What Are the Best Beaches in Kona Hawaii?

Hawaii’s Big Island is a paradise of wonders, drawing countless visitors every year. And while many may be lured to the black sand beaches of the west coast or even the green sand beach in the south, the Kona coast has no shortage of awe-inspiring marvels. Prismatic sands, waving palm trees, and gorgeous views sweep the western shoreline, unveiling some of the best beaches in Kona.

As one of the best places to enjoy the sun and sand on the Big Island, we’ll take you through all the must-see beaches for your next journey to the heart of the west coast.

The 19 Best Beaches in Kona, HI

Kona sits smack dab in the middle of the Big Island’s west coast, making it the perfect home base. From here, you can explore the best beaches in Kona and their many wonders, from classic scenes of paradise to child-friendly tide pools and ancient Hawaiian sites.

With untold shores to explore, here’s your guide to the best and most stunning beaches in and around Kona.

1. Hapuna Beach

You can’t start a list of the best beaches in Kona without mentioning the crown jewel of the Kohala Coast. Even among the many white sand beaches of the Big Island, Hapuna Beach shines like a rare diamond. Over half a mile of white sand stretches along the coast, gradually sloping into the glittering blue sea.

Gentle waters make Hapuna Beach an excellent spot to swim or snorkel, while the continuous shore break also allows for boogie boarding and bodysurfing.

Beautiful days are near endless at Hapuna Beach. As one of the driest areas on the Big Island, Hapuna promises beachgoers as much sun as they can handle.

Combine all the merits of this sandy beach—its beautiful sunny shore, enjoyable surf, and scenic views—with the convenience of public facilities, picnic tables, and a year-round lifeguard, and you’re armed with everything you need to spend a blissful day on the beach.

Marrying natural beauty and modern conveniences, Hapuna Beach easily ranks as one of the best beaches in Kona and the world.

2. Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach

Not to be outdone, Kaunaʻoa Beach is another lovely white sand beach on the west coast. More commonly referred to as Mauna Kea, the beach sits adjacent to the Mauna Kea Resort, the very first resort on the Big Island.

It’s not hard to see why someone would want to build a resort here. The crescent-shaped bay sports gorgeous views of the beach’s verdant surroundings and towering Mauna Kea in the distance. Meanwhile, the glittering waters offer gentle waves for playing yet remain calm enough to float.

The beach is magical during the day but come nightfall, a different magic takes hold. Lights go up over the water, bringing plankton and, with them, majestic manta rays. Visitors can make their way to Manta Ray Point to see these graceful creatures glide around the bay.

As one of the few white sand beaches on the Kohala Coast, Mauna Kea stands as one of the best Kona has to offer and an idyllic gem among Big Island beaches.

3. Manini’owali (Kua Bay) Beach

Manini’owali Beach, or as it’s more commonly called Kua Bay, is one of three dreamy white sand beaches located in Kekaha Kai State Park. It’s also the easiest to access. A turn off Highway 11 brings you to the Kua Bay parking lot. From there, this secluded white sand beach lies waiting just a mile away.

It’s worth the short trek to lounge on this striking beach; just don’t forget to bring your own shade! With no palm trees shading the beach, the sun can get hot and heavy come midday. But, a quick splash in the brilliant waters of Kua Bay will quickly cool things down again.

The serene waters are perfect for a swim. Small waves provide just enough breaks for novice surfers and boogie boarders to enjoy themselves. Exploring the north end of Kua Bay will reveal a rock formation where snorkelers can spy colorful sea creatures.

Kona beaches come with epic sunsets, and Kua Bay is one of the best places to see this magical moment.

4. Anaeho’omalu Beach

Affectionately referred to as A-Bay, Anaeho’omalu Beach lies near the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. A large, sandy grove of coconut trees opens onto a dazzling stretch of white sand beach. You’ll find your gaze drawn to spectacular blue waters and stark black lava rocks on both ends of the bay. Tide pools dot the shore, while just behind the beach are two ancient fishponds that were once used to feed Hawaiian royalty.

An offshore reef protects the large bay, and the beach descends slowly into the ocean, resulting in calm waters and shallow swim areas perfect for children. Or head further out to take in the sights of the bay and the mountains. The bay includes plenty of amenities, from hotels to beach huts and rental shops for water sports activities. Or simply go for a stroll along the beach. Toward the south end, you’ll likely catch some Hawaiian sea turtles sunning themselves on the sand.

5. White Sands Beach Park (Magic Sands)

This beach has many names—White Sands Beach Park, Magic Sands Beach, and even Disappearing Sands. They all fit this gorgeous beach to a T. Its magical essence is apparent from the minute you gaze out at the shore. And as for the disappearing act this beach pulls, well, during high surf, waves pound the coast and draw away the sand—literally vanishing it overnight! But the constant movement of this sandy beach means the shore is kept white and pristine.

