Hawaii, a US state in the Pacific Ocean, is a beautiful cluster of islands that attract tourists, especially beach bums from around the globe. Pristine shores and turquoise waters make Hawaii a dreamy affair. Often frequented by honeymooners, there are some great beaches for families too. Beach hopping in Hawaii is one of the best activities through which you can enjoy the beauty of this US state. The idyllic beaches are perfect to both unwind and have an adventure. So, what would you do here?
Best Time For Beach Hopping In Hawaii
If you are planning to go beach hopping in Hawaii, then the best months for the beach here are April, May, September, and October. Hawaii has the rainy season from November to March, making beach activities difficult. So, check the weather and know the best time before you head out to beach hop in Hawaii.
8 Best Beaches For Beach Hopping In Hawaii
Here are the best beaches listed from various islands in Hawaii. Have a look before you book your stay and finalize your itinerary. The best way to visit most of these beaches would be by beach hopping. So, pack sunscreen!
1. Waikiki Beach
This is one of the busiest and most recognized beaches in both Oahu and Hawaii. The two-mile stretch of coast offers tourists with a number of activities to indulge in. From surfing to snorkeling and from getting a tan to watching the shimmering sunset, one can enjoy it all at the Waikiki Beach.
Other than these fun activities, one can take a walk at the lovely Waikiki Beach promenade. So, take a beach chair, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at this beach in Hawaii.
Where: Oahu
Things to do: Surfing, canoe paddling, snorkeling, swimming, boogie boarding, sand combing
Beaches nearby: Ala Moana Beach, Kahanamoku Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach
Must Read: Hang Gliding In Hawaii: Know The Best Spots To Try This Adventurous Activity
2. Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach
One of the prettiest white sand beaches in Hawaii, Kauna’oa Beach is a family beach. The beach is around half a mile long and is a great spot for sunbathing and snorkeling. The palms that line the beach provide shade for those who want to sit and relax at the beach.
As the day ends, and floodlights are turned on, one can see Manta Rays in the waters and there is especially a point popular as “Manta Ray Point” from where one can enjoy a great view of the same.
Where: Hawaii
Things to do: Sunbathing, snorkeling, spot Manta Rays during the night
Beaches nearby: Hapuna Beach, Waialea Beach, Kaunaoa Beach
Suggested Read: 9 Thrilling Things To Do In Honolulu That You Must Try On Your Hawaii Trip!
3. Sunset Beach
If you are planning to go beach hopping in Hawaii, then Oahu won’t disappoint you. It has some of the most surreal beaches here that are amazing spots to spend one’s day. Popular as a surfing mecca, Sunset Beach as the name suggests is a popular beach to enjoy spectacular sunsets in Hawaii.
One can simply relax here with their folks. But if you are an adventure enthusiast, then other than surfing, one can also enjoy snorkeling at Sunset Beach. The reefs are nice to explore around here and one can spot a variety of colorful marine life.
Where: Oahu
Things to do: Surfing, snorkeling, enjoy spectacular sunset views
Beaches nearby: Three Tables Beach, Waimea Bay Beach, Banzai Pipeline
Suggested Read: 10 Picturesque Hotels In Hawaii That Will Give You Travel Goals
4. Punaluʻu Beach
If you like black sand beaches, then Punaluʻu Beach is just the place in Hawaii. Nestled between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu in Kau, Punaluʻu Beach has really dark black shores. Other than the color of the sand, another interesting thing that one may find here is the large Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. But one isn’t allowed to touch these turtles and has to maintain a distance of 15 feet from them. At the end of Punaluʻu Beach, there is a freshwater pool and if one goes further offshore, there are some underground freshwater springs too!
