Best Beaches in Hawaii, Big Island: Paradise Found

Being an island lover, I’ve seen some amazing beaches. But Hawaii’s Big Island is on another level. Its beaches are special, with sands in different colors. You can find black volcanic sands, green crystal bits, and white sand beaches everywhere¹.

The Big Island gives you many beach options. You can enjoy the sun in calm spots or walk on lava rock areas. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. It’s time to explore and find the top beaches in this tropical heaven.

Hawaii’s Big Island: A Beach Lover’s Dream

The Big Island of Hawaii is heaven for those who love beaches. It has amazing shoreline diversity, the likes of which you won’t see elsewhere². This place is known for its two active volcanoes and eight different ecosystems. With beautiful white-sand beaches and big volcanoes, the island is a must-visit². You can find pristine white, dramatic black, and rare green sand beaches here. Each one adds to the natural wonders found along the Big Island’s coast.

Diverse and Unique Shorelines Await

This island is bigger than the state of Rhode Island³. Its beaches vary a lot, based on where you are. The west side gets lots of sun and little rain³. But, the east side is about a 6-hour drive from the main resorts. Each place on the island has its special type of beach experiences.

The west side is great for a beach vacation. It has top resorts, golf, and sandy spots³. Kona has fewer sandy beaches than Waikoloa. Hilo, on the east side, isn’t known for lots of beaches. But, it shines with its culture and easy trips to natural gems.

From Black Sand to Crystal Green Gems

The island’s beaches serve up a lot of beauty. You’ll see the famed black sand created by volcanoes and rare green sand from olivine crystals². Walking on the tranquil white sands or exploring lava-covered lands, every beach is a unique part of the island’s story². There’s something special about each place, offering a truly different beach adventure.

²The Big Island of Hawaii is the biggest in the chain². It has a lot to see with its volcanoes and diverse landscapes². Kona and Hilo are where many people live². It’s best to visit in the spring or fall to avoid crowds². You can fly there from big cities on direct flights. A negative COVID test is needed within 72 hours to land. You must rent a car to see the island².

The island offers many things to do, like snorkeling and checking out waterfalls. It includes stops at special beaches and volcanoes². Be sure to visit famous places like Beach 69, Hapuna Beach, and Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)². For snorkeling, Two Step, Kahalu’u Beach Park, Ho’okena Beach Park, and Kealakekua Bay are great². Don’t miss seeing Akaka Falls or Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is full of cool places to visit, like the Thurston Lava Tube and Kīlauea Iki Trail. Watching the sunset at Mauna Kea is also a special experience²³.

³The Big Island of Hawaii is huge compared to Rhode Island³. It’s got two very different sides. The west has lots of sun and not much rain, perfect for the beach³. It’s where you’ll find luxury resorts and beautiful golf courses. The Waikoloa area is especially known for its comfort and golden coast³.

Kona is great for exploring and enjoying rich history, with places like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau. It also has cheaper, quality hotels. The Kailua-Kona town has a lively scene with great waterfront dining and historic sites like Hulihee Palace³. The Puako area is all about untouched coastline and excellent sea views while snorkeling³.

The west side is perfect for discovering natural beauty like the Pololu Valley. It’s also rich in Hawaiian history, with ancient temples and historical parks. Even night-stargazing atop Mauna Kea is possible from here³.

The island has lodgings for all budgets, from simple to pure luxury³. If you’re looking for a cozy place, both Kona and Volcano have good options. The Big Island truly offers something for everyone with its diverse natural and cultural attractions³⁴.

From Black Sand to Crystal Green Gems

The Big Island’s beaches are a feast for the eyes and the soul. They come in various colors and feels. You can relax on the white sands or wander through lava formations. The green sand beaches are a rare find, showing off the island’s geological history². For each beach you explore, you step into a unique world, making every visit special.

⁴The Big Island is bigger than all the other Hawaiia islands combined⁴. To really see it, a week is a good choice because there’s so much to do and see. Kona, Waikoloa, Hilo, and the Volcano area all have places to stay. Each area has its plus points. For beaches, Kona wins, but Hilo has a cool vibe and is near fun nature spots and the volcanoes⁴.

When flying in, you might have a stop on the way. There are flights direct to places like Detroit and Honolulu⁴. Near Hilo, you can find good hotels like the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo and the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel for about $215 per night⁴. If you prefer being close to the volcano, Volcano has places to rent for about $300 per night⁴.

There are many cool things to do on the Big Island. Snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, and exploring volcanoes are highlights⁴. Make sure to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a unique experience⁴. The east side, near Hilo, is more about its culture and natural beauty. Less for the beach, but it has a lot of history and is near the volcanoes.

best beaches in hawaii big island

The Big Island of Hawaii has many beautiful beaches. Each one is special in its own way. You can find everything from white sands in the Kohala Coast to unique lava rock beaches in Kona. It’s a paradise for those who love the beach.

