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Our picks for Best Beaches in West Hawai’i

West Hawaii, particularly the Kona and Kohala coasts of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its stunning beaches. Wide swatches of sand, shady spots under the trees, or reefs full of sealife, whatever you are looking for, here are some of our favorite beaches in West Hawai’i:

Best Beaches in West Hawaii

Hammock overlooking the beach and ocean in Hawaii

Hapuna Beach State Park:

Hapuna Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the Big Island. It offers a long, wide expanse of golden sand and clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and bodyboarding. The beach is also equipped with picnic areas and restroom facilities.

Waialea Beach 69:

Just down the road from Hapuna Beach is a personal favorite. Are you looking for sun or shade? Napping, swimming, snorkeling? In the many hidden spots under the Kiawe trees, you can find your own quiet space to relax and unwind. Or find a sunny spot in the soft sand and soak up the warmth of the Hawaiian sun. The snorkeling around the largest rock outcropping can bring some impressive displays of coral and fish and even the turtles seem more relaxed with fewer people in their ocean. 

Honokohau Beach:

Are you looking for calm waters and a peaceful spot to relax? With a protective reef, Honokohau Beach is a great spot for swimming or snorkeling. It also has a little more shade than many West Hawaii beaches. This beach is a part of Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historic Park which has an ancient fishpond just above the beach. You can read more about the area and the archaeological sites, springs, petroglyphs, heiau (Hawaiian temples), and fishponds here.

 

Makolea 11 near Kahalu'u Bay

Kahalu’u Bay:

Kahalu’u Bay has a little of everything. Not only is there a large sandy area for relaxing and picnicking but it has some great snorkeling, an excellent area for surfing including many options for surf lessons, and a beautiful spot for watching the sunset.

Mauna Kea Beach:

Located adjacent to Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach is another beautiful option. It’s known for its powdery white sand and gentle waves. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is nearby, offering beachside amenities and dining.

Kaunaoa Beach (Mau’umae Beach):

This beach is situated in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and is known for its crescent shape, palm trees, and soft sand. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing.

Lanai overlooking the Hawaiian CoastKua Bay (Manini’owali Beach):

Kua Bay is a picturesque beach known for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. Before you walk down to the beach, pause a moment to appreciate the gorgeous turquoise waters below and just take a deep breath. It’s a popular spot for boogie boarding, body surfing, and picnicking. Bring your binoculars if you want to watch the dolphins cruising by and an umbrella for a little shade. Be sure to arrive early as the parking lot can fill up quickly.

Makalawena Beach:

Accessible via a short hike from the Kekaha Kai State Park parking lot, Makalawena Beach is a hidden gem with a unique landscape of white sand, lava formations, and palm trees. It’s a remote and beautiful spot for those seeking a quieter beach experience. If you have a 2WD vehicle you might want to consider walking in. The reward of arriving makes the hike worthwhile.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area:

This park has a unique beach known for its black lava rock shoreline. It’s a great place for picnicking, beachcombing, and watching the sunset. The park also offers walking and jogging paths. On the mauka side of the parking lot you can enjoy a stroll on the Maka-eo walking path with gardens maintained by community members and local businesses

Kona Islander Relaxing bedroom

 

Kealakekua Bay:

While not a traditional beach, Kealakekua Bay is famous for its clear waters and incredible snorkeling. It’s a protected marine sanctuary and home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful coral and spinner dolphins. The hike in is rigorous but worth it or take a guided kayak tour and enjoy the sight of dolphins swimming and leaping along beside you.

Two Step Beach (Honaunau Bay):

This rocky beach is famous for its exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities, including the chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles and a variety of fish. Dolphins and rays are often spotted in the deeper areas past the “Aloha”. The name “Two Step” refers to the natural stone steps that lead into the water.

 

 

 

Whichever beach you choose, you are likely to find a place you love. So lay out your towel, kick off your slippahs and let us know your favorite!

After a beautiful day at the beach here are a few suggestions for some local eats!

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Can I still book a place for Ironman Kona?

There’s so much to do and if one of those things is booking a room, you still have time!

Chelsea Sodaro Winning Ironman World Championships 2022

 

Qualifying for the Ironman World Championship is a dream come true for many athletes and even for their supporters. One of the first steps in planning your trip to Kailua-Kona is finding the perfect place to stay for the event! With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, the tropical paradise on the Big Island offers a unique and memorable experience. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your last-minute accommodation options.

Location Considerations

When choosing your accommodation, consider what part of Kailua-Kona you’d like to stay in. With its shops, restaurants, and water activities, Ali’i Drive is a popular choice for its proximity to the Ironman events before and on race day. If you prefer a quieter setting, look for options farther away from the town center.

Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for a more private and spacious option, vacation rentals can be a great choice. There are numerous vacation homes, condos, and villas in Kailua-Kona. With multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, and outdoor spaces, vacation homes provide ample room for everyone to spread out and unwind. Renting a private residence allows you to have a home away from home and experience local life. Plus, you will generally have a full kitchen to be sure you are fueling properly for the big day. Check out some of our properties closest to the course.

Vacation Rentals Near Ironman Course

Hotels

Kailua-Kona has a variety of hotels to suit different budgets. You can find well-known chains like Marriott, Sheraton, and Holiday Inn, as well as locally-owned boutique hotels. Staying in a hotel can provide you with a convenient and hassle-free experience, often with on-site dining and other amenities.

Bed and Breakfasts

For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying in a bed and breakfast. Kailua-Kona has charming B&Bs that offer comfortable rooms and homemade breakfasts. This option allows you to connect with locals and get insider tips on exploring the area.

Resort Experience

Kailua-Kona boasts several luxurious resorts that offer unparalleled comfort and amenities. These oceanfront properties typically feature beautiful pools, private beaches, world-class dining, and spa facilities. Popular options include the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, and the Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts Collection. While these are great options you’ll want to consider the distance to Kona and the limited access to Queen K Highway on race day.

Finish Line on Ali'i Drive Ironman World Championships 2022

Book soon

Kailua-Kona is a popular tourist destination even without the race, so it’s wise to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures you have the widest selection of options and the best rates.

Special Considerations

If you have specific needs or preferences, such as accessibility requirements or pet-friendly accommodations, be sure to communicate these with your chosen lodging to ensure a comfortable stay.

 

The journey to the Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona is an extraordinary one, filled with anticipation, training, and dedication. Securing the perfect place to stay is a vital part of this adventure, offering you not only comfort but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique beauty and culture of this tropical paradise. Whether you opt for the bustling Ali’i Drive, the privacy of vacation rentals, the convenience of hotels, the charm of bed and breakfasts, or the luxury of resorts, there’s a perfect accommodation option to suit your preferences. As the race day approaches, don’t delay in making your reservation, considering the high demand for lodging in this sought-after destination. Be sure to communicate any specific needs or preferences with your chosen lodging, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay in Kailua-Kona as you prepare to tackle the Ironman World Championship.

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20% Off on Bookings for Popular Kona Activities

Hello Hawaii Guests!

We wanted to make you aware of an on-going deal through Viator for visitors to all the Islands of 20% on bookings for popular island activities everything from star tours, snorkeling, helicopter trips, dolphin watching etc.

So long as you follow the link provided and book through them. No code is needed just book at checkout. It’s a great offer to take advantage of in order to add to the fun of your trip.

The offer is valid through September 6th!

Viator Link Here

As always stay safe & enjoy the islands!

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