Kailua-Kona and its surrounding areas offer a variety of beaches, each with unique characteristics. Each beach offers something unique, so the “best” beach really depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s snorkeling, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. To learn more about the beaches by Kailua-Kona, get our Kailua-Kona Travel Guide.
Here are just a few of the beaches we cover in the guide.
Best Beaches for Specific Activities:
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Best for Snorkeling: Kahaluu Beach Park, Kealakekua Bay, Two-Step Beach
- Best for Swimming: Hapuna Beach, Waikoloa Beach, Spencer Beach Park
- Best for Scenery and Photography: Papkolea Beach, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
- Best for Families: Spencer Beach Park, Hapuna Beach
Well-Known Beaches in Kailua-Kona
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Hapuna Beach
- Kealakekua Bay
- Kahaluu Beach Park
- Pāpōhaku Beach (Papkolea Beach – Green Sand Beach)
- Waikoloa Beach
- Kehena Beach
- Waialea Beach (Beach 69)
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
- Spencer Beach Park
- Magic Sands Beach Park
- Two Step Beach
- Kamilo Beach
Magic Sands Beach
Magic Sands is our local beach and a favorite spot for us to visit regularly. The waves can be very powerful, so it’s important to keep a close eye on kids and swimmers. Despite the strong swells, it’s a convenient and beautiful spot to enjoy the beach.
If you’re looking for more traditional beaches with plenty of sand and sun, head to the north side of the island. This area tends to be warmer and sunnier, with long stretches of soft sand and fewer lava rocks compared to other parts of the Big Island. It’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun without worrying about rocky terrain.
For an in-depth look at the pros and cons of each of these beaches, receive our custom area guide.
