The State of Hawaii has approximately 750 miles of combined coastline of which 266 miles are here on the Big Island. The Big Island continues to earn recognition for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With a diversity of beaches and geographically unique points where you may enter the water safely, the Big Island is a spectacular playground for ocean enthusiasts and beachgoers.
Refresh Yourself in Uluweuweu Bay’s Sparkling Blue Water | Kukio – Big Island, Hawaii
Born and raised here on the Big Island, along with being a mother of three, there are beaches that I continue to enjoy since my childhood and today with my children. If you are new to the island or planning to arrive soon, I highly recommend that you consider exploring some of my favorite beaches that I have categorized by activities they offer.
Great Beaches For Learning How to Snorkel
If you are interested in teaching your kids how to snorkel, or getting use to the activity yourself, I recommend visiting Kahaluu Beach Park or Wailea Bay aka 69 Beach. Both beaches are classified as marine preserves, so there are ample fish, turtles, coral, and easy water access. Both locations are lovely, but if you are feeling a little uncertain, Kahaluu Beach Park has a lifeguard on duty to make sure everyone is safe in the water.
Learn to Snorkel at Wailea Bay | Kohala Coast – Big Island, Hawaii
Big Island Beaches Where You May Relax with Little Ones
One of the best things about the beautiful tide pools here on the Big Island is that many are natural shallow swimming pools lined with soft sand that are protected from the waves. Kohanaiki Beach Park, Puako, and Kukio Beach offer some of the most beautiful tide pools where little people may splash and enjoy Hawaii’s warm ocean waters.
The large Kiawe trees that line Wailea Bay provide ample shade, and gentle water conditions make this an ideal beach to enjoy in the summer. Wailea Bay is one of the few beaches with ample shade so that you may spend the entire day at the beach!
Learn to Blow Bubbles in a Tide Pool | Kohanaiki – Big Island – Hawaii
Beaches Where Everyone Will Have Fun
Coordinating a beach outing for a large group that includes kids, you may find it difficult to select a beach that will please everyone. Kohanaiki Beach Park offers tide pools for the little ones, shade for those who want to relax with a book, and multiple surf breaks for beginning to advanced surfers.
Depending on the time of year, Kua Bay’s white sand beach is great for building sand castles, has lots of waves for body surfing or boogie boarding, and a beautiful reef system to explore with a snorkel. During the winter, Hapuna forms fantastic sandbars that are great for beginner surfers with enough sand for sand sports such as volleyball, soccer, or frisbee.
Everyone Has Fun at Kua Bay | Big Island Beaches
Long White Sand Beaches
Everyone wants to spend the day at a white sand beach in Hawaii. My personal favorite white sand beaches are Kua Bay, Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach, and Mauamae. It’s important to note that seasonal swells do change the amount of sand you will find at each of the beaches mentioned. For instance, it is common for Kua Bay’s sand to disappear during the winter months due to seasonal surf but return shortly after the swells have calmed.
Body Surf and Play at Kua Bay! | Kona Coast – Big Island, Hawaii
Ocean Safety is a Must!
Before you embark on your beach adventure, it is important to check local surf conditions. As we say here in the islands, “When in doubt, don’t go out.” Along with having fun, ocean safety is an important part of living the Hawaii Life. Be safe and enjoy!
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