The 7 Most Beautiful & Unique Beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island ๐Ÿ–๏ธ๐ŸŒบ

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Yellow surfboards on Punaluu Black Sand Beach Big Island Hawaii

Whether you’re looking for world-class snorkeling or a relaxing afternoon under swaying palms, the Big Island of Hawaii has a beach for you.

Hawaii’s beautiful Big Island is home to a wide range of unique beaches you wonโ€™t find on the other islands.

From striking black and green sand beaches to golden stretches of paradise, the Big Islandโ€™s diversity is unmatched.

Of course, to get between all those lovely beaches, you’ll have to drive a bit. This is, after all, the BIG Island.

The Big Island’s beaches are divided into two main regions: the Kona side and the Hilo side.

The Kona (west) side is known for its dry, sunny weather and some of the islandโ€™s best swimmable beaches. The Hilo (east) side is more rugged, with fewer traditional beaches but a stunningย volcanic coastline and waterfalls.

What makes Big Island beaches unique from some of the other Hawaiian Islands is their geological diversity. Thanks to the islandโ€™s active volcanic history, you can visit black sand beaches formed by lava, green sand beaches colored by olivine crystals, andย golden sand beachesย with calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.

Beach hopping is just one of the Big Island’s best things to do.

Read More: 10 Incredible Things to Do on Hawaiiโ€™s Brilliant Big Island

So whether you’re a beach bum or an avid snorkeler, here are 7 of the top Big Island beaches for a terrific day at the beach.

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.ย  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.ย 

1. Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach Kona Big Island Hawaii
Hapuna Beach

Located nearย The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, this half-mile stretch of pristine white sand is consistently ranked among Hawaii’s best beaches, and for good reason!ย 

Read More:ย 15 Amazing Beaches to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List

This expansive stretch of soft sandy beach boasts calm, clear waters and ample space to spread out. It’s the perfect place for swimming and bodyboarding. If you’re looking for white sand beaches, this is your best bet on the Big Island.

During the summer months, the calm conditions are ideal for families with younger kids. While in the winter months, the surf can pick up, and swimming should be left to more experienced ocean-goers. Hapuna Beach is also known for its stunning sunsets.ย ย 

Facilities: The beach has a large parking lot (paid), lifeguards on duty, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Food vendors and gear rentals are also available, making it one of the most well-equipped beaches on the island.

2. Hookena Beach

Hookena Beach Park Big Island Hawaii Best Beaches
Ho’okena Beach Park

โ€‹Located on the southwest coast of the Big Island, Hookena Beach is a historical gem with ties to ancient Hawaiian culture. The beach features a mix of black and gray sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush surroundings. It’s known for its excellent snorkeling, with colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including occasional visits from dolphins.

Hookena is ideal for snorkelers and campers who want an authentic, less commercialized beach experience. Families can also enjoy the calm waters, though the shoreline can be rocky in spots.

Facilities: There is a small parking lot near the beach, along with basic restrooms, outdoor showers, and a campsite area. No lifeguards are on duty, so swimmers should stay alert.

3. Punaluสปu Black Sand Beach

Yellow surfboards on Punaluu Black Sand Beach Big Island Hawaii
Punalu’u Beach, Big Island

Located on the southeastern tip of the Big Island, stunning Punalu’u is one of Hawaiiโ€™s most famous black sand beaches. The striking black sand, formed by volcanic lava, contrasts beautifully with the deep blue water and surrounding palm trees. 

This beach is also a great spot for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), which are often found basking on the warm sand – just remember to keep the required 10′ distance from the resting honu!

Honu basking on the black sands of Punaluu Beach Big Island Hawaii
Honu basking on the black sands of Punalu’u Beach

Punalu’u is one of the Big Island’s more remote beaches but even though it’s a little off the beaten path, it’s truly a must-visit. It’s best combined with a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park since it’s only about a 20-minute drive from there.

While the beach is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, itโ€™s great for turtle spotting, photography, and relaxing by the shoreline.

Facilities: Punaluสปu has a parking area, restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers. There are no lifeguards, so swimming is not recommended in rough conditions.

4. Waialea Bay (Beach 69)

Waialea Bay Beach 69 Big Island Hawaii
Waialea Bay (Beach 69)

Waialea Beach, affectionately known as “Beach 69” due to the number on a nearby utility pole, is a secluded gem on the Kohala Coast. This crescent-shaped beach offers soft golden sand, calm waters, and ample shade from kiawe trees.

The bay is a favorite for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life just offshore. It’s also perfect for couples and families seeking a quieter, less crowded beach with a mix of sun and shade.

