19 Best Beaches in Hawaii for an Unforgettable Trip 2022
Hawaii: Everyone’s stereotypical summer getaway for all the right reasons. It is a Polynesian paradise born from volcanic activity that gave way to lush tropical landscapes and the most majestic views of the ocean after hundreds of thousands of years.
Today, Hawaii remains home to vibrant locals with a deep love of nature, and remnants of stories about ancient deities still permeate the atmosphere of its beaches and state parks.
If this sounds like a beach getaway you should pursue, here’s a list of the best beaches in Hawaii to jump-start your itinerary.
Contents
- 1. Waikiki Beach – Honolulu
- 2. Ko Olina Beach – Kapolei
- 3. Waimea Bay Beach Park–Haleiwa
- 4. Makena Beach–Wailea
- 5. Kalapaki Beach – Lihue
- 6. Polihua Beach – Lanai
- 7. Polihale-Waimea State Park
- 8. Hulopoe Beach–Lanai
- 9. Kapalua Bay – Kapalua
- 10. Hanalei Bay–Hanalei
- 11. Poipu Beach Park–Koloa
- 12. Lanikai Beach – Kailua
- 13. Sunset Beach-Oahu
- 14. Kaihalulu Beach–Hana
- 15. Kaanapali Beach – Kaanapali
- 16. Baldwin–Paia Beach
- 17. Hamoa-Hana Beach
- 18. Wai’anapanapa State Park–Hana
- 19. Hapuna Beach–Waimea
- Hawaii Beach Questions
- What is the time difference with the continental United States?
- What is the main airport in Hawaii?
- How long is the flight to Hawaii?
- Do I need a car to get around Hawaii?
- What is the average temperature in Hawaii?
- What should I pack for my trip to Hawaii?
- How much money will I need per day?
- What languages are spoken in Hawaii?
Waikiki Beach – Honolulu
Waikiki Beach
Honolulu, HI 96815
(888) 904-4088
Affectionately known as “The Gathering Place,” this famous beach was once a place of gushing waters due to the rivers and springs that once flowed in the area.
Why is this beach recommended?
Favored by Hawaiian royalty and nobles in the 19th century, the Waikiki neighborhood is world-famous for its titular beach, which prompted the establishment of the first hotels.
Among all of Hawaii’s most popular beaches, tourists who want to explore all of Hawaii prioritize Waikiki Beach for its cultural significance and proximity to world-class destinations.
What is our advice?
Near the shore is Kalakaua Avenue, a street lined with restaurants, hotels, and shops. If you need to take a break from the beach and grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee, go for them. Afterward, watch as the shoreline comes alive with live music and nightlife.
Recommended hotel nearby: Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
Ko Olina Beach – Kapolei
92-100 Waipahe Place
Kapolei, HI 96707
(808) 464-0840
Ko Olina, which means “fullness of joy,” is an enchanting three-kilometer beach consisting of four artificial lagoons, with palm-fringed walkways connecting these lagoons.
Why is this beach recommended?
Ko Olina is a beautiful coastline for children. Reefs protect the waters from harsh waves and rip currents, making it the safest beach for children.
What is our advice?
Swimming, diving, and paddleboarding are not the only activities you can enjoy; Ko Olina also has a marina and can host whale watching, diving excursions, and dinner cruises.
Recommended hotel nearby: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Waimea Bay Beach Park–Haleiwa
Kamehameha
Haleiwa Highway, Oahu, HI 96712
(808) 233-7300
Waimea Bay Beach is a vibrant and lively shoreline, filled with endless possibilities for fun and the famous crashing waves. One of the highlights of this beach is Da Big Rock, a giant rock used for diving.
Why is this beach recommended?
Waimea Bay is one of the most popular beach spots to see the bravest and skilled surfers. In addition to the classic beach activities, diving from the gigantic Da Big Rock is an iconic activity that you must try here.
What is our advice?
Waimea Bay Beach is known for its relatively high and mighty waves. If you want to enjoy a swim in calmer conditions, summer is the best season to visit.
Recommended hotel nearby: Turtle Bay Resort
Makena Beach–Wailea
4670 Makena Alanui
Wailea, HI 96753
(800) 464-2924
Sometimes known as Big Beach and Oneloa Beach, Makena Beach is the larger of the two beaches in Makena State Park.
Why is this beach recommended?
Makena Beach is a mile long and has several beach services. Lifeguards ensure your safety, ample parking makes it easy to find a spot, and picnic areas abound for money-saving beach bums.
What is our advice?
If you don’t want to waste time preparing food and drinks for your family or friends, food trucks are also at Makena Beach by the parking lot.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Kalapaki Beach – Lihue
Waterfront Access
Lihue, HI 96766
(808) 245-7227
Kalapaki Beach is a crescent-shaped shoreline just outside Nawiliwili Harbor and the Marriott.