Aside from these magic sands, the beach has many draws, mainly out on the water. Due to a small sandbar fronting the beach, the swimming conditions are excellent. Magic Sands Beach is also one of the best snorkeling beaches in Kona. Scuba divers also enjoy exploring the rocky cove just south of the beach.

While calm waters bring fun beach days, big waves in winter bring the only bodysurfing contest on the Big Island to the shores of Magic Sands Beach.

6. Kikaua Point Beach Park

Locals and families heavily favor Kikaua Point Beach Park among the best beaches in Kona. Small and sheltered, this white sand oasis lies just south of Kukio Beach. Accessible from the Kukio Golf Resort, a paved path lined with lava rock walls leads the way from the parking lot to the beach park, opening onto a picturesque setting. Trees dot a grassy lawn above the beach, providing patches of shade for laying out. Meanwhile, Hualalai lava rock decorates the beach’s shore, and a lava rock trail connects Kikaua Point Beach Park to Kukio Beach, where it’s not uncommon to find sea turtles chilling on the shore.

While too shallow for adults, the protected lagoon is perfect for small children. Novice swimmers and snorkelers can practice their skills away from the turbulent ocean waves. With its laidback vibes and family-friendly shores, visitors count Kikaua Point Beach Park among the best family-friendly beaches on the Big Island.

7. ‘Alula Beach

Idyllic and serene, ‘Alula Beach doesn’t see much tourist traffic, making it the perfect place to escape the crowds. Lush vegetation, sparkling white sand, and a rocky shoreline trailing into blue waters set the scene. But underneath the water is where most visitors are drawn.

‘Alula serves as a starting point for many snorkelers and divers looking to explore the area. You may even find yourself swimming with the green sea turtles that frequent here—just remember to keep a safe distance!

‘Alula Beach is part of the Kalolo-Honokohau National Historical Park. The park encompasses many aspects of Hawaiian culture, including old stone houses, a heiau (ancient temple), and even secluded beaches.

Made for adventures and rich with history, ‘Alulu Beach promises an unforgettable day of fun under the sun on one of the best beaches in Kona.

8. Mahai’ula Beach

Searching for Kona’s picture-perfect beaches will lead you to this gem on the northwest coast. A winding, bumpy road is the only way to access this secluded beach housed within Kekaha Kai State Park. But travelers who brave the rough terrain are rewarded with near-empty shores and a coast that feels far removed from the rest of the Big Island beaches.

The long, crescent-shaped beach provides ample space to spread out and bask in solitude. Just like at other Kona beaches, the clear waters at Mahai’ula Beach make it possible to see fish and corals without donning your snorkeling gear. But, of course, swimming and snorkeling are just as popular as sunbathing here. With the lack of people, don’t be surprised if you run into goats climbing the lava rocks or monk seals getting their sun.

Paired with a visit to its sister beach, Makalawena, you can easily spend a whole day enjoying the beaches of Kekaha Kai State Park.

9. Makalawena Beach

If you thought Mahai’ula Beach was the most secluded it could get, think again. Located just north of Mahai’ula, the only way to get to Makalawena Beach is by foot—unless you have an off-roader that can handle lava rock terrain. The one to two-mile hike each way is enough to discourage most beachgoers. But, if you undergo the challenge, you’ll be treated to one of the best beaches on Kona’s west coast.

This white sand beach has to be one of the most beautiful on the island. The view unveils shimmering turquoise waters and gentle waves rolling onto the shore, crashing against black rocks jutting out into the sea. Makalawena Beach is the quintessential Hawaiian paradise. While you’ll find some picnic tables, it’s just you, the sun, the sand, and the sea. So spread out on the sand, go for a stroll, or dive beneath the waves to explore colorful underwater caves.

Makalawena Beach begs visitors to stay long after the sun has set.

10. Kealakekua Bay

The word magnificent could be used to describe many Big Island beaches, but it rings especially true for Kealakekua Bay. Tucked into an inlet on the southwest coast of the Big Island, Kealakekua Bay is blissfully beautiful and historically significant. In 1779, Captain Cook arrived in Hawaii, and Hawaiians encountered him in Kealakekua Bay. Today, you can still see his statue, Captain Cook Monument, sitting opposite the bay.

Surrounded by lush greenery and historical sites, Kealakekua Bay Park only gets better when you consider one of the most spectacular reefs sits just offshore. Tropical fish dart through beautiful corals, and it’s some of the most excellent snorkeling you’ll find on the Big Island.

