Kona, located on the west coast of the Big Island in Hawaii, is home to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the world. With crystal clear waters and golden sand, Kona’s beaches are perfect for vacationers to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy water activities. The best part is that many of these beaches are located within 30 minutes of Kailua-Kona, making them easily accessible to visitors.
From Kikaua Point Beach Park to Makalawena Beach, Kona has a variety of sandy beaches to offer. Whether you are looking for a secluded spot to enjoy peace and quiet or a lively beach with many activities, Kona has something for everyone. Visitors can go snorkeling, kayaking, or simply soak up the sun on the beach while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Exploring the finest sandy beaches in Kona is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hawaii. With its stunning coastline, warm weather, and inviting waters, Kona’s beaches are a paradise on Earth. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to experience the beauty of Kona’s beaches.
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Understanding Kona’s Geography
Kona is a region located on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The Kona coast stretches for approximately 60 miles and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Kona is divided into two districts, North Kona and South Kona, with Kailua-Kona serving as the main town in the region.
The Kona side of the Big Island is protected from the trade winds by the massive Maunaloa volcano, which creates a dry and sunny climate that is perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The Kona region is also known for its coffee plantations, which produce some of the best coffee in the world.
The Kona coast is home to some of the finest sandy beaches in Hawaii. The beaches in Kona are characterized by their white sand, clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Most of the beaches in Kona are within a 30-minute drive of Kailua-Kona, making them easily accessible to visitors.
The following table provides a list of some of the best beaches in Kona:
| Beach Name | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kahaluu Beach Park | Kailua-Kona | Excellent snorkeling, calm waters |
| Magic Sands Beach | Kailua-Kona | White sand, boogie boarding |
| Makalawena Beach | Kailua-Kona | Secluded, pristine |
| Hapuna Beach | South Kohala | White sand, boogie boarding, picnic areas |
| Kua Bay | Kailua-Kona | White sand, crystal clear waters |
Overall, the geography of Kona makes it an ideal destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the volcanic landscape, or indulge in some of the best coffee in the world, Kona has something for everyone.
Highlights of Kona's Beaches
Kona’s beaches are a paradise for beach lovers. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities, Kona’s beaches provide a perfect getaway for travelers. Here are some highlights of Kona’s beaches:
Best Beaches in Kona
Kona’s beaches are renowned for their beauty and pristine condition. Some of the best beaches in Kona include:
- Makalawena Beach: Located north of Kona Airport, Makalawena Beach is a secluded beach with a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is accessible only by a 20-minute hike, but it’s worth the effort.
- Kamakahonu Beach: Kamakahonu Beach is a small beach perfect for beginners who want to try snorkeling or diving. The beach is located near the Kailua-Kona Pier, making it easily accessible.
- Kealakekua Bay: Kealakekua Bay is a popular kayaking, snorkeling, and diving destination. The bay is home to spinner dolphins; if you’re lucky, you might spot them during your visit.
Sandy Beaches in Kona
Kona’s beaches are known for their white-sand beaches that provide a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the finest sandy beaches in Kona include:
- Kahalu’u Beach Park: Kahalu’u Beach Park is a popular destination for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is known for its calm waters and abundant marine life.
- Kua Bay Beach Park: Kua Bay Beach Park is a beautiful beach with excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The beach is known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Top Beaches in Kona
Kona’s beaches are some of Hawaii’s top beaches, for a good reason. With its stunning beauty and excellent facilities, Kona’s beaches are perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Some of the top beaches in Kona include:
- Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Anaeho’omalu Bay: Anaeho’omalu Bay is a beautiful beach with excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities. The beach is known for its stunning sunsets and abundant marine life.
In conclusion, Kona’s beaches offer something for everyone, from secluded to bustling beaches with excellent facilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, Kona’s beaches provide a perfect place to explore Hawaii’s marine life.
Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is a must-visit destination for those who love to explore the natural beauty of Hawaii’s coastal nature. This beach is located in the Kekaha Kai State Park, which also includes the beaches of Mahaiula Beach to the south and Maniniowali Beach to the north. The park is just a short drive north of the Kona International Airport and offers ample parking.
