Beach· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
19° 59.5′ N · 155° 49.5′ W
The Big Island's best-known white-sand beach, half a mile long and about 200 ft wide, with a gently sloping bottom, sunset lookout rocks at both ends and lifeguards. The shallow sandy cove at the north end is where novice snorkelers start.
Practical
Coordinate from To-Hawaii.com's map pin (Wikipedia gives 19.99132, -155.82302 for the park). Lifeguards on duty. Calm in summer; high winter surf can make entry unsafe. State park entry and parking fees apply to non-residents, but the amount was not verified for this entry; check Hawaii State Parks. The Ala Kahakai coastal trail links north toward Kauna'oa. Snorkeling is best near the rocky ends on calm, clear days.
Best for
Big swimming beach with facilities and lifeguards
Season
Calmest in summer
Nearby
- Waialea Bay (Beach 69)0.6 NM away
- Kauna'oa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach)0.8 NM away
- Puako Anchorage1 NM away
- Puako Reef1.1 NM away
- Spencer Beach Park1.9 NM away
- Kawaihae Harbor (North and South Small Boat Harbors)2.2 NM away
- Pelekane and Hale o Kapuni Shark Heiau2.2 NM away
- Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site2.2 NM away