The Best Beaches on the Hawaiian Islands
Anaehoomalu Bay, Waikoloa Beach, Big Island is one of the most popular beaches of the region. Located on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast it features ocean views from the most modern of hotels, nearby championship golf courses and landscaped pathways through ancient ponds. Things to do include the Dolphin Learning Center, Genesis Gallery, or even a helicopter tour of the island.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach in Kau District, Big Island is a black sand beach which doubles as a sanctuary for sea turtles. It’s not unusual to see the species sunbathing on the beach. This particular beach is a great place to go snorkeling as other areas can be somewhat dangerous. The riptide can be extremely severe. Be sure and visit the Kamoa Wind Farm, the archaeological sites of South Point and the Punaluu Beach Park.
Lumahai Beach on North Shore, Kauai is famous for being in the movies. It’s a slippery, treacherous walk to the beach but well worth the inconvenience when you see the view. Visit Wailua Falls, Lumahai Beach Park, Grove Farm Homestead Museum and Hanalei Pier nearby.
Salt Pond Beach Park, Hanapepe, Kauai is the perfect beach for families. The area features pavilions where everyone can eat and the water is perfect for swimming. The surrounding land is flat making it ideal for outdoor sports and games. Nearby the only natural salt pond in Hawaii is still used for making salt.
Shipwreck Beach on Lanai is maybe the most unique beach on the island. Unsuitable for swimming with plenty of boulders, lava rock and downed timbers, the view of nearby Molokai and Maui are unbeatable. The abandoned hull of a WWII ship decorates the landscape where you’ll also see sea turtles and even whales.
Another of Hawaii’s most famous beaches is Kaanapali Beach on West Maui. Lifeguards, three miles of coastline, along with dozens of resort motels make this beach most awesome. Snorkeling, windsurfing and parasailing are only some of the sports appropriate in this area.
Wailea Beach, on South Maui is suitable for surfing, snorkeling and other water sports. Nice hotels include the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa, Wailea Marriott, Four Seasons Resort and the Diamond Resort Hawaii.
Papohaku Beach, Molokai is one of the world’s longest beaches. Although some popular beaches seem to always be crowded this particular beach is so large that you can often see no one else for miles. Private and secluded Wailea Beach is perfect for a romantic getaway.
Some of the very most crowded beaches are the Waikiki Beaches, Southern Shore, Oahu. There are seven beaches in one with over 4 million visitors yearly. Although crowded the beaches offer boogie boards, canoes, kayaks and snorkeling supplies.
Offering gorgeous views of the coastal mountain ranges of Oahu and Manana Island, Waimanalo Beach Park, Oahu is definitely among the best Hawaii has to offer. A real family beach, many visitors barbecue, swim, surfboard or just enjoy the sun.
If you’re heading for Hawaii you’re sure to have a good time but nothing would ruin your fun more than spending half a day getting to a destination only to find out it simply isn’t what you had in mind. Before you plan your itinerary for the trip read more about popular beaches, most safe beaches, family beaches and other beach attractions by going to your local library or going online.
