A Look at Some of the Best Beaches in Hawaii

Spanning the Hawaiian Islands are not just dozens, but possibly hundreds of beaches, each splendid in their own right, yet distinctly unique. Read below to learn about the finest Hawaiian beaches, encompassing six of the state’s primary islands. 

No trip to Hawaii is complete without a visit to the world-renowned Waikiki Beach, the bustling heart of Honolulu. Waikiki boasts a picturesque stretch of soft-sand beach, complemented by high-rise condominiums alongside it. A haven for surfers, the beach features exceptional conditions that attract crowds, while Waikiki serves as the center of nightlife in Honolulu, with trendy restaurants and bars lining the waterfront. 

Away from the bustling crowds of Honolulu and Waikiki, you’ll find one of Oahu’s premier beaches. Waimea Bay Beach Park is a stunning and expansive park known for its surfing legacy. It draws in world-class surfers who tackle 30-foot waves during the winter, yet the water is notably calmer in the summer. Although conditions can sometimes be choppy, numerous people persist, engaging in snorkeling, swimming, and surfing adventures at the bay. 

Poipu Beach is a popular beach on the south shore of the gorgeous island of Kauai. Ranked among the finest beaches in the U.S., Poipu Beach has a unique layout consisting of several sandy crescents that create calm coves within the crystalline water. Dedicated lifeguards are present seven days a week for added safety and peace of mind. 

Hamoa Beach is a must-see destination on Maui. Forests frame the scenic crescent beach, offering a postcard-worthy view for visitors. A favored spot for surfing, Hamoa Beach boasts a legacy of Hawaiian wave riders spanning centuries. The beach also has prime snorkeling areas, but be mindful of strong currents and exercise caution at all times. 

Punaluu Beach is among the spectacular natural areas that have been formed through the island’s unique combination of ocean, mountains, volcanoes, and rainforests. Lava flowing into the Pacific Ocean created this unique black-sand beach, and it is now a one-of-a-kind sight. Although the beach features rocky terrain, its beauty remains unspoiled, and it is an ideal stopping point near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Hulopoe Bay, a tourist hotspot on the scenic island of Lanai, is one of Hawaii’s most pristine beaches. Accessible to the public through Hulopoe Beach Park, this beautiful beach invites visitors to observe an array of aquatic life in the water, from colorful fish flitting near the shore to frolicking dolphins farther out. 

Molokai, an underrated gem of Hawaii, is well worth a trip for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Its jaw-dropping beaches include Papohaku Beach Park, one of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches. The three-mile-long soft-sand beach is perfect for a tranquil oceanfront stroll. Unlike beaches on busier Hawaiian islands, at Papohaku Beach Park, you can enjoy serenity without the concern of crowds.