Best Beaches in Hawaii: Finding the Best Beach in Hawaii for You
If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach vacation, look no further than the Hawaiian Islands. With miles of pristine coastline and an incredible variety of beaches to choose from, Hawaii is a beach lover’s paradise.
From secluded coves to world-famous surfing spots, these are the best beaches in Hawaii. And even if you can’t make it to any of these beaches, they are still fun to appreciate through a screen.
Looking for more beach-related lists? If so, visit our lists of the best beaches in the world, the best beaches in Florida, and the best beaches on the West Coast.
Top 20 Beaches in Hawaii:
1. Mauna Kea Beach, Big Island
Highlights: Beautiful white sand beach, has the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, and allows you to explore the coral reefs in the summer.
About Beach: Mauna Kea Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in the state. The beautiful white sand beach is ideal for relaxing, swimming, boogie boarding, and snorkeling.
In the summer months, the waves are calm, and you can explore the coral reefs along the rocky southern end of the beach. In the winter, the waves can become more powerful, but there are still plenty of calm areas to enjoy.
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is located right on the beach, so it’s easy to get lunch or a tropical drink from the hotel restaurant or beach bar. The evening manta ray show can also be watched at a special viewing area at Manta Ray Point.
2. Poipu Beach, Kauai
Highlights: Crescent-shaped, offers silky golden sand and crystal-clear waters, and is a great option for a family beach day.
About Beach: Poipu Beach on the island of Kauai is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii. This crescent-shaped beach offers silky golden sand and crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming, wading, and surfing.
Poipu Beach is also a great option for a family beach day, with lifeguards on duty, picnic facilities, and showers. Hawaiian monk seals are frequent visitors to the beach, so you may even have a chance to see one of these rare animals up close.
3. Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Highlights: A 2-mile stretch of golden sand, 8 sections with unique vibes and activities, and stunning views of the Waikiki skyline.
About Beach: Waikiki Beach is one of the most well-known beaches on the planet and in Hawaii. This 2-mile stretch of golden sand is comprised of 8 sections, each offering unique vibes and activities in Honolulu. Once serving as a playground for Hawaiian royalty, it is now a great place for swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, snorkeling, sand combing, and marveling at breathtaking Waikīkī sunsets.
Waikiki Beach is an excellent place to enjoy the stunning views of the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head Crater from the water. You can book sailing and snorkeling tours with Maita’i Catamaran or try out canoe paddling with Faith Surf School.
4. Napili Bay, Maui
Highlights: Has the Seahouse Restaurant, ideal conditions for a variety of activities, and outer reefs that protect the shore.
About Beach: This southwestern Maui gem offers a serene family getaway with outer reefs that protect the shores from large swells, creating ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. The waves also become ideal for boogie boarding when the big swells come.
If you get hungry, head to the nearby Seahouse Restaurant nestled on the northern edge of the bay to enjoy beachfront dining. You can also book a room at one of the luxurious beachfront resorts like Napili Sunset Beachfront Resort, Napili Kai Beach Resort, or Outrigger Napili Shores Resort that front this unspoiled bay.
5. Ka’anapali Beach, Maui
Highlights: Clear waters, golden sand, beautiful views, and vibrant marine life.
About Beach: If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, you won’t want to miss out on Ka’anapali Beach. This world-famous beach is one of the best in Hawaii and has been a popular destination for travelers since the early 1900s.
Ka’anapali Beach is known for its calm waters, golden sand, and beautiful views. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the Hawaiian sun. You can also find plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, as well as the iconic Royal Hawaiian hotel.
6. Hanauma Bay, Oahu
Highlights: One of the best places in Hawaii to see coral and sea life, has over 300 different species of fish, and gives a top-quality snorkeling experience.
About Beach: This natural preserve is one of the best places in Hawaii to see coral and sea life. With over 300 different species of fish, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring the underwater world.
For a top-quality snorkeling experience, book a tour with Hanauma Bay Snorkeling. They offer half-day tours that include all the gear you need, as well as pick-up and drop-off from selected Waikiki hotels. After a day in the water, treat yourself to a scenic hike along the Koko Head Crater trail. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Windward side, Diamond Head, and Makapuʻu Lighthouse.
7. Ko Olina Beach, Oahu
Highlights: Clear, shallow water, the Disney Resort & Spa, Aulani, and the Five-Star Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina.
About Beach: This tranquil Hawaii beach is great for families with young children, as the water is shallow and clear. Additionally, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is located right above the lagoon.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Five-Star Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina is not to be missed. Whichever way you choose to enjoy your time at Ko Olina Beach, you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
8. Punaluu Beach, Big Island
Highlights: Jet-black sand, crystal blue water, green sea turtles, and endangered hawksbill turtles.
