Beaches & Adventure hikes

Big Island, Hawaii Beaches and Adventure Hikes

Kona lies on the leeward side of the Big Island which means the weather here is generally sunny and dry with sometimes cloudy afternoons.  The sheer quantity of beaches makes it too numerous to list so we’ve offered up some suggestions within an easy driving distance off Kona. The more secluded, but worthwhile beaches, are well worth the effort to visit but will require some hiking.  So pack lots of water, hiking shoes, as most trails have lava rocks, and your beach towels.

White Sand Beaches

The stunning white sand beaches on the Kohala coast come close to what the locals call paradise.

Kauna’oa (Mauna Kea) Beach is one of the prettiest white sand beaches on the Big Island and a good family beach.

Hapuna Beach State Park is voted one of the best beaches with ½ mile wide white sand beach that slopes gradually into the ocean. It also has food  concession stands, showers, restrooms, snorkel rentals and picnic tables.  It is a great place to bring the family.

Close to Hapuna Beach is Waialea Bay Beach (locals call it 69 Beach) and is very popular as you’ll find lots of shade and good snorkeling.

Kuki’o Beach is a long, white sand beach with many green sea turtles.  Not great for swimming as it has lots of lava rocks.

Kua Bay Beach also known as Maniniowali Beach is said to be one of the prettiest white-sand beaches with fine white sand and crystal clear water.  It’s a great place for snorkeling and swimming.  Visit during the weekdays as the weekend can be crowded.

Old Kona Airport Beach Park is part of the original Kona airport which closed in 1970. The runway serves as a parking lot.  Ocean waves here can be rough but it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Kamakahonu (King Kam) Beach is a good beach for families with small children and is located in downtown Kona.

Black Sand Beaches

You’ll find black sand beaches on the Big Island as well, surrounded by 1000+ high cliffs.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is the most famous of the black sand beach and is easily accessible and great for swimming, snorkeling, coastal hikes and seeing turtles.

Waipi’o Valley Black Sand Beach can be difficult to access.  The beach is known for its rip currents and high surf so be cautious. It is scenically spectacular and well worth the effort.

Ke’alakeku Bay Park is a popular destination for kayaking and seeing Spinner dolphins. You can visit the monument erected to honor Captain Cook, who was killed in a skirmish with native Hawaiians. The site can be accessed via a steep trail or kayak rental or water tour.  Bring hiking boots and plenty of water.

Green Sand Beaches

The Big Island is home to Hawaii’s only green sand beaches

Papakolea is difficult to reach and will require a 1.5 hike but definitely worth it.

Hot Ponds

You can find volcanically heated hot ponds at Isaac Hale Beach Park.

Nearby Ahalanui Park doesn’t have a beach but the water is very warm because of the volcanic energy and perfect for swimming.  You’ll also find Ahalanui hot springs for an outdoor experience.