The 24 Best Beaches in Hawaii: Your Beach Bucket List - The Hawaii Vacation Guide (2024)

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If you’re headed to Hawaii, chances are you are headed to the beach. The islands of Hawaii have a lot of coastline with a lot of beach. Let’s make the most of it.

We have compiled a list of Hawaii’s 24 best beaches so you can spend your island time enjoying Hawaii’s beaches, not researching them. Read on for our favorites – where, when, and why you should go, and what you should do when you get there.

The Best Beaches in Hawaii

We’ve searched high and low to find the best beaches (it was tough work visiting them all). In our years of research, these are the best beaches we’ve found in Hawaii.

A quick note: all of the photos in here are from us actually traveling to each beach listed here! A lot of other “best beaches in Hawaii” articles use stock photos they’ve (hopefully) purchased. We want you to know that we’re the real deal so all photos here are from us and this review is for you!

Are you interested in finding Hawaii’s handicap-accessible beaches or available all-terrain wheelchairs? See our Handicap Accessible Hawaii Guide.

Hamoa Beach, Maui

If you find yourself on the East side of Maui, this stop is a must. Just south of Hana town, Hamoa’s crescent shape holds gorgeous waters and a comfortable sandy bottom. The beach itself feels powdery-soft, but has a unique salt-and-pepper appearance. It is surrounded by lush greenery that offers plenty of shade for a longer visit. In terms of other amenities, there are bathrooms, though not very glamorous ones (porta-potties), picnic tables, and an outdoor shower.

The conditions vary from easily swimmable to very much not, and no lifeguard is on duty, so please ensure your skill-level exceeds the water conditions on the day of your visit.

Parking is roadside, and limited, and fills up quickly, so arrive on the earlier side. If you want to arrive very early, it is a beautiful beach to watch a sunrise. Once you find your spot, access to the beach is via stairs or service road.

You will need to drive the Road to Hana to get to Hamoa beach, so be sure to use our resources to get there:

• Is the Road to Hana worth it?
• 5 Routes for the Road to Hana
• Road to Hana Etiquette (so important!)
• How to do the Road to Hana in one day
• Places to stay on the Road to Hana
• **Our favorite guided Road to Hana tour** (with 10% off code)

Waimea Bay, Oahu

Leave the busyness of Honolulu and head to the country. Located on the North Shore, Waimea Bay is famous for its big wave surf (which can reach over 25-feet during the winter months!) and picturesque beach. Luckily for those of us less inclined to conquer waves the height of a house, the spring and summer months offer pleasantly calm water with the same long picturesque beach. The soft sand is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

After your quality beach time, a venture inland via the Waimea Valley is highly encouraged. Once an adventure park, Waimea Valley is now run by a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of Hawaii’s cultural history and natural environment. Home to a botanical garden with arts and crafts and the Toa Luau (one of the best luaus on Oahu), it is the perfect locale for anyone looking for an authentic Hawaiian experience. And just a (very) short, paved hike from the center leads you to a swimming hole below a stunning 40-foot waterfall, which is well worth the trek.

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Lanikai Beach, Oahu

Lanikai Beach is widely considered to be one of the best in the world – and for good reason. Located on the windward side, Jordan and I would quite literally drive across the island to visit this half-mile beach when we lived on Oahu. The snorkeling and swimming are some of the best Hawaii has to offer, and the views (featuring ‘The Mokes’, two small islands offshore that you can kayak to) are staggering. This beach makes people want to move to Hawaii.

Just expect crowds. Even during our Oahu days, we were never alone. Now so widely photographed it merits ‘Insta-famous’ status, and is a feature on almost ‘Best of’ list, you should not expect your visit to be one of solitude. It will, however, be one not soon forgotten.

It even earns a well deserved spot on our list of best beaches on Oahu.

We recommend an early arrival time as parking is street only, and fills up quickly. For ease and amenities, we recommend the neighboring Kailua Beach. Lanikai has no food, showers, toilets, tables, or lifeguard.

If you are not fazed by Lanikai’s lack of facilities, but are looking for a pre- or post-beach meal, plenty can be found just a short drive away in Kailua Town. We listed our favorites in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary, along with more detailed tips for parking and activities (like a kayak adventure to see ‘The Mokes’ up close)!

Are you hoping to island hop to see all the great beaches in Hawaii? Our inter-island travel guide has the information you need.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Big Island

While the views alone merit a visit to Punalu’u (one of Hawaii’s most renowned black sand beaches), it is the sunbathing Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles who often frequent the shore that make this location not one to be missed. It even has a place on our list of best Bucket List things to do in all of Hawaii.

