Big Island Hawaii Beaches

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to many of the world's wonders. Because of its unique geology, the island is home to several stunning beaches. Most well-known for the striking black-sand beaches found along the southern coast, Hawaii island is also home to white and green-sand beaches. 

The island continues to grow and change in shape due to Kilauea volcano, the world's most active volcano and home the Hawaiian goddess of Pele. 

For first-time or returning visitors, effort should be made to spend a day at one of the black-sand beaches as they are truly unique. The jet-black sand set against a backdrop of palms and blue Pacific waters is about as idyllic as the Hawaiian setting gets. 

White Sand Beaches

Because the island is relatively young and still growing, much of the shoreline can be rocky. When you land at Kona International Airport, you'll be struck by the other-worldly landscape. Rough lava fields tumbling down into the blue ocean. It looks arid and somewhat alien. But up along the Kohala Coast, the dryer side of the island, are the best resorts. 

Our condos and vacation homes are located within these resorts, including Hualalai, Waikoloa, Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea. The resorts all begin in the lava rock landscape that defines the area, but as you drive into them you'll see that they become lush and perfectly maintained communities of golf courses, shopping and restaurant areas, hotels and resort condo complexes.

You will find white sand beaches along this coast in all of the resort properties, with the most famous being perhaps the beach at Mauna Kea Resort. This resort boasts beach-side service, which makes a day at the beach that much more special.

Mauna Kea Resort Beach

Green Sand Beach

Down on the South Shore of the Big Island are is an iconic beach known as the green-sand beach (Papakolea).

^{Papakolea Green Sand Beach}

Papakolea​ is one of only two green sand beaches in the U.S. The beach is not the easiest to reach, but if you are just a bit intrepid, you'll be rewarded by a unique beachscape that you'll remember forever. 

The sand's hue comes from green crystals, mixed with white sand and black lava-rock sand. If you are a hiker this beach is a much for you. You can also visit ancient temple sites in the area, also reached by hiking (“Heiau” is Hawaiian for ancient temple or sacred site).

^{Papakolea Green Sand Beach}

The surf can be rough here Papakolea. Therefore while swimming may be possible, take great care, as there are no lifeguards on duty here to rescue. This beach is really more for eyes than for a swimming retreat. Venture out early to enjoy the beach with fewer people around.

Also, there is not much shade cover here, so be sure to bring hats, water and plenty of coral-safe sunscreen. 

Black Sand Beaches

Punalu’u​ is probably the Big Island's most visited and photographed black-sand beach. Composed of pulverized lava rocks, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is located down at the bottom of the island, between the town of Kona and Hilo.

This stunning beach is fun for swimming, snorkeling, observing sea turtles up close, camping (with a permit), picnics and hiking along the coast. Be careful with the water here as well, as the ocean can get rough. As a rule, this goes for most of the open beaches in Hawaii.

^{Punalu'u Black Sand Beach}

The Big Island’s east coast may not be popular for its beaches, but it’s known to have one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline and scenery on the island. Receiving nearly 85 inches of rainfall per year, this area is full of lush tropical rainforests, fabulous waterfalls, and serene green valleys. Located towards the south/east side of Hilo, you will find the best and easiest beaches for you to visit. ​

Richardson's Beach and Ocean Park Tide Pools

Richardson’s Beach and Ocean Park​ is the closest to Hilo, not to mention the best choice for snorkeling and picnics. The ocean is a mix of spring water fed by freshwater forming ponds near the beach. This beach is great for families traveling with children, as the water is calm and tide pools will keep the kids entertained with its spectacular marine life. Although there will be a lifeguard on duty between 7am and 7pm, it is best to keep an eye on your children at all times. Richardson’s tends to get very busy on weekends so to avoid the crowd we recommend starting early to find parking.

^{Big Islands Kiholo Bay}

The gorgeous West Coast of the Big Island is blessed with sunshine and warm weather. There are 14 beaches on the west coast of the Big Island and ​Kiholo Bay​ is one of our favorites! Located in a beautiful bay that offers good swimming conditions, this beach is perfect for snorkeling, exploring tide pools, and relaxing by the ocean and soaking up the sun. For beach access, visitors must use the public beach path until you reach the tide pools.

If you’re looking for white sandy beaches, the north coast near Waimea and Kohala Resorts come very close to what we call paradise. With its few black sand beaches surrounded by 1000+ foot high cliffs and lush green forests covering every hillside, it’s no wonder why this side of the Big Island is a beach lover’s favorite. ​Waipi’o Valley and Black Sand Beach ​is home to about 50 local Hawaiians.

^{Waipi'o Valley & Black Sand Beach}

This beach is known for its rip currents and high surf, it is not recommended for swimming. While this beach is difficult to access, it is known to be a great place to relax after a long hike into the valley and features some of the most incredible views. If you’re lucky enough and only after a heavy day of rainfall, you may be able to see the Kaluahine Falls located on your right-hand side once you’ve reached the beach. If you are not up for the hike, Waipi’o Valley can be reached several ways. The best way to access this valley and black sand beach is to take a fully organized tour, shuttle ride, horseback, or mule drawn wagon.

Enjoy your trip to the Big Island and its many unique and beautiful beaches!