in Kauai, Poipu Beach is a family-friendly destination with calm waters, a natural wading pool, and a playground for kids.
- Hulopoe Bay: Located in Lanai, Hulopoe Bay is a secluded beach with clear waters and diverse marine life. The beach is great for snorkeling and sunbathing.
- Hapuna Beach: Located on Big Island, Hapuna Beach is a long stretch of white sand and clear waters. The beach is great for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Each of these beaches offers a unique experience and breathtaking views, making them the best beaches in Hawaii.
North Shore Beaches
Hawaii is an island paradise known for its stunning beaches and abundant activities. North Shore is one of the most popular areas in Hawaii, and for a good reason. Its breathtaking beaches are calling to be explored, with plenty of activities and attractions. This section will discuss some of North Shore, Hawaii’s best and most beautiful beaches.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, and is considered one of the best beaches in Hawaii.
Here’s what makes Sunset Beach unique:
- It’s famous for its huge winter waves, which attract surfers from all over the world.
- During summer, the water becomes calmer, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- The beach itself is wide, long, and backed by ironwood trees, providing plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Sunset Beach has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with local food trucks serving delicious fare and surf shops selling everything from boards to souvenirs.
Whether you’re a surfer or just looking to soak up some sun, Sunset Beach is a must-visit destination on Oahu’s North Shore.
Waimea Bay Beach Park
For a good reason, Waimea Bay Beach Park is one of Hawaii’s most famous North Shore beaches. With its wide expanse of golden sand, clear blue waters, and lush vegetation, Waimea Bay is a paradise for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Here are some of the key features and activities you can enjoy at Waimea Bay Beach Park:
- Swimming and snorkeling: Waimea Bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can observe a variety of colorful fish and other marine life in the clear waters.
- Cliff-jumping: Thrill-seekers flock to Waimea Bay to jump off the 30-foot cliff into the water below in the summer.
- Surfing: Waimea Bay is famous for its challenging waves in the winter months, drawing professional and amateur surfers worldwide.
- Hiking: The nearby Waimea Valley offers scenic hiking trails through lush tropical landscapes, waterfalls, and botanical gardens.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Waimea Bay Beach Park has something for everyone.
Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline)
Ehukai Beach, also known as Banzai Pipeline, is one of the most famous and dangerous surfing spots on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. It is a mecca for experienced surfers from all over the world who come to ride massive waves that can reach up to 30 feet. However, this beach is not recommended for swimming and is known to have strong currents and underwater rock formations that can be hazardous to swimmers.
The beach is also ideal for photographers and spectators, especially during the winter when surf peaks and competitions are held. In addition, the beach is surrounded by a rocky shoreline making it a unique and picturesque location for sunset watching.
Pro Tip: If you plan to visit Ehukai Beach, it is advisable to visit during the summer when the surf is calmer and safer for swimming.
West Maui Beaches
When you think of Hawaii, stunning beaches and spectacular sunsets come to mind. One of the best places for beach exploration is West Maui. Many beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Let’s look at some of the best beaches in West Maui that make this area a top destination for beach lovers.
Ka’anapali Beach
Ka’anapali Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand and crystal blue water located on the western shore of Maui. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals, with plenty of activities and amenities.
Here are some highlights of Ka’anapali Beach:
- Swimming and Snorkeling: The calm and shallow waters of Ka’anapali Beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is home to vibrant coral reefs and numerous species of tropical fish.
- Cliff Diving: The cliff diving ceremony occurs at Black Rock every evening at sunset. It’s fascinating to watch, and adventurous visitors can even participate with the help of experienced divers.
- Beachfront Dining and Shopping: Ka’anapali Beach has many restaurants, cafes, and shops along its coastline. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal with a stunning ocean view or shop for souvenirs to take home.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during peak tourist season. Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Kapalua Beach
Kapalua Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in West Maui and offers a range of outdoor activities for tourists and locals alike.
This crescent-shaped beach boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and a beach park with plenty of facilities like showers, restrooms, and shaded picnic areas.
Some popular activities at Kapalua Beach are swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. The calm and shallow waters of the beach make it ideal for beginners and children.
In addition to water sports, the beach park offers several hiking trails for those who want to explore the surrounding area’s natural beauty.
