From hidden coves to iconic browsing meccas, Hawaii’s seashores are as various because the islands themselves. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for calm, kid-friendly lagoons or dramatic waves, listed below are ten of one of the best seashores to discover — with sensible data like parking and native ideas included.
1. Lanikai Seaside – Oahu
Greatest For: Dawn views, swimming, kayaking
Parking: Restricted avenue parking in close by residential areas; arrive early
Why It’s Distinctive: Powdery white sand and calm turquoise water make Lanikai, on the east coast if the island in Kailua, a dream seaside. The offshore Mokulua Islands are fashionable with kayakers. You received’t discover any amenities, so pack a lunch and your sunscreen. And put together for unmatched magnificence and the proper shot to make your folks at residence jealous.
Lanikai Seaside
2. Hanalei Bay – Kauai
Greatest For: Scenic views, newbie browsing, paddleboarding
Parking: Obtainable close to Black Pot Seaside Park; fills up rapidly in excessive season
Why It’s Distinctive: This huge crescent bay is backed by lush cliffs and waterfalls. Mild waves in summer season make it superb for water actions; the winter surf attracts in skilled surfers. If you happen to’re a ‘Set Jetter’, you’ll acknowledge the world from South Pacific and George Clooney’s The Descendants.
Hanalei Bay
3. Wailea Seaside – Maui
Greatest For: Luxurious seaside day, snorkeling
Parking: Public lot with restricted areas close to the 4 Seasons; some overflow avenue parking
Why It’s Distinctive: Set between upscale resorts, Wailea affords golden sand, clear water, and wonderful snorkeling circumstances. Effectively-maintained with showers, restrooms, and paved paths. Plus, numerous locations close by to eat or store in the event you get uninterested in the solar. However carry your wallets as a result of the world may be dear.
4. Punaluʻu Black Sand Seaside – Huge Island
Greatest For: Turtle recognizing, distinctive surroundings
Parking: Ample and free; quick access
Why It’s Distinctive: The black sand is product of basalt from lava flows. Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles typically sunbathe right here. Please watch from a distance. Swimming just isn’t superb as a consequence of rocky backside and robust currents.
Inexperienced sea turtle
5. Hāpuna Seaside – Huge Island
Greatest For: Bodyboarding, lengthy seaside walks
Parking: Massive paid lot ($5 for non-residents); amenities out there
Why It’s Distinctive: One in every of Hawaii’s largest white sand seashores, with room to unfold out. There are lifeguards which is useful as a result of the surf can get tough at occasions. When it’s calm, although, the swimming is ideal.
Hapuna Seaside
6. Poʻipū Seaside – Kauai
Greatest For: Households, snorkeling, newbie swimmers
Parking: Free public lot throughout the road; restrooms and showers on-site
Why It’s Distinctive: A pure sandbar creates a protected shallow space superb for teenagers. Monk seals generally nap on the shore. Snorkeling is sweet close to the rocks. Come round sundown to see the ocean turtles.
7. Waikīkī Seaside – Oahu
Greatest For: First-time guests, swimming, people-watching
Parking: Paid heaps and garages all through Waikīkī; may be dear
Why It’s Distinctive: Iconic and bustling, Waikīkī is nice for a enjoyable, accessible seaside day with rental choices, eating, and calm surf for learners. Hire a chair and a surf board and be a part of the lots having fun with the simple waves. Because the solar goes down, get a Mai Tai at one of many seaside bars, just like the well-known Duke’s on the Outrigger Resort, and luxuriate in reside music and other people watching.
Waikiki Seaside
8. Makena Seaside (Huge Seaside) – Maui
Greatest For: Scenic magnificence, bodyboarding
Parking: Two heaps with a brief stroll to the seaside; amenities out there
Why It’s Distinctive: Huge, undeveloped, and dramatic, Makena feels wild and pristine. Robust shore break makes it much less superb for small youngsters however thrilling for skilled beachgoers.
9. Ke’e Seaside – Kauai
Greatest For: Snorkeling, sunsets, entry to Kalalau Path
Parking: Requires reservation; shuttle out there from Princeville
Why It’s Distinctive: Positioned on the finish of the highway on Kauai’s North Shore, Ke’e is framed by cliffs and reef-protected shallows — excellent for calm water and Insta shoots.
10. Ehukai Seaside (Pipeline) – Oahu
Greatest For: Surf watching, seasonal lagoon play
Parking: Small seaside park lot; overflow avenue parking out there
Why It’s Distinctive: Residence to the world-famous Banzai Pipeline, this seaside is known for its monstrous winter surf. In calmer months, a seasonal lagoon varieties within the sand close to the shore, providing a shallow, sheltered space that’s superb for kids and native canines. Swimming is not secure in winter — the waves are world-class and harmful — but it surely’s a can’t-miss for seaside lovers, huge wave surfers, and the photographers that love them.
Closing Ideas
Regardless of your type of seaside day you’re on the lookout for, whether or not it’s enjoyable with a e-book, chasing waves, or snorkeling with sea turtles, Hawaii has a spot for you. Simply keep in mind to verify surf circumstances, respect marine life, and at all times go away no hint.
