15 Amazing Beaches to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List

So grab your reef-safe sunscreen and let’s get started…

No list of Hawaii’s best beaches would be complete without this iconic stunner. 

One of the world’s most famous beaches, Waikiki Beach combines surfing history, soft white sands, and stunning sunsets. 

The crystal-clear waters create a perfect playground for beach lovers of all kinds. You’ll find several distinct beach areas here, from the roomy, family-friendly Duke Kahanamoku Beach near the Hilton Hawaiian Village to the more laid-back Kaimana Beach near Diamond Head.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

You can enjoy a mai tai at the Royal Hawaiian, catch a sunset sail on a catamaran, or just relax with your toes in the sand with Diamond Head as your backdrop.

Best for: First-time visitors, beginner surfers, and anyone who likes nightlife after a beach day.

Bonus: Plenty of budget-friendly boutique hotels are just a short walk away!

Read More: 10 Gorgeous Oahu Beaches You’ll Adore (& 9 of Them Aren’t Waikiki!) 🌺🏖️

Located near the town of Kailua on Oahu’s windward coast, Lanikai Beach is widely considered Oahu’s best beach. It’s also routinely mentioned on lists of the best beaches in the world. 

Come for the spectacular sunrises and stay for the silky white sands and gentle turquoise seas. 

The calm waters of Lanikai Beach are perfect for watersports, swimming, or just lounging about on your favorite float. And for truly epic views from above, don’t miss the Lanikai Pillbox hike.

What makes this spot truly special are the stunning Mokulua Islands (or “the Mokes”) sitting majestically on the horizon. You can even rent a kayak nearby and paddle out to explore the islands – just remember they’re protected bird sanctuaries.

Tip: Parking in this quiet residential neighborhood is severely limited and it’s very difficult to find a legal spot. But don’t bother trying, just park nearby at the equally lovely Kailua Beach State Park and make the half-mile walk (or just stay on Kailua Beach for the day!).

Best for: Families, couples, and kayakers. Calm waters make it ideal for young kids and stand-up paddling. Just keep in mind that there are zero facilities here bring everything you need and take it all back out with you!

Flanked by world-class resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Maui and Grand Wailea Resort, Wailea Beach has a polished yet relaxed vibe, making it one of Maui’s most popular beaches.

Read More: 5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Don’t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)

It’s the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and watching some pretty epic sunsets. And the calm waters are ideal for children and beginner snorkelers.

Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who prefers their beach with a side of 5-star luxury.

Poipu’s calm, clear lagoon is perfect for the little ones to splash around and the main beach section is great for snorkeling.

But my favorite thing about Poipu Beach (and what makes it one of the best beaches in the US) is the wildlife.

Some of Poipu Beach’s regular visitors include our endangered Hawaiian monk seals and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu) who frequently swim up for a rest on the warm sand.

That’s why Poipu Beach is a must for your Kauai Bucket List!

If you are lucky enough to spot them, just remember to maintain the required distance so you don’t disturb them (that’s 50′ for a monk seal and 10′ for the honu).

While you’re in the area, be sure to swing by the Spouting Horn Blowhole, it’s one of Kauai’s best free things to do.

Poipu Beach has all the facilities you need for a beach day with restrooms, showers, and dining options nearby. Tip: Pick up a “Kauai Special” dog at Puka Dog for lunch.

Best for: Families, snorkelers, and turtle watchers.

This half-mile stretch of pristine white sand is consistently rated among Hawaii’s best beaches, and for good reason. The crystal-clear waters here are perfect for swimming and bodyboarding, especially during the calmer summer months.

Read More: The 7 Most Beautiful & Unique Beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island 🏖️🌺

Families love Hapuna Beach because of its gentle slope into the water and the watchful eyes of on-duty lifeguards. You’ll find everything you need for a perfect beach day: clean restrooms, picnic tables, and plenty of parking (though there is a small fee).

The snorkeling here is fantastic – head to the south end of the beach where you might spot colorful tropical fish and even sea turtles gliding through the water. 

Best for: Families, swimmers, and sunbathers.

This 3.5-mile stretch of pristine sand is more than just a beach – it’s an experience. Kaanapali Beach is a lively spot with soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities.

The famous Black Rock (Pu’u Keka’a) at the north end of the beach is a top spot for snorkeling, and you can even catch a daily cliff-diving ceremony. During the winter whale season months (December – March), you’ll also likely spot humpback whales from shore.

Read More: The Everything Guide to the Best Maui Whale Watching Tours

Perfect for those who want resort amenities with their beach day, Kaanapali offers a long sandy stretch that is ideal for beach walks. You’ll find everything you need right at your fingertips – from beach rentals and surf lessons to beachfront restaurants and shopping at Whaler’s Village. 

That’s why Ka’anapali Beach is one of the best beaches on Maui and worthy of a spot on your Maui Bucket List.

Read More: Bucket List Maui: 40 Awesome Things to See, Do & Eat! 🏖️🌺🍹

Like Waikiki Beach, this one can get busy. Luckily, there’s plenty of room to spread out and find your own slice of paradise.

Best for: Families, snorkelers, and anyone looking for a beach with plenty of amenities and nearby dining options. It’s also ideal for active beachgoers with snorkeling, parasailing, and paddleboarding available.

Formed by volcanic activity, this striking black sand beach surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic lava cliffs is a stark contrast to the typical white-sand beaches of Hawaii. 

Located in Waiʻānapanapa State Park, it’s one of the most popular stops along the famous Road to Hana drive. Due to rough waters, swimming isn’t recommended. This one is better for exploring than for traditional beach lounging.

The short walk along the path overlooking the beach is a great place to stop and stretch your legs along the Road to Hana. But don’t forget, this is the one beach on Maui that requires a timed reservation for entry to the park. 

