As best beaches on big island takes center stage, this paradise attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Big Island is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in Hawaii, each with its own unique features and charm. From the white sand beaches of Hapuna and Mauna Kea to the black sand beaches of Kaimu and Punalu’u, the island offers a diverse range of beach experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches on Big Island for a Relaxing Getaway
Planning a family vacation to the Big Island in Hawaii can be an exciting experience, but selecting a suitable beach for everyone’s enjoyment can be a daunting task. Here’s a guide to the most family-friendly beaches on the Big Island that cater to the diverse needs of children and parents alike.
Six Beaches Suitable for Families with Children
The Big Island offers a variety of beaches that range from calm and protected coves to more vibrant and active shores. When visiting these beaches with children, be sure to prioritize their safety. Here are six beaches that offer a unique blend of accessibility, amenities, and natural beauty that cater to families with kids.
- Laie Bay: A secluded and tranquil cove with a gentle slope into the ocean, making it suitable for young swimmers. Laie Bay also offers picnic spots, a playground, and nearby snorkeling and swimming areas.
- Duke Kahanamoku Beach: Named after the famous Hawaiian swimmer and a great spot for families. It features soft sand, clear waters, and calm surf, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or building sandcastles.
- Hapuna Beach: This beach offers two separate areas – a calm and gentle lagoon for families, as well as a section with stronger waves ideal for older kids or experienced swimmers.
- Mauna Lani Beach: This secluded beach provides an ideal spot for families seeking seclusion and calm waters. It also features nearby amenities, including food and shopping options.
- Kauna’oa Bay: Known for its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere, Kauna’oa Bay offers calm waters perfect for families with young children or inexperienced swimmers.
- Ahualoa Beach: This beach features a secluded and tranquil atmosphere with gentle waters, ideal for young swimmers or families looking for some quiet time.
Before venturing out to the beach with your kids, remember to prioritize sun safety. Here are some essential precautions to ensure you and your family have a fun yet safe day at the beach.
- Sunscreen and sun hats: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, ideally every two hours, and use sun-safe hats to protect your face, neck, and ears.
- Light and loose clothing: Choose light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows for good airflow and protects your skin from the sun.
- Swimwear and rash guards: Wear swimwear and rash guards to protect your skin from sunburn and minor scrapes.
- Shade and umbrellas: Bring a portable umbrella or beach tent to provide shade for your family during peak sun hours.
- Water safety: Always supervise your children when they’re swimming or playing in the water, and be aware of any potential hazards, such as strong currents or sharp reefs.
Nearby Activities and Attractions on the Big Island
While exploring the Big Island’s beaches, consider taking some time to explore its diverse landscapes and attractions. From volcanic landscapes to lush rainforests, and from stargazing to snorkeling, the Big Island has something for everyone. Here are some suggestions for nearby activities and attractions that cater to families with kids:
The Big Island is the leading destination for stargazing in the world. Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano, provides the perfect setting to gaze at the night sky and observe the stunning celestial phenomena.
The Akaka Falls State Park is a haven for families looking to immerse themselves in nature. Located in the lush rainforests of the Big Island, Akaka Falls features two picturesque waterfalls and a variety of tropical plants and flowers.
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a haven for families and nature enthusiasts alike. This stunning botanical garden features an array of tropical flowers, fruits, and plants from around the world.
Visit the Hilo Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday morning and is a great place to experience local culture, taste fresh Hawaiian produce, and connect with the community.
Hidden Gems: Best Beaches on Big Island Off the Beaten Path
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse array of beaches, each with its unique character and charm. While the more popular beaches are definitely worth visiting, there are also many lesser-known beaches that offer a more secluded and peaceful experience. These Hidden Gems are scattered throughout the island, waiting to be discovered by adventure-seekers and beach enthusiasts alike.
To access these beaches, one must be willing to venture off the beaten path and explore the rugged coastline of the Big Island. Many of these beaches require a hike or a 4×4 vehicle to reach, and some may even require a permit or special gear. However, the rewards are well worth the effort, as these beaches offer stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and a true sense of seclusion.