Facilities: There is a small parking lot with a fee, and restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should be cautious and mindful of the conditions.

Tip: Just before the turnoff to Waialea Bay, don’t miss a stop at Manuela Malasada, one of the best places for malasadas on the Big Island!

Read More: Why You Need Malasadas in Hawaii (& Where to Find Them)

5. Anaehoสปomalu Bay (A-Bay)

Anaehoomalu Beach Big Island Hawaii
Anaehoomalu Beach – Big Island, Hawaii

If you’re staying near the Waikoloa resort area, you absolutely can’t miss A-Bay – it’s one of my go-to spots for a perfect beach day. A-Bay is a long stretch of golden sand with calm, clear, shallow waters. It’s a terrific spot for swimming and paddleboarding. 

Palm trees line the shore and the ancient Hawaiian fishpond adds a touch of history to the serene landscape. The sunsets here are especially stunning, so it’s a popular spot for evening strolls.

What makes A-Bay special is its versatility. You can spend your morning snorkeling with tropical fish, try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding in the afternoon, or kayak around the ancient Hawaiian fishpond. And don’t miss lunch or dinner at the popular Lava Lava Beach Club right on the beach.

Hawaii Surf Boards Aloha Lava Lava Beach Club Big island
Lava Lava Beach Club

Facilities:ย Anaehoสปomalu Bay has plenty of public parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Equipment rentals for paddleboards and kayaks are available nearby, but there are no lifeguards on duty.

6. Honaunau Bay (Two-Step Beach)

Honaunau Bay Big Island Hawaii
Honaunau Bay

Honaunau, commonly known as “Two-Step Beach,” is a world-renowned snorkeling and diving spot on the Big Island’s south Kona coast. Located near the historical site of Puสปuhonua o Hลnaunau National Historical Park, this rocky beach gets its nickname from the natural black lava rock “steps” that provide easy access to the crystal-clear tide pools. 

The underwater visibility here is incredible, with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles and dolphins often seen in the area.

Honaunau Bay 2 Step Beach Big Island Hawaii
Honaunau Bay

Honaunau is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers due to its calm waters and abundant marine life. It’s also ideal for history buffs, as the nearby national park offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture.

Facilities: There is limited parking near the beach, with overflow parking available at the nearby historical park. Basic restrooms and picnic areas are available at the park, but there are no lifeguards or showers at the beach itself.

7. Papakลlea Green Sand Beach

Papakolea Green Sand Beach Big Island Hawaii
Papakolea Green Sand Beach

Papakลlea, one of only a handful of green sand beaches in the world, is located near South Point on the Big Island. The beachโ€™s unique green hue comes from olivine crystals formed by volcanic activity. 

Reaching Papakลlea is an adventure in itself, it requires either a 2.5-mile hike (each way in the full sun) or a ride in an unregulated (and slightly controversial) local 4×4 vehicle. 

But if you tough out the hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the rare sight of the olive-hued sands tucked inside a volcanic cinder cone. Don’t expect a truly “green” beach. The olive color is slight but distinct. Just remember, it’s illegal to take sand from a beach in Hawaii, so leave those olive crystals where you found them.

Papakลlea is perfect for adventurous travelers and nature lovers who are up for a hike to experience one of the most unique beaches on the planet. I don’t recommend this one for families with younger kids, it can be a little tricky to get down to the beach from the trail.

Facilities:ย There are no official facilities, parking, or lifeguards at Papakลlea. Visitors must park near South Point and hike from there. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks, as there are no services on-site.

Find Your Perfect Big Island Beach!

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking beaches in the world.

From the golden sands of Hapuna to the rare green shores of Papakลlea, each beach showcases a different aspect of the islandโ€™s volcanic beauty. Whether you’re looking for world-class snorkeling or just a relaxing afternoon on a quiet beach under swaying palms, the Big Island has a beach for you.

Just remember to always respect the land, the ocean, and local wildlife. Pack out your trash, use reef-safe sunscreen, and always be mindful of ocean conditions. By doing so, you’ll help preserve the islandโ€™s beauty for generations to come.

So start planning your Big Island vacation today: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Hawaiiโ€™s Big Island (2025)

Looking for more incredible beaches in Hawaii? Start here:

These 7 Kauai Beaches are Simply Too Gorgeous to Ignore

5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Donโ€™t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)

10 Gorgeous Oahu Beaches Youโ€™ll Adore (& 9 of Them Arenโ€™t Waikiki!) ๐ŸŒบ๐Ÿ–๏ธ

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