Kohala Coast: Pristine White Sanctuaries

The northwest side of the Big Island is known for its stunning white sand beaches⁵. Visitors love these clean shores next to luxury resorts. Kua Bay (Manini’owali Beach) in Kekaha Kai State Park gets a lot of visitors, especially on weekends. There is enough parking, but sometimes it’s full. You can also visit Kukio “Keiki” Beach. It has calm waters, perfect for kids and not-so-confident swimmers. Just know that parking spots are limited. Finally, there’s Pau’oa Bay at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel. It has a protected cove with calm waters and is free to access.

Kona’s Sunny Shores and Lava Rock Landscapes

The Kona coast is quite different. It mixes white sand beaches with impressive lava rocks⁶. Hāpuna Beach is famous for its white sands and clear waters. It does get busy but has a $5 parking fee for visitors. There are also spots for great snorkeling and nearby amenities. Spencer Beach Park is ideal for families. It’s easy to reach with free parking, calm waters, and shade. La’aloa Beach (Magic Sands) Beach Park is known for its vivid waters and lifeguard services. It has everything from showers to picnic areas. There are many parking spots available nearby.

If you love white sand or prefer fascinating lava rock beaches, the Big Island has it all⁷. Hāpuna Beach Park is the largest white sand beach here⁷. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is especially unique, located near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park⁷. With so many choices, the Big Island is a true heaven for beach enthusiasts.

Beaches Near Volcano: Nature’s Masterpieces

The southern side of the Big Island is special. It has some of the most unique beaches. Notably, the green sand beach and the iconic black sand beach of Punalu’u. These beaches show off the amazing landscapes formed by volcanic activity.

Green Sand Beach: A Geological Wonder

Papakōlea’s Green Sand Beach is a rare sight⁸. It’s the only green sand beach from olivine crystals in the world⁹. A three-mile hike across a lava field leads to this beach. It’s hard but worth it for the beautiful views and unique sand⁹. Remember to bring picnic items, swimsuits, and a camera. This is so you can enjoy the sunset view over the green sands⁹.

Punalu’u: The Iconic Black Sand Beach

The nearby Punalu’u Black Sand Beach has a unique look too⁸. The black sand comes from lava rock. This gives the beach a special and striking appearance⁸. It’s also a place where you can see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles up close⁸.

These amazing beaches showcase Hawaii’s volcanic beauty. Whether you love the green sands or black shores, these wonders will amaze you.⁸⁹¹⁰

East Coast Gems: Hilo’s Hidden Treasures

The west side of the Big Island wows with luxury resorts and white sand beaches. But head near Hilo on the east coast for a different beach adventure¹¹. Here, you’ll discover secret spots, like rocky shores, black sand beaches, and calm coves. They sit in beautiful, tropical Hilo¹².

Look beyond the usual spots, and you’ll find unique beaches. Kawa Bay Beach is hidden, a half-mile walk leads to its peaceful spot¹². Others, like Shipman and Pohue Bay Beaches, involve a 2.5-mile hike, making your visit special¹².

For something really different, try Makolea Black Sand Beach, just a short walk from Kekaha Kai State Park. Or visit Lone Palm Beach, reachable by a 15-min walk after a drive on a lava road¹². There’s also Cape Kumukahi Black Sand Beach, a secluded spot needing a two-mile walk on a gravel road¹².

These hidden beaches near Hilo let you avoid crowds and connect with the island’s natural charm. Want to know the real Big Island? Go off the beaten path and find these hidden gems¹¹¹².

For the best Big Island experience, plan at least a week, or better yet, two. Spend time in Kailua-Kona and Hilo, with four nights and three nights each. It’s a perfect way to see everything¹³.

Choose to explore Hilo’s beaches alone or with a guide for a special adventure¹³. Bring your swim gear and hiking shoes to find Hilo’s hidden treasures¹¹¹².

Exploring North Shore Beaches

The Big Island’s north shore has unique beaches with vast landscapes and hidden spots. You’ll find the iconic black sand beach in Waipi’o Valley and the isolated Pololu Valley. These places show off the island’s stunning natural beauty¹⁴.

Waipi’o Valley: Black Sand and Towering Cliffs

Waipi’o Valley is home to a black sand beach between tall cliffs¹⁴. Strong waves and currents here mean it’s not for swimming. But, its view and cultural value make it a top place to visit¹⁴. You can only get here by a tough hike or a 4WD. The journey is an adventure on its own, with great views and a taste of the island’s history¹⁴.

Pololu Valley: Secluded Beach Hike

The secluded Pololu Valley has a black sand beach perfect for those seeking solitude¹⁴. You reach it by hiking a challenging trail. The beach is calm, with tall cliffs and greenery around. Despite not being good for swimming, it’s an amazing spot to see the island’s untouched beauty and history¹⁴.

From black sand to remote hikes, the Big Island’s north shore has unforgettable beaches¹⁴. They offer diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and may need a bit of effort to reach. These spots let you explore the island’s true natural wonders and get off the beaten path¹⁴.

Before heading out, learn about each north shore beach and how to get there¹⁴. Be prepared and respectful of nature’s power. This way, you can truly enjoy the island’s stunning coastal scenes¹⁴.

