The beaches on Big Island, Hawaii, captivate with a fascinating variety, ranging from black and green volcanic sand to dreamy white sand. A highlight is Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, known for its black sand, lined with coconut palms, and abundant green sea turtles perfect for snorkeling. Papakōlea Beach (Green Sand Beach) is unique as one of the few green sand beaches worldwide, surrounded by impressive volcanic cliffs. Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay) provides classic postcard scenery with crystal-clear water and fine white sand, ideal for sunbathing and spectacular sunsets. Hapuna Beach Park on the Kohala Coast offers white sand, clear water, and good infrastructure with showers and lifeguards. Another spectacular location is Waipi'o Valley with its large black sand beach, surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, which is particularly attractive to surfers. Visitors should note that some beaches offer no shade and there are sharp lava rocks in the water in some places, making water shoes and sunscreen essential.
It's worth exploring the various beaches in the immediate vicinity of Kailua-Kona during the race week, and then investing a few more vacation days to explore this enchanting island more closely and visit the different beaches.
Special features of the beaches on Big Island
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: Black sand beach with coconut palms, green sea turtles and good infrastructure.
Papakōlea Beach (Green Sand Beach): One of only two green sand beaches in the USA, with olivine crystals in the sand and spectacular volcanic rocks.
Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay): White sand, clear water, ideal for swimming and enjoying the sunset, but no shade.
Hapuna Beach Park: Large white sand beach on the Kohala Coast, with showers, toilets and lifeguards.
Waipi'o Beach: Dramatic valley with huge cliffs, black sand beach and many waterfalls, popular with surfers. However, it's important to be aware of the special considerations involved in visiting this extraordinary valley.
In the immediate vicinity of Kailua-Kona you will find a diverse selection of beaches, which differ in their characteristics and highlights. Here is an overview of the most popular and special beaches near the city:
La'aloa Beach Park (aka Magic Sands): Popular beach with white sand and often strong waves. Ideal conditions for swimming, surfing and bodyboarding, lifeguard on duty. The special feature: After storms, the sand can "disappear" and the lava rocks become visible. Toilets, showers and picnic facilities available.
Holln's Beach: A small, quiet sandy beach with palm trees, popular with locals and surfers. Well-suited for a relaxing walk or watching the sunset.
Kailua Beach: An easily accessible, family-friendly beach with picnic areas and shaded spots. Ideal for relaxing days in the sand or for younger children.
Old Kona Airport Beach: A large, expansive natural beach with lava rock and palm trees. Suitable for walks, picnics, and snorkeling. The beach is usually not crowded.
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