Pick a BeachBig Island
White, black, and even green sand beaches abound along the Big Island’s 266-mile coastline. Check out some of the most popular spots below:
Kauna‘oa Beach at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Hapuna Beach (popular for walking and body boarding)
Anaeho‘omalu Beach (known as “A-Bay,” great for windsurfing and kitesurfing)
Ka‘upulehu Beach at the Four Seasons Resort
White Sands Beach Park, near the Keauhou Resort (also known as “Magic Sands” because the beach can quickly disappear during high-surf months only to return in the spring)
Kahalu‘u Beach Park (Kona’s most popular snorkeling beach)
Punalu‘u Beach Park (a well-known black sand beach)
Mackenzie State Park in Pahoa (nearby, there’s a lava-lined pool heated to 95 degrees by a volcanic stream)
Coconut Island Park, near the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (a local favorite for fishing and swimming)
Laupahoehoe Point Park (created by a lava flow from Mauna Kea, itslarge grassy area is a good place to camp)
Waipi‘o Valley’s Black Sand Beach (accessible only with four-wheel drive or on foot from the overlook)
Remember: Water conditions at Big Island beaches can be tricky and unpredictable. Whether swimming or surfing, follow these basic aquatic rules:
1. Watch the ocean for at least 20 minutes before entering. Take caution if you notice water moving rapidly or swirling, or if you see waves breaking far offshore.
2. Never swim or snorkel alone. Keep a close eye on children.
3. Strong currents near shore are the most frequent and dangerous hazards. Areas near river mouths are particularly dangerous.
4. Obey warning signs. If lifeguards are unavailable, ask other beachgoers about potential hazards.
5. Locate the lifeguard station, emergency phone or rescue surfboard when you arrive at a beach.
6. Never turn your back to the ocean.