Unique Features and Protections
Some of the beaches on the Big Island have unique features or are located within protected areas that warrant special care. For example, some beaches are home to rare and endangered species, such as the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle or the Monk Seal. Others may be located within sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs or sea grass beds. When visiting these beaches, it is essential to be mindful of these features and take all necessary precautions to protect them.
Beaches on the Kona Coast
The Kona Coast is home to many beautiful beaches, including some of the island’s best-kept secrets. Here are a few of the most notable:
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Pololu Black Sand Beach
This beach is located in Pololu Bay, on the northwest coast of the Big Island. It’s known for its striking black sand, which is formed from volcanic rocks. The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and is accessible via a short hiking trail. The beach is perfect for those who want to experience the unique beauty of Hawaii’s black sand beaches. -
Laupahoehoe Beach Park
This beach park is located on the east coast of the Big Island and is a local favorite. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park also has a campground and a picnic area, making it a great spot for families and groups. -
Hapuna Beach
Located on the west coast of the Big Island, Hapuna Beach is a white sand beach that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The beach is accessible via a short hike or a 4×4 vehicle. -
Mahukona Beach
This beach is located in Mahukona Bay, on the northwest coast of the Big Island. It’s known for its stunning views of the surrounding coastline and its crystal-clear waters. The beach is accessible via a short hike and offers a range of activities, including snorkeling and kayaking. -
Manuka Natural Energy Cove
This beach is located on the east coast of the Big Island and is a secluded spot that’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The beach is accessible via a short hike or a 4×4 vehicle.
Beaches on the Hilo Coast
The Hilo Coast is home to many beautiful beaches, including some of the island’s best-kept secrets. Here are a few of the most notable:
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Reed’s Bay
This beach is located in Hilo and is a local favorite. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The beach is perfect for those who want to experience the unique beauty of Hawaii’s black sand beaches. -
Pohoiki Beach Park
This beach park is located in Pohoiki Bay, on the east coast of the Big Island. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park also has a campground and a picnic area, making it a great spot for families and groups. -
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
This beach is located in Hilo and is a beautiful spot that’s perfect for those who want to experience the unique beauty of Hawaii’s coastline. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. -
Ahupuaa O Kahalu’u National Estuarine Research Reserve
This beach is located in Kahalu’u, on the east coast of the Big Island. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The reserve is a protected area that’s home to a range of rare and endangered species, including the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle and the Monk Seal. -
Mauna Lani
This beach is located in Mauna Lani, on the west coast of the Big Island. The beach features a picturesque cove with calm waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The beach is perfect for those who want to experience the unique beauty of Hawaii’s coastline.
Beach Activities for Adventure Lovers
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse array of beach activities that cater to thrill-seekers, from snorkeling and surfing to kayaking and paddleboarding. Each activity provides a unique perspective on the island’s marine life and breathtaking landscapes.
When it comes to snorkeling, the island’s calm waters offer a chance to spot a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral. For experienced snorkelers, the waters off the Kona coast offer a chance to dive with manta rays and sharks. Equipment-wise, a good pair of snorkeling goggles and a comfortable mask are essential. Safety tips involve checking the tides, watching for ocean conditions, and always snorkeling with a buddy.
Remember to always respect your surroundings and not touch the coral reefs or disrupt marine life while snorkeling.
Snorkeling Spots on the Big Island
The following snorkeling spots are a must-visit for adventure lovers:
- Hapuna Beach:
Hapuna Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. The beach is protected by a coral reef, making it an ideal spot for families and beginners.
Important Equipment:
- Full-face snorkeling mask
- Fins with a secure strap
Safety Tips:
- Be mindful of strong currents
- Watch for ocean conditions
- Turtle Bay:
Turtle Bay is a secluded beach with calm waters, making it an ideal spot for spotting sea turtles. The beach is surrounded by volcanic rock formations and offers a picturesque view.
