8 Best Beaches in Hawaii

Last Updated 3 years ago

If your plans this summer include a trip to the gorgeous Hawaiian islands, you will most likely spend at least some of your vacation on the beach. Whether you want to just soak up the bright sun, swim or surf, Hawaii is the destination of choice for the ultimate beach experience. Our 50^th state has some of the best beaches in the entire world. Here is a look at some of the best beaches in Hawaii.

Best Beaches on Oahu

Surf and Sun at Waikiki Beach

Arguably the most famous beach in the state of Hawaii, and still one of the most popular. This beach is where Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, learned and taught people to surf. To this day, surfing instructors are offering lessons to the novice surfers taking a shot at the waves. At Waikiki Beach you can relax on the beautiful white sand in the awesome view of Diamond Head. The beach is located in the middle of everything in Honolulu, within steps of fine hotels, designer shops, restaurants, bars and beach stores. After some time on the beach, it’s time to enjoy yourself in the Waikiki neighborhood.

The skyline and coast of Honolulu and Waikiki on Oahu, Hawaii

See Pro Surfers at Waimea Bay Beach Park

This Honolulu County Park is located on the North Shore of Oahu. This park is located just 36 miles from Waikiki Beach on I-H-2 N. During the winter, experienced surfers come here to tackle the 30 foot waves of the famous Banzai Pipeline. One of Hawaii’s top surfing competitions, Vans Triple Crown, happens here. In the summer, the water is calmer, and this makes Waimea Bay the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling and diving. The Park also has facilities for picnics, restrooms and showers. Lifeguards are on duty daily at the park.

Hang Loose on Maui Beaches

Bodysurf at Makena State Park Beach

While you are staying on Maui, spend some time on the island’s signature white sand beach. This beach is divided into two separate areas. You can choose to spend time on the Big Beach, which offers some seclusion from the crowds. The Little Beach is located in a small cove without lifeguards present, and the isolation makes it a frequent location for nude sunbathing. Take a break and have a snack from one of the food trucks that is parked nearby. Since Makena Beach is located between two black lava outcroppings, the beach has great views of neighboring islands Molokini and Kahoolawe.

Hamoa Beach

On the drive to Hana, you will see this crescent shaped beach that is lined with Hala trees. At Hamoa Beach you can swim in the pristine water and relax on the silky sand. This beach is an optimal destination for swimmers in the summer and fall. In winter, the swells are higher, and this causes strong undercurrents and riptides. The winter weather makes Hamoa Beach a great place for experienced surfers and boogie boarders. The beach area also provides limited free parking, restrooms and showers, and a snack stand.

Paradise on Kauai

Po’ipu Beach

This beach is located on a mile of coastline and is divided into two sections. One section is reserved for small children and novice swimmers. The other section, Waiohai Beach, is the ultimate destination for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Surfers also enjoy this spot in the summertime when the waves pick up. Depending on the seasonal sand erosion, sometimes there is a sandbar that divides the sections of the beach. Lifeguards are on duty here seven days a week, making Poipu Beach one of the safest beaches in all of Hawaii.

Kalapaki Beach

Kalapaki Beach is located on the eastern coast of Kauai. This quiet, relaxing beach is a great location for many water activities in addition to fun on land. The water here is protected from the ocean by a large break wall. This makes it a great location for swimming, paddle boarding and learning to surf. On the beach, you can sunbathe and enjoy a snack from nearby Kalapaki Beach Hut. You can also play volleyball, hike, ride horseback, and watch the outrigger canoes and cruise ships at Nawillwili Harbor.

Chill on the island of Hawaii

Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach State Park is located on the western side of the Kohala Coast. This wide, long beach is considered one of the best on the Hawaiian Islands. This beach has clear calm water at the rocky south point, which makes it excellent place for snorkeling. Visitors also enjoy spending time here swimming, bodyboarding and lounging on the white sand beaches. In the early part of the year, you can spot migrating whales at a distance in the water. The park is loaded with amenities to keep guests happy including restrooms, picnic areas, showers and food vendors.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Hawaii, Punaluu is known for its black sand. This sand is made of basalt and is created by lava flowing into the water which explodes as it reaches the water and cools. The beach is a great place for swimming and snorkeling. The wildlife sightings here are second to none. Often you will see hawksbill and green turtles lounging on that luxurious black sand. Visitors are also allowed to camp on the beach at Punaluu Black Sand Beach Park. On your way to or from Punaluu Beach, tourists can stop and see Hawaii Volcanos National Park, located close to the beach.

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