Beaches
The best beaches in Hawaii, by island
Hawaii has hundreds of beaches, but the right one depends on what you want: calm water for kids, clear reef for snorkeling, or big waves for surf.
The shortlist
Our favorite beaches on each island
| Island | Beach | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oahu | Lanikai / Kailua | Calm water, family, beauty | Windward side; arrive early for parking. |
| Oahu | Waikiki | Convenience, beginner surf | Crowded but iconic; lifeguarded daily. |
| Oahu | Sunset Beach (North Shore) | Winter surf watching | Dangerous in winter — swim only in summer. |
| Maui | Kaanapali Beach | Resort beach, snorkeling | Black Rock snorkeling at the north end. |
| Maui | Wailea Beach | Luxury, calm water | Upscale resorts and gentle waves. |
| Maui | Waiʻānapanapa (black sand) | Drama, photography | Requires reservation on the Road to Hana. |
| Big Island | Hapuna Beach | Wide white sand | Consistently rated a top US beach. |
| Big Island | Punaluʻu (black sand) | Sea turtles, black sand | Keep your distance from resting turtles. |
| Kauai | Poipu Beach | Family, safe swimming | Lifeguarded; turtles often seen. |
| Kauai | Hanalei Bay | Scenery, calm summer water | Huge crescent bay on the north shore. |
| Molokai | Papohaku Beach | Solitude, wide sand | One of Hawaii's longest beaches — often empty. |
| Lanai | Polihua Beach | Remote beauty | Rough 4WD road; bring everything you need. |
Snorkeling
Where the water is clearest
The best snorkeling is in protected bays and reef areas — usually on the leeward (sheltered) side of each island.
- Oahu: Hanauma Bay (reserve ahead) and Shark's Cove in summer.
- Maui: Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay, and Black Rock.
- Big Island: Kealakekua Bay and Two Step (Honaunau).
- Kauai: Poipu's Lawai Beach and Tunnels on the north shore.
- Best time: early morning, calm seas, and low tide for shallow reefs.
Reef etiquette
Never stand on or touch coral — it's alive and fragile. Use reef-safe sunscreen, and keep a respectful distance from turtles and monk seals.
Hawaii's reefs are living communities — look, don't touch.
Surfing
Where to surf (or watch)
Beginner surf
Waikiki (Oahu) and Cove Park (Maui) have gentle waves and surf schools for all ages.
Pro surf
Oahu's North Shore — Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach — hosts the world's best in winter.
Winter warning
North Shore waves can reach 30+ feet in winter. Swim only at lifeguarded, calm beaches.
Practical
Beach-day essentials
- Swim only where lifeguards are present, and check the ocean safety flags.
- Parking fills by mid-morning at popular beaches — go early or take transit.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water, and shade; many beaches have no facilities.
- Respect private property and shoreline access rules.