If you’re heading to the Big Island and on the hunt for the best beaches in Hawaii, you’re in for a treat! This island is not only the largest in Hawaii but also home to some of the most spectacular beaches, each surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

The Big Island offers an extraordinary variety of beaches, from golden shores to unique black sand coasts, and even a rare green sand beach. The best part? Unlike the more tourist-heavy islands, the Big Island is far less crowded, providing a peaceful escape for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a serene spot to relax or a place for water activities, there’s something here for everyone.

Here’s a guide to seven of the most incredible white sand and golden sand beaches you should definitely check out while visiting the Big Island.

A-Bay (Anaeho’omalu Bay Beach)

A-Bay, or Anaeho’omalu Beach, is a peaceful bay with calm, clear waters, making it a great spot for families with young children. The beach is equipped with plenty of amenities, including free parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers. For a bite to eat, head over to the nearby Lava Lava Beach Club, where you can enjoy live music while having your meal right by the water.

One of the highlights of A-Bay is its abundance of sea turtles. You can often spot them lounging on the sandy shore or in the nearby lava-rock coves, away from the crowds. If you enjoy a good stroll, you can also walk up to the nearby Waikoloa Beach, where you’ll find a hut offering beach rentals and activity bookings.

If you’re a fan of sunsets, A-Bay offers one of the best spots on the Big Island to watch the sky change color behind the coconut trees, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

Waialea Beach

Waialea Beach, situated south of Hapuna on the island’s northwest coast, is one of the Big Island’s hidden gems. This secluded beach consists of several smaller coves framed by trees, offering some shade for those who want to relax without the sun’s harsh rays. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Maui across the water.

This is a wonderful beach to visit in the morning, as the waters are calmer and the beach is quieter. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially before the crowds arrive. The beach is equipped with public restrooms and showers, but keep in mind that parking here can be expensive, with a $10 fee per vehicle and a $5 fee per person.

Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is perhaps the most well-known and beloved beach on the Big Island. Stretching for more than half a mile, this beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow waters on both ends of the beach are especially ideal for families.

Safety is a priority here, with lifeguards stationed along the beach, ensuring a safe experience for all visitors. Facilities include picnic tables, shaded areas, and nearby food vendors. However, keep in mind that parking is not free, with a $10 fee for vehicles and a $5 entrance fee per person.

Hapuna’s sunsets are simply spectacular, offering a stunning display of colors as the sun sets over the horizon. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two while swimming!

Magic Sands Beach

Magic Sands Beach, also known as Disappearing Sands, is located in Kailua-Kona and is famous for its unique feature: during the winter months, the sand completely washes away, leaving the beach virtually “disappeared.” This creates a fascinating sight for visitors who come to experience it firsthand.

Despite its small size, Magic Sands is a popular beach, especially during the sunset hours when it becomes crowded. The beach offers a variety of amenities, including rinse-off stations and shaded areas, and there’s free parking nearby. If you’re craving a snack, you’ll find some tasty food stands around the beach.

While the beach is often packed at sunset, it’s one of the best spots on the island to watch the sun set over the ocean.

Makalawena Beach

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Makalawena Beach is the perfect choice. Located within Kekaha Kai State Park, this hidden gem is accessible via a short hike from the main parking area. The trail isn’t difficult, but it does take you over rocky terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. It’s also wise to bring sun protection, as the hike is exposed and offers little shade.

Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, featuring pristine white sand and clear waters. Makalawena is far less crowded than other beaches, making it a serene spot for swimming and relaxation. Accessing this beach is easier with a 4×4 vehicle, as the road leading to the park can be rough.

For those who appreciate remote beaches with natural beauty, Makalawena is a must-visit.

Kua Bay (Manini’owali Beach)

Kua Bay, also known as Manini’owali Beach, is located just north of Kona Airport and offers a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water. The beach’s scenic beauty and calm atmosphere make it a paradise for beachgoers looking to relax.

The waves here can be strong, especially in the winter, so be cautious if you’re traveling with children. Although the beach can get busy, there is a parking lot available on-site, and visitors can also park along the road leading to the beach. The beach is equipped with shower and restroom facilities, as well as picnic tables where you can enjoy a meal by the sea.

Although Kua Bay lacks cafes and restaurants, its natural beauty more than makes up for it. If you’re looking for a picture-perfect beach with great water and stunning surroundings, Kua Bay is a must-see.

Mauna Kea Beach

Mauna Kea Beach, or Kaunaʻoa Beach, is a stunning golden sand beach that’s perfect for beach walks and enjoying the clear, calm waters. Its gradual slope into the ocean makes it ideal for children and new swimmers.

This beach is relatively quiet due to its limited parking (only 40 spaces available), so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot. If parking is full, you can hike from Hapuna Beach, which is about 0.9 miles away, offering a scenic route with a good chance of spotting sea turtles along the way.

Mauna Kea is one of the Big Island’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.

Conclusion

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to some of the most spectacular white and golden sand beaches in the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a place to snorkel and swim, you’ll find it here. With its quieter atmosphere compared to other Hawaiian islands, the Big Island offers a truly special beach experience.

Which of these stunning beaches will you visit first? The Big Island’s shores await you!