Beaches

A-Bay (Anaehoomalu Bay)

Waikoloa

A-Bay, officially known as Anaehoomalu Bay, stands as one of the Big Island's most beloved beach destinations along the stunning Kohala Coast. This crescent-shaped beach in Waikoloa offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and modern amenities that make it ideal for families and beach enthusiasts alike. The bay's naturally protected waters remain calm throughout most of the year, creating excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Ancient Hawaiian fishponds dot the shoreline, offering glimpses into traditional aquaculture practices that sustained communities for centuries. These historic ponds add cultural depth to your beach experience while providing unique photo opportunities. Morning visits reward early arrivals with the calmest water conditions, perfect for swimming with children or trying snorkeling for the first time. As the day progresses, the beach becomes a hub for water sports, with rental equipment readily available for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The real magic happens at sunset, when A-Bay transforms into one of Hawaii Island's premier sunset-viewing locations. The western exposure provides unobstructed views of the sun sinking into the Pacific, creating spectacular photo opportunities against the backdrop of palm trees and ancient fishponds. Convenient free parking at Waikoloa Beach Resort makes access simple, while nearby resort amenities provide dining and refreshment options. The combination of calm waters, rich history, and stunning natural beauty makes A-Bay an essential stop for anyone exploring the Big Island's diverse coastline.

Hapuna Beach

Waikoloa

One of Hawaii's most beautiful white sand beaches, consistently ranked among the best in the world. Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and bodyboarding.

Mauna Kea Beach

Waikoloa

Stunning crescent-shaped white sand beach fronting the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Excellent for snorkeling and swimming.

Spencer Beach Park

Waikoloa

Spencer Beach Park stands out as the Kohala Coast's most family-friendly swimming destination on Hawaii's Big Island. Located near Kawaihae in the Waikoloa area, this protected beach offers remarkably calm waters that make it perfect for families with children and swimmers of all skill levels. The beach's sheltered location creates the calmest swimming conditions along the entire Kohala Coast, with gentle waves that rarely exceed a few feet. Morning hours provide the most tranquil water conditions, though the beach remains swimmable throughout the day year-round. What sets Spencer Beach Park apart from other Big Island beaches is its excellent facilities. Well-maintained covered pavilions provide shade for picnics and relaxation, while clean restrooms and outdoor showers make family visits comfortable and convenient. The park's spacious lawn areas offer plenty of room for games and activities beyond the sandy beach. Camping enthusiasts can take advantage of the park's overnight camping facilities with proper permits, making it an affordable base for exploring the Kohala Coast. The beach's proximity to Kawaihae Harbor and other Big Island attractions adds to its appeal as a central location. Spencer Beach Park combines natural beauty with practical amenities, creating an ideal spot for families seeking a relaxing beach day on Hawaii Island. The consistently calm conditions and comprehensive facilities make it a reliable choice for visitors wanting to enjoy the ocean without concerns about challenging surf conditions.

Waialea Bay (Beach 69)

Waikoloa

Waialea Bay, affectionately known as Beach 69, offers one of the Big Island's most pristine snorkeling experiences along the Kohala Coast. This secluded white sand beach near Puako provides a peaceful alternative to the busier resort beaches that dominate the Waikoloa area. The bay's protected waters create ideal conditions for snorkeling, with crystal-clear visibility revealing vibrant coral formations and tropical fish just steps from shore. The gentle slope of the white sand bottom makes it perfect for swimmers of all skill levels, while the consistent water clarity ensures memorable underwater exploration year-round. What sets Beach 69 apart is its more intimate atmosphere. While nearby resort beaches can feel crowded, this hidden gem maintains a local feel that appeals to visitors seeking authentic Hawaii Island experiences. The contrast between the white sand and the dramatic black lava rock coastline creates stunning photo opportunities and natural windbreaks for comfortable beach lounging. Located on Hawaii Island's sunny Kohala Coast, the beach enjoys protection from trade winds, making it an excellent choice even when other Big Island beaches experience rougher conditions. Morning visits often provide the calmest waters and best snorkeling visibility. Visitors should plan ahead, as parking is limited and the access gate operates on specific hours. Arriving early ensures the best parking spots and optimal snorkeling conditions. The beach lacks facilities, so bring water, snacks, and reef-safe sunscreen. This unspoiled setting rewards those willing to venture beyond the resort areas with some of the Big Island's finest snorkeling and most beautiful white sand coastline.

