In all honesty, it’s almost impossible to choose the “best” beaches in Hawaii. Each has its own characteristics, but they’re equally as amazing. But here are some special ones that we love, and you will, too.
Most Unique: Punalu’u Beach, Hawaii Island
Credit: Flickr / stevecadman / CCWhat makes this beach so unique is its black sand. Though other Hawaiian Islands do have black sand beaches, this one is particularly large. The black sand comes from a very old volcanic eruption, which created black rocks—including the ones that border this beach. You can also see lots of crabs and sea turtles on this beach, making it a must-visit on the Big Island.
Most Colorful: Kaihalulu Beach, Maui
Credit: Flickr / dexxus / CCThis beach gets the title “most colorful” for an obvious reason: The sand here is red. The color comes from an iron-rich hill produced by an old volcano. The hill is eroding slowly and the iron is what gives the sand its deep red color. This particular beach is not great for swimming, but it’s worth a visit for the scenery—there are very few true red-sand beaches in the world. (Be aware that sunbathers may consider clothing optional.)
Most Remote: Halona Cove, Oahu
Credit: Flickr / prayitnophotography / CCTrue, Hawaii is home to many remote beaches, each more beautiful that the last. But what makes this our pick for Most Remote is that it has been the set of popular movies (such as 50 First Dates and Pirates of the Caribbean), but remains almost deserted. You’ll find Halona Cove between Halona Point and the Halona Blowhole. If you decide to take a dip, beware the currents just outside the cove.
Best Snorkeling: Kumimi Beach Park, Molokai
Credit: Flickr / 4nitsirk / CCKumimi Beach goes by two other names: Murphy Beach and 20 Mile Beach. Don’t be fooled; the beach is not 20 miles long. That nickname comes from its location by Mile Marker 20. The reef protects the beach, making it nice and calm for families. Snorkeling out past the shallows is worth it, as you’ll see lots of fish, sponges and even octopi.
Most Historic: Shipwreck Beach, Lanai
Credit: Flickr / rickh710 / CCShipwreck Beach almost made the list under the Most Remote category, because you’ll need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach it. The beach gets its name from the many ships that were wrecked along its shallow and rocky channel, and you can still see the remains of a 1940s oil tanker that ran aground on the reef. A short walk up the trail near the Shipwreck Beach sign leads to the ancient Kukui Point petroglyphs on the big red boulders. Swimming is not advised here, but the views of Molokai and Maui make a trip here worth the drive.
Most Dramatic Scenery: Kee Beach, Kauai
Credit: Flickr / alexschwab / CCWhile Hawaii is known for its dramatic scenery in general, this beach takes the prize. It is located at the head of the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast. Down the shoreline from the beach, the landscape becomes incredibly wild. In fact, after this point, the coast line is only accessible by foot, sea or air. The snorkeling at this beach is great, with easily accessible reefs, and a wide stretch of sand is perfect for sunbathing.
Which Hawaiian beach is your favorite?
Main image: Ke'e Beach / Flickr / Larry Loos / CC
