For many of us, Hawaii is a dream destination for a whole host of reasons: its vibrant scenery, rich culture & traditions and most namely, its one of a kind, top of the line beaches. Whether you're looking for an ideal place to bask in the sun and swim or the perfect locale to catch some of the island's marquee surf waves, we hope to help guide you through the best beaches in Hawaii, no matter what type of traveler you are.
Lanikai Beach, Oahu
First up is the world famous Lanikai Beach located in Oahu. A destination beach for many travelers, Lanikai features everything you want and expect on a Hawaiian beach day. Turquoise blue water, vast open vistas and teeming with sea life, perfect for snorkeling, Lanikai Beach is a must visit for those who wish to get the essential Hawaiian beach experience. Its soft, powdery white sand and calm waters make it ideal for families, casual swimmers, and sunrise watchers alike. With the Mokulua Islands just offshore, it's also a favorite launch point for kayakers seeking a bit of adventure amidst the tranquility.
Poipu Beach, Kauai
In the south of Kauai lies Poipu Beach. This golden sand beach is notable for its unique geological makeup where just beyond its shoreline, another smaller shoreline reemerges and meets with a lava rock formation, giving eager swimmers the significantly eased experience of swimming from "island to island." Poipu also features various naturally formed segments including a lagoon and tide pools making for a more adventurous beach day full of discovery and awe. It’s not uncommon to spot Hawaiian monk seals sunbathing on the sand, adding an unforgettable wildlife encounter to your visit. Whether you're snorkeling through its clear waters or exploring the rugged edges of the lava rocks, Poipu Beach offers a vibrant blend of relaxation and exploration.
Kapalua Bay, Maui
For an all encompassing beach experience, visitors should look no further than Maui's Kapalua Bay. Featuring all the essentials one can hope for - calm crystal waters, shining golden sand and abundant with sea life - this storied Maui beach is an exemplary spot for beach goers of all kinds. Framed by lava rock outcroppings that shelter the bay, it creates a serene environment perfect for snorkeling or simply floating in peace. With nearby walking trails and stunning sunset views, Kapalua Bay seamlessly blends natural beauty with easy accessibility, making it a standout on any Maui itinerary.
Waimea Bay, Oahu
If beating the busy crowds is what you seek, Waimea Bay in Oahu offers a calmer atmosphere for those who want to swim in relative peace. Featuring relaxed water in the spring and summer, the colder seasons bring a marked contrast as bigger waves appear, ideal for surfing. This seasonal transformation makes Waimea Bay a dynamic destination, offering both tranquil swims and thrilling surf depending on when you visit. Surrounded by lush cliffs and soft sand, it’s a place where laid-back beach days and heart-pounding wave watching effortlessly coexist.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Big Island
Finally, for a more unconventional and idiosyncratic beach experience, no list of recommendations would be complete without mentioning the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, located on the Big Island. The trademark black sand that characterizes this iconic beach is due to cooled lava being pushed to the shore from the ocean, delivering a stunning shiny black surface that any traveler should experience at least once. Lined with towering palm trees and often visited by endangered green sea turtles basking in the sun, Punalu’u offers a raw, untamed beauty rarely found elsewhere. It's a place where Hawaii’s volcanic roots are on full display, making it as educational as it is visually unforgettable.