About Beach: This stunning black sand beach is a must-see when visiting Hawaii. Punaluu Beach is nestled between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu on Kau. The jet-black sand is from an old lava flow, and the contrast with the crystal blue water is breathtaking.
This is one of the few places in the world where you can see large honu (green sea turtles) and endangered hawksbill turtles, so be sure to enjoy them from a distance.
The best spot to enter the water is from the small boat ramp next to the ruins of the old pier. When the water is calm, you can swim and snorkel in the beautiful waters. On a windy day, you can camp on the beach with a permit.
9. Kiholo Bay, Big Island
Highlights: Secluded areas, freshwater ponds, and the lava field.
About Beach: This beautiful spot on the Kona Coast is great for a relaxing day by the water, and you may even catch a glimpse of a green sea turtle.
Kiholo Bay is a great place to enjoy some time in nature. The sandy beach stretches for miles, and there are plenty of secluded areas to explore. You can also walk along the beach to a freshwater pond, where the turtles like to hang out. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike across the lava field at the north end of the beach.
10. Hanalei Bay, Kauai
Highlights: Large size, beautiful cream-colored sand, and several different beaches.
About Beach: Hanalei Bay is one of the best beaches in Hawaii and it’s easy to see why. With its large size, beautiful cream-colored sand, and clear blue waters, the bay is a playground for all age groups. George Clooney even filmed a scene from The Descendants here.
There are several different beaches to explore within Hanalei Bay. Black Pot Beach and the famous pier are great for swimming and picnicking, while Waioli Beach Park is perfect for paddlers who want to head out to the deeper parts of the bay. And if you’re looking for a more secluded spot, just head west where you’re sure to find your own little slice of paradise.
11. Waimea Bay, Oahu
Highlights: Historic surf destination, experiences massive waves that can reach up to 30 feet high in winters, and is home to Waimea Valley.
About Beach: This historic surf destination is world-renowned for its massive waves that can reach up to 30 feet high in winter. But don’t worry – the surf is calm and great for swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the summer months.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Waimea Bay is also home to Waimea Valley, a must-see botanical garden and cultural center. Here you can escape the heat and explore the valley’s lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.
12. Kumimi Beach, Molokai
Highlights: Offers some of the greatest snorkeling opportunities in the world, a great spot for Maui fishing, and breathtaking views.
About Beach: Kumimi Beach, also known as Murphy’s Beach or 20 Mile Marker Beach, is a must-see. This hidden gem offers some of the greatest snorkeling opportunities in the world.
The calm, crystal-clear waters are best for a refreshing dip or diving. Just be sure to stay close to shore, as the water can become quite rough outside the reef area. When snorkeling at high tide, you’ll be amazed at the diverse array of Hawaiian sea life. And after spending some time in the water, be sure to soak up some sun on the golden sand beach.
Kumimi Beach also offers fishing enthusiasts a great spot for Maui fishing. Two miles beyond the Beach, you’ll find a small parking area with a lookout point that offers breathtaking views.
13. Halawa Beach, Molokai
Highlights: Mind-blowing natural beauty, the lush and historical Halawa Valley, and humpback whales.
About Beach: Halawa Beach on Molokai is one of the best beaches in Hawaii for its mind-blowing natural beauty. The twin bays that makeup Halawa Beach lead into the lush and historical Halawa Valley, guarded by towering waterfalls.
Hiking through the valley and ending at Halawa Beach is an unforgettable experience. The beach is great for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a few humpback whales breaching. Enjoy all that Halawa Beach has to offer in peace, as there’s a good chance you’ll have the whole beach to yourself.
14. Oneloa Beach, Maui
Highlights: Secluded, peaceful, and located next to the Ritz-Carlton and Kapalua Resort.
About Beach: Oneloa Beach, Maui, is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii. This secluded beach is ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat. Also known as Ironwood Beach, Oneloa is located next to the Ritz-Carlton and Kapalua Resort.
The beautiful, clear water and soft sand make it a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding. For a scenic walk with ocean views, head to the Kapalua Coastal Trail.
15. Hulopoe Bay, Lanai
Highlights: The Fronting Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the large tide pools carved out of volcanic rock, and the iconic 80-foot Puu Pehe.
About Beach: Hulopoe Bay on the island of Lanai is one of the best beaches in Hawaii and has been named one of America’s best beaches. The fronting Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers a beautiful view with pearl-white sand and crystal clear water. Great for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and surfing, the bay also features barbecue grills, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers.
