Hapuna Beach is one of the island’s most expansive white sand beach. Hapuna Beach is proof that not all big island beaches are covered in lava! It’s calm water, picturesque views, and perfectly soft white sand has earned Hapuna Beach a spot on many “best beaches” list across the world.

Kealakekua Bay is a historically significant site located in Captain Cook, just south of Kailua-Kona. The bays crystal clear water makes the bay one of the best spots snorkeling spots on the island. The bay marks the spot where Captain James Cook first arrived to the Big Island in 1779. While he was initially welcomed by the native Hawaiian’s, one year later this same bay marks the spot where he was killed by the same Hawaiian’s that greeted him one year previously.

Just north of Kona, turn off Hwy 19 into Kekaha Kai State Park onto a rugged 2-mile lava road and you will arrive at Mahi’ulas Beach. A stunning beach with a tree line that reaches almost to the coastline makes for some good spots of shade. From this beach, take the 15-20 minute walk north on a rough lava rock path and you will arrive at Makalawena, a secluded oasis that at first might feel like a mirage! With the almost always calm water and sunny skies, many consider it to be their favorite beach on the island.

Located about 20 miles north of Kona lies this picturesque coastal reserve with tranquil and clear water. This State Park is surrounded by lava flows with a calm rocky beach which is great for swimming, whale watching, and snorkeling. Camping is permitted at Kiholo Bay on the weekends, but you must have a permit!

Built on a landing strip of the former Kona Airport is this beach and recreation state park. This is the perfect place to have a picnic while watching a goregous Kona sunset. On the mauka (mountain) side of the park there is a walking path, community garden and small grassy area. Swimming is possible, but can be rather tricky because of the beaches rocky terrain.