Spinner dolphins enjoy Kealakekua Bay as much as humans do, and you may find yourself getting a show while they play and spin offshore.

11. Kohanaiki Beach Park

Compared to other beach parks on the Big Island, Kohanaiki Beach Park is a young one established in 2013. Frequented primarily by locals, the community often refers to it as Pine Trees Beach. But despite what you may think from the locals’ name, Kohanaiki Beach Park doesn’t actually have any pine trees; instead, it’s mostly heliotrope and hau trees.

The beach sports a sandy shore excellent for children to swim in the shallow water, while a second, rockier shore is often a playground for surfers. Whereas the swimming at Kohanaiki Beach Park is only so-so, the surfing easily takes the crown. Steady waves make it a choice Kona beach for local surfers, who can often be seen catching the waves.

If you need a break from the sun and sand, Kohanaiki Beach Park houses several historical areas, and you can see everything from a canoe house to shrines and even ancient board games.

12. Honokohau (Kona Dog) Beach

Traveling the Kona coast of the Big Island, you might have thought that the white sand beaches come standard here. But a trip to Honokohau Beach will quickly dispel that notion, as this is a beach that stands out for more than just its nickname, Kona Dog Beach. The sand here is called salt and pepper sand. Ground lava rock, seashells, and corals combine to create this beach’s unique shore, but the view is still classic Hawaii.

There’s plenty to do both in and out of the water. Snorkeling is a popular activity for this beach, thanks to the protected reef, while the palm trees dotting the shore provide a little reprieve from the Hawaiian sun. Behind the north end of the beach is what’s known as the Queen’s Bath, a spring-fed pool that many beachgoers use to wash off the ocean saltwater.

Because Honokohau Beach is part of the Kalolo-Honokohau National Historical Park, the area bursts with archeological sites, including temples, burial grounds, rock carvings, and fishponds. The presence of so many sites and artifacts is all evidence of a once-thriving community that numbered in the hundreds.

13. Kahalu’u Beach Park

Oahu isn’t the only island with a living natural aquarium—we’re looking at you, Hanauma Bay! While the views of the sea are stunning, what’s under the water’s surface at Kahalu’u Beach Park will steal your breath. Scores of tropical fish, including Yellow Tang and Moorish Idol, dart among the coral reef, sharing space with eels, octopuses, sea turtles, and more.

With such vibrant life found here, it’s no wonder that this beach’s popularity stretches back half a millennium, with records showing that royals once took up residence along the bay.

The water is so clear you can even catch a glimpse from your surfboard. With small waves in the reef and bigger waves outside, Kahalu’u Beach Park is one of the best beaches in Kona for beginner and experienced surfers.

The delicate ecosystem at Kahalu’u Beach Park is one to be treasured and protected, so future generations can enjoy one of the best beaches in Kona for years to come.

14. Honl’s Beach

For wave catchers and wave riders, a visit to the Big Island wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the birthplace of the Boogie Board.

The modest beach is nothing to write home about compared to the other impressive Kona beaches on the Big Island. Still, the white sand is uncrowded and shaded by palm trees, creating an excellent spot to lay out and listen to the crashing waves.

Speaking of waves, that’s precisely what makes Honl’s beach stand out as one of the best beaches in Kona. Once the surf kicks up, the waves become a frothing beast ready for taming, and eager boogie boarders head out to do just that in the same spot that inspired their beloved sport.

After a long day of wave riding or watching, Honl’s Beach is in the perfect location to hop over to downtown Kona. You can stroll through Historic Kailua Village before grabbing a bite to eat, then return to this small beach for a spectacular sunset view.

15. Ho’okena Beach Park

The Kona Coast may not be home to any of the black sand beaches the Big Island is famous for, but it is home to the unique sands of Ho’okena Beach Park. White sand mixes with gray coral to create the unique gray sands found at Ho’okena. The sand is just as soft as you’d expect at a Big Island beach. Paired with the tall palm trees bordering the sand, you’re bound to find an ideal spot to lay out.

Ho’okena Beach Park is significant in Hawaiian culture because it was home to the last active canoe fishing village. You may even see fishermen practicing the old ancestral traditions, launching their canoes into the water, or returning with bounties of fish. With rental facilities available, you can rent your own gear—kayaks, boogie boards, and snorkel gear—to head out or skip the equipment and go swimming instead.

Bordered by sea cliffs to the left, Ho’okena offers staggering views to go with your beach fun. And with well-maintained campgrounds right behind the beach, it’s an idyllic spot to camp under the stars.

16. Kamakahonu Beach (King Kam Beach)

This small taste of Hawaii’s fabulous beaches is located right in the heart of downtown Kona, between the Kailua pier and the King Kamehameha hotel. Kamakahonu Beach, also called King Kam Beach or Kid Beach, is an ideal stop for families passing through Kona.