A spring runs through the shoreside into the volcanic rock jutting out from the beach, creating fresh and salt water tide pools great for exploring. Palm trees line the jet black beach, offering plenty of shade. The water is great for swimming and snorkeling, but is largely unprotected, so take care to only venture out if you are a confident swimmer and the waters are calm.

Amenities include ample parking, picnic tables, outdoor showers, public restrooms, a lifeguard, and even some camping sites. Ka’u Coffee has a beachside refreshment shack with drinks and small snacks. If you find yourself looking for a more substantive meal, there is a town just up the road with some top-notch food trucks.

PSA: always remember to give Sea Turtles the space and respect they deserve. Don’t swim over them, don’t touch them, and never try to ride them! You should keep at a distance of 20 ft in the water, and 30 feet on land.

Maluaka Beach, Maui

Just south of the busy resorts of Wailea lies Maluaka Beach, popularly nicknamed “Turtle Town” because… (you guessed it) there are usually a bunch of turtles. It is also breathtaking, with the bright blue water and white sand that Makena Beach is known for, but without the dangerous shorebreak.

Just above the sand beach, palm trees offer some shade, particularly on the south end. More sun protection can be found under the Koa trees on the grassy knoll just beyond the beach, scattered among the picnic tables. Restrooms and outdoor showers can also be found in this grassy area.

If you are looking for activities beyond the usual beachgoing fare, Maluaka beach is where Kai Kanani’s molokini snorkeling boats depart and Historic Keawala’i Congregational Church (founded in 1832) can be found on its North End.

It’s not an unknown beach, but not one of the busiest either. The main entrance to the beach cannot directly be seen from the road, so it can be difficult to access if you don’t know where you’re going. There are two parking lots, if the northern one is full, head south to the larger lot.

Poipu Beach, Kauai

Located on the South Shore, Poipu gives you two beaches for the price of one (although the cost still adds up to free, it always feels like a fantastic deal). Here two crescents of soft golden sand join at Nukumoi Point (a lava rock formation) to form the full length of this gorgeous beach.

In addition to excellent bodyboarding, surfing, and snorkeling, Poipu is also one of our most favorite swimming beaches in all of Hawaii. Kids should stick to the lagoon on the beach’s east side, where a seawall keeps the keiki pool calm and a posted lifeguard keeps watch. The cove and reef protect the remainder of the beach, making for wonderful swimming for the whole family year round. But be sure to always check lifeguard flags before venturing out, and expect the largest swells in this south-facing beach during the summer season.

If you’re looking for something beyond a swim, kids can enjoy the tidepools or the large park and playground adjacent to the beach. Kaneiolouma Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian village and temple is just a stone’s throw away (one block into town) for a dose of authentic culture.

Poipu is also a fantastic stop for food lovers. Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs (one of our favorites) is just across the street, as is Brennecke’s Beach Broiler for a nice sit down experience. And just a block away, downtown waits with a multitude of other options.

It is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the world by almost everyone who assembles a list. If you are looking to escape the crowds upon arrival, Brennecke’s Beach, found on the southern side of the Poipu Beach Playground is a good bet. Brennecke’s, known for its excellent bodyboarding, is beautiful, but the shore break is often stronger compared to Poipu, so be extra mindful of the day’s conditions.

In the winter, this is where one of our favorite tours for viewing humpback whales leaves from.

There are some great vacation rentals just a short walk away from Poipu Beach.

Hapuna Beach, Big Island

Our recommendation for the Big Island’s Hapuna Beach is hardly breaking news, but… we just couldn’t resist. Hapuna is one surprisingly gorgeous beach. The sand is so white and soft. The water is so clear. The coastline spans for over a half-mile.

These traits may not seem particularly noteworthy given the other beaches on this list, but for the Big Island – with its generally more coarse sands and less mature shoreline – it’s a big deal.

There is great snorkeling at both the southern and northern areas of the beach. Swimming is top-notch throughout during calm seas (always adhere to posted signs). Restaurants are most easily accessible via the Westin Resort on the northernmost end, if that is a deciding factor for where you plant your beach umbrella.

Like most Hawaiian State Parks, amenities abound. Hapuna Beach includes restrooms, outdoor showers, water fountains, picnic tables, lodging, and a posted lifeguard. The parking lot is large and is easy to access for a small fee ($5 for non-residents). The only thing you need to beat is the crowds. So (like many of Hawaii’s most lauded beaches) if you go, go early.

