Welcome to the breathtaking Big Island of Hawaii, where the most lovely beaches await your discovery.
Whether you love photography or simply want to soak in natural beauty, our guide unlocks the most awe-inspiring coastal gems on the Big Island for you.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Big Island’s beaches – your journey to unparalleled natural splendor starts now.
1. Hapuna Beach
Imagine stepping onto one of the Big Island’s largest white sand beaches where the ocean meets the sky in a magnificent display of natural beauty.
Hapuna Beach offers just that experience, with its pristine shorelines and crystal-clear waters. As you stroll along its length, you’ll be mesmerized by the panoramic views that await you at every turn.
At Hapuna Beach, swimming is a popular activity when the sea is calm. Grab your snorkel and dive into the turquoise water to meet the colorful marine life that resides here.
When the surf is up, you’ll have a blast riding the gentle waves. But remember to be careful during high surf conditions!
Getting to Hapuna Beach is easy! It’s located just off Highway 19 at mile marker 70. Follow the signs to Hapuna Beach State Park and park in the large paved lot provided for visitors.
2. Mauna Kea Beach
Mauna Kea Beach on the Big Island offers breathtaking views with its golden sands and clear waters, ensuring unforgettable moments for your Hawaiian vacation.
You can indulge in a variety of activities ranging from swimming to sunbathing or simply walking along its pristine shoreline.
Being a well-known snorkeling and scuba diving destination, you’ll encounter colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs underwater.
Don’t forget to capture the beach’s lovely surroundings, which include lush coconut groves, stunning rock formations, and azure waters teeming with marine life.
Mauna Kea Beach is often ranked among the top beaches in Hawaii, and its scenery is perfect for creating postcard-worthy pictures.
3. Waipio Valley Beach
Waipio Valley Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii, nestles at the bottom of the verdant Waipio Valley, a stunning destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The journey to Waipio Valley Beach is a rewarding adventure in itself. You can either hike down the steep valley or take a guided tour with a 4WD vehicle.
As you descend, you’ll be captivated by vibrant foliage and taro fields that line the valley. The trail can be challenging, so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.
Upon reaching the beach, you’ll be greeted by a vast stretch of black sand framed by the vivid Wailoa Stream.
Make sure to visit the nearby waterfalls while taking in the tranquil curved water of the Wailoa Stream, a defining feature of Waipio Valley.
4. Punalu’u Beach
When on the Big Island, don’t miss Punalu’u Beach with its unique black sand and frequent sightings of endangered turtles.
Punalu’u Beach’s black sand, a result of rapid lava cooling in the ocean, creates a stunning backdrop for memorable photos with palm trees and clear waters.
When you’re at Punalu’u Beach, make sure to keep an eye out for the iconic sea turtles. These gentle creatures often bask in the sun on the warm sand, providing a fantastic photo opportunity.
Here are some quick tips to make the most of your visit to Punalu’u Beach:
- Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the beach is less crowded
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as there is limited shade available
- Take care not to step on the fragile black sand and rock formations
- Refrain from removing any black sand or rocks, as it is illegal and harmful to the environment
Capture unforgettable views of the black sand shoreline and, if you’re lucky, some sea turtles too!
5. Kua Bay
Kua Bay, also known as Manini’owali Beach, is a stunning beach located on the Big Island, offering breathtaking views and picturesque scenes.
As you step onto the soft white sand and take in the crystal clear turquoise water, you’ll quickly realize why this beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Kua Bay’s clear waters, where you can encounter diverse tropical fish and marine life while capturing the perfect photo moment underwater.
Kua Bay isn’t just about water sports. You can also relax and soak up some sun on the beach while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
For photographers, Kua Bay’s spectacular sunsets are a dream come true. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of colors reflecting off the calm ocean waters.
6. Spencer Beach Park
Located on the Big Island’s northwestern coast, Spencer Beach Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for a lovely beach with gentle waters.
Lying just south of Kawaihae Harbor, this park offers excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll love spending the day at Spencer Beach Park:
- The white sandy beach creates a pristine and breathtaking setting that is perfect for pictures.
- With calm waters and ample shade under native trees, it’s an ideal spot for your picnic.
As you walk along the shore, be on the lookout for the occasional sea turtle popping its head above the water. If you’re lucky enough, you might even spot the walrus-like monk seal basking in the sun!
7. Kahalu’u Beach Park
Discover amazing snorkeling at Kahalu’u Beach Park, just south of Kailua-Kona. Accessible and beautiful, it’s the perfect spot on the Big Island.
This lovely beach has something for everyone. Its sheltered cove, gentle waves, and crystal-clear water provide a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
You’ll be greeted by schools of colorful, friendly fish swimming up close. It’s not only a great opportunity to see marine life up close but also to snap some beautiful underwater pictures.