Stalky palm trees dot the sandy beach and grassy lawn, creating a picturesque setting. The protected bay sees almost no waves; you may mistake the placid waters for your resort pool. But, of course, that makes it an ideal playground spot for little kids to splash and play outside the turbulent ocean waters.

Adults may also enjoy exploring King Kamehameha the Great’s cultural artifacts, historical buildings, and temples, including his personal temple, Ahuena Heiau.

Families will delight in this little oasis amid the city’s hustle and bustle, enjoying one of the best and safest swimming beaches in Kona with their little ones.

17. Keiki Ponds

Just north of downtown Kona is the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, which is home to a long stretch of beach and this more secluded cove called Keiki Ponds.

The park has a fascinating history. Once the main airport for the Kona area, it was closed when the new Kona international airport was built, and the old runways became a famous site for drag races. It was then converted into the Old Kona Airport Beach Park.

Today, the park is perfect for families and kids, especially Keiki Ponds. Located on the southernmost point of the park, Keiki Ponds is a quiet, calm escape from the Kona crowds, with waving palm trees and rocky tide pools, hence the name. The water ranges from ankle to shoulder deep, but thanks to the lava rock barrier, it’s extremely calm, like bathwater, which coincidentally earned the beach its nickname, Queen’s Bath.

The serene waters and fascinating tide pools ensure hours of fun for the kids, making this another excellent stop among the many dazzling Kona beaches.

18. Spencer Beach Park

Spencer Beach sits tucked up on the north shore of the Big Island along the Kohala Coast. Here, you won’t find the staple of jutting lava rocks that accompany most Kona beaches but a sprawling shore of sandy white beach shaded by large trees. Rather than crashing against the shore, waves lap gently at the sloping sand.

Breathtaking panoramas frame the deep blue sea against the cerulean sky, creating a striking image of tranquility.

With such incredible views, Spencer Beach Park is tailor-made for picnics and lazy beach days. A large pavilion provides picnic tables and electrical outlets for small cook items. And if you happen to forget something in your picnic basket, Kawaihae and Waimea are just a short drive away.

It’s easy to see why locals and visitors consider Spencer Beach Park one of the best beaches in Kona to relax and spend the day with your family.

19. Honaunau Bay (Two Step Beach)

Just when you think you’ve explored and discovered it all, you stumble upon another quintessential Hawaiian shore at Honaunau Bay. And like many Big Island beaches, it holds more gems than what’s seen at first glance.

Honaunau Bay, or Two Step Beach if you prefer, is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Kona and, in fact, all of Hawaii. Magnificent coral reefs and lava rock paths offer up world-class experiences for die-hard snorkeling enthusiasts. Two Step is also a good scuba diving location, and many novice divers get their start on the sandy shore of the northern bay.

In addition, the bay is also home to the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, which details the area’s fascinating history as a haven for warriors and lawbreakers fleeing certain death.

Two Step Beach is another in a long line of astounding beaches, offering classic Hawaiian panoramas above and below the water, along with a striking peak at the island’s history.

Does Kona Have White Sandy Beaches?

Kona is home to some of the most magnificent white sand beaches on the Big Island. Arguably, the best white sand beaches can all be found in Kekaha Kai State Park.

Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)
Maha’ula Beach
Makalawena Beach

Though they require more effort to access than many other Kona beaches, the prize is a slice of paradise. Kua Bay, Maha’ula Beach, and Makalawena Beach offer dazzling white sand, glittering blue waters, and a magical atmosphere you won’t find replicated anywhere else.

Does Kona Have a Black Sand Beach?

Unfortunately, there are no black sand beaches on the Kona side of the Big Island. However, a drive to the north or east coasts of the Big Island will unveil the majority of Hawaii’s black sand beaches, including the most famous: Punalu’u.

The black sand of Punalu’u immediately turns the towering palm trees and crashing waves of a classic Hawaii coast into something eerie and enchanting. It’s worth the hour-and-a-half drive from Kona to stand under Punalu’u’s palms and sink your toes into the black sand.

What Is the Nicest Beach in Kona?

To crown just one among the many spectacular Kona beaches as king presents a challenge, but the crown must be placed upon none other than Hapuna Beach. Soft sand, calm shores, and unparalleled views combine with modern comforts to make this one of the best beaches in Kona.

Speaking of modern comforts, Next Vacay can make it that much easier to fly to paradise on Hapuna Beach with cheap flight deals delivered right to your inbox. Getting away to all of the best beaches in Kona has never been easier than when you fly with Next Vacay.

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