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11 Epic Beaches In Hawaii Worth Every Grain Of Sand Between Your Toes
If you think all beaches are the same (just sand, water, and a lot of sunscreen), Hawaii is here to prove you wrong. Because this paradise of volcanic islands offers coastline destinations that are so stunning, they might ruin every other beach experience for you.
We’re talking spots where you can practically feel the drama of the scenery and the serenity of the waves in the same breath. From golden stretches that seem like they’ve been ripped straight from a postcard to hidden spots where the only thing interrupting your peace is the distant hum of a wave, Hawaii delivers the goods.
And each beach has its own flair, its own vibe, and its own way of reminding you that life’s better with sand between your toes. Want to know which ones made the cut? Read on.
And when you’re done, tell us your top pick in the comments on MSN (if you can even choose).
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki Beach. It’s iconic. This stretch of sand has been attracting crowds since good ol’ Duke Kahanamoku himself surfed these waves and made everyone else look deeply uncoordinated.
But don’t let its popularity make you think it’s overrated. This beach has everything from perfect waves for beginners to high-end shopping just a flip-flop shuffle away. Feeling peckish after those Hawaiian sunburn selfies you’re pretending to hate? Grab some shave ice or hit up one of the many food spots nearby.
Sure, you might have to share the shore with half the planet, but when the golden sunset reflects over the calm waters, you’ll understand why Waikiki has been collecting glowing reviews longer than Yelp’s been alive.
Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Lanikai Beach is where postcards nearly have a meltdown trying to capture its perfection. The sand is softer than most pillows, the water is that dreamy shade of turquoise you thought only existed in romantic comedies, and the offshore Mokulua Islands add a touch of drama without stealing Lanikai’s spotlight.
It’s paradise, except for the part where everyone figured it out and started coming here. But don’t worry, even with its popularity, early risers can find their moment of beach bliss.
Paddleboarding? Yes. Kayaking? Absolutely. Floating in the gentle waves, wondering when life got this good? That’s practically the slogan. Get here in the morning before the crowds, and you might just feel so smug about your day… you’ll start considering yourself an influencer.
Kaanapali Beach, Maui
Kaanapali Beach doesn’t do “lowkey,” and we love it for that. This legendary beach stretches three miles, and every inch feels like it’s there to remind you that you’re overdue for tropical luxury.
Whether you’re ziplining above lush landscapes before flopping onto the sand or lazily floating in the crystal-clear water debating if coconut shrimp counts as a protein shake, Kaanapali doesn’t judge. Plus, there’s the famous cliff-diving ceremony at Black Rock every evening. Just imagine standing there with a drink in hand, watching a brave soul leap into the sea like they’ve never googled “things that can go wrong while cliff jumping.”
This beach has tradition, it’s breathtaking, and it’s one more excuse to procrastinate heading home. Thanks, Maui.
Poipu Beach, Kauai
Poipu Beach is like the laid-back, effortlessly cool cousin of the Hawaiian beach scene who also happens to be a turtle magnet. Named America’s Best Beach once upon a time (and rightly so), it’s the spot where golden sands aren’t just for lounging but for turtle-spotting, snorkeling, and casually walking into paradise-level scenery.
There’s even a sheltered area perfect for kiddos or anyone not super keen on face-planting into a wave. And if that’s not enough, stick around for the gorgeous sunsets that seem to taunt every camera on the beach.
Yes, you’ll be sharing the shore with a mix of locals and travelers, but once you catch sight of a honu (sea turtle) floating serenely through the water, you’ll realize this beach isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience.
Hanauma Bay, Oahu
Hanauma Bay is proof that snorkeling doesn’t need to be reserved for only experts or people who literally work with fish for a living. Instead, this marine preserve welcomes curious land-dwellers to dip their toes (and masks) into an underwater dreamscape teeming with vibrant reef fish and coral formations.
It’s so magical that the bay has a mandatory educational video to make sure visitors know how to keep the place pristine. Yes, you get homework before you dip in, but it’s worth every minute.
Did you know that the bay was formed in the crater of a volcano? Yep, and this knowledge makes you feel like an explorer even if your adventure outfit is a rented wetsuit. Get here early to snag a spot, avoid the midday heat, and make some fishy friends without ruining their home.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Big Island
Forget the regular beige sand experience, Punaluu’s jet-black shore looks like it’s straight out of a volcanic sci-fi flick (because, well, lava). And strolling here is like walking on powdered obsidian. Just wear sandals, unless you’re really into sizzling your feet.
