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.