Consistently ranked among the finest beaches in the United States, Hāpuna stretches for half a mile of pristine white sand along the Kohala Coast. The water is impossibly clear, the grade is gentle, and on calm days the snorkeling along the northern rocks is superb.
Tip Arrive before 10 AM on weekends — the parking lot fills early. Note: the potable water system is currently shut down, so bring your own water.
Reached only by a 30-minute hike across a lava field, Makalawena rewards the effort with soft white sand, turquoise shallows, and a near-complete absence of crowds. It feels like the Hawaiʻi of a century ago.
Tip No restrooms, no shade structures. Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear for the lava rock trail.
A jewel tucked inside Kekaha Kai State Park — a perfect crescent of white sand sheltered by dark lava rock, with water so blue it looks digitally enhanced. Lifeguards are on duty and the park provides restrooms and showers.
Tip Gates close at 7 PM. The shore break can be powerful — check conditions before swimming.
The best beginner snorkeling on the Kona coast. A natural breakwater of ancient lava rock creates a calm, shallow lagoon teeming with sea turtles, tangs, and butterflyfish. Lifeguards, restrooms, and showers make it effortless for families.
Tip $12 non-resident parking fee (4-hour intervals). Walk or bike from the condo to avoid the lot entirely — it’s close.
Named for the way winter swells can strip the beach down to bare rock overnight — only for the sand to return days later. On calm days, it’s a gorgeous white-sand swimming beach with lifeguards, a sand volleyball court, and the kind of reliable Kona sunshine that makes you forget your problems.
Tip Check conditions — the shore break can be surprisingly powerful. The beach grill across the street is a solid lunch option.
A calm, sheltered cove perfect for young children and cautious swimmers. The water barely rises above your knees for the first twenty yards, and the sand is fine and soft. Access is through the Kukio resort gate — simply tell the guard you’re visiting the public beach.
Tip Only 27 parking spots. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
Named for the two natural lava-rock steps that ease you into the water, this is one of the Big Island’s premier snorkeling destinations. The reef is vibrant, spinner dolphins are frequent visitors, and the clarity is otherworldly. Just south of Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau.
Tip Parking fills by mid-morning. Bring your own gear — there are no rental shops at the bay.
A striking black sand beach formed by recent lava flows on the island’s Puna coast. The jet-black shoreline against the blue Pacific makes for unforgettable photographs, and the surrounding landscape — new land slowly being reclaimed by tropical vegetation — tells the story of Hawaiʻi’s ongoing creation.
Tip About a 2.5-hour drive from Kona. Combine with a visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park for a full east-side day trip.