One of the most popular activities at Makalawena Beach is snorkeling. The crystal-clear turquoise waters offer excellent visibility, allowing visitors to see a variety of fish, coral, and sea turtles. The beach is also home to a beautiful reef, perfect for those who enjoy exploring the underwater world.
Swimming is another popular activity at Makalawena Beach. The beach is known for its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for families with young children. The white-sand beach is also perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
Visitors should note that Makalawena Beach is not accessible by car. Instead, visitors must park in the designated parking area and hike approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the beach. The hike is well worth it, as visitors are rewarded with stunning views of lava formations and the ocean.
In summary, Makalawena Beach is a beautiful and unique destination that allows visitors to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty. Whether you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach, Makalawena Beach has something for everyone.
Kua Bay
Kua Bay, also known as Manini’owali Beach, is a beautiful white sand beach located just north of Kona. The water in the bay is crystal clear, and the beach is more difficult to reach than other white-sand beaches. This makes Kua Bay a strong competitor for the title “best white sand beach” on the Big Island.
Kua Bay is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The beach is backed by lava rock and the turquoise reef, which provides an excellent opportunity for snorkeling. Visitors can see various marine life, including Hawaiian sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and colorful fish. However, it is important to remember that touching or harassing turtles or other marine life is illegal and can result in a fine.
The beach is not only beautiful but also well-maintained. Restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available for visitors. Additionally, a lifeguard is on duty during the day, making it a safe place to swim.
One of the unique features of Kua Bay is the coral reef that is located just offshore. The reef is home to various marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the reef by snorkeling or by taking a guided tour.
In summary, Kua Bay is one of the best sandy beaches in Kona and a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Big Island. Its crystal-clear water, beautiful white sand, and abundant marine life make it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Kikaua Point Beach Park
Kikaua Point Beach Park is a popular sandy beach in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. It is one of the easiest beaches on the Big Island and is just a short drive north of Kona Airport.
This beach is perfect for families with children as the lagoon is mostly quite shallow, with a sandy floor gradually descending to the outer fringing rock barrier. It is ideal for the pint-sized crowd, and young children can swim and snorkel here away from the rough surf.
Kikaua Point Beach Park is also a great spot for swimmers, as the waters are protected and calm. The sandy and clean beach makes it perfect for sunbathing and picnicking. Restrooms, showers, and drinking water are also available at the end of the trail.
While Kikaua Point Beach Park is popular, it is not usually too crowded. There is plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the beach. Shade is limited, so bringing an umbrella or sunshade is important if you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach.
Overall, Kikaua Point Beach Park is a great spot for families and swimmers looking for a calm, clean sandy beach within 30 minutes of Kailua-Kona.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to access | Limited shade |
| Great for families | Limited parking |
| Calm waters for swimming | Can get crowded |
| Restrooms, showers, and drinking water available |
Kamakahonu Beach
Kamakahonu Beach, also known as King Kam Beach, is a small white sand beach in the heart of historic Kailua Village, just behind the Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel. It is one of the best beaches in Kona and is within 30 minutes of Kailua-Kona.
This beach is a popular public beach and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The waters are calm and protected, making it an ideal spot for families with kids. The beach is also great for fishing; you can often see locals fishing from the pier.
One of the main attractions of Kamakahonu Beach is the ‘Ahu’ena Heiau Temple, the sacred Hawaiian temple where King Kamehameha I spent his last seven years in power before his son Liholiho succeeded him. The temple was reconstructed in the 1970s and can be viewed from the outside.
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, Kamakahonu Beach is definitely worth a visit. The beach is clean, well-maintained, and has plenty of facilities, including restrooms and showers. The nearby resort also offers a variety of dining options, making it easy to grab a bite to eat after a day of swimming and snorkeling.
Magic Sands Beach
Magic Sands Beach, also known as Laʻaloa Beach Park, is popular among locals and tourists. It is located on Ali’i Drive, about four miles south of downtown Kailua-Kona. The beach is known for its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and body surfing.
