10 Best Beaches to Visit in Hawaii

With the best waves in the world, Hawaii is a very attractive destination for surf lovers, although the diversity of its beaches and its mild climate also seduces millions of tourists who seek to relax, enjoy the sun and contemplate beautiful landscapes. Below we offer you a list of the 10 best beaches to visit in Hawaii and what characterizes each one:

1. Waikiki Beach (Oahu)

If we have to say which is the most popular beach in Hawaii, Waikiki Beach is probably the first that comes to mind. It is world famous for its landscape that combines the modernity of tourist resorts with the natural beauty of its surroundings. It is located in the south of the island of Oahu and most of the hotels in Honolulu are concentrated around it.

The sea in Waikiki is usually calmer than other beaches, so it is not one of the places preferred by surfers. This, added to the large number of services offered at the place, makes it one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii if you want to go with your family.

2. Hapuna Beach (Big Island)

Hapuna Beach is located on the Kohala coast, northwest of the Big Island. It is another of the most visited beaches in Hawaii for its famous white sands. The large extension that it presents and the good infrastructure that it has make it a good option for a day of rest or enjoying the sea. On some occasions it is possible to see whales from its coast.

3. Ka’anapali Beach (Maui)

If you go to the island of Maui you cannot miss the wonderful beaches of Ka’anapali, one of the first tourist complexes that were built in Hawaii. One of the traditions of this place is a show that takes place every evening when a diver, at the northern end of the beach, lights torches and jumps into the sea from the top of the cliffs.

4. Hanalei Bay (Kauai)

In this bay, located in the north of Kauai, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. Its beaches, immersed in a beautiful mountain environment, are ideal for both a day of relaxation and for practicing water sports. There are surfing classes for beginners and advanced users. It has a public bathroom, although we recommend that you bring your own food since there are not too many options to buy.

5. Lanikai Beach (Oahu)

On the west coast of Kailua, in Oahu, you will find Lanikai Beach, renowned for the beauty of its fine white sand and calm, transparent waters. It does not have services, but the exuberance of its natural landscape will allow you to spend a beautiful day ideal for taking excellent photographs. It is easily reached from Waikiki.

6. Poipu Beach (Kauai)

The charming beaches of Poipu, at the southern tip of Kauai, are a fascinating place where you will be amazed by the magnificent marine fauna that inhabits the place. You can see a colony of Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles and, if you dare to snorkel, colorful goldfish. It has a natural pool for children, who can also take bodyboarding and surfing classes.

7. Papohaku Beach (Molokai)

Characterized by tranquility, Papohaku Beach is in the east of the island of Molokai. It has a large expanse of white sand and large spaces where you can stop and rest. If you are looking for a place away from the cities and crowds, this is one of the 10 best beaches to visit in Hawaii.

8. Punalu’u Beach (Big Island)

Due to the erosion of volcanic rocks, Punalu’u Beach has the peculiarity of having black sand. In addition to this curious detail, you can see numerous green sea turtles here. Surrounded by coconut palms, this is not a beach suitable for swimming but you will love it for its completely extraordinary landscape.

9. Polihale Beach (Kauai)

In an isolated area west of Kauai is Polihale Beach, a paradise of unspoiled nature that offers its visitors the longest stretches of sand in the State of Hawaii. Here you will see immense cliffs and beautiful sunsets. It does not have services and is accessed by a long unpaved road but it is worth visiting.

10. Kapalua Beach (Maui)

And we could not finish without mentioning the small beach of Kapalua, in the northwest of Maui. With soft sand and calm waters, this place is highly recommended if you are interested in snorkeling (you will see colorful underwater fauna) or swimming quietly in the sea.

Now that you have a good overview of the 10 best beaches to visit in Hawaii, you just have to choose which ones cannot be missed on your next trip. Contact our We Travel USA experts to help you plan your trip and learn about all the travel itinerary options to see the best of this dream destination.