Just a few miles away from the famous Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, the humble Kukio Beach is one of the most beautiful coves on the island. This shallow water provides perfect views of the endless Pacific Ocean and gently curves around the coast surrounded by volcanic rocks and sun-swept golden sands. Sunsets are one of the biggest attractions to this beach, making it the perfect place for a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a life milestone you’ll never forget.
Kukio Beach lies almost perfectly northeast on Hawaiian island and is surrounded by sandbags to make the visiting experience even more enjoyable. The water here is warm and calm, perfect for couples looking to walk along the shore. Although the area does not provide any shady structures, a tight-knit grove of coconut trees lies a few feet away at the grassy Kilauea Point.
One of the things visitors love most about Kukio Beach is its incredibly quiet environment. Crowds on this beach are rare, and finding a comfortable place to set down a towel and umbrella is relatively simple. The parking lot for this beach offers all the amenities visitors could want, including clean bathrooms, sand showers, water fountains, and plenty of trash cans. Some picnic tables are also nearby, although they are not located directly on the beach.
Shallow water prevents many people from swimming or snorkeling near Kukio Beach, but there are other water sports activities that offer a little fun for everyone. More experienced adventurers enjoy stand-up paddleboarding along the deeper sections, while the gently sloping beach provides a great put-in spot for kayakers and canoers. The well-kept sand also lends itself to building sandcastles, moats, and other fun activities for kids.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Kukio Beach abounds with aquatic sea life. Visitors can regularly spot Green Sea Turtles resting or swimming near the shoreline. Other animals, including dolphins and the occasional tropical fish, may also find their way to this sunny spot. This largely depends on the season in question, so keep your eye out for new fauna as the year goes on.
In terms of weather and temperature, Kukio Beach remains relatively similar throughout the seasons. The shallow shoreline keeps water at an agreeable temperature, although winter tides frequently become rough during the day. It’s best to refrain from any boarding activities until the spring or summer seasons, where the waters become much more gentle.
No lifeguards can be found at Kukio Beach, although this does not pose any major concerns. Thankfully, this area is not prone to major safety risks, and rarely if ever requires additional precautions. As long as they are just visiting the public beach, visitors are welcome to park inside the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in a parking lot that’s only a short walk from the sea.
Other reasons why visitors love Kukio Beach include:
Fishing
This is the perfect spot to set out for a good catch.
Sunbathing
Quiet and remote, Kukio Beach is a lovely option for tanning.
Reading
Relax with the noise of crashing waves and a great book.
From the lovely views to the nearby amenities, Kukio Beach is everything a Hawaiian beach should be. Bring your paddleboard, pack some books, and slather on some sunscreen to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Insider Tips:
-Although this beach may sound like a privatized destination, it’s important to note that all beaches in Hawaii have full public access. Just enter through the Four Seasons main entrance to enjoy a view like none other.
-Interested in a different kind of beach adventure? Kukio Beach is a major part of the Ala Kahakai Trail, a path stretching 175 miles along the Hawaiian coast. This location may be a great place to begin.