Best Beaches in Hawaii

Voted America's Best Beach in 2021, this serene beach is cradled by a forest of khaki mangroves and a mesmerising coral reef. Crystal-clear, azure waters beckon you in, promising an encounter with playful sea turtles amidst a mesmerizing coral reef teeming with colourful life. After a refreshing dip, sink your toes into the soft sand dunes and watch the sun dip below the horizon in a breathtaking display of pastel hues.

Hawaii's iconic white sand beaches are famous for a reason, but the islands offer another kind of magic: the spectacular black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. Formed from pulverised lava rocks, this beach is uniquely beautiful and captivating. The jet-black sand contrasts stunningly with the turquoise waters, creating a unique spectacle. Keep your eyes peeled for green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles basking on the black sand. For adventurous explorers, vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish lie just offshore. Don your snorkel and fins and discover a world hidden beneath the waves.

Escape to the tranquillity of Hanalei Bay, a haven for those seeking a quieter seaside experience on Kauai's north coast. This breathtaking bay offers the perfect blend of sparkling golden sand and turquoise waters. The majestic emerald mountains that rise behind the bay create the perfect backdrop. The winner of America's Best Beach in 2009, it's no wonder that the beauty of Hanalei Bay has seduced movie-makers, including Disney for its film "Descendants".

Mākena Beach State Park stretches over 900 metres of pristine cream-coloured sand and stunning volcanic rock formations. With three entrances, visitors can explore different sections of the coastline. Big Beach lives up to its name with powerful waves that attract experienced surfers, while Little Beach offers a tranquil cove ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

This coastline showcases some of Hawaii's most recognisable landscapes: lush palms, vibrant greens and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. But what sets it apart is the sand, which takes on warm amber tones. So it's no surprise that celebrities like Jennifer Aniston have visited, perhaps staying at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, nestled alongside this breathtaking paradise.

If you want to spend a quiet day on a peaceful beach, head to Pāpōhaku Beach. It's the epitome of relaxing tropical bliss, with its golden grains of sand and old-world charm. Molokai tends to get fewer visitors, so you're more likely to have the beach to yourself.

Ko Olina Beach's sapphire waters are idyllic for swimming and paddling due to its shallow, horseshoe-shaped lagoon. Swaying palm trees lining the shore complete the scene. Despite being backed by hotels including Aulani, a Disney Resort, Ko Olina offers a safe haven for little ones. The calm, crystal-clear water of the shallow lagoon is perfect for splashing, and three glistening coves are all within walking distance.

Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu isn't just a gorgeous stretch of golden sand: it has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, when visitors arrived by steamboat, eager to soak up its crescent-shaped beauty. Stretching for three km, Waikīkī is not just one beach: there are several, each with its own ambience.

Framed by the bustling city, Duke Kahanamoku Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxation and action. Hotel bars and restaurants line the shore, serving up all manner of delights. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can enjoy a range of water sports, from snorkelling and surfing to paddleboarding.

So grab a Mai Tai, sink into the silky sand and enjoy the local spectacle.

Waimea Bay Beach Park on Oahu is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers. Imagine lush greenery framing a vast expanse of turquoise water, setting the stage for your aquatic adventures. Whether you're a professional surfer riding epic waves, a bodyboarder plotting thrilling lines or a novice swimmer enjoying the gentle rift of the shoreline, Waimea Bay has something to offer everyone. After soaking up the excitement of the water, rinse off in the convenient showers before settling in for a picnic amidst the beautiful Hawaiian scenery.