The convenience of Kahalu’u Beach Park is another great advantage. There are excellent park facilities for you to enjoy.
The lush green vegetation and inviting sand make the perfect backdrop for your Big Island vacation photos.
8. Green Sand Beach at Papakōlea
Don’t miss the chance to visit Papakōlea’s Green Sand Beach on the Big Island. As one of the few green sand beaches globally, it promises unique shorelines and exceptional photo opportunities.
The beach is located near the southernmost point of the United States, approximately two hours south of Kailua-Kona along Highway 11.
To reach Papakōlea Beach, you’ll need to embark on a bit of an adventure. A 2.5-mile hike, possibly through windswept terrain, will guide you to this mesmerizing destination.
Green sand, a result of olivine, the “Hawaiian diamond,” forms as volcanic rocks with olivine break into tiny particles due to crashing waves, creating an enchanting green sea.
9. Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is a breathtaking location offering a combination of white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lava rocks.
This stunning beach is found on the Big Island of Hawaii and is perfect for capturing some extraordinary photos of Hawaii’s natural beauty.
Since the beach is somewhat hidden along the Kohala coast, you can expect solitude and tranquility as you explore its unspoiled environment.
To reach Makalawena Beach, you’ll embark on a rewarding hike. You cannot drive to the beach, which adds to its allure and untouched beauty.
10. Richardson Ocean Park
At Richardson Ocean Park, you’ll find a picturesque spot with unique features that make it perfect for capturing stunning photos and marveling at the beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island.
Located just a 10-minute drive east of Hilo, this family-friendly beach boasts a small black sand beach and an irregular lava rock shoreline.
While exploring the shoreline, you’ll encounter the park’s main attractions: swimming areas and tide pools.
The natural pools, sculpted by lava formations, offer a close-up look at various tropical fish and marine life.
Park hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early arrival, especially on weekends, is advised due to rapid parking lot occupancy.
11. Anaeho’omalu Beach
Anaeho’omalu Beach, or A-Bay, on the Kohala Coast, offers a serene experience with its crescent-shaped salt and pepper sand beach, swaying palm trees, and clear water.
The beach offers an incredible opportunity for stunning sunset photos. When you visit, be sure to bring your camera to capture the warm colors reflecting off the water.
Anaeho’omalu Beach is also a great spot for water activities. You can try your hand at snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding during your visit.
If you’re feeling hungry after your sunset excursion, there are several dining options nearby. You can satisfy your taste buds at one of the local restaurants or cafes.
12. Magic Sands Beach
Magic Sands Beach, south of Kailua-Kona, boasts powdery white sands and turquoise waters at La’aloa Bay. Its fleeting beauty has earned it the nickname Disappearing Sands Beach.
Seasonal swells can temporarily expose Magic Sands Beach’s rocky shoreline, yet its enchanting allure remains, as the sand magically reappears within weeks.
Here are a few reasons why Magic Sands Beach is the perfect spot for stunning views and picturesque shots:
- Breathtaking Sunsets: Magic Sands Beach offers unforgettable sunsets as the day concludes, showcasing a spectacular array of red, orange, and purple hues painting the horizon.
- Ideal for Bodysurfing and Bodyboarding: Magic Sands Beach presents great opportunities for bodysurfing, bodyboarding, and surfing with its powerful waves.
- A Variety of Marine Life: Don your snorkel gear to discover the underwater wonders of Magic Sands Beach. The clear waters are home to a vibrant array of fish, green sea turtles (honu), and diverse marine life.
13. Pololu Valley Beach
Head to the Big Island’s northern tip and discover Pololu Valley Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs, tranquil setting, and captivating views—an unforgettable experience awaits.
Begin your journey by driving to the Pololu Valley Lookout, where you’ll be greeted by stunning vistas of the valley and the ocean.
To reach the beach, lace up your hiking shoes and follow the moderately challenging trail descending about 450 feet into the valley.
It’s a short hike, around an hour round trip, but do keep in mind that the steep path might be a bit slippery, so watch your step.
As you descend, notice the pristine nature surrounding you, with the dense tropical vegetation and the aroma of fresh flowers in the air.
Scenic Beaches on the Big Island for the Best Views and Best Pictures: A Recap
Discover the varied beauty of Big Island’s beaches, from the pristine white sands of Hapuna to Mauna Kea’s golden shores.
Experience the ever-changing Magic Sands Beach with its stunning sunsets and marine life. Pololu Valley Beach enchants with cliffs and a rewarding hike to tranquil shores surrounded by lush greenery.
Capture stunning images at the top scenic beaches on the Big Island by visiting during early mornings or late afternoons to optimize lighting and avoid crowds.