The largest of all the islands, the Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to do and plenty to see. When it comes to the beaches, however, which beaches are worth your time? Although there are many beaches along this larger island, there are 3 beaches that stick out in our minds. Beaches on the Big Island are known for their diversity — with color, with water activities, with lush green vegetation surrounding them. It can be hard to narrow down the best beach to enjoy while vacationing, but these top 3 are definitely hard to beat.
Here are 3 beaches on the Big Island that you must visit:
Hapuna Beach
Consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Hawaii, Hapuna State Beach is along the Kohala Coast and offers incredible sunset views. Make a splash in the water, this beach is known for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding! There are also lifeguards, so feel comfortable and know that you have help when you need it. Restrooms, picnic tables, and places to get food are nearby as well.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
The famous black sand beach of the Big Island is one that you can’t miss solely based on the feeling of dipping your toes into black sand. Swimming at Punaluu Beach isn’t recommended due to the strong currents of the ocean, this is definitely a strolling and picnicking beach. Walk along the water, read a book, or try to spot some sea turtles!
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
A unique and rare coloring waits at Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach. The beach sand has a mixture of olivine crystals and lava, creating a truly different green color from the other beaches. The water here tends to be pretty rough and there are no lifeguards on the premises. So, although people can swim in the water, it isn’t recommended. If you do, use extreme caution and only go when the weather is permitting. To get to this beach, it’s a short 2.5-mile hike from the parking lot. Don’t let that deter you. This beach is outstanding.
The Big Island is impossible to not fall in love with. Pristine white sand beaches are in abundance, you can see a mixture of crystals within the sand at green sand beach, and you can dip your toes into the extraordinary experience that is black sand beach. You’ll find yourself enjoying every single moment and making incredible memories at each of these 3 beaches.
