No one ever gets as much beach time in Hawaii as they planned to, it seems, but it’s a problem of time, not beaches. Beaches of every size, color (even green), and description line the state’s many shorelines. They have different strengths: some are great for sitting but not so great for swimming; some offer beach-park amenities like lifeguards and showers, whereas others are more private and isolated. Read up on our favorites, below, before you head out.
Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, O’ahu
Popular see-and-be-seen spots, these slim, whitesand beaches draw sunbathers, walkers, swimmers, and kayakers to O’ahu’s Windward shores. Full review »
Makena (Big and Little) Beach, Maui
Big Beach is just that—its wide expanse and impressive length can swallow up a lot of folks, so it never feels crowded. Little Beach, over the hill, is where the nude sunbathers hang out. Full review »
Hapuna Beach, Big Island
This wide whitesand beach has it all: space, parking, and, in summer when waters are calm, swimming, snorkeling, and bodysurfing. Full review »
Po’ipu Beach Park, Kaua’i
Kaua’i has more beautiful and more isolated beaches, but, if you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, picnic, and people-watch, this one is right up there. Full review »
Hulopo’e Beach, Lana’i
The protected half circle of white sand fronting the Manele Resort offers grassy areas for picnicking, clear waters for snorkeling and swimming, and tide pools for exploring. Full review »