Here’s how to get that reservation: Headed to Maui? Here are 3 Reservations You Need to Make Now 🌺📆💻

Best for: Adventurers, photographers, and anyone hoping to check “Black Sand Beach” off their Bucket List. 

Tip: If twists and turns on a narrow road aren’t your idea of a good time, the Road to Hana might be one Maui adventure that isn’t for you – Yes, it’s OK to Skip These 3 Super Popular Maui Experiences (Here’s Why)

And while we’re on the subject of black-sand beaches, the Big Island has a real stunner, too.

Punaluʻu’s dramatic black sand, created by centuries of volcanic activity, is an unforgettable sight against the swaying coconut palms and bright blue Pacific waters.

What makes this beach truly special is our regular visitors – the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) that frequently bask on the dark sand.

You’ll often spot them relaxing on the shore or gracefully swimming in the nearby waters. That’s why I consider a visit to Punalu’u Beach one of the 10 Best Things to Do on the Big Island and a must for your Big Island Bucket List.

Read More: The Ultimate Big Island Bucket List: 40 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat! 🌋☀️

Best for: Turtle watching and photography.

Lanai only has one swimmable beach but it’s a stunner.

Hulopo’e Beach is a picturesque arc of white sand ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also a favorite hangout for spinner dolphins, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled when you visit. 

This pristine bay is part of a protected marine preserve, offering excellent snorkeling and tide pools teeming with life. Overlooking Hulopoʻe Bay, you’ll find the legendary Four Seasons Resort Lana’i, the island’s luxury resort. 

In addition to swimming, snorkeling, and dolphin watching at the beach, don’t miss the half-mile short hike toward Manele Bay to Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock).

Tip: You can also take a day trip from Maui to Lanai by ferry and it’s a terrific way to spend a day!

Read More: How to Plan a PURRfect Day Trip from Maui to Lanai ⛴️🍍🐈

Best for: Snorkelers, day-trippers, and anyone seeking solitude.

10. Anini Beach (Kauai)

While you won’t find it on many lists of the best beaches in Hawaii, this quiet stretch of sand is my favorite beach on Kauai. 

Located on the North Shore between the Kilauea Lighthouse and Hanalei, this lesser-known, serene beach is the perfect spot to get away from it all and appreciate Kauai’s lush beauty like a local.

Just remember that there are no facilities here, so pack a picnic lunch and anything else you’ll need for the day.

Best for: Anyone who truly wants to get away from it all.

This lovely crescent-shaped bay is nestled between two natural reefs that create a perfect swimming-pool-like environment. The protected bay is a tranquil spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with gentle waves and plenty of marine life. 

If you’re traveling with little ones or just prefer easily swimmable beaches, Kapalua Bay is your beach. This popular spot offers some of the most tranquil swimming conditions on the island. The golden sand is soft underfoot, and there’s plenty of shade from the palm trees that line the beach.

It’s also a quieter alternative to the busier Kaanapali Beach.

Best for: Families and snorkelers, especially those with younger kids due to the calm, shallow water. 

One of Hawaii’s longest beaches, you’ll often have this vast expanse of coastline all to yourself. The isolation here is part of its magic – it’s just you, the rhythmic waves, and endless views of the Pacific Ocean. What I love most about Papohaku is its untouched beauty.

Read More: Yes, You Can Visit Molokai, But Should You?

While swimming isn’t always safe due to strong currents and waves, especially in winter months, the beach is perfect for long, peaceful walks and spectacular sunset views. This is one of the few beaches on the island with actual facilities like restrooms and picnic tables.

Best for: Long walks, sunsets, and solitude.

Hookipa is one of the world’s top beaches for windsurfing.

The strong winds and big waves draw surfers and windsurfers from around the globe. For that same reason, swimming is not ideal due to the strong currents.

But let’s be honest, you’re probably here for the turtles.

While Poipu Beach is Kauai’s best beach for honu, on Maui it’s Hookipa Beach for wildlife. Nearly every day you’ll find a dozen or more Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun.

Visitors can watch the windsurfing action from the lookout or kick back on the sandy shores and do as the honu do.

Best for: Turtle-lovers, surfers, windsurfers, and anyone who wants to watch the pros take on Maui’s waves. 

A must-see stop on any day trip to the North Shore, this local favorite has two distinct personalities.

Read More: 15 Can’t-Miss Stops on a Day Trip to Oahu’s Iconic North Shore

In the winter, it’s famous for massive waves that draw world-class surfers and spectators alike. During the summer, the bay transforms into a tranquil haven with calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.

Best for: Surfing in winter; snorkeling and cliff diving in summer.

Located on Kauai’s laid-back North Shore, Hanalei Bay is a stunning crescent-shaped beach framed by lush green mountains and cascading waterfalls. 

In the summer, its calm waters are ideal for paddleboarding, swimming, and kayaking, while winter brings gentle swells that are perfect for beginner surfers. With its serene vibe and breathtaking scenery, an afternoon at Hanalei Bay is a quintessential Kauai experience.

Read More: These 7 Kauai Beaches Are Simply Too Gorgeous to Ignore

Best for: Newbie surfers and anyone who loves a postcard-worthy Hawaiian beach!

And that’s a wrap!

From the iconic shores of Waikiki to the untouched sands of Molokai’s Papohaku Beach, each Hawaiian beach has its own authentic charm.

Even better?

These 15 beachy beauties are just the tip of the sandy iceberg in the Hawaiian Islands. The best part of visiting Hawaii is finding that perfect slice of paradise to call your own.

Add these 15 beaches to your Hawaii Bucket List today!

Share the Aloha!