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Why is this beach recommended?
Ideal swimming conditions and extensive services at Kalapaki Beach attract many vacationers to its gently sloping shoreline, fine sand, and gentle waves. Best of all, world-class resorts, restaurants, and shopping are just a stone’s throw away.
What is our advice?
Guided kayak excursions and surf lessons are offered on this beach, so don’t miss out on the opportunity and make a reservation before you come.
Recommended hotel nearby: Banyan Harbor Resort
Polished Beach – Lanai
City of Lanai, HI 96763
The northwestern tip of Lanai hides an isolated and relatively untouched stretch of quiet coastline called Polished.
Why is this beach recommended?
This 1.5-mile beauty is the longest in the city, offering Molokai and Diamond Head views. Sea turtles love to stay on shore for their tranquility, and whales drop by during the winter.
What is our advice?
Though serene in appearance, Polihua’s waves carry currents that can sweep swimmers away, so come here to sunbathe, have a picnic, or comb the beach. Don’t venture too far into the water.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach
Polihale-Waimea State Park
Lower Saki Mana Road
Waimea, HI 96796
(808) 587-0400
Polihale State Park, also known as Polihale Beach, is an easily accessible shoreline in western Kauai.
Why is this beach recommended?
The accessibility and convenient location of Polihale State Park make it the ideal destination to bring your friends or partner to. With its soft golden sand, crystal clear waters, and a backdrop of mountains, Polihale is one of the unique beach destinations in Hawaii.
What is our advice?
This beach does not have a lifeguard, and the current can be pretty intense, so it is not the best place to swim with children.
Recommended hotel nearby: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Hulopoe Beach–Lanai
Hulopo’e Beach
City of Lanai, HI 96763
(808) 464-0840
Hulopoe Beach is a crescent-shaped shoreline situated on Manele Bay, known locally as Shark Bay.
Why is this beach recommended?
Quiet and away from the city, the big crowds, and the vendors, Hulopoe Beach can offer you one of the most relaxing vacations in Hawaii. Once you get here, you will only hear the sound of waves and sea birds.
What is our advice?
As you swim in the calm, refreshing waters, watch for passing dolphins, monk seals, and sea turtles. There is only one restaurant in the area, so bring food and drinks just in case.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Kapalua Bay – Kapalua
Kapalua Coast Road
Kapalua, HI 96761
Kapalua Bay Beach is a beautiful shoreline of golden sand and crystal clear turquoise water. It is primarily a favorite of the locals for its rich marine life.
Why is this beach recommended?
Kapalua Bay Beach is a world-class, family-friendly shoreline and the best swimming beach in Hawaii. A cove protects its shores from the strong waves and currents of the Pacific. It also boasts of being one of Hawaii’s most sought-after clear water beaches.
What is our advice?
Kapalua Bay Beach can get crowded due to its popularity and bathing conditions. To avoid the big crowds, visit first thing in the morning on a weekday.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
Hanalei Bay–Hanalei
Hanalei Bay
Hanalei, HI 96714
(800) 652-8248
Hanalei Bay, the largest of its kind on Kauai’s north shore, consists of a two-mile beach, a small town, and a pier.
Why is this beach recommended?
Hanalei Bay has plenty of facilities to keep any beachgoer comfortable and entertained, including a nice dock, camping and picnic areas, well-maintained showers and restrooms, and a wide range of fun beach activities.
What is our advice?
In the small town by the bay, you can shop for souvenirs, eat delicious local delicacies, and visit shops that offer rental equipment for water sports activities.
Recommended hotel nearby: Club Wyndham Bali Hai Villas
Poipu Beach Park–Koloa
Poipu Beach
Koloa, HI 96756
(800) 652-8248
Poipu Beach has two bays in one place, both separated by a raffle called Nukumoi Point. That means you can enjoy two beaches in one go!
Why is this beach recommended?
There are two interesting features on this beach. One, it’s shaped like a crescent, and two, there are Hawaiian monk seals that show up from time to time! Keep your distance; After all, they are still wild animals.
What is our advice?
If you prefer a shallower beach with little or no surf, the left side of Poipu Beach is your best option. For more fun waves for water sports, head to the west side of Poipu Beach.
Recommended hotel nearby: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Lanikai Beach – Kailua
Mokulua Drive
Kailua, HI 96734
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Sometimes called Kaʻōhao Beach by locals, Lanikai Beach is one of the best beaches to go to when on Oahu.
Why is this beach recommended?
Do you dream of enticing Hawaiian beaches on Oahu? It doesn’t get more beautiful than Lanikai Beach. Its fantastic expanse of white sand and crystal clear waters make you want to jump right in.
What is our advice?
