Big Island Locations
Kona Coast
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).
- Four Seasons Hualalai: 72-100 Ka'upeluhu Dr, Kailua-Kona, Hi 96740
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
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
Honl's Beach
Honl's is perfectly located in the heart of Kona town. This is a picturesque stretch of coastline, known for its stunning sunsets and surf-friendly waves. The beach features beautiful black sand, surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
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
Kohala Coast
Pauoa Bay
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.
- FAIRMONT ORCHID RESORT: 1 N Kaniku Dr, Waimea, HI 96743
- *Valet / Self Parking fees apply
Mauna Lani BEACH
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 LANI RESORT: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr Kamuela
- *Valet parking fees apply
Mauna Kea BEACH
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.
- MAUNA KEA RESORT: 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
- *Valet parking fees apply
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.
- Kekaha Kai State Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
- Off-road vehicles / Hiking required (ROUND TRIP: 4 MILES)
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