Kapalua Beach is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, neighboring islands, and stunning sunsets. It is a popular destination for photographers and couples looking to spend romantic time together.
Pro tip: Visit Kapalua Beach in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the beach.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is one of West Maui’s best beaches in Hawaii, known for its crystal clear waters, colorful marine life, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is located at the northern end of Maui’s Kapalua Resort, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning ocean views.
The Honolua Bay Marine Reserve is home to diverse marine species, including green sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish. The clear waters allow snorkelers and divers to get up close and personal with these creatures and explore the colorful reefs and underwater caves.
Honolua Bay is also known for its world-class surf breaks, which attract seasoned surfers from all over the world looking for a challenging ride. However, it’s important to note that beach conditions can change rapidly, so it’s best to check the weather and surf forecasts before planning a visit.
Honolua Bay is a must-visit for anyone looking for a picturesque and adventurous beach experience in West Maui, Hawaii.
South Shore Beaches
The South Shore of Hawaii is known for its vast stretches of sandy beaches and tranquil waters of the Pacific. From snorkeling and swimming to lounging in the sun, the South Shore offers something for everyone. In this section, we’ll look at the best beaches the South Shore offers.
Poipu Beach Park
Poipu Beach Park is an iconic destination on the sunny south shore of Kauai and one of the best beaches in Hawaii. This crescent-shaped beach is well-known for its turquoise waters, soft white sand, and year-round sunshine.
Here are some of the popular activities you can enjoy at Poipu Beach:
- Swimming: Poipu Beach is ideal for all levels of swimmers, with shallow and calm waters on one side and a deep and wavy area on the other side.
- Snorkeling: The calm waters of Poipu Beach are perfect for snorkeling, and visitors can spot a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
- Surfing: The wavy area of Poipu Beach is popular among surfers, offering a challenging and thrilling experience.
- Beach walking and sunbathing: Visitors can take relaxing strolls or soak up the sun on the soft sand.
Pro Tip: To avoid crowds, plan your visit to Poipu Beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach, located on the south shore of Maui, Hawaii, is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and popular beaches, known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views.
This stunning beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, with its calm waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.
Several resorts and restaurants are located near the beach, making it easy for visitors to spend a whole day here. The beach is also perfect for a romantic walk during sunset, with fantastic views of the ocean and nearby islands.
The best time to visit Wailea Beach is from May to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, it is advisable to arrive early as parking can be difficult to find during peak season.
Makena State Park Beach
Makena State Park Beach is one of the best beaches on the South Shore of Hawaii due to its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and various activities to enjoy. This Maui beach has a long stretch of white sand and turquoise water.
Visitors can snorkel around the reef, swim in the calm bay, or relax and soak up the sun. Makena State Park Beach has hiking trails offering sweeping ocean views and surrounding cliffs.
Pro tip: The best time to visit Makena State Park Beach is early morning or later to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery peacefully.
East Shore Beaches
Hawaii’s east coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, from long East shore beaches to hidden gems tucked away in the bays. A trip to Hawaii’s east shore beaches can be an unforgettable experience, with stunning views, clear waters, and excellent conditions for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. Read on to learn more about some of Hawaii’s best east-shore beaches.
Lanikai Beach
Located on the east shore of Oahu, Lanikai Beach is a picture-perfect destination that offers tranquil shallow waters, soft powdery sand, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands.
Lanikai Beach is known for its serene atmosphere, crystal-clear water, and scenic views that attract visitors worldwide. This beach is an excellent spot for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing. However, parking can be limited, and the area is prone to strong currents, so it’s important to stay aware of water conditions before swimming.
Lanikai Beach is also an excellent place to watch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of Lanikai Beach if you’re in Hawaii!
Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach Park is among Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches and a popular destination for tourists and locals. Located on the eastern shore of Oahu, Kailua Beach Park boasts white sands, crystal-clear waters, and gentle trade winds, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts and sun-seekers.
Here are some of the highlights of Kailua Beach Park:
- Swimming: The beach is perfect for swimming, with gentle waves and clear water.
- Kayaking: You can rent kayaks and explore the nearby islands and coves – this is an excellent way to explore the offshore reef.
