Big Island Locations

Kohala Coast

Pauoa Bay - Fairmont Orchid Resort

Easy Access | Waikoloa, Hawaii

Located at the Fairmont Orchid Hawaii, Pauoa Bay offers a mix of white sand and rocky shoreline, with access to an oceanfront gazebo, palm-lined lawn, and calm bay views. Ideal for sunset sessions, with soft golden light and diverse backdrops all within walking distance.

  • 1 N Kaniku Dr, Waimea, HI 96743

Mauna Lani Resort

Historical Park & Sacred Grounds | Kamuela, Hawaii

Beautiful Kalahuipua’a historical grounds and soft sand meets tranquil waters at Mauna Lani's Resort Beach. Ancient Hawaiians lived in this area for nearly 800 years before the discovery of Hawaii by the Western world. You'll find over 4 acres of Hawaiian fishponds, ancient petroglyphs, secluded sandy beaches with shoreline lava rocks, and romantic sunsets.

    Mauna Kea Resort

    Immaculate Gardens & Beautiful Beaches | Kamuela, Hawaii

    One of the most picturesque white sand beaches on Hawaii. The grounds are covered with lush gardens, and striking art features like hand carved tikis, and a large buddha adorning a grand staircase. Palm tree groves are found along the white sand beach and make for a great backdrop.

    Puako Beaches

    Hidden Beaches | Kamuela, Hawaii

    Puako is a small community with several beach access points fronting incredible views of the pacific and Island of Maui. You'll find there are secluded and quiet areas among a string of beachfront homes.

    • 69-1688 Puako Beach Dr, Waimea, HI 96743

    Makalawena at Kekaha State Park

    Paradise Awaits | Kona, Hawai'i

    Brave the cratered lava road and rugged lava trail leading to Makalawena Beach and you’ll be rewarded with one of Kona’s most beautiful off-the-beaten-path landscapes. Visiting here requires an off-road capable vehicle and a 30-minute walk. Once you get past the lava fields, you’ll be greeted by the softest of sands and a clear water beach near Kona. The beach is not usually overcrowded with tourists, so you should be able to enjoy your day in peace! Be sure to bring snacks, drinks, and special footwear to safely trek over the lava rocks.

    ROUND TRIP MILEAGE: 4 MILES

    • Kekaha Kai State Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

    Pololū Valley

    Black Sand Beach | Kamuela, Hawaii

    Hike down into the Kohala forest reserve into Polulū valley. A sacred treasure found on the Kohala Coast - with stunning black sand beach and forest views.

    • 52-5100 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau, HI 96755

    Kona Coast

    Kikaua Beach

    Locals Hideaway | Kona, Hawaii

    This hidden slice of paradise is a favorite among locals and is bursting with color from the lush vegetation, palm trees and beautiful clear waters. Follow the paved path along lava rock and you'll end up at this white sand beach, fronting Kohala's private golf course.

    • Kukio Golf and Beach Club: 72-126 Kūki’o Nui Dr. Kailua-Kona, 96740

    *30 DAY ADVANCE PERMIT REQUIRED

    N. Kukio Beach

    Romantic Beach | Kona, Hawaii

    A beautiful, more secluded sandy beach with shoreline lava rocks, flourishing reef, and romantic sunsets. Green sea turtles can be seen sunbathing on the sun-kissed lava rocks or grazing on seaweed. Note that if you want to take a picture with one of these magnificent creatures, remember to give them plenty of room (per the Endangered Species Act, visitors must keep a distance of at least 10 feet).

    • 72-100 Ka'upeluhu Dr, Kailua-Kona, Hi 96740

    Anaeho'omalu Bay

    Stunning Sunsets | Waikoloa Village, Hawaii

    Postcard Palm trees, fishponds, tidepools, lava rocks and lush greenery. This white sandy beach has it all! It has a well-protected bay with shallow waters, making it a safer beach for kids.

    • 69-1081 Ku'uali'i Pl, Waikoloa, 96738

    Pahoehoe Beach

    Quaint Kona Beach | Kona, Hawai'i

    Palm trees line this quaint park located down along Ali’i drive. A small grassy knoll overlooks a white sandy shoreline, with a large section of flat lava rocks and tidepools to explore on the right.

    • 77-6434 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

    Old Kona Airport

    Lava landscape | Kona, Hawaii

    A rugged coastline, with tide-pools, wild grass lands and surrounding lava fields.

    Hilo side

    Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach

    The Big Island’s largest black sand beach, known for its sea turtles and volcanic beauty.

    Features:

    • Jet-black volcanic sand

    • Frequent green sea turtle sightings

    • Palm trees and open shoreline

    • Located between Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu

    Hilo Bay Beachfront Park

    Conveniently located in town, this beach park is one of the island’s longest stretches of coastline.

    Features:

    • Nearly 3,000 feet of beach

    • Calm bay waters

    • Easy access and family-friendly

    • Scenic views of Hilo Bay

    Kaimū Beach

    A young and ever-changing black sand beach formed by volcanic activity.

    Features:

    • Deep black lava rock and new palm growth

    • Smoky sunlight and striking contrast

    • 10-minute walk from Uncle Robert’s market

    • Unique geological and cultural site

    Kahena Black Sand Beach

    A dramatic and free-spirited black sand beach set against volcanic cliffs.

    Features:

    • Rich dark sands and blue Pacific contrast

    • Cliffside views and breaking waves

    • Steep access trail

    • Known for its relaxed, clothing-optional atmosphere

    Honoli‘i Beach

    A favorite among local surfers, offering a lively atmosphere and beautiful coastal views.

    Features:

    • Mix of black sand, coral rubble, and sea glass

    • Popular surf break

    • Close to downtown Hilo

    • Great for action and lifestyle photography