Have you always dreamed of visiting Hawaii? Ask almost any traveler out there, and they will undoubtedly mention Hawaii for having one of the gorgeous beaches out there. Known as one of the most visited beach destinations in the world, it boasts of beautiful turquoise waters, impressive diving spots, and unique hidden gems.
The archipelago is composed of eight main islands of volcanic origin, of which only six are populated like Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai and Lanai. Beaches are characterized by their white sands and crystal clear water, true paradises to relax.
In addition, the beaches of Hawaii are designed for all types of public, from those looking for large resorts to those who prefer smaller inns. And they offer activities for all tastes, for families, couples and groups of friends. All of the islands have a wet side and a dry side (wet is the North/East side) and they also have a wet and dry season with December being the wet time of year.
If you choose wrong, escaping the winter doldrums to sunny Hawaii may not turn out exactly as you expect! Hawaii can be a relaxing place to visit if you keep in mind that it is NOT a theme park with its inherent security and protections. Nature can be dangerous. Go with the flow and don't get overly anxious if your plans much change. Leave your problems at home and enjoy your vacation.
Perhaps the most famous tourist paradise, diving in Hawaii is phenomenal after hiking. Diving is done in Big Island and kayaking, canoeing or fishing are done in all the islands. Make sure your snorkelling tour in Hawaii includes the St. Anthony and the Carthaginian, currently invaded by reefs and a magnificent biodiversity.
 | Beautiful Beaches in Hawaii |
So please sit back, relax, and imagine the country's warm tropical vibes as we walk you through a list of the top most beautiful beaches in Hawaii.
1. Hanakapi'ai Beach, Kauai
It looks like paradise, it's a hike to get there, and indeed the beach is worth a visit if you're staying in Kauai. But the rip currents are the most powerful in the world and quickly pull unsuspecting tourists out to sea. Unless you can swim six miles to the nearest safe waters, you won’t survive. Hundreds of deaths have occurred and even if you survive the undertow, there are plenty of rocky cliffs that the waves could dash you against.
2. Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Featuring half a mile of pristine white sand, gorgeous palm trees, and endless sunshine, Lanikai Beach is another scenic beach that Hawaii has to offer. The waters here are deep turquoise, and it's protected by a coral reef nearby, making the surf relatively calm. Visitors can enjoy fun activities like kayaking in the nearby islands of Mokumanu and Mokulua.
HINT: The Mokumanu and Mokulua islands are also known as bird sanctuaries. This picturesque beach has also managed to draw many models and photographers over the years. Thus, making it a popular place for photoshoots. This is where you also get to witness one of the best sunrises in Oahu.
3. Red Sand Beach, Maui
It's the pure Hawaii you are looking for. Absolutely no crowds, sea turtles, tallest waterfalls, impeccable body surfing beaches, black and red sand beaches, nude beaches, hiking trails, a National Park, a nearby volcano, warm waters, rivers to swim in, classic rain forests, spectacular views, beautiful flowers, the 7 sacred pools, friendly natives, wonderful food, and cheap accommodation.
No trip will also be complete without experiencing the Old Lahaina Luau. Known as Maui's traditional hula and feast, guests will be entranced with passionate dancing, lei ceremonies, and the delicious imu-roasted pig.
4. Punalu'u Beach, Pahala
Punaluu is characterized by its black sand and sea turtles. Go snorkeling in Hanauma Bay. There are so many different kinds of beautiful fish to see. Just don't touch the coral. It is sharp and touching it destroys the living reef!
5. Sunset Beach, Oahu
The North Shore of Hawaii is seventeen miles of coastline between Ka-ena Point and Kahuku Point. This gorgeous area includes 51 beaches, making it one of the best places in the world to soak up the sun. Because of the North Shore's incredible waves, it is well-renowned for its year-round surfing and is frequented by surfers from all over the world.
In fact, waves in this area can be as big as 30 feet high, even in the winter months. Crowds often gather around North Shore beaches such as Sunset Beach to watch surfers tackle the amazing waves. Moreover, the North Shore is one of the best places in the world to snorkel or scuba dive as the marine life includes everything from sea turtles to colorful fish.
The North Shore of Maui is the best place to visit for adventure vacations. The North Shore of Maui is known for its rugged shorelines, world-class surf breaks, and underdeveloped beaches. The famous fun activity at the North Shore of Maui is the kiteboarding. Lodging facilities are also available for tourists that provide plenty of amenities to visitors. Don't forget to try the appetizing Hawaiian specialties at the Maui beach.
