Spectacular view of Big Island's volcanic coastline with diverse beaches and dramatic landscape

Big Island Beaches

Volcanic Wonders and Diverse Shores

Where Lava Meets the Sea: A World of Geological Wonder

The Big Island is a showcase of the Earth's creative power. This is where Pele, the volcano goddess, is still actively shaping the landscape, creating new land every day. The coastline reflects this ongoing creation with a diversity of beaches unmatched anywhere else in Hawaiʻi—or the world. You'll find pristine white sand beaches rivaling those of any tropical paradise, dramatic black sand beaches born from recent lava flows, and the rare and magical green sand beach at Papakōlea, where olivine crystals from deep within the Earth create an otherworldly emerald shore.

Iconic Beach Spotlights

Hāpuna Beach State Park

Leilani's Take:

Hāpuna is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches not just on the Big Island, but in all of Hawaiʻi. This half-mile crescent of powdery sand and crystal-clear water looks like something from a postcard, but it has a dangerous secret. The beach faces northwest, which means it's fully exposed to powerful winter swells that create a notorious shorebreak. When the waves are up, Hāpuna becomes a bodyboarder's paradise and a swimming danger zone. But when conditions are calm, it's absolutely magical.

The Vibe & Best For: Experienced bodysurfers and bodyboarders during wave season, sunbathers and swimmers when calm, and anyone seeking one of Hawaiʻi's most picture-perfect beach experiences.

The Practicalities:

Location: Kohala Coast, North Kona
Lifeguard: Yes, during peak hours
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas
Parking: Large lot, $10 entrance fee
Best Season: Summer for calmest conditions

Safety Warning:

Hāpuna has a powerful shorebreak that has caused numerous spinal injuries. Always observe the waves carefully before entering, and avoid swimming during high surf conditions.

Papakōlea (Green Sand Beach)

Leilani's Take:

Papakōlea is one of only four green sand beaches in the entire world, and it's a geological marvel. The "sand" is actually tiny olivine crystals—gemstones from deep within the Earth that were brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Getting here is an adventure that requires either a strenuous 2.5-mile hike along the coast or a bone-jarring ride in a local's pickup truck. The beach itself is small and the swimming can be dangerous, but the experience of standing on emerald sand is absolutely otherworldly.

The Vibe & Best For: Adventurous travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime geological experience, photographers capturing unique landscapes, and those who want to witness the raw creative power of volcanic activity.

⚠️ Important Considerations:

The hike is challenging with no shade or facilities. Strong currents and rocks make swimming dangerous. Never take the green sand—it's illegal and culturally insensitive. The beach is slowly disappearing as erosion washes the crystals away.

The Practicalities:

Location: Ka Lae (South Point)
Access: 2.5-mile coastal hike or local truck ride
Facilities: None
Parking: South Point parking area
Best Time: Early morning before heat builds

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

Leilani's Take:

Punaluʻu is the Big Island's most famous black sand beach, and it feels like stepping onto another planet. The jet-black sand is created from basalt lava that has been ground down by the relentless action of the sea. The contrast between the black sand, the brilliant blue water, and the coconut palms is stunning. This beach is also a favorite nesting spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles, so you'll often see these magnificent creatures basking on the dark sand, where their bodies can absorb more warmth from the sun.

The Vibe & Best For: Turtle watching (from a respectful distance), experiencing the unique beauty of volcanic beaches, photography, and cooling off in generally calm waters protected by an offshore reef.

The Practicalities:

Location: Ka'u District, southern Big Island
Lifeguard: No
Facilities: Restrooms, picnic tables, freshwater springs
Parking: Paved lot
Sand Temperature: Very hot - bring footwear!

Turtle Watching Tips:

If you see honu (sea turtles), maintain at least 10 feet distance. Never touch, feed, or disturb them. They come here to rest and warm up on the black sand.

Themed Beach Collections

Rainbow of Sands: Volcanic Beach Geology

Kehena Black Sand Beach

This clothing-optional beach was created in 1990 when lava from Kilauea destroyed the old Kaimū black sand beach and formed this new one. It's a local gathering spot with a bohemian vibe, but swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents and lack of lifeguards.

Note: Clothing-optional beach. Strong currents make swimming dangerous for most visitors.

Richardson Ocean Park (Black Sand)

This Hilo-area beach combines black volcanic sand with spring-fed ponds, creating a unique environment perfect for families. The protected lagoons provide safe swimming, and the park offers full facilities including lifeguards.

Kua Bay (White Sand)

Officially called Manini'ōwali Beach, this hidden gem features brilliant white sand and turquoise water that rivals any tropical paradise. It's more challenging to access than other Kohala beaches, which keeps it less crowded.

For the ʻOhana: Family-Friendly Beaches

Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay)

This crescent-shaped bay on the Kohala Coast is perfect for families, with calm, clear water protected by an offshore reef. The beach offers easy access to snorkeling, standup paddleboarding, and the historic fishponds that line the shore.

Carlsmith Beach Park

Located in Hilo, this park features protected lagoons fed by both fresh and saltwater springs. The unique environment creates tide pools perfect for children to explore, and the calm waters are ideal for beginning swimmers.

Kikaua Point Park

This newer park on the Kohala Coast features beautiful white sand, calm waters, and excellent facilities. It's less crowded than nearby resort beaches and offers great snorkeling opportunities for families.

Underwater Paradise: Premier Snorkeling Destinations

Kealakekua Bay

This marine life conservation district offers some of the best snorkeling in all of Hawaiʻi. The protected bay teams with tropical fish, and you can snorkel near the Captain Cook Monument. Access is by kayak, boat tour, or a challenging hike.

Best Access: Kayak from Napoopoo Beach or join a snorkel boat tour from Kona.

Honaunau Bay (Two Step)

Named for the easy two-step entry over lava rock, this bay offers excellent snorkeling with abundant marine life. It's part of the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, adding cultural significance to your visit.

Kahalu'u Beach Park

This is one of the best beginner snorkeling spots on the Big Island, with calm, shallow water perfect for first-time snorkelers. The beach is frequented by Hawaiian green sea turtles, making wildlife encounters likely.