Hawaii is a paradise of natural beauty, and one of the things that makes it so special are its stunning beaches. With miles of coastline and crystal-clear waters, Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are some of the best beaches to explore on your next trip to Hawaii.
1. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, located in the heart of Honolulu on the island of Oahu. It is known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. It also offers views of Diamond Head, one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks.
2. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is located on the eastern side of Oahu and is known for its clear, turquoise waters and soft, powdery sand. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is also known for its picturesque views of the nearby Mokulua Islands.
3. Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is located on the western side of Maui and is known for its long stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. The beach also offers views of the nearby island of Lanai.
4. Napili Bay
Napili Bay is located on the northwestern side of Maui and is known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft, white sand. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also a popular spot for watching sea turtles.
5. Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is located on the western side of the Big Island and is known for its long stretch of soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also a popular spot for watching dolphins and humpback whales during the winter months.
6. Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach is located on the southern side of Kauai and is known for its calm, clear waters and soft, golden sand. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also a popular spot for watching sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals.
7. Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach is located on the eastern side of Oahu and is known for its soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters. It is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing. The beach is also a popular spot for watching sea turtles.
8. Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is located on the western side of the Big Island and is known for its secluded location and crystal-clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is only accessible by a short hike, but the views and seclusion make it worth the trek.
9. Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is located on the northern shore of Kauai and is known for its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, crystal-clear waters, and lush green mountains in the background. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The bay also offers great snorkeling opportunities around the nearby reefs.
10. Makena Beach
Makena Beach, also known as “Big Beach”, is located on the southwestern side of Maui and is known for its long stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters. It is a great spot for swimming, boogie boarding, and body surfing. The beach is also surrounded by lava rocks and offers great photo opportunities.
11. Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is located on the northern shore of Oahu and is known for its large waves during the winter months, making it a popular spot for big wave surfing. During the summer months, the bay calms down and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also known for its stunning sunset views.
13. Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Punaluu Black Sand Beach is located on the southeastern side of the Big Island and is known for its unique black sand, created by lava flowing into the ocean and then breaking apart into small pieces. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also a popular spot for seeing green sea turtles basking on the sand.
14. Polihale State Park
Polihale State Park is located on the western side of Kauai and is known for its long stretch of white sand beach and stunning sunsets. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach camping. The park is also surrounded by towering sand dunes and offers views of the nearby Na Pali Coast.
15. Kua Bay
Kua Bay, also known as Maniniowali Beach, is located on the western side of the Big Island and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding. The beach also offers stunning views of the nearby Kona Coast.