- Snorkeling: The reef surrounding Kailua Beach Park is a haven for marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.
- Picnicking: Kailua Beach Park has abundant tables and grills for picnicking, making it an ideal spot to have a family outing.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure your spot on the beach. Parking can be a challenge, so consider taking a shuttle or carpooling.
Waimanalo Beach Park
Waimanalo Beach Park is a stunning beach in Oahu, Hawaii, and is considered one of the best beaches on the east shore of Hawaii for its turquoise blue waters and long stretches of white sand.
Nestled between the looming Koʻolau Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Waimanalo Beach offers breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters for swimming, kayaking, and boogie boarding. The beach is perfect for a fun family outing, a romantic escapade, or simply relaxing in the sun.
You can also indulge in beach camping, hiking, and horseback riding. The beach boasts a perfect setting for beach parties and picnics with its barbecue facilities, ample parking space, and restrooms.
So pack your bags and head to Waimanalo Beach Park to experience one of the best beaches in Hawaii.
Big Island Beaches
Big Island, Hawaii, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From stunning black sand to white-sand beaches, the views are breathtaking. In this article, we will look at Big Island’s best beaches. From the best snorkeling spots to the most secluded beaches, we will give you all the details to plan your perfect beach getaway.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is an exquisite beach on Hawaii’s Big Island. This beach is one of the world’s most beautiful and luxurious beaches. It features crystal-clear turquoise waters, silky soft white sand, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Hapuna Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, bodyboarding, and snorkeling. Plenty of facilities are available on this beach, including clean restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty.
If you plan to visit Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, bring sunscreen, a beach umbrella, and plenty of water. This beach is busy during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is just one of the many beautiful beaches the Big Island of Hawaii offers. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, visiting this beach is a must-do.
Punalu’u Beach
Punalu’u Beach is one of the best beaches in Hawaii, offering a unique black sand shore and crystal-clear waters. Located on the southeastern side of the Big Island, this beach is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a tropical getaway.
The beach’s black sand is created by lava fragments that flow into the ocean and break down over time. It creates a stunning contrast against the turquoise waters and blue skies, making it a popular location for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming.
Visitors can also find Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the beach or swimming in the nearby waters, creating a memorable experience. However, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing these creatures.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, water, and snacks for a relaxing and enjoyable day at Punalu’u Beach.
Makalawena Beach
In the heart of the Kekaha Kai State Park lies Makalawena Beach, one of the best beaches in Hawaii. With its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and palm trees, this secluded beach offers a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
But getting to Makalawena Beach requires some effort, which keeps the crowds away. Here’s what you need to know:
- Makalawena Beach is only accessible by hiking through rugged terrain, which makes it less crowded than other beaches in Hawaii.
- The hike from the parking lot to the beach takes about 20-30 minutes.
- The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- To avoid the heat and the crowds, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as there are no facilities on the beach. Also, pack out everything you bring in, as Makalawena Beach is a protected area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best beaches to visit in Hawaii?
A: Some of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii include Waikiki Beach, Kaanapali Beach, Hanauma Bay, Napili Bay, and Poipu Beach.
Q: Can I swim at all beaches in Hawaii?
A: While most beaches in Hawaii are safe for swimming, it’s important to be cautious and observe any warnings or advisories posted at the beach. Some beaches may have dangerous currents or steep drop-offs.
Q: Are Hawaii’s beaches crowded?
A: Some of Hawaii’s more popular beaches can become crowded, especially during peak tourist season. However, there are also many secluded beaches and hidden coves that offer more privacy.
Q: What kind of activities can I do at Hawaii’s beaches?
A: Besides swimming and sunbathing, Hawaii’s beaches offer a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach volleyball.
Q: Are any beaches in Hawaii good for families with children?
A: Many beaches in Hawaii are great for families with children, such as Waikiki Beach, Kailua Beach Park, and Lahaina Beach Park. These beaches offer shallow waters and gentle waves perfect for younger children.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Hawaii’s beaches?
A: Hawaii’s beaches are open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your priorities. Summer typically offers the warmest water temperatures and sunniest weather, while winter may offer better surfing opportunities.