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.
In Kailua-Kona
Kamakahonu Beach (Kona Town)
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
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
About three miles south of Kailua-Kona 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
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
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
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
Also within Kekaha Kai State 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
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
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
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.