Explore the Beaches of the Big Island of Hawai'i

Hapuna Beach: Located on the sunny north-west Kohala coast, Hapuna Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches you will find anywhere. Arrive early to beat the crowds. It’s a great beach for swimming as long as the waves aren’t too big. Of all of the beaches I have been to in the world, this is one of my favorites.

Mauna Kea Beach: Located just north of Hapuna beach, Mauna Kea Beach is a somewhat more hidden gem. All beaches have public access, but the public parking is limited here due to the beach being surrounded by private condos and the spectacular Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Get here early and play all day!

Kua Bay: When I moved to Hawaii for a year, this was the first place my friend took me. It is a magical beach with deep blue water just off shore. We often saw dolphin pods venturning in close to shore. The waves can get rough here, so plan a trip when the swell is down if possible.

Captain Cook /Kealakekua Bay: One of the best spots for snorkeling on the Big Island. This area is difficult to access - most people visit with a snorkel tour boat or rent a kayak from across the bay. It is also possible to hike in on a somewhat overgrown trail - the bonus is if you get there early enough you will have it to yourself before the tours arrive!

Pololu Valley: The drive to the North side of the island along Highway 270 is spectacular on its own. The views from the lookout are incredible, and I would definitely recommend planning ahead to make the short but steep hike down to the beach. Pololu is a sacred place, and you will feel this when you arrive. Please be respectful and keep the beach and trails pristine. The ocean can be rough here as well, so save your swimming for the calmer beaches on the west coast. On your drive back towards Kona, Keokea Beach Park is a great place to stop and have a picnic, or stop at the historic sugar producing town of Hawi for coffee and snacks at the Kohala Coffee Mill.

Anaeho’Omalu Beach: In the middle of the Waikoloa Beach resort area, Anaeho’Omalu Beach can get a little more busy. Come here towards sunset and enjoy a cocktail and dinner at the Lava Lava Club. Then venture out to the sand and watch the sunset while turtles swim by.

Honaunau Bay (Two-Step): One of my favorite snorkeling spots on the Big Island. You enter the water off the reef on natural set up steps, and quickly enter deeper water where you will see turtles and some larger reef fish.

Richardson Beach Park: If you head to the Hilo side of the Island you will find black sand beaches. Richardson Beach Park is a great example of this, with easy access and public facilities. The snorkeling can be great here as well!

Day Trips:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: While it is possible to drive to this park and back in a day, I recommend seeing it as an overnight trip. This will give you a chance to explore some of the amazing trails the park has to offer, and if you are lucky, see some active lava glowing at night. My favorite hike in the park is the Kilauea Ike crater trail - you actually hike down into and across the crater floor. It isn’t an exaggeration to say you feel like you are on another planet. Also be sure to check out the crater rim drive, including the spectacular views from the Kilauea overlook.

Waipio Valley: Located on the far northern coast of the Big Island, it’s worth the drive to view the valley from the scenic overlook. The only way to make your way down into the valley is with an organized tour - I highly recommend the trip. Lush tropical vegetation opens up to a black sand beach, with waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. This valley is also a sacred native Hawaiian site, so of course be respectful and follow the advice of your guide. If a horseback riding tour of the valley is available, that is a great way to travel further up the valley.

Lava Lava Beach Club: Located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, this is an amazing spot for outdoor, beachfront dining and cocktails. The sunsets are amazing, and you can walk right from the dining area onto the beach to catch a sunset or watch the turtles swim.

Napua at Mauna Lani Beach Club: Beautiful ocean views and great food! You will definitely want a reservation as it is a popular spot. A great place for a special occasion dinner.

Waimea Town Market: If you are visiting the town of Waimea, the farmers market is a great place to check out local art and produce. There are also a variety of food vendors selling fresh, healthy, local food. I always stop here at least once during my visits to the Big Island.

Honaunau Poke Shop: On your drive back from sights south of Kona, be sure to stop at Honaunau Poke Shop. The Poke bowls are amazing, especially after an adventure snorkeling Kealakekua Bay.

Pine Tree Cafe: A great place to stop on the drive north from Kona to the Waikoloa area. They serve classic local food at a reasonable price. Pine Tree Cafe is also very close to Kohanaiki Beach Park which is a beautiful off the beaten path place to visit for the day.

Merrimans: Also located in Waimea, many people consider Merrimans to be the best place to eat on the Big Island.

Big Island Grill: Right in the heart of Kona, the Big Island Grill will satisfy your craving for American and traditional Hawaiian food.

Cafe Pesto Hilo: If you are on the Hilo side of the island, Cafe Pesto is one of the best places to eat. They serve up pizza and pasta with a local flair in a great location with ocean views.