Best Beaches in Hawaii

By Gayot Editors

11. Manele Bay, Lanai

Manele Bay, Lanai
Manele Bay, Manele Bay Rd., Lanai City, Lanai

This beach is part of a Marine Life Sanctuary and the shallow waters near the shore here make it kid-friendly.

Manele Bay is a marine preserve, and as such, is filled with tropical fish and the occasional curious dolphin. Considered by some to be one of the most beautiful areas in the world, it boasts sapphire-blue water for swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving as well as sunbathing along the honey-colored sand. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay is located in this heavenly setting, offering suites with lanais and amazing ocean views.

12. Papohaku Beach, Molokai

Papohaku Beach, Molokai
Papohaku Beach, Kaluakoi Rd., Molokai

Also known as Three Mile Beach, Papohaku offers three miles of sand and surf with few people.

The wonderful ocean vista includes a view of the island of Oahu. Among the facilities, you will find campsites, showers, restrooms and picnic areas. Care should be taken in the water as strong rip currents are present. Try to visit during the month of May when Molokai’s biggest cultural festival, Molokai Ka Hula Piko, takes place here.

13. Poipu Beach Park, Kauai

Poipu Beach Park, Kauai
Poipu Beach Park, Koloa, Kauai

Poʻipū Beach Park, located on Kauai’s South Shore, offers a wide range of fun activities.

Water lovers will find kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing and swimming. The area also offers ziplining, hiking, mountain biking and ATV tours. Go deep-sea fishing if you want to catch “the big one.”

14. Spencer Beach Park, Hawaii

Spencer Beach Park, Hawaii
Spencer Beach Park, Hwy. 270, Waimea, Hawaii

Lying in the shadow of the giant temple that Kamehameha built before uniting all the Hawaiian Islands is a white-sand beach.

Spencer is protected from the prevailing winds and strong waves, and swimmers, snorkelers and divers will find great conditions. This is the perfect place for a family picnic as there is calm water, shade and good facilities, including restrooms, picnic tables, showers, basketball and volleyball courts, a roofed pavilion, parking lots, camping area and lifeguard tower. Parents can relax in the shade and watch their children play near the water. Those wishing to explore the beach should use caution when walking in rocky areas, as sea urchins are present.