One of the unique features of Magic Sands Beach is its ever-changing shoreline. During the winter, the beach can experience high surf and strong currents, causing the sand to wash away and exposing the rocky shoreline. The sand returns as the summer approaches, creating a wide and inviting beach.
The beach park offers several amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. A lifeguard is also on duty during the day, making it a safe place to swim. However, visitors should always be cautious of strong currents and heed any warning signs posted by the lifeguard.
Honokohau Harbor and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park are just a short drive away for those looking to explore the area further. Honokohau Harbor is a popular spot for fishing charters and boat tours, while the historical park offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life.
Overall, Magic Sands Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best sandy beaches in Kona. Its beautiful white sand, clear turquoise waters, and convenient amenities make it a perfect spot for fun in the sun.
Alula Beach
Located south of Honokohau Harbor, Alula Beach is a small crescent-shaped sandy beach with protected swimming and a nice relaxing place. This beach is ideal for families with children as it is shallow and protected by a lava cove. The beach is within the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park just north of Kona.
Divers and snorkelers will often use the beach as a starting point to explore the coral reefs and marine life just offshore. The beach is also home to a small sheltered cove that is good for snorkeling and easing into the deeper waters. Good scuba diving and snorkeling are just offshore, where boulders and rock walls dip to 45 feet.
This beach has no facilities or lifeguards, so visitors should bring their own food and drinks. However, the beach has picnic tables and palm trees, providing ample shade. Visitors can also explore the historic fishpond located nearby.
The beach can become rough and dangerous for swimming during the winter due to high surf and strong currents. Visitors should be aware of the conditions before entering the water.
In conclusion, Alula Beach is a small but beautiful beach with a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby historic fishpond. However, visitors should be aware of the conditions before entering the water. They should bring their food and drinks as the beach has no facilities.
Kealakekua Bay and King Kamehameha
Kealakekua Bay is a popular destination for tourists visiting Kona. It is a Marine Life Conservation District, meaning visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking while observing the marine life and tropical fish in their natural habitat. The bay is also home to a variety of shops and showers to make visitors’ stay more comfortable.
But Kealakekua Bay is not just a beautiful beach. It is also a place of historical significance. This is where Captain James Cook, the first British explorer to come to Hawaii, landed in 1778. The bay was also the site of a skirmish between Cook’s crew and Native Hawaiians, which resulted in Cook’s death. Today, a monument stands in the bay to commemorate Cook’s visit and death.
Kealakekua Bay is also associated with King Kamehameha, one of Hawaii’s most famous leaders. According to legend, Kamehameha was born in a cave in the bay. As a young man, he trained in the art of war and became a skilled warrior. Eventually, he became the ruler of Hawaii and united the islands under his rule. Today, visitors can learn more about Kamehameha’s life and legacy at the nearby Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.
Overall, Kealakekua Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the sandy beaches of Kona. Whether interested in history, scuba diving, or just soaking up the sun, this beautiful bay has something for everyone.
Kukio Beach
Kukio Beach is a beautiful white-sand beach on the Big Island’s Kohala coast, just north of Kikaua Point Beach Park. The beach is approximately 18 miles from downtown Kailua-Kona. It can be accessed through the entrance gate to Four Seasons Hualalai Resort.
The beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy calm ocean waters and good facilities, including easy parking. Kukio Beach is also known for its abundance of sea turtles, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
For those looking to explore the area, tide pools can be found at the south end of the beach. These pools are home to various marine life and offer a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Hawaii’s underwater world.
Golf enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that Kukio Beach is located near the Kukio Golf Resort, which offers a world-class golfing experience on a stunning course with ocean views.
Overall, Kukio Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the finest sandy beaches in Kona. Its calm waters, abundant wildlife, and nearby attractions make it the perfect spot for a day of relaxation and adventure.
Honokohau Beach
Honokohau Beach is a beautiful sandy beach within the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, just a short drive from Kailua-Kona. The beach is known for its striking white coral sand contrasting sharply against the black lava rock. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in the clear waters.