If you’re not staying near Hapuna Beach, check out our list of the best beaches in Kailua-Kona.

Kapalua Bay, Maui

Kapalua Bay offers everything you could want out of a Hawaiian beach day. Named the best beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2018, it offers calm turquoise water, soft golden sand, and a great chance to see some turtles. The Bay itself is also extraordinarily protected, making it a great spot for paddle boarding, snorkeling, swimming, and general beach safety.

Despite the brilliance of Kapalua Beach, our favorite part of this locale is the 1¾ mile Coastal Trail that traces its perimeter (in addition to three neighboring bays: Namalu, Oneloa, Honokahua). The trail is a relatively easy walk (partially paved, though not wheelchair accessible) with a number of off-shoots offering up-close-and-personal views of a bird sanctuary, cliff jumpers, tide pools, a labyrinth, and a rock formation resembling dragon’s teeth. You can find the trailhead and a printed walking guide conveniently located by the restrooms just beyond the beach’s public parking lot.

There is a free parking lot (good size, but fills up early), and a paid lot beside it. If you are coming for the Kapalua Walking Trail only, there are various (well hidden) public parking options along the route. Three such lots are found in the Kapalua Walking Trails map to help guide your search.

Hulopoe Beach, Lanai

If you’ve had your fill of overcrowded beaches and are looking for something a little more off the beaten path (quite literally, it requires a ferry), we heartily recommend Hulopoe Beach.

The journey to Lana’i requires a quick 45-minute ferry ride from West Maui, then a ½ mile walk from the Ferry Harbor, but the destination is well-worth the trek. Hulopoe has all the exceptional beauty of a classic Hawaiian beach, with far less of a crowd. The bay itself is a Marine Life Conservation District, which as you can imagine, makes for some astonishing snorkeling. During the daytime you may even see some of the spinner dolphins that frequent the bay year-round. As a conservation site, it is extra important to be diligent with beach etiquette. Use UV protective clothing or reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid stepping on coral. Leave the animals to themselves, and everything as you found it.

For an extra serving of wildlife, check out the Islet Seabird Sanctuary directly southeast of the beach.

Make sure to bring your own food, or plan to venture into Lanai City for a meal. The Four Seasons Resort on Lanai, which is conveniently located on the beach, only allows guests to dine at their restaurants.

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Ke’e Beach, Kauai

Located at the very end of North Shore’s Ha-ena State Park, beneath the jungle of the Napali cliffs, Ke’e Beach is a visual you do not want to miss. Parking and entry requires a reservation (and it fills up FAST, so plan ahead), which adds an extra step, but keeps the environment pristine and crowds manageable. This beach gets a stop as part of our Kauai itinerary.

The bay is exceptionally protected by a vibrant reef, making the sandy beach feel more like a gorgeous lagoon. Big swells make swimming dangerous during the winter months, but conditions are generally ripe for snorkeling and swimming May to October. Just remember to check the ocean conditions before you head into the water.

This is not your typical resort stop, so be sure to take the opportunity to enjoy more than just the beach. Walk the boardwalk over the taro fields. Hike the trails through the Napali jungle.

Amenities include bathrooms, showers, drinking water and a posted lifeguard. There are limited spaces in the parking lot, so Ke’e requires an early start if you are driving. For an additional $20/person, a shuttle is also available.

Ko’Olina Lagoons, Oahu

As a kid-friendly beach destination, the Ko’Olina lagoons are as good as it gets. Numbered one through four (going north to south), each lagoon offers its own public restroom facilities and accessible nearby parking.

Each lagoon is protected by beach on three sides and a rock wall on the other. The waves are tiny (if present at all), making it the perfect snorkeling locale for a timid or inexperienced swimmer.

There are great places to stay on each lagoon, though all beaches in Hawaii are public, so you don’t need to be a resort guest to stay here. If you’re looking for Ko Olina accommodations, check out these options:

• Beach Villas at Ko Olina (vacation rentals!)
• Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club
• Disney’s Aulani Hotel
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu

There are no striking discernible differences between the lagoons, though we do prefer Lagoon #4 (or the Ulua Lagoon), which is located at the end of the line of resorts and features a large grassy field for playing. Otherwise, we recommend whatever lagoon is closest to your parking spot!

Makena Cove, Maui

Makena Cove, just south of the much larger Makena Beach (see #14), makes up in beauty what it lacks in size, earning the distinction of Hawaii’s ‘Best Sunset Beach’, at least in our book (and this article).