Carlsmith Beach Park

Hilo

Carlsmith Beach Park offers one of Hilo's most family-friendly beach experiences on Hawaii's Big Island. This unique coastal gem features a series of protected lava rock pools that create calm, lagoon-style swimming areas perfect for children and nervous swimmers. The natural rock formations shield the water from ocean swells, making it an ideal spot when other Big Island beaches might be too rough. The park's most exciting feature is its regular population of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) that frequent the shallow pools and nearshore waters. Visitors often spot these gentle giants basking on the black lava rocks or swimming gracefully through the crystal-clear water. Remember to maintain a respectful distance of at least 10 feet from these protected marine animals. Located in Hilo on the windward side of Hawaii Island, Carlsmith Beach Park provides easy access with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. The black lava rock coastline creates a dramatic backdrop for photos and snorkeling opportunities in the protected pools. The water stays relatively calm year-round, though it can be cooler than beaches on the island's western side. Families appreciate the park's natural playground atmosphere, where kids can safely explore tide pools while parents relax on the grassy areas. The combination of easy access, free admission, and reliable turtle sightings makes Carlsmith Beach Park a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hilo's natural attractions. Best visits are during morning hours when turtle activity peaks and crowds are lighter.

Richardson Ocean Park

Hilo

Hilo's best beach with black sand pockets, tide pools, and excellent snorkeling. Sea turtles frequent the area.

Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea)

One of only four green sand beaches in the world, formed from olivine crystals deposited by the Pu'u Mahana cinder cone. Located near South Point, requires a 2.5-mile hike each way.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Pahala

Famous black sand beach where Hawaiian green sea turtles rest on shore. One of the most photographed beaches in Hawaii.

Kahalu'u Beach Park

Kailua-Kona

The best beginner snorkeling spot on the Big Island. Protected bay with abundant sea turtles and colorful fish.

Kealakekua Bay

Captain Cook

Marine sanctuary with the best snorkeling on the island. Historic site of Captain Cook's death. Access by boat, kayak, or hike.

Kiholo Bay

Kailua-Kona

Kiholo Bay offers one of Hawaii Island's most rewarding hidden gems along the Kona Coast. This secluded black lava beach requires a short hike from a highway pulloff, but the effort pays off with an unforgettable Big Island experience that few tourists discover. The bay's crystal-clear waters and black volcanic shoreline create a stunning contrast that's uniquely Hawaiian. What makes Kiholo Bay truly special is its resident population of Hawaiian green sea turtles, who regularly bask on the warm lava rocks and glide through the shallow waters. Morning visits provide the best opportunities for turtle sightings when these gentle creatures are most active. Beyond the main beach area, adventurous visitors can explore the bay's secret lava tube swimming hole – a natural pool formed by ancient volcanic activity. The protected waters here offer excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. The lava tube creates a unique swimming experience you won't find at typical Big Island beaches. Located between Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast, Kiholo Bay remains refreshingly uncrowded due to its off-the-beaten-path location. The moderate hike takes about 15-20 minutes each way across hardened lava fields, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Early morning visits not only increase your chances of turtle encounters but also help you avoid the midday heat while crossing the exposed lava rock. This pristine bay represents the raw, untamed beauty that makes Hawaii Island's coastline so compelling for those willing to venture beyond the resort beaches.

Kua Bay (Manini'owali)

Kailua-Kona

Beautiful secluded beach with pristine white sand and turquoise waters. One of the best swimming beaches on the Kona Coast.

Kukio Beach

Kailua-Kona

Kukio Beach offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the Big Island's most exclusive stretches of coastline without paying resort prices. This stunning white sand beach along the Kohala Coast provides the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility, where pristine conditions meet public beach access rights. The beach's powdery white sand contrasts beautifully with the deep blue Pacific waters, creating an idyllic setting for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The protected cove offers calm conditions ideal for exploring the underwater world, where tropical fish dart between coral formations just offshore. The water clarity here rivals any private resort beach, making it excellent for both novice and experienced snorkelers. What makes Kukio Beach truly special is its exclusivity combined with legal public access. While the beach sits adjacent to luxury resorts, Hawaiian law ensures public access to all beaches. However, parking is limited and requires advance planning – daily parking passes are available but fill up quickly, especially during peak season. The beach maintains its pristine condition thanks to careful management and its somewhat hidden location along the Kona Coast. Facilities are minimal, so visitors should bring their own snorkeling gear, water, and snacks. The lack of crowds and commercial development creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from busier Big Island beaches. For those seeking an upscale beach experience on Hawaii Island without the resort fees, Kukio Beach delivers luxury-level beauty with authentic Hawaiian accessibility. Plan ahead for parking, and prepare for one of the island's most beautiful coastal experiences.

Magic Sands Beach (La'aloa)

Kailua-Kona

Popular beach known for its disappearing sand phenomenon. Great for bodyboarding when waves are up.

Makalawena Beach

Kailua-Kona

Secluded white sand paradise requiring a 20-minute hike. Uncrowded and pristine, worth the effort.

Two Step (Honaunau Bay)

Captain Cook

World-class snorkeling and diving spot near Pu'uhonua o Honaunau. Entry via lava rock steps, abundant marine life.