While you’re on vacation, you might wonder: Does the Big Island have nice beaches? The answer is yes! Some of Hawaii’s best beaches are located north of Kailua. Some are known for their warm waters, while others are less developed. But whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand or a great view of the ocean, you’ll find it on the Big Island. Here are some suggestions.
Kaunaoa Beach
Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and swimming at Kaunaoa Beach on the Big Islands of Hawaii. This half-mile-long stretch of beach offers clear water and abundant tropical fish. Visitors can snorkel off the rocky southern end of the beach or enjoy the sunbathing area. During high surf, snorkeling can be dangerous, so swimmers should be aware of the conditions before jumping into the water.
This beautiful beach is a popular destination in Hawaii for many reasons. It features fine sand and beautiful blue water, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding. Beginner surfers should stay on land and use the available equipment. It is also a popular place for sunset viewing. Kaunaoa Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Big Island. If you’re traveling to the Big Island to take a break from the sun and enjoy some quiet time, this is the perfect place to go.
If you’re interested in snorkeling, Kaunaoa Bay offers the perfect setting. With crystal-clear water and soft white sand, Kaunaoa Bay is a tranquil retreat. A snorkeling tour can allow you to enjoy the marine life and the lava rock formations. There are also tide pools and snorkeling equipment available for rent near Mauna Kea Resort.
Pine Trees Beach
Surfers from all over the world make their way to the remote shores of Pine Trees Beach, Hawaii, to test their skills on the Hawaiian Islands’ most famous break. This popular beach offers waves of a regional classic quality, consistent frequency, and power. Winds from the Southwest create swells that start at 2 m (6 ft) and hold to 4 m (12 ft). Despite the beach’s popularity, getting to Pine Trees requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a good sense of adventure. While the surf is good, there are hazards to watch for, including sharp rocks, urchins, and rip currents.
The name Pine Trees Beach is not entirely appropriate. The beach doesn’t have any real pines, but its name was coined by surfers who mistook nearby mangroves for pine trees. While the name Pine Trees might be somewhat misleading, this locality offers great waves and some of the best barbecue on the Kona Coast. While it doesn’t have any real pines, it’s worth stopping by to enjoy the scenic view of the ocean and the nearby mangrove trees.
The sandy beach is perfect for relaxing, but the vast majority of visitors head into the water to try surfing. Because the bottom of the water is rocky, the beach can get crowded, but the surfers are worth it. Visit the Big Island Surf Page to learn about the Hawaiian surfing scene and whether or not this is your cup of tea. The beach is often crowded on the weekends and the locals often camp there.
Punalu’u Beach
For those who love black sand, Punaluu Beach on the Big Island should be on your list. This black sand beach formed when lava flowed into the ocean. The area is part of Hawai Volcanoes National Park. To see a black sand beach, visit the National Park! You’ll find it between the towns of Phala and Nlehu.
While you’re on the Big Island, you’ll probably want to take a day trip to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. It’s the closest black sand beach to the main island, and the road to it is right next to the highway. Though it is the easiest beach to reach in the Big Island, you should still take your time when visiting this unique beach. The black sand here is made up of black crystals, ranging in size from tiny table salt to coarse Himalayan salt. The lava has flowed into the sea and cooled instantly, so you should expect to be a little more crowded than normal.
Although the beach is beautiful, it has a rip current that runs out of the boat channel and into the open ocean. This is a great place for surfers and snorkelers, but it’s not a good place for anyone who’s afraid of the water! Camping is available, but you must have a permit. And don’t forget to check out the Lava Rock & Sand Souvenir Cabinet.