One highlight of the bay is its large tide pools carved out of volcanic rock that is home to sea stars, hermit crabs, opihi (limpet), and various small fish. Just southeast of the tide pools, take a 15-20 minute hike along the cliffs to witness the Lanai landmark, iconic 80-foot Puu Pehe.
Humpback whales can be spotted in winter, while acrobatic spinner dolphins frequent Hulopoe Bay the rest of the year. This is truly one of the best places to experience all that Hawaii has to offer.
16. Polihua Beach, Lanai
Highlights: Remote and secluded, is a 1.5-mile-long stretch of golden sand beach, and has unspoiled natural beauty and scenic views.
About Beach: If you’re looking for an unforgettable Hawaii beach experience, look no further than Polihua Beach on Lanai. This secluded beach is one of the best-kept secrets in Hawaii, and it’s well worth the effort it takes to get there.
Polihua Beach is located on the northwest coast of Lanai, about 30 minutes away from Garden of the Gods by 4-wheel-drive vehicle. The road to Polihua Beach is unpaved and rough, but it’s definitely worth the journey when you finally arrive at this beautiful 1.5-mile long stretch of gold sand beach.
Since Polihua Beach is so remote, you’ll likely have the whole beach to yourself to enjoy sunbathing, strolling, beachcombing, or picnicking. Just be aware that the strong currents make this beach dangerous for swimming, snorkeling, or surfing. However, you can still appreciate the unspoiled natural beauty and scenic views from the shore. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Molokai across the channel.
17. Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Highlights: Miles of white sand, stunning views of the iconic Mokulua Islands, and ideal conditions for beginner snorkelers.
About Beach: This picturesque beach features miles of white sand and crystal clear waters that are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. And don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the iconic Mokulua Islands from a distance.
Lanikai Beach is also a great place for beginner snorkelers to explore the wide variety of tropical fish and coral. So, whether you’re looking to soak up some sun or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, Lanikai Beach is sure to please.
18. Kalaupapa Beach, Molokai
Highlights: Has a rich history, abundant wildlife, and the Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
About Beach: This secluded beach is only accessible by mule ride, hiking tour, or airplane from Kalaupapa Airport, making it the ideal place to get away from it all.
Not only is Kalaupapa Beach stunningly beautiful, it also has a rich history. In the mid-1800s, this place became home to 8,000 people who were infected with Hansen’s Disease (leprosy). Today, the Kalaupapa National Historical Park preserves the area’s history and educates visitors from all over the world about this fascinating time in Hawaiian history.
When you’re not exploring the historical park, take some time to enjoy the abundant wildlife that call Kalaupapa home, including green sea turtles, humpback whales, monk seals, and more.
19. Wailea Beach, Maui
Highlights: A Wide, white sand beach, is great for snorkeling, boogie boarding, and body surfing, and is a popular destination.
About Beach: Wailea Beach is a lovely place to go if you’re looking for a resort atmosphere and stunning natural scenery. With its wide, white sand beach and mesmerizing views of the ocean, Wailea Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
In the winter months, you can often see breaching humpback whales in the distance, making it a truly magical experience. The beach is also great for snorkeling, boogie boarding, and body surfing.
20. Hookipa Beach, Maui
Highlights: Ideal spot for windsurfing and big-wave riding, has big competitions every year, and offers mesmerizing sunsets with honu.
About Beach: Situated on the beautiful island of Maui, Hookipa Beach is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in Hawaii. The ideal spot for windsurfing and big-wave riding, Ho’okipa Beach is also a popular destination for beach walking, kite surfing, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Every year, the Hookipa Surf Classic, Red Bull King of the Air, and Aloha Classic competitions are held here, attracting some of the world’s best surfers. In the evenings, visitors can enjoy mesmerizing sunsets alongside honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), which come ashore to rest.
For those wanting to explore the surrounding area, Ho’okipa Lookout provides stunning views of the island as well as food stands and portable bathrooms. Nearby Mama’s Fish House is perfect for dining with a view, and Paia town and Twin Falls are both just a stone’s throw away.
Best Beaches in Hawaii Conclusion
Hawaii is known for its world-famous beaches. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, or take part in some exciting water sports, these are definitely the best places to do it.
So start planning your trip to one (or several) of thest top beaches, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. You can have all the sun, water, fun, and culture of Hawaii in one trip.
Please make sure to comment below if you have feedback on any of these beaches in Hawaii. We know that all of our readers would appreciate your comments.
