An idyllic spot on the west coast of Big Island where you can relax on the pristine white sands and enjoy some water-based activities.
Covering an area of some 250,000 square metres, the state park at Hapuna Beach is perfect for hiking, swimming or snorkelling. For a less energetic pursuit, just lie back and enjoy the sunshine on its rare and stunning white shoreline.
Given its scale, Hapuna Beach has space aplenty even when the crowds head here in droves. The shallow waters are pleasantly warm in the summer, whilst in the northern part of the beach you’ll find a protected area with calm, shallow waters, ideal for taking younger children for a paddle or a swim.
Surfers often head here too, but as waves can reach higher than one metre, thanks to large swells and riptides forming near the beach, you should make sure you check on conditions before you head into the water. For a rather different view of the ocean, you can plunge straight into it from the cliffs around the beach’s south end. Once known to the ancient Hawaiians as a popular sport. Lele Kawa, or Hawaiian cliff jumping is still popular today. Try it out for yourself if you’re feeling daring.
If you’d rather stick to dry land, hike the trail through the state park which stretches over 281 kilometres and passes by some of the most important heritage sites in Hawaii. Or if you want to stay at the beach there are plenty of amenities to make your visit a pleasant one, as well as overnight lodging shelters available for rent – check the Hawaii State Park website for information. In the park you’ll also find the popular Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel.
Situated on the Kohola Coast just over 50 kilometres to the north of Kailua-Kona, Hapuna Beach State Park is best accessed by car with plenty of parking spaces available. Charter buses operate here, but aren’t always on offer for day visitors. The beach opens every day and it will cost you a small fee to enter.
