Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.
Top beaches
A ranked editor’s shortlist of the coastline worth planning a day around in Hawaii.
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Waikiki Beach
The world's most famous beach stretches 2 miles along Honolulu's southern coast with Diamond Head as a backdrop. Consistent small waves make it perfect for beginner surfers. The beachfront is lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Editor’s tip. Crowded 10 AM - 3 PM. Kuhio Beach has free hula shows Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday at sunset.
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Lanikai Beach
Consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, Lanikai features powder-white sand and impossibly turquoise water. Quiet, residential, and stunning — the antithesis of Waikiki.
Editor’s tip. No public restrooms. Very early morning for fewest people. Kayak rentals available 10 min away in Kailua town.
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Hanauma Bay
A protected marine conservation area in a volcanic crater bay, Hanauma Bay is Oahu's premier snorkeling destination with 400+ fish species and abundant coral.
Editor’s tip. Reserve online — mandatory for non-residents. Closed Tuesdays. Reef-safe sunscreen required. $25 entry fee.
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Ka'anapali Beach
Maui's premier resort beach stretching 3 miles along West Maui coast, lined with luxury hotels. Black Rock at the north end offers excellent snorkeling with sea turtles and reef fish.
Editor’s tip. Walk the beach path for free access to the full 3-mile stretch. Sheraton's nightly cliff diving ceremony is free to watch.
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Napali Coast Beaches
The remote sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast hide several stunning beaches accessible only by trail (Kalalau Trail) or by boat. Hanakapi'ai and Kalalau Beaches are legendary for their dramatic settings.
Editor’s tip. Kalalau Beach requires overnight camping permit. Day hike to Hanakapi'ai Beach (2 miles) is more accessible.
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Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Hawaii's most famous black sand beach created by lava meeting the ocean. A resting spot for endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and hawksbill turtles. Dramatic and photogenic.
Editor’s tip. Never touch or approach sea turtles — illegal and harmful. Best for wildlife viewing and photography, not swimming.
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Poipu Beach Park
Multiple award-winner for best US beach, Poipu Beach features two sandy coves separated by a rock point. The west side is calm and family-friendly; the east attracts surfers. Hawaiian monk seals frequently rest here.
Editor’s tip. Kauai's sunniest area — sunscreen essential. Brennecke's nearby for bodysurfing. Baby beach cove is perfect for small children.
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Ke'e Beach
The dramatic end of the road on Kauai's north shore, Ke'e Beach sits beneath towering Na Pali cliffs with a reef-protected lagoon perfect for snorkeling. It's the trailhead for the Kalalau Trail.
Editor’s tip. Closed to parking without reservation. Water conditions change dramatically between summer and winter.
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Hapuna Beach
Regularly rated Hawaii's top beach overall, Hapuna is a half-mile stretch of brilliant white sand on the dry Kohala Coast. Excellent swimming conditions make it immensely popular with locals and visitors.
Editor’s tip. Gets crowded on weekends — arrive before 9 AM. Large shorebreak in winter — be careful with children.
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Ho'okipa Beach Park
The world's premier windsurfing and kitesurfing destination, Ho'okipa Beach on Maui's north shore hosts international competitions. Non-surfers come to watch Hawaiian green sea turtles nesting below the lookout.
Editor’s tip. Sea turtles come ashore to rest at sunset on the beach below the park — a remarkable free wildlife experience.
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Makena (Big Beach)
Also known as Oneloa Beach, Big Beach is one of Maui's largest and most beautiful undeveloped beaches — a sweeping half-mile arc of golden sand in Makena State Park. Little Beach nearby is a clothing-optional area.
Editor’s tip. Strong shore break — watch for waves crashing on the beach. Cliff jump at Little Beach is popular but has caused injuries.
What to bring
A short packing list for a comfortable beach day — adjust for season and the specific spot.
- Sun protectionHigh-SPF sunscreen, hat, polarised sunglasses, light long-sleeve cover-up.
- HydrationReusable bottle, salty snacks for longer days, electrolyte sachets if it’s hot.
- FootwearWater shoes for pebble or rocky entry, flip-flops for sand, dry pair for the trip home.
- Swim & coverQuick-dry towel or sand-resistant mat, change of swimwear, light cover-up for restaurants.
- Cash & valuablesSmall notes for beach clubs and rentals; waterproof pouch for phone, keys, cards.
- ExtrasReef-safe sunscreen near protected coastline, a book, a small first-aid kit for jellyfish or scrapes.
Beach safety
Hard-earned guidance — read this before you swim, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the coast.
Critical
Swim where lifeguards are posted and follow flag warnings — green is safe, yellow is caution, red means no swimming. Rip currents are the leading beach hazard worldwide.
Caution
Watch for tide changes and marine life — jellyfish blooms, sea urchins on rocky entries, occasional shark or stingray advisories. Don’t swim alone, especially at dawn or dusk.
Tip
Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes and after every swim. Take shade between 11 am and 3 pm — the sun is harsher than people expect, even when the air is cool.
Practical
Keep valuables out of sight or back at the accommodation. Beach theft is a small-but-real risk at busy beaches; never leave bags unattended while you’re in the water.
Common questions
Quick answers to the questions we get asked most about Hawaii’s coast.
Is Waikiki Beach safe for swimming?
Yes. Waikiki is one of the safest swimming beaches in Hawaii, sheltered by an offshore reef that breaks large swells. Lifeguards are posted year-round, and the gradual sandy bottom makes it accessible for children and non-swimmers alike.
From the Waikiki Beach editorial.
Is the beach free to use?
The beach itself is free and open to the public. Amenity fees apply separately: chair and umbrella rental costs approximately USD 25–30 for a set per day, and surfing lessons typically start around USD 50–75 per person.
From the Waikiki Beach editorial.
Are there public restrooms at Lanikai Beach?
No. Lanikai Beach has no public restrooms, showers, or facilities of any kind. The nearest public restrooms are at Kailua Beach Park, approximately 2 kilometres away. Visitors should plan accordingly before heading to the beach.
From the Lanikai Beach editorial.
Can visitors kayak to the Mokulua Islands from Lanikai?
Yes. The Mokulua Islands are approximately 1 kilometre offshore and reachable by kayak in calm conditions. Kayak rentals are available from outfitters in Kailua town, about 10 minutes by car. Landing on the islands requires a permit from the Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife.
From the Lanikai Beach editorial.
How do visitors reserve entry to Hanauma Bay?
Non-residents must book a timed entry slot at the official Hanauma Bay reservation website at least two days before the visit. Reservations open 60 days in advance and sell out quickly for weekends and holidays. The fee is USD 25 per person; Hawaii residents and active military with valid ID enter free.
From the Hanauma Bay editorial.
Is regular sunscreen allowed at Hanauma Bay?
No. Hawaii state law prohibits sunscreen containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, or homosalate at Hanauma Bay. Only mineral-based reef-safe sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are permitted. Non-compliant sunscreen is confiscated at the entry checkpoint.
From the Hanauma Bay editorial.
Is Ka'anapali Beach public even though it is fronted by hotels?
Yes. All beaches in Hawaii are public by law. The Ka'anapali Parkway beach path runs the full three miles and is accessible at multiple points without hotel access required. Paid parking is available at Whalers Village and adjacent hotel surface lots.
From the Ka'anapali Beach editorial.
When is the best time for whale watching at Ka'anapali?
Humpback whale season runs December through mid-April, peaking in February and March. Whales are regularly spotted breaching from the beach itself; whale-watching boat tours departing from Lahaina Harbor offer closer encounters and guided commentary.
From the Ka'anapali Beach editorial.