Family-Friendly Havens on the West Side

The west side of the Big Island, especially the Kohala Coast, is perfect for family fun in the sun. It has beaches ideal for kids with calm waters. There are picnic spots, restrooms, and more for your family day out¹⁵.

Keiki-Approved Snorkeling and Picnic Spots

Many families love Hapuna Beach State Park for its beautiful white sand and easy waves. It almost always sunny, with very little rain¹⁵. Makalawena Beach is close by and has rare green sand. The hike there might be tough but it’s worth it for the view and the unique sand¹⁵.

For a calm day, Keiki Beach in Waikoloa is great. It has a safe lagoon for snorkeling and places for picnics in the shade. Nearby, the Hilton Kings’ Land has everything for the family. There are big rooms, pools, a lazy river, and a kids’ club¹⁶.

In addition to beaches, the Kohala Coast has lots to do with your family. You can visit the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park or explore Hawaiian culture. For a different experience, go to Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can see the island’s volcanoes up close¹⁶. The west side also offers swimming with dolphins, seeing a luau, or enjoying fresh seafood. There’s something for everyone, from kids to grandparents¹⁶¹⁷.

Beach Safety: Respecting Nature’s Power

The beaches on the Big Island are incredibly beautiful and offer tons of fun. Yet, it’s key to respect nature’s power. This means knowing about the dangers they can hold¹⁸. The surf on these beaches is known to be strong and not easy to swim in. It’s nothing like swimming in a lake or a pool¹⁸. To have a safe and good time, make sure you learn the safety rules. And always be careful when swimming or exploring by the shore.

Rip Currents and High Surf Advisories

Rip currents are a big worry on the Big Island’s beaches¹⁸. Hawaii has more drowning incidents than any other state. These are often due to rip currents and sudden powerful waves¹⁸. Swimmers, even those who are strong, should avoid swimming alone. The ocean’s conditions can change fast and put anyone at risk¹⁸. Listening to advice about high surf from lifeguards and watching out for signs can keep you safe.

The waves on the Big Island might suddenly get much bigger or change direction¹⁸. This can threaten both swimmers and people on the beach¹⁸. Drownings happen more when people aren’t ready for the ocean’s surprises¹⁸. So always be alert, respect the ocean’s power, and use caution. This way, you can take in the coast’s beauty while keeping safe.

It’s not just the ocean that can be risky. There are other dangers, like sea urchins and too much sun¹⁸. If you’re stung by a sea urchin, using urine or vinegar can help the pain. And putting on sunscreen is a must to avoid bad burns¹⁸. Being informed and taking the right steps allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of the Big Island. But it’s just as important to stay safe and mindful¹⁸.

Beach Adventures on the Big Island

The Big Island’s beaches have something for everyone. You can snorkel in calm coves, surf big waves, or enjoy beautiful sunsets. It’s a paradise for beach lovers.

Snorkeling, Surfing, and Sunset Strolls

Kahaluʻu Beach Park is perfect for snorkeling, with amazing spots to explore¹⁹. Kukio Beach is quiet and has pools full of sea life, great for walking and looking around¹⁹. Waialea Beach, or Beach 69, is special for snorkeling because it’s a protected area¹⁹.

Surfers will love Magic Sands Beach Park for its fun waves¹⁹. Honolii Beach is great all year, best for those who already know how to surf or bodyboard in summer²⁰.

At sunset, the island’s beaches become magical. Kaunaʻoa Beach has white sand and is good for families, offering a lovely place to see the sun go down¹⁹.

Navigate beach hazards by paying attention to signs, looking out for danger signs like rip currents. Follow safety tips to have fun safely, like not disturbing sea life and not swimming by yourself¹⁹. Keep your things safe by using secure bags and pockets¹⁹.

The Big Island has so many beaches waiting to be explored. Enjoy snorkeling, surfing, or just walking at sunset. There’s so much natural beauty to discover on its shores¹⁹¹⁴²⁰.

Packing for Your Beach Day on the Big Island

Getting ready for a beach day on the Big Island means packing smart. You want to be comfy and ready to make great memories. Make sure you pack sun protection and gear for the water. This can really improve your day. First, think about taking 5-6 swimsuits if you plan to stay for 5 nights. The island’s beaches and waterfalls are waiting for you²¹. Also, bring along 2-3 cover-ups and dresses. They’re perfect for staying cool in the heat²¹.

Don’t forget things for outdoor fun like activewear and good shoes. Try to pack 3-4 pairs of shorts and tops that can handle a little mud. Lululemon or other similar brands are great²¹. You’ll need sneakers for trails and water shoes for snorkeling²¹. Pack plenty of high-SPF sunscreen to guard against Hawaii’s strong sun²¹. Bringing packing cubes, bug spray, and a big sun hat also helps to stay organized, bite-free, and shaded²¹.

The Big Island could surprise you with rain, so take a raincoat and an umbrella. Especially if you will be on the north or east side of the island²¹²². A trash bag for your messy clothes can be a lifesaver too²¹. For a better beach day, leave behind items like high heels and heavy jackets. The island’s vibe is all about being casual²¹.

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