If you’re looking for a special setting to enjoy the sunset, exchange vows, or have a photo shoot, this small but spectacular beach is where you want to be. We recommend limiting your beach activities here. This is not the place to plant your umbrella for the day. There are no amenities and the cove is not safe for swimming.

Catching sunset here should be on your list of bucket list things to do on Maui.

Waimanalo Beach, Oahu

Clocking in at five miles of uninterrupted white sand (three of it a beach park) Waimanalo Bay hosts Oahu’s best beach stroll. There is plenty of shade and picnic tables if you want to turn your walk into a rest or sit down for a meal. The water is always a beautiful blue, even on a cloudy day. It can get a bit breezy though, so we recommend bringing a jacket along during the winter months.

The two main access points are through the beach parks that lie at the south (Waimanalo Beach Park) and mid-point of the bay (the ironwood forest beside Aloiloi Street). Each has their own showers, picnic tables, restroom facilities and lifeguard towers.

Waimanalo is also a necessary stop for any Magnum P.I. or Baywatch Hawaii fan – both were filmed on this beach!

Makena Beach, Maui

Leave the Wailea resorts in the rearview mirror with a short drive south to Makena Beach. Situated just four miles down the (slightly less well-paved) road, Makena Beach offers less crowds, more space, and two beaches: Big Beach and Little Beach. Little Beach is smaller, without amenities (and is known as Maui’s nude beach). Big Beach is our beach of choice, with three large parking lots and porta potties.

This destination is (postcard) picture perfect with a ⅔ mile long white sand beach, clear blue water, a great view of Molokini and Kahoolave, and most refreshingly, not a resort in sight.

Napili Bay, Maui

Napili Bay gives you something special, a certain extra-relaxing kind of special. West Maui beaches may be a well-tread path (for good reason, the beaches are extraordinary in beauty, comforts, and accessibility), but from Napili Bay there are no high-rise resorts or condos in sight.

Though it may feel intimate in atmosphere, it certainly does not in size. The beach is even larger than its popularly touted neighbor, Kapalua Bay (we are no exception to this recommendation, see #8). It is an easy and comfortable place to spend the day. Plus, the rocks on the southside are often frequented by turtles.

If you want to reward yourself for a beach day well-done, the famous Gazebo Restaurant overlooks the south end of Napili Bay (we recommend the Macadamia nut pancakes if you’re feeling festive). Though it is only open until 2 PM, breakfast is served all day. To the north end, you’ll find the Sea House restaurant, which is open until 9 PM for the later or longer beachgoer.

Parking can be a bit of a bear, and there is no posted lifeguard, but public restrooms are available. Stay nearby the beach in one of our favorite Napili vacation rentals.

Manini’owali Beach at Kua Bay, Big Island

Small, secluded, and striking, Manini’owali Beach at Kua Bay is easily our favorite of the three beaches located in Kehaka Kai State Park, and a very close contender for ‘Best Big Island Beach’ (we go back-and-forth between this, #7, and #4.

Visually, this beach (referred to as Kua Bay by islanders) is pretty hard to beat. Manini’owali offers beautiful white sand and crystal clear water, but only one tree, so be sure to bring your umbrella. The snorkeling here ranks among the best on the West side of the island. Just be mindful of strong winter swells and high morning winds.

Substantial improvements to its access road and the addition of picnic tables, full-service restrooms, and a lifeguard station has increased beach traffic in recent years (particularly during weekends), but there is still sufficient parking roadside, or in the adjacent lot for a $5 fee.

Anini Beach, Kauai

More important than the 2½ miles of gorgeous white sand, verdant montane backdrop, and beautiful blue water, Anini Beach is where I saw the biggest turtle of my life (seriously, it was HUGE).

Located down a secluded road on the North Shore of Kauai, Anini beach has the lush surroundings and soft white sand the island is famous for, on a stretch of shoreline that feels like its best kept secret.

The vast reef and shallow water offer protection from rough surf and dangerous currents. They are also a favorite amongst turtles and other marine life, which makes for some spectacular (and safe) snorkeling and swimming. Which is why it made our list of the best things to do on Kauai.

As is typical for the North Shore, strong swells can be expected during the winter months. If conditions (or anything else) keeps you out of the water, there are still plenty of views to admire, beach to walk, and shade to enjoy to warrant a visit.