Lanikai can be windy at times, making it the perfect spot for sailing and windsurfing and the usual swimming and snorkeling. You can also go kayaking when it’s calm.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Kahala Hotel and Resort – No Resort Fee
Sunset Beach-Oahu
59-104 Kamehameha Highway
Haleiwa, Oahu, HI 96712
(808) 638-7213
Undoubtedly one of the prettiest beaches in Hawaii found on the north shore of Oahu; Sunset Beach offers a long stretch of sugary white sand, sparkling cerulean water, and endless views of the Pacific Ocean.
Why is this beach recommended?
Sunset Beach is not just a name; it is a living description of the magical sunsets that bless this place almost every day. On the other hand, the winter months host the main surfing competitions in the world on the shore of Sunset Beach.
What is our advice?
Sunset Beach’s sunsets make it one of the best Hawaiian beach spots to visit but check the weather before you come to make sure there’s a sunset to see.
Recommended hotel nearby: Turtle Bay Resort
Kaihalulu Beach–Hana
Uakea Street, Kaihalulu
Hana Bay, HI 96713
Kaihalulu Beach, or Red Sand Beach, is a magnificent coastline. A marine reef protects its shoreline from powerful waves and currents.
Why is this beach recommended?
By visiting Kaihalulu Beach, you will have entered a different world and tired of white sand? Kaihalulu offers you fine red sand and black pebbles!
What is our advice?
The water in the outer zone of your marine reef is more vital. Do not attempt to swim beyond the reef if you are not an experienced swimmer.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hana-Maui Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Residence
Kaanapali Beach – Kaanapali
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali, HI 96761
Sure, Hawaii has its fair share of beautiful beaches. Still, there’s Kaanapali Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the US, boasting vibrant cerulean water, three miles of sugary sand, and views of the mountains in the distance.
Why is this beach recommended?
Gorgeous hotels line Kaanapali Beach to get a piece of the views it offers. Whales also frequent this attractive beach, as do surfers, boogie boarders, stand-up paddleboarders, and divers.
What is our advice?
Kaanapali is also a snorkeling wonderland, and Black Rock is the best place to do it after trying cliff jumping.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach
Baldwin–Paia Beach
Highway 36, Baldwin
Paia Park, HI 96779
(808) 572-8122
Baldwin Beach Park features a long white-sand beach on Maui’s north shore, along clear turquoise waters.
Why is this beach recommended?
As one of the best kid-friendly beaches picks, Baldwin doesn’t stop at offering little ones protected little pools, with Baby Beach to the west and Baldwin Cover to the east. Both areas feature shallow water with little or no waves.
What is our advice?
There are grills and picnic tables available for you to enjoy a delicious meal with the family, so grill up.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Hamoa-Hana Beach
Hamoa
Hana Beach, HI 96713
The road to Hana has plenty of tropical wonders. Hamoa Beach is one of them, a beautiful crescent-shaped coastline covered in milky white sand.
Why is this beach recommended?
Surrounded by verdant cliffs, Hala trees, and little to no development, Hamoa Beach is any nature lover’s dream. Hawaiians, since ancient times, also practice surfing here.
What is our advice?
The water towards the outer ends of Hamoa Beach has more substantial and more unpredictable waves due to its exposure to the open sea.
Recommended hotel nearby: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Wai’anapanapa State Park–Hana
Wai’anapanapa
Hana, HI 96713
(808) 248-4843
Waiʻanapanapa State Park spans 300 acres in Hana, featuring a black sand beach as the park’s highlight.
Why is this beach recommended?
What does a beach look like on a volcanic coast? Interestingly, the sand takes on a jet black color from the fine fragments of basalt. That’s exactly what to expect at Wai’anapanapa.
Iceland’s black-sand beaches get the most media attention, but you don’t have to travel to check the rare black-sand beaches off your bucket list. Wai’anapanapa is just as beautiful. Add to that the tropical vibes that surround the beach in an embrace.
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What is our advice?
The black sand beach isn’t just what looks good in photos. Wai’anapanapa State Park welcomes you to stay, camp, picnic, fish, and hike the Old Hawaiian Coastal Trail.
Recommended hotel nearby: Hana-Maui Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Residence
Hapuna Beach–Waimea
Old Puako Road
Waimea, HI 96743
(888) 977-4623
Hapuna Beach’s white sand, clear turquoise waters, and an array of lava rocks that were once hidden in the cliffs are a sight to behold.
Why is this beach recommended?
Like all the best beaches in Hawaii, Hapuna Beach offers beach bums a surreal experience amidst soft white sand, clear waters, and distant views of ancient Hawaiian geological formations.
What is our advice?
If you want your family to witness the magnificence of migrating pods of whales, visit Hapuna Beach early in the year. You can also stargaze at night along the shore if you book a campsite.
Recommended hotel nearby: Fairmont Orchid
If you’ve been left wanting more, check out America’s Best Beaches. Pretty! By the way… What do you think of the best beaches in Hawaii? Do not forget to leave your impressions in the comments.
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