Hawai‘i's best beaches by island - for relaxing and surfing

Hawai‘i’s beaches are among the islands’ greatest drawcards, spanning everything from calm, inviting bays to legendary breaks that lure big-wave surfers from around the globe.

Stepping onto the powdery white sands of the pristine Hāpuna Beach on the island of Hawai‘i, I slip into water so clear and turquoise it feels almost unreal. Emerging, I glance up to see volcanic peaks veiled in mist on the horizon. A few days later I find myself at world-famous Waikīkī Beach, beguiled in an entirely different way. The ocean is just as inviting, but here it hums with energy – bright yellow outrigger canoes line the shore, lifeguard towers stand watch, surfers glide along gentle, rolling waves and sunseekers drift on fluoro inflatables, framed by skyrise hotels and the striking profile of Diamond Head. Hawai‘i’s beaches are nothing if not diverse, and discovering them is one of the great pleasures of exploring these islands.

My pick of the top five beaches in Hawai‘i

1. Hāpuna Beach, island of Hawai‘i
2. Lanikai Beach, O‘ahu
3. Kapalua Bay, Maui
4. Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i
5. Waimea Bay, O‘ahu

O‘ahu

Oʻahu’s beach culture is a vibrant blend of urban energy and deep-rooted surf heritage. Here, world-famous breaks meet family-friendly lagoons, all within reach of the island’s capital, Honolulu.

Waikīkī Beach

Waikīkī Beach is the birthplace of modern surfing. (Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono)

Hawaiʻi’s most iconic stretch, where slow, regular waves make surfing accessible to all. Surf schools, board hire shops, lifeguard towers, cafes and restaurants line the shore. It’s ideal for first-time surfers, families, and travellers who want it all at their doorstep.

Lanikai Beach

The twin islets of Mokulua as seen from Lanikai Beach. (Credit: Getty/Joseph Rouse)

Powder-soft sand and impossibly turquoise water, with the Mokulua Islands floating offshore around half an hour’s drive from Waikīkī, but a world away. It’s a great spot for couples, photographers and early risers chasing sunrise serenity, but there are no lifeguards or formal amenities, so come prepared.

Sunset Beach

Local surfers ride the waves at Sunset Beach. (Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / John Hook)

A North Shore legend, famed for towering winter waves and golden-hour magic. Lifeguards are present, but conditions can be hazardous when the surf’s up, so if you’re not an experienced surfer, it’s better to watch them from the shore. In summer, when the water is calmer and warmer, it’s a fantastic, family-friendly option. There are basic facilities, including toilets and showers.

Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is a world-famous surf spot on the North Shore of Oʻahu. (Credit: Getty/drewhadley)

Also on the North Shore, Waimea Bay pairs a wide arc of golden sand with crystal-clear water that shifts from tranquil in summer to spectacular surf in winter. Lifeguards, toilets and showers are available. It’s perfect for confident swimmers in calmer months, or spectators drawn to some of Hawai‘i’s most powerful waves in winter.

Maui

The pace of Maui’s beaches feels blissfully unhurried, with many set against views of neighbouring islands. It’s not uncommon to share the shoreline with sea turtles or lazing Hawaiian monk seals.

Kā‘anapali Beach

Kā‘anapali Beach is a resort haven off the west coast of Maui. (Credit: Getty/Haizhan Zheng)

A nearly five-kilometre stretch of golden sand lined with hotels, restaurants and shops, known for a sunset cliff dive ceremony at Puʻu Kekaʻa (Black Rock). Great for resort lovers, families and culture seekers, with lifeguards to keep everyone safe.

Makena Beach

Makena Beach is tucked inside Makena State Park. (Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson)

Also known as Big Beach, this expansive, untamed stretch delivers drama and space. The shore break can be strong, so it’s best for confident swimmers and those seeking fewer crowds, and safer to swim when the lifeguards are on duty. Portaloos are available at the entrance.

Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay is a sheltered, crescent-shaped cove on Maui’s northwestern coast. (Credit: Getty/christiannafzger)

Set on Maui’s north-west coast, Kapalua Bay is a sheltered crescent beach lapped by calm, clear water ideal for snorkelling. Backed by palms and low-key resorts, the patrolled beach offers facilities including toilets and showers. It’s ideal for families, beginner snorkellers and those seeking a serene swim.

Island of Hawai‘i

From black and green sands to pockets of soft white, the island of Hawai‘i’s beaches are quieter and often come with magnificent volcanic backdrops.

Hāpuna Beach

The white-sand Hapuna Beach boasts clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming. (Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson)

One of the island’s best white-sand beaches, with clear water and excellent year-round conditions. The patrolled beach has toilets, showers, picnic areas and parking and is suitable for families, swimmers and sunbathers.

Punaluʻu Beach

Punalu’u’s black sand beach was formed by molten basaltic lava from Kīlauea volcano. (Credit: Getty/Philippe FLEURY)

Jet-black sand and frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking ashore make this Kaʻū Coast beach a favourite for wildlife lovers and those seeking something unique. There are no lifeguards and basic facilities, including toilets and parking.

Papakolea Beach

Papakolea Beach is one of only four green-sand beaches in the world. (Credit: Getty/Damien VERRIER)

One of only a handful of green-sand beaches in the world, coloured by finely crushed volcanic olivine crystals, Papakolea Beach is only accessible by foot (a nine-kilometre hike each way) or by using local, unofficial, paid 4WD shuttle services. There are no lifeguards or facilities, so bring all essentials and take your rubbish with you when you leave.

Kaua‘i

Kauaʻi’s beaches, much like the rest of the island, are wild and untamed, shaped by lush cliffs and powerful surf. Many are gloriously remote.

Hanalei Bay

The crown jewel of Kauaʻi’s North Shore is a crescent of white sand. (Credit: Getty / Dougberry)

A vast crescent-shaped beach surrounded by emerald mountains with an historic pier, built in 1892, that’s used for fishing, sunset watching and jumping into the ocean. The patrolled beach has good facilities and is popular with families for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking in summer, and surfers are attracted by its large swells in winter.

Po‘ipū Beach

Sunny south shore conditions, calm waters and frequent monk seal sightings make this beach one of Kaua‘i’s finest. It’s suitable for families and beginner snorkellers, with lifeguards, picnic areas, toilets and playgrounds.

Tunnels Beach

The jagged, pyramid-shaped Mt Makana creates a stunning backdrop against Tunnels Beach. (Credit: Getty/Adam Springer)

This North Shore beach offers exceptional snorkelling over coral reefs beneath the dramatic Nā Pali backdrop, but is best left for experienced snorkellers and nature lovers. There are no lifeguards or toilets and parking is limited, so park at nearby Haena Beach Park, use the amenities and hike in from there.