Hanalei Bay, Kauai

Another North Shore favorite, Hanalei Bay offers everything you need for a perfect beach day. It is rarely crowded, with plenty of room (over two miles) to play. Located directly adjacent to Hanalei Town, there is easy access to the town’s many eateries and shops.

In addition to the bathrooms, showers, two lifeguard towers, park, and pavilion is Henry’s favorite feature – Hanalei pier. Jumping from the pier into the bay is a fan favorite for the younger visitors, though the foot race before the big plunge holds equal excitement for Henry.

At the right hand side of the bay is the old pier and Black Pot Beach Park (an outdated name alluding to a big pot that was once located here). The small park here is used for camping on weekends. This is where the Hanalei River flows into the bay and it’s the departure point for kayakers exploring the river. There is no snorkeling at Hanalei Bay but fish do live under the pier. Kids enjoy jumping from the pier into the ocean during high tide. The pier is the location of the calmest swimming conditions during the winter and is a popular location for beginner surf lessons when the rest of the bay becomes too rough.

Hanalei Pavilion is located about 600 yards west of the pier. Most tourists visit this part of the beach since there’s a lifeguard tower, and on average the swimming and boogie boarding conditions are good here. There are also bathrooms and showers (other sections have bathrooms and showers too).

Another 600 yards down the beach is the section called Pinetrees and Waioli Beach Park. In the winter time this is a popular surfing location and typically the first break surfers examine as they survey conditions. This section has a nice grass field behind the beach and plenty of parking.

West of Pinetrees is the second life guard tower and two smaller parking areas. Here you’ll find a beach volleyball court and picnic tables. The beach here is sometimes referred to as Grandpa’s. This area of beach is a little more exposed to wind and occasionally offers wind waves for beginner surfers in the summer months. The surf break known as Middles is about 500 yards into the ocean where a stream runs into the Bay.

But beaches on North Shore Kauai should definitely be steered clear of in the winter. The conditions are rough and not favorable for swimming.Which is something we cover when we give our opinion on the best time to visit Kauai.

Waikiki Beach, Oahu

Nicknamed the ‘Manhattan of the Pacific’, the Waikiki neighborhood and its abundant skyscrapers are a far cry from a quiet island getaway, but the allure of this iconic beach remains strong. If you’ve heard of a Hawaiian beach, you’ve probably heard of Waikiki.

The beach along Waikiki Bay has actually been broken up into a number of smaller beaches by erosion (e.g. Kuhio Beach, Gray’s Beach, Kahanamoku, Queen’s Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach). Beside Kalakaua Beach you can find world-class dining, resorts, shopping, and entertainment. You may find your favorite resort, or paradise restaurant chain, beside another. However, it is the surfing that earns Waikiki Beaches a place on our list.

The waves are clean and smooth, long and rolling. Although there can be some tough breaks at certain points of the year, there is generally always a great spot for both experienced surfers and those looking to stand up on a board for the first time. And looking out on Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach gives you a view that is impressive.

Check out the surf lessons we did in Waikiki if you are looking for lessons during your stay!

Wailea Beach, Maui

It is no accident that some of Hawaii’s most popular resorts line Wailea Beach — it is near perfection, and the very image of a quintessential Hawaiian beach. The sand is soft, and oh so comfortable for lounging. The ocean is a stunning blue. The waves are generally small and while the snorkeling isn’t great, the swimming is phenomenal.

This beach is in front of two large Wailea resorts – the Grand Wailea and the Four Seasons. Expect a resort vibe and resort crowd (think cabanas, chairs, and umbrellas). But don’t let that stop you. All beaches in Hawaii are public and this one comes with plenty of free parking, restrooms and an accessible path.

Ka’anapali Beach, Maui

Located just north of historic Lahaina is Ka’anapali Beach, a long stretch of gold sand beach. Developed as a resort destination in the 1960’s, this beach is iconic. The north end of the beach is marked by Black Rock, a popular cliff jumping and snorkeling spot, and the remainder of the beach is lined with resorts and vacation rentals. (Our pick here is the Westin Ka’anapali). Whaler’s Village in the center offers restaurants, shopping, and ice cream, so you can really make a day of it here.

While things can get busy here, it’s well worth a visit. But if you want to enjoy the beauty of Ka’anapali beach with slightly fewer crowds, head to Airport Beach in North Ka’anapali (Kahekili Beach).

Ulua Beach, Maui

This is a great spot to snorkel on the south shore of Maui and it comes with an excellent beach that has great amenities. Located in front of the Wailea Elua Village Condos, this beach can get crowded with locals and visitors. If you want to escape the crowds (a bit!), you can walk north to Mokapu beach in front of the Andaz resort, which is usually a little quieter. Both beaches are located on the Wailea walking path, so hopping between the two is easy.