Important Equipment:
- Short-term rental of a kayak or paddleboard
- Snorkeling gear
Safety Tips:
- Watch for strong currents
- Respect the sea turtles’ habitat
Surfing and Paddleboarding on the Big Island
For those looking for a more challenging experience, surfing and paddleboarding are the perfect activities. The island’s consistent waves and calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners.
- White Plains Beach:
White Plains Beach is a popular spot for surfers, with consistent waves and a gentle slope. The beach is protected by a coral reef, making it an ideal spot for beginners.
Important Equipment:
- Surfboard
- Leash
Safety Tips:
- Watch for strong currents
- Respect the ocean conditions
- Kapoho Beach:
Kapoho Beach is a secluded spot with calm waters, making it an ideal spot for paddleboarding. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a picturesque view.
Important Equipment:
- Paddleboard
- Paddle
Safety Tips:
- Watch for strong currents
- Respect the ocean conditions
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tours
For those looking to explore the island’s coastline from a different perspective, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours are the perfect option. These tours offer a chance to explore secluded coves, spot marine life, and experience the island’s unique landscapes.
- Kahalu’u Beach:
Kahalu’u Beach is a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding tours. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a picturesque view.
Important Equipment:
- Kayak
- Paddle
Safety Tips:
- Watch for strong currents
- Respect the ocean conditions
- Pu’uhonua o Honaunau:
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is a historic and cultural site with a stunning coastline. The site offers kayak and paddleboard tours, allowing visitors to explore the island’s unique landscapes and history.
Important Equipment:
- Kayak
- Paddle
Safety Tips:
- Watch for strong currents
- Respect the ocean conditions
Beachside Cuisine and Local Restaurants
Imagine strolling along the pristine beaches of the Big Island, with the warm sun on your skin and the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. As you enjoy the breathtaking scenery, your senses are tantalized by the aromas of exotic flavors wafting from the nearby local restaurants. Big Island’s beachside cuisine is a reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of traditional Hawaiian, Asian, and American influences.
This culinary fusion is characterized by the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh fish, seafood, and tropical fruits. The unique flavors of the Big Island’s cuisine are shaped by the island’s rich volcanic soil, which produces a wide range of crops, including coffee, macadamia nuts, and papayas.
Local Favorites: Beachside Restaurants
On the Big Island, you’ll find a diverse range of local eateries that offer an authentic taste of the island’s cuisine. From traditional Hawaiian plate lunches to modern fusion restaurants, each establishment offers a unique culinary experience.
- The Fish Hopper in Kona offers an extensive selection of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish. Their menu changes Seasonally, ensuring that you always get the freshest catch of the day.
- Kona Inn Restaurant serves up classic Hawaiian dishes, such as laulau, kalua pig, and poi, in a cozy beachside setting.
- Umalu, located on the beach in Kailua-Kona, offers a modern take on traditional Hawaiian cuisine, with dishes such as seafood pancakes and loco moco.
- Huggo’s on the Beach in Kailua-Kona is known for its fresh seafood, sushi, and traditional Hawaiian dishes, such as poi and laulau.
- Don the Beachcomber in Kailua-Kona offers a unique dining experience, with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients and creative fusion dishes.
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
Supporting local businesses, particularly those that specialize in beachside cuisine, is essential for the Big Island’s economy. By choosing to dine at local eateries, you’re contributing to the island’s food culture and helping to sustain the local community.
According to a study by the University of Hawaii, local businesses on the Big Island generate approximately $100 million in annual revenue, with the majority of that coming from the food and hospitality industry. By supporting local businesses, you’re directly contributing to this economic impact and helping to maintain the island’s unique cultural heritage.
Unique Flavors of the Big Island, Best beaches on big island
The Big Island’s cuisine is shaped by the island’s rich cultural heritage and unique geography. The island’s volcanic soil produces a wide range of crops, including coffee, macadamia nuts, and papayas, which are often used in local dishes.
