The “Big Island” of Hawaii is unique in the Hawaiian chain, with everything from soft sand beaches to jagged volcanic lava fields, lush vegetation to rugged mountains. In all, picturesque Hawaii Island is one of a kind, which may be why it’s also called the “Island of Discovery.”
Hawaii Island beaches come in a variety of colors, including white, green, and the famous black sand variety, which just add to the uniqueness of this beautiful destination.
If you are a beach lover, Hawaii Island’s white, black, and green sand beaches are calling. Some of the beaches are in resort areas, while others are hidden in remote places, where you may find the only other living creatures on land there are the sea turtles.
On the popular Kohala Coast, you can find the largest stretch of white sand on the Island at Hapuna Beach. Anaehoomalu Beach is great for picnicking and tons of water activities, plus, there’s a historic Hawaiian fishpond right alongside. One of the best locations is the crescent-shaped Kaunaoa Beach, where its calm waters are a favorite for swimmers.
Holoholokai has a small beach that’s not sandy, but it’s ideal for snorkeling and exploring the area’s tide pools. It’s also near a petroglyph preserve where hundreds of ancient lava carvings can be found.
In the northern part of the Kohala Coast, you will find the popular Samuel Spencer Beach Park, which is the perfect spot for reef-protected swimming and snorkeling. There are lots of tables and BBQ grills, as well, and it’s within walking distance of the national historic Puukolola Heiau site.
Just south of Kailua-Kona, home of the Royal Kona Resort, is Kahalulu Beach in the Keauhou area, which is great for snorkeling beach for humans and lounging spot frequented by Hawaiian green sea turtles. Laalao Beach, also known as Disappearing Sands and Magic Sands, is near the Royal Kona and is a wonderful place for body-surfing and bogie-boarding. This small beach may disappear overnight due to tidal shifts or strong surf, but it always returns.
Green sea turtles come ashore to bask in the warm, black sands of Hawaii Island.
The east or Hilo side of the island also has terrific beaches and parks, where exploration and picnicking are at their best. Here, you’ll find jungles running to the ocean, waterfalls, tide pools, good snorkeling sites, and the famous black sand beach, where Hawaiian green sea turtles come shore to bask in the warm sun.
The Activity Center at the Royal Kona Resort can help you discover the best spots for swimming, sunning, surfing, snorkeling, scuba, kayaking, picnicking, and much more on Hawaii Island.