Beaches

Kona Coast Beaches

From Kailua-Kona — North and South

The Kona Coast offers a wide variety of beach experiences. Some are sandy and perfect for swimming. Others are lava rock entry points with world-class snorkeling. Conditions vary by season and surf, so always check the ocean before entering.

Below is a north-to-south guide beginning in Kailua-Kona.

Kamakahonu Beach (Kona Town)

Photo: Alan Fullmer

A small, protected sandy cove located next to the Kailua Pier and the King Kamehameha Hotel.

Beach Experience:
Calm water and a gentle sandy bottom make this one of the easiest places on the coast for swimming. It is ideal for families, children, and anyone who prefers relaxed ocean conditions.

Water Access:
Gradual sandy entry.

Facilities:
Nearby restrooms, shops, restaurants, and public parking.

Best For:
Quick swims, paddleboarding, and convenient beach time close to town.

Old Kona Airport Beach Park

Photo: Robert Linsdell / CC 2.0 / Modified: cropped

A long stretch of coastline north of town with open space and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Experience:
More shoreline park than classic sandy beach. Excellent for walking, tidepool exploring, and relaxing.

Water Access:
Mixed sand and lava rock. Swimming is possible in calm conditions.

Facilities:
Restrooms, picnic tables, large parking area, grassy areas with shade.

Best For:
Picnics, sunsets, casual shoreline time.

Just South of Town

Magic Sands Beach (La’aloa Beach)

Photo: W Nowicki / CC 3.0

About three and a half miles south of the pier on Aliʻi Drive.

Beach Experience:
A popular white sand beach known for strong shore break during higher surf. The sand sometimes disappears seasonally, giving the beach its nickname.

Water Access:
Direct sandy entry, but waves can be powerful. Check conditions carefully.

Facilities:
Lifeguard, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, limited parking.

Best For:
Bodyboarding, sunbathing, watching the surf.

Kahaluʻu Beach Park

Photo: W Nowicki / CC 3.0

About four and three-quarter mile south of the pier. One of the best beginner snorkeling beaches on the island.

Beach Experience:
A protected bay with shallow reef, abundant tropical fish, and frequent sea turtle sightings.

Water Access:
Gradual entry with sandy and rocky sections.

Facilities:
Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking.

Best For:
Snorkeling, families, first-time visitors.

North of Kailua-Kona (20–30 Minutes)

Maniniʻowali Beach (Kua Bay)

Photo: Skarz / CC 4.0 / Modified: image cropped

About 12 miles north of the pier. A wide, white sand beach with clear turquoise water.

Beach Experience:
One of the most scenic beaches on the Kona Coast. The sand is soft and expansive with dramatic lava rock framing the bay.

Water Access:
Sandy bottom. Excellent swimming when calm. Shore break can develop in winter months.

Facilities:
Parking, restrooms, outdoor showers.

Best For:
Swimming, sunbathing, classic Hawaii beach photography.

Makalawena Beach

Photo: Janine Sprout / CC 4.0

Located in Kekaha Kai State Beach Park. About twelve and a half miles north of the pier. Much of the road is extremely rough and not recommended for rental vehicles. A quieter, more secluded white sand beach within Kekaha Kai State Park.

Beach Experience:
Beautiful dunes and fewer crowds. Reaching the beach requires a short walk across lava rock.

Water Access:
Sandy entry in calm conditions.

Facilities:
No services at the beach. Bring water and shade.

Best For:
Seclusion, photography, peaceful beach days.

Mahaiʻula Beach

Mahai'ula Bay Beach, Kailua-Kona — Mahai’ula Bay Beach, Kailua-Kona, Big Island, Hawaii, United States

Photo: Robert Linsdell / CC 2.0

Also within Kekaha Kai State Beach Park.

Beach Experience:
A mix of sand and lava shoreline with open views and fewer visitors than town beaches.

Water Access:
Sandy and rocky entry depending on location.

Facilities:
Limited services. Plan ahead.

Best For:
Picnics and a less developed setting.

South of Kailua-Kona (40–60 Minutes)

Kealakekua Bay

Photo: Nnachappa64 / CC 4.0

A historic and marine-rich bay near the Captain Cook Monument.

Beach Experience:
Not a traditional sandy beach. Known for exceptionally clear water and vibrant reef.

Water Access:
By kayak, boat tour, or hiking trail. No easy drive-up beach access.

Facilities:
None at shoreline.

Best For:
Experienced snorkelers seeking pristine conditions.

Hōnaunau Bay

Photo: Robert Linsdell / CC 2.0 / Modified: cropped

About 22 miles south of the pier. Adjacent to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

Beach Experience:
Lava rock shoreline with outstanding snorkeling.

Water Access:
Enter via natural lava “steps.” No sandy area.

Facilities:
Basic restrooms nearby.

Best For:
Snorkeling, clear water, reef life.

Ho‘okena Beach Park

Photo: Hawaii County / public domain

A scenic bay with both sand and lava rock.

Beach Experience:
Relaxed and more local in feel. Often calmer than open coastline beaches.

Water Access:
Sandy entry with generally manageable conditions.

Facilities:
Restrooms, picnic tables, limited parking.

Best For:
Swimming, paddleboarding, quieter beach time.

General Beach Tips

Ocean conditions change daily. When in doubt, do not enter.
Winter months may bring larger north and west swells.
Wear sturdy footwear when visiting lava rock beaches.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and give sea turtles plenty of space.
Bring water and shade to less developed beaches.