Some popular ingredients on the Big Island include:
- fresh seafood, such as poke and sashimi-grade fish
- locally grown fruits, such as papayas, mangoes, and pineapples
- coffee and macadamia nuts, which are often used in baked goods and desserts
- taro and sweet potatoes, which are used in traditional Hawaiian dishes
By trying these local ingredients and dishes, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the unique flavors of the Big Island and the rich cultural heritage that shapes the island’s cuisine.
Beachside Accommodations on Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to an abundance of beautiful beaches, each with its own unique character and charm. When it comes to beachside accommodations, the island offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly vacation rentals, there’s something for everyone on the Big Island.
Luxury Beachside Resorts
For those looking to indulge in luxury and pampering, the Big Island offers several high-end beachside resorts. These resorts offer spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and top-notch amenities, including spas, fitness centers, and water sports facilities. Some of the top luxury beachside resorts on the Big Island include:
- The Fairmont Orchid, located in the Kohala Coast, offers luxurious rooms and suites, multiple pools, and a world-class spa.
- The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, situated in the Waimea Bay area, features private bungalows and suites, a 16-acre beach, and a championship golf course.
- The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, located in the Kona coast, offers luxurious villas and suites, multiple pools, and a range of activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving.
Budget-Friendly Beachside Options
For those on a budget, the Big Island offers several affordable beachside options, including vacation rentals and budget hotels. These options offer a range of amenities, including kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry facilities. Some of the top budget-friendly beachside options on the Big Island include:
- Waipio Shores Vacation Rentals, offering 1-3 bedroom apartments and townhouses in the Waipio Valley area.
- The Beach Dragon, a budget-friendly hotel located in the Kailua-Kona area, offering rooms with ocean views and a range of free amenities.
- Aloha Beach Cottages, a collection of cozy beachside cottages in the Honokohau area, offering kitchenettes and private patios.
Beachside Vacation Rentals
For those looking for a little more space and flexibility, the Big Island offers a range of beachside vacation rentals, from cozy cottages to spacious houses. These rentals offer a range of amenities, including full kitchens, private pools, and hot tubs. Some of the top beachside vacation rentals on the Big Island include:
- Big Island Beachfront Vacation Rentals, offering a range of properties, including condos, townhouses, and single-family homes.
- The Beach House Collection, a selection of luxury vacation rentals in the Kailua-Kona area, offering ocean views and private pools.
- Hawaiian Beach Homes, a collection of beachside vacation rentals in the Waipio Valley area, offering full kitchens and private patios.
Beachside Camping and RV Parks
For those who prefer to rough it, the Big Island offers several beachside camping and RV parks, offering a range of amenities, including shower facilities, laundry facilities, and picnic areas. Some of the top beachside camping and RV parks on the Big Island include:
- Waipio Valley RV Park, a scenic camping and RV park in the Waipio Valley area, offering ocean views and hiking trails.
- The Beach Park Campground, a camping and RV park in the Kailua-Kona area, offering picnic areas and free Wi-Fi.
- Ahu’ena Campground, a campground in the Hilo area, offering shower facilities and a range of free activities.
Final Conclusion: Best Beaches On Big Island
In conclusion, the Big Island’s beaches offer a treasure trove of natural beauty, exciting activities, and cultural significance that make them a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hawaii. Whether you’re looking to relax on a serene beach, engage in water sports, or explore the island’s unique ecosystems, the beaches of Big Island have something for everyone.
FAQ Explained
Q: What are the best beaches on Big Island for families?
A: Some of the family-friendly beaches on Big Island include Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach, Kailua Beach, and Waikoloa Beach.
Q: How do I stay safe at the beach with kids?
A: Always supervise children when they are swimming or playing at the beach, and apply sunscreen and sun hats to prevent sunburn. Keep an eye out for strong currents and rip tides, and know what to do in case of an emergency.
Q: Can I snorkel or surf at the beaches on Big Island?
A: Yes, many of the beaches on Big Island offer excellent snorkeling and surfing opportunities. Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach, and Kailua Beach are popular spots for snorkeling and swimming, while Waikoloa Beach is known for its powerful surf.