Good to know: There are excellent facilities here, but the parking does fill early because it’s such a great spot. If you can’t find parking here, head up to Keawakapu Beach, which is just as nice.

If you’re hoping to stay near Ulua Beach, our hotel pick is the Wailea Beach Resort, located conveniently between Ulua and Wailea Beach.

Hanauma Bay, Oahu

Hanauma Bay is often overlooked because it’s a popular snorkeling spot and it requires a very difficult to procure reservation. But if you get past that, it’s a phenomenal beach!

With lifeguards on duty, snorkel rental available at the beach, and a large reef to protect the kids from the waves, you can play all day here under the sun. Hanauma Bay is a great place to teach the kids how to snorkel as there is no shore break, the water is shallow, and the fish are curious. See our 22 other things to do on Oahu with kids.

With no fishing in the bay, the fish are large and not scared of the snorkelers.

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Amenities:

• Lifeguards on duty
• Sandy beach access
• Restroom and shower facilities
• Snorkel rental at the beach
• Snack shop available at the visitor center

Mauna Kea Beach, Big Island

This stunning beach is located in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, one of the best hotels on the Big Island. The half mile long crescent shaped beach offers beautiful white sand, a somewhat protected cove that has great snorkeling in the summer, and amazing manta ray viewing and night snorkeling. This is the location of “Manta Point” one of the three manta ray viewing locations on the island.

While this beach is one of the best on the island and well worth going to, getting access to it can be challenging. Like all beaches in Hawaii, this beach is public but the Mauna Kea Hotel maintains the public parking spaces. These spaces are usually full before 8 am. So if you plan to visit this beach, make sure you head there early! If you make it to the beach, you’ll be greeted with small crowds and a really spectacular beach day experience.

If you’re looking for a luxury resort, this one makes our list of the best luxury resorts on the Big Island.

One of our favorite Manta Ray night snorkeling tours also leaves from this beach.

Best Beaches in Hawaii FAQs

What’s the prettiest beach in Hawaii?

If we are forced to name just one, the prettiest beach in Hawaii is Ke’e Beach on Kauai, which is part of Ha’ena State Park. Not only does it have striking blue water and nice sand, the backdrop is what makes the beach spectacular. It’s located on the North Shore of Kauai so you look up and see the cliffs of the NaPali Coast Wilderness Area. It is stunning and serene.

What is the clearest beach in Hawaii?

There are two beaches that really stand out as having the clearest water in Hawaii: Hapuna Beach on the Big Island and Lanikai Beach on Oahu. Both have soft white/golden sand and sparkling blue water. When the sea is calm, the visibility is unbelievable. While neither are excellent places to snorkel, they offer beautiful swimming experiences.

Is there a ‘Beach Season’ in Hawaii?

The weather and ocean temps are pleasant year-round, so it’s warm enough to swim in the ocean 365 days per year. But that doesn’t mean it’s safe to swim in the ocean year round. The Pacific Ocean is fierce and wind and strong currents can make it difficult and dangerous to swim. While there is no specific timing for good or rough ocean conditions, there are some general things to know.

In the winter, you will often see swells and strong currents from the north, so beaches on the north side of the islands can see huge waves, not suitable for swimming, but excellent for watching surfers. Big wave competitions like the Eddie Aikau are often held in the winter.

Summer brings in swells from the south. So your southern beaches can often have rough ocean conditions coming in for days at a time.

Check ocean conditions before you head out and make sure you follow any lifeguard flags and warnings.

Does Maui or Oahu have better beaches?

This is a hot debate in our family. While living on Oahu we were convinced that Oahu had the best beaches. Then when living on Maui, we were convinced that it was Maui. Here’s what we’ve decided: Maui has the best beaches that are most appropriate for swimming year round.

Oahu has some amazingly stunning beaches that are spectacular in the summer, and too rough in the winter (like Waimea Bay). Maui’s beaches are also spectacular but it has many that are often sheltered from large swells.

You can’t go wrong with either island, but if you’re looking for the best beaches to swim at year round, we think Maui is better than Oahu.

Best Beaches in Hawaii Video

Because you shouldn’t just have to look at pictures to enjoy the best beaches in Hawaii, we made a video of our experience visiting the best beaches. Take a look and enjoy as we include even more information and you can see which ones look like the best to add to your Hawaii bucket list.

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