6. Kaanapali Beach
And beware, we do not say it, say all those who visit it. The Kaanapali Beach is one of the must-see places in Maui. The natural environment is of great value and, in fact, right there you can snorkel, scuba dive and, if you're lucky, you can spot humpback whales. It has crystal clear waters and a fine white sand in which to lie down and relax.
If your idea of relaxing during a tropical holiday is being pampered at luxury hotels, you should check out Kaanapali Beach. It features a beautiful, three-mile stretch of pristine white sand ideal for swimming. Meanwhile, the snorkeling spots can be found at the northern portion near the Black Rock.
Black Rock is among the best diving sites in Hawaii, on the island of Maui, but there are many other hidden places among the coral reefs. This is a little different because it doesn't just hit you. Sure, clear waters and lots of bright-colored tropical fish are amazing to see. But as you continue to experience that environment you see more and more fish, and notice different kinds of coral, and end up seeing sea turtles.
What you see has no set limit, since lots of things live under the sea. Just being underwater is part of that experience. Here, you'd find Hawaii's most expensive resorts ready to pamper its guests with anything. You can have a butler deliver your drinks while staying in a luxurious beach cabana. You can also book a tanning appointment or schedule a relaxing Lomi-Lomi massage.
Kaanapali consists of 4 miles of large hotels and condos occupying the area next to the highway and separating the lovely beaches and golf courses from the view, so the tourists can try to keep it feeling private and reserved from the locals. But there is a lot of shopping in there, too, so the locals come anyway!
7. Kapalua Beach
Located at Lahaina, a quaint whaling village, the idyllic Kapalua beach is one of Hawaii's most romantic beaches. So much so that it is a great place to hold marriage ceremonies. People visiting here will experience this old fishing village's tranquility where huts with thatched roofs are the norm.
8. Makena Beach, Maui
Makena Beach is dubbed to be Maui's signature beach. It's two-thirds of a mile long and about a hundred feet wide, thus earning the name "Big Beach." To enjoy the whole beach experience, you can bring your towel, sunscreen, shades, or even your favorite book!
Here, you can also witness the majestic cliff landscapes and the crystal clear waters. Just be extra careful with this beach, though, as the waves here can be high and strong, so it's not safe for small kids or inexperienced swimmers. Rest assured, there are lifeguards on standby to keep everyone safe.
9. Poipu Beach, Kauai
The Makauwahi Cave is one of the biggest caves in Hawaii, meaning there is plenty to be explored. This cave is moments away from becoming a tourist hotspot as everyone who visits is thrilled with their experience. The Makauwahi Cave feels like traveling back in time as it combines archeology, nature, and history.
More specifically, the cave is filled with fossils and the layers of the cave spell out the caves past. For example, there is a fossilized sand dune that now appears like a sinkhole but can safely be explored due to its fossilization. There are also animal fossils that offer insight into the critters that used to roam the area long before the arrival of humans.
It is also important to note that although the first bit of entering the cave is narrow, it quickly opens up and is a large space for the rest of the journey. The Makauwahi Cave is a unique experience that too many miss out on. However, the director of Pirates of the Caribbean recognized the charm of the area as the caves' beach was used as a filming site for the movie.
10. Glass Beach, Kauai
To earn the title of a uniquely beautiful beach in Hawaii is quite a feat and Glass beach does just that. Located in Kauai, Glass beach is filled with sea glass (which is from broken bottles, windows, windshields, vases, etc). However, sea glass is unique in that the glass has been broken down by the pressure of the waves and ocean over time.
In fact, it can take anywhere between 10 and 30 years to form sea glass, the jellybean-like colorful pebbles that rest on the shores of Glass beach today. Part of the reason so much sea glass travels to this specific beach is that it is located near the industrial area of Port Allen Harbor and likely comes from auto and mechanic debris.
Although this might not sound elegant, mother nature has a way of making the ugly beautiful as the range of blue, red, brown, and green sea glass is an ethereal sight. Glass Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique insight into the profound power and perseverance of the ocean and nature itself.
Do not wait any longer to spend a week in Hawaii, an exotic, paradisiacal and natural destination, ideal to travel to Hawaii as a couple, with family and friends. Look at the wide range of hotels in Hawaii and travel to the world of hula and surf. Take advantage of the great offers to buy cheap flights to Hawaii and start organizing your next vacation in Hawaii.
From touristy spots to more secluded hidden gems, Hawaii indeed boasts stunning beaches that fit every mood. Which beach would you visit first? Let us know in the comments!