Where: Hawaii
Things to do: Watch the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles bask under the sun, enjoy a picnic, wade in the freshwater pool
Beaches nearby: Kamehame Beach, Kōloa Beach
Suggested Read: 16 Picture-Perfect Places To Visit In Hawaii For A Dramatic Tropical Getaway
5. Puunoa Beach
If you are planning beach hopping in Hawaii with kids, then Puunoa Beach should be on the itinerary. Also popular as Lahaina’s Baby Beach, this beach is mostly frequented by families with kids.
The beach has the protection of a reef which has created a calm and shallow area for the children to enjoy. Though one might not enjoy snorkeling or diving here, the views of the neighboring islands are spectacular. One can also enjoy the sunset views here.
Where: Maui
Things to do: Swimming, enjoy the sunset views
Beaches nearby: Lahaina Beach, Kaanapali Beach, Kahana Beach
Suggested Read: Hawaiian Islands Guide: For A Surreal Holiday In The Lap Of Nature
6. Kaanapali Beach
A popular beach getaway for people all around the world, Kaanapali Beach has been named one of America’s best beaches in the past. With white sand, crystal clear water and some of the best beachfront hotels and resorts, this is an ideal place to hang out in Hawaii.
There is a huge shopping complex too where one can shop during the trip. Other than swimming, one can also try zip lining here. The highlight of the beach is the cliff jumping ceremony each evening from the Puu Kekaa or Black Rock cliffs. Do witness it!
Where: Maui
Things to do: Swimming, cliff diving, ziplining, rent a beach cabana, try a Lomi Lomi massage
Beaches nearby: Kahana Beach, Puunoa Beach, Lahaina Beach
Suggested Read: 12 Best Beaches In Hawaii Where You Can Soak In The Sun & Enjoy A Blissful Vacay
7. Poipu Beach
Shaped like 3 half-moons, this is a lovely stretch of white sand beach in Kauai. Located on the southern tip of the island, the beach is quite serene and an amazing one to include in one’s itinerary for beach hopping in Hawaii.
The gentle waves and calm waters are great to enjoy swimming here. It is a great beach for beginners learning to surf. One can also try snorkeling and scuba diving at Poipu Beach.
Where: Kauai
Things to do: Swimming, snorkeling, scuba, boogie boarding, surfing
Beaches nearby: Shipwreck Beach, Baby Beach, Waiohai Beach
Suggested Read: Hawaii Nightlife: Best Places On The Island To Get Tipsy On The Refreshing Tiki Cocktails
8. Ho‘okipa Beach
One of the top beaches in Hawaii, Ho‘okipa Beach attracts the most number of adventure seekers. Also called the mecca for watersports, it is the best place to enjoy windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing. One can also spot sea turtles here during the evening. If you are looking to relax and unwind, then get a towel and lay on the sand, enjoying the pristine views of the Maui coat.
Where: Maui
Things to do: Surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing
Beaches nearby: Kanaha Beach, Pāʻia Secret Beach, Spreckelsville Beach
Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Hawaii For An Unforgettable Vacation At This Tropical Paradise!
Tips For Beach Hopping In Hawaii
If you are headed to the beaches in Hawaii, then these tips would come handy. Have a look!
- Being in the tropics, the sun is harsh and one should always carry sunscreen. If you go for a swim, do not forget to reapply it once you are out of the water.
- Hawaii can be pretty humid, so stay hydrated at all times. Drink a lot of water here.
- Some beaches of Hawaii are not safe for swimming, so pay attention to any warnings or instructions given.
- Avoid swimming at beaches where there is no lifeguard tower
- Though island hopping is tempting, stick to one island and instead go beach hopping in Hawaii. The beaches here are spectacular and won’t disappoint you!
Further Read: Here’s What To Expect From A Honeymoon In Hawaii
Beach hopping in Hawaii is certainly worth it. The golden sand beaches here are gorgeous. From surfing and swimming to fishing and picnicking, Hawaii has it all. So, what are you waiting for? Book a trip to Hawaii with TravelTriangle and have an amazing time beach hopping in paradise! Know of more beaches to visit here, then write to us in the comments below!
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