At the end of the beach is an ancient heiau (temple) that stands as a reminder of the area’s rich history. The beach is also home to the Ai’opio Fishtrap, where reef fish were captured for food in ancient times. Visitors can explore the fish trap and learn about the traditional Hawaiian fishing methods.
Honokohau Beach is less crowded than other beaches, making it a great spot for a peaceful day by the water. Visitors can also take a short walk to Haukoiho Bay to enjoy more secluded sunbathing.
Overall, Honokohau Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the sandy beaches of Kona. It is a unique beauty and rich history, making it a truly special place to visit.
Kekaha Kai State Park
Kekaha Kai State Park is a beautiful beach park along the North Kona Coast. The park is about 30 minutes from Kailua-Kona and offers a range of activities such as hiking, sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The park is divided into three sections: Mahai’ula, Manini’owali, and Makalawena.
The Mahai’ula section of the park has a sandy beach and dune that offers opportunities for swimming and beach-related activities. A picnic area with tables is available, making it a great spot for a family day out. Visitors can also take a 4.5-mile hike north through this wilderness park on the historic coastal trail, Ala Kahakai, which leads to Kua Bay.
Manini’owali Beach, located at the northern end of Kekaha Kai State Park, is a vast golden sand beach with excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions when there’s not much surf running. A reef runs along the beach’s edge, making it possible to snorkel right from shore and see lots of fish and coral.
Makalawena Beach is the third section of the park and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. This beach is located at the end of a 2.5-mile hike from the parking lot, which means it is less crowded than the other two sections. The beach is pristine, with crystal clear water, white sand, and shade under the trees.
It is important to note that limited parking is available at Kekaha Kai State Park, so it is best to arrive early to secure a spot. Additionally, no lifeguard is on duty, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming or snorkeling. Visitors should also be aware of the presence of octopuses in the area and avoid disturbing them.
Overall, Kekaha Kai State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the sandy beaches in Kona. Its pristine beaches, clear waters, and range of activities make it a great spot for a day out with family and friends.
Kohanaiki Beach Park
Kohanaiki Beach Park, also known as Pine Trees Beach, is a popular destination for surfers and paddleboarders. Located approximately 7 miles north of Kailua-Kona, this locals’ beach is in front of the upscale Kohanaiki resort. The beach is named after the heliotrope and hau trees that line its shores, though it is commonly called Pine Trees Beach.
While the water can be too rough for swimming in the winter, the summer months bring more favorable conditions. The beach is a great spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and the nearby mountains while lounging on the sand.
Kohanaiki Beach Park is also a popular spot for surfers, particularly during winter, when the waves can reach up to 20 feet. The beach has a consistent break that attracts surfers of all skill levels. Surf lessons and board rentals are available nearby.
Visitors to Kohanaiki Beach Park can also take advantage of the park’s amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. The park is open from 7 am to 7 pm daily. Parking is available for a fee.
Overall, Kohanaiki Beach Park is a beautiful and peaceful spot that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, soak up the sun, or simply relax by the ocean, this beach is worth a visit.
Other beaches within 30 minutes of Kailua-Kona include A-Bay, Honl’s Beach, and Ho’okena Beach Park.
Additional Information
If you plan to explore the sandy beaches in Kona, here are a few things to remember.
Camping
If you want to camp near the beach, several options are available in Kona. One of the most popular camping spots is Spencer Beach Park, which offers camping facilities with amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. It’s a great place to camp if you’re looking for a family-friendly environment.
Two Step Beach
Two Step Beach is a popular snorkeling spot in Kona, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. It’s located near the Kailua Pier and is easily accessible by car. If you plan to visit Two Step Beach, bring your snorkeling gear and sunscreen.
Spencer Beach Park
Spencer Beach Park is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. The beach offers calm waters and soft sand, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The park has picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and camping facilities.
Kailua Pier
The Kailua Pier is a historic landmark in Kona and a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. It’s also the starting point for the Ironman World Championship, which occurs every year in October. If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, the Kailua Pier is a great option.
Overall, Kona has some of the finest sandy beaches in Hawaii, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, camp, or just relax on the beach, Kona has it all.