But the real celebrities aren’t the sands; they’re the resident Hawaiian green sea turtles casually basking on the beach. You’ll definitely feel like you’re intruding on an exclusive turtle lounge, so keep a respectful distance or risk becoming the subject of a turtle stink-eye session.
The contrast of the dark sand against the turquoise water is unforgettable, but this isn’t the best spot for swimming unless you enjoy wrestling with strong currents. Stick to admiring the scenery… and the turtles’ unparalleled chill factor.
Waimea Bay, Oahu
Get ready for a lesson in adrenaline, because Waimea Bay doesn’t do “calm.” You’ll find massive waves here in the winter that attract surfers who seem to have either no fear or no sense of self-preservation (possibly both). And these waves can reach jaw-dropping heights, giving the beach its rightful reputation as the North Shore’s crown jewel for surf culture.
Summer flips the script, though, turning the bay into a placid, swim-friendly escape where you can float lazily and pretend you’re training for Olympic synchronized swimming.
FYI: If you’re a novice surfer, maybe leave the wave-taming to the pros here (unless you relish the idea of being a human tumbleweed). Watching from the shore with a shaved ice in hand is no less eventful.
Tunnels Beach, Kauai
Tunnels Beach is proof that Kauai knows how to upstage the competition. The snorkeling here isn’t just good; it’s downright cinematic. The expansive coral reef teems with underwater life, making you feel like you’ve wandered into an aquatic neighborhood during rush hour.
Above water? Well, the North Shore backdrop has enough drama to compete with your favorite TV series. And the crescent-shaped beach offers plenty of room to flop on the sand like a sun-soaking seal. But swimmer beware; those currents pop up unexpectedly, so stay where the snorkeling’s good and safe.
Oh, and don’t be surprised if you end up accidentally starring in someone’s wedding photos; this place is that iconic. Between the vibrant marine life and the jaw-dropping landscape, it’s almost too perfect, but we’ll allow it.
Hapuna Beach, Big Island
If beaches had resumes, Hapuna Beach would lead with Best All-Around. This place boasts generally calm waters, velvet-soft white sand, and enough space to avoid turning it into a human sardine can on busy days. It honestly feels like the poster child for tropical escapes, equal parts relaxing and ridiculously photogenic.
Behind you, there’s that iconic mix of swaying palms and lava rock that screams Big Island charm, while in front, the ocean practically dares you not to take a swim. It’s no wonder Hapuna routinely scores “Best Beach” titles; it’s the golden retriever of beaches, lovable and reliable.
Go early in the day to claim your sandy kingdom, slather on the sunscreen like your life depends on it, and enjoy paradise.
Kua Bay / Maniniowali Beach, Big Island
Crystal-clear water, pristine white sand, and a backdrop so striking it could be your desktop wallpaper, Kua Bay truly pulls off the island paradise look. Tucked away within Kekaha Kai State Park, this beach is small, but delivers in big ways.
The waves here are playful enough to delight swimmers and bodysurfers, but don’t get cocky when it’s winter; the ocean likes to come in with some rougher swells. The coral-free zone makes this a swimmer’s dream, and honestly, the water is so clear that you might spend more time gaping at the dazzling turquoise around you than actually swimming.
Be aware, though, there’s limited shade, and the sun here seems to have a grudge. So pack a hat and wear your sunscreen… or risk turning into a human lobster.
Makena “Big Beach”, Maui
They named it “Big Beach,” and they weren’t kidding. This Maui staple is a massive, golden expanse that stretches so far you might start wondering if it secretly connects to another island.
The waves can be, well, assertive, especially in peak seasons, offering what locals call a “shore break” and what newcomers might call “that time I ate sand.” But if bodyboarding’s your thing, or you just enjoy feeling insignificant in the face of nature’s power, this is your playground.
Pair your visit with a trek over the hill to Little Beach; it’s like Big Beach’s artsy, free-spirited sibling. Just be prepared; “free-spirited” is both figurative and, uh, literal in this case for some visitors. Big or Little, both beaches guarantee unforgettable memories.
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