Hawaii, the Aloha State, is renowned for its stunning beaches. Each beach has its unique charm, from powdery white sands to volcanic black shores. If you’re planning a trip or just daydreaming about the islands, here’s a list of some of the most popular beaches in Hawaii.
Oahu: Most Popular Beaches in Hawaii
The most popular beaches in Hawaii mainly reside on the island of Oahu. This is because most tourists find themselves starting in Honolulu or Waikiki. This doesn’t mean these are the best beaches in Hawaii, but they are often the most popular.
- Waikiki Beach – Hawaii’s busiest and most popular beach, lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and beach bars.
- Hanauma Bay Beach Park – Oahu’s most popular snorkeling and diving beach.
- Sunset Beach Park – Known for its big wave surfing, especially during the winter months.
- Lanikai Beach – A picturesque beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters.
- Waimea Bay Beach Park – Another world-famous surfing beach in Oahu.
Maui – The Most Beautiful Beaches in Hawaii
Maui, the ‘honeymoon island’ is where you will find the most picturesque beaches.
- Ka’anapali Beach – A famous beach with golden sands stretching over three miles.
- Wailea Beach – Known for its upscale resorts and less crowded shores.
- Makena Beach (Big Beach) – Offers golden sands and is popular for sunbathing and bodyboarding.
- Hamoa Beach – A crescent-shaped beach surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Napili Bay – A small bay with golden sands, great for snorkeling.
Kauai
- Hanalei Bay – A two-mile-long crescent-shaped bay with a mountainous backdrop.
- Poipu Beach – A popular beach for families and beginner snorkelers.
- Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach) – Known for its snorkeling and the view of the “Bali Hai” mountain.
- Shipwreck Beach – Famous for cliff jumping and bodyboarding.
- Lydgate Beach Park – A family-friendly beach with two rock-enclosed ocean pools.
Big Island
- Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area – A half-mile-long white sand beach, popular for sunbathing and swimming.
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – Known for its jet-black sands and frequent turtle sightings.
- Magic Sands Beach (La’aloa Bay) – A popular spot for bodyboarding and surfing.
- Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) – Features crystal clear waters and white sands.
- Makalawena Beach – A secluded white sand beach accessible by a rough trail.
These are just a few of the many breathtaking beaches Hawaii has to offer. Each island boasts its unique shores, catering to different activities, whether you’re into surfing, snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply taking in the views. So, pack your beach gear and get ready to explore the names of the famous beaches in Hawaii!
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.