The Best Beaches of the World

Known for years as one of the better surfing spots of Hawaiian beaches, Mokuleia Beach is also one of favorite hang-outs for the locals on Oahu, Hawaii. Why? Six miles of sand, 150 feet wide from Kaiaka Bay to Camp Erdman.

Plus there's a twelve acre park smack dab in the center of the strip with restrooms and showers, camping sites and plenty of parking. You need to get a permit to camp in Hawaii - but what a way to spend time in paradise. We've done it, and we loved it!

You'll notice not much going on here because this is one of the last places to be developed along the North Shore. If you head west from the park, you'll find peace and quite from the surfing crowds - those wanting to watch and not necessarily want to enjoy the beach.

Think big surf - Waimea - we talk about it here on best surfing beaches of the world, but don't go away thinking that's all there is. Some reef about 100 yards out actually protects the shallows from those pounding waves - allowing you and yours to swim and snorkel - even when "surf's up!"

Here's the tip - at this beach in Hawaii there's a large area off the west end of Mokuleia Airfield. Bring the snorkel, but bring a bag as well. This area is prime for shelling. You'll find dozens of great shells worth keeping. You're neighbor will be shelling, too. It's a nice place for beachcombing.

High surf occurs during the USA Winter months through Spring. And there are no lifeguards along the beach so use your head.

Beach Index: Mokuleia Beach

Sand - many call it white, but it's actually tan. Made of a volcanic material and coral reef mix. Nice and powdery. Clean.
Facilities - in the center of the beach.
Shade - many adult trees line the beach yet there are areas of full sun. Use sun screen.
Sports - this is kite boarding and surfers heaven. Snorkeling and swimming, shelling.
Notes - recommended beach.

Now, if you visited this beach, we'd like to hear from you. Click here to write your review!

If you camp here, you'll be sleeping next to one of the most familiar TV sets on the planet. The beach set of LOST is right here on Mokuleia and you're allowed to walk up and take pictures if you desire. Who knows? You may see a Star!

The shore goes on as you look east. Coves dotted with white sand beaches make an inviting call. Some are accessible. What you do here at Mokuleia, is drive along the beach and see if there are any of the beach access signs or paths.

It's easy to get lost in all of the beauty, well... we thought - until sunset time. It was out of this world. More colors than I had seen in a long, long time and that breathtaking spectacle that makes you realize the world just didn't bang into existence. A Higher Power put it in place and provides this show for us.

Make sure you spend some time here, before you jump in the rental car and head back to the hotel in Honolulu. This is magic. More Hawaiian beaches await! >>

Labels: hawaii, hawaiian beaches, Mokuleia Beach Park, North Shore, Oahu

The Best Beach lies in an island chain in the Pacific. If you think surfboards and outriggers at Waikiki when you think of Hawaiian beaches, you're in for a surprise. But, you'll get the best of everything at the beach that made the top of our list.

First - a travel note that will keep you happy during your time spent in the land of leis and grass skirts. Hawaiian beaches are busiest during the US winter month, specifically between December to February. This is High Season (read: high hotel prices, airfares, crowds!)

And while we're mentioning seasons, note that June through October are the hottest months with temperatures getting near 90 F, and the humidity in the 70% range. Some areas are drier, but don't count on it. Pack accordingly. Remember that you'll be at the beach most of the day and can dip in the cool Pacific Ocean any time you feel like it.

Tanning on Poipu Beach - Best Beach in the World

December through March are the wettest months. Expect a shower, especially if you are visiting our beach pick on the "Garden Island" of Kauai. But it shouldn't last long.

Poipu Beach Park - Best Beach in the World

You come to Hawaii to see the spectacular beaches, and the well cared for beaches. Granted, there are similar islands (ocean/sand) in the world, but none quite kept as pristine as the Hawaiian island. So expect a nice clean beach.

Hawaii travel tip #1 - Don't just book Honolulu.

Because Hawaii is an island chain, you do yourself an injustice if you visit only Oahu (Honolulu). Because of the commercialism (which you're trying to leave a little behind, no?), you will be charmed by Oahu; its many attractions and activities, but you won't know Hawaii unless you book a hotel on two other islands – we recommend Maui and Kauai.

Poipu Beach is on the island of Kauai.

Kauai is the least developed of the four major Hawaiian Islands. You've seen the dramatic landscape in King Kong, Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jurassic Park. And who could forget Fantasy Island? The opening waterfall scene was shot at Wailua Falls.

When you visit Kauai, think Grand Canyon - it's that big and breathtaking. So when you tire a bit from the beach scene, take an afternoon off and go visit the countryside. You will be inspired and thankful that you read right here to include it in your itinerary. Every video you've ever seen of Hawaii and the breathtaking contrasts is even more spectacular when seen in person.

You don't have to go on a helicopter tour, but if you do, you're in for a once in a lifetime treat. Most companies video tape the entire ride so you don't have to. Just sit back and enjoy the beauty.

Now on to the beach.

Poipu is really a series of three white crescents, which hug some of the most awesome turquoise water on Kauai's south coast. To give you an idea of how big it is, it starts at the Sheraton Kauai Resort and goes to the Poipu Beach Park.

Excellent for swimming, snorkeling and yes, even surfing during the winter months - you can find waves in a couple of different places along the beach. Families find it great since the smaller kids can wade in the middle of the crescents, while the bigger kids can check out the surf near the rocks. And remember, the snorkeling is better close to the rocks. The reason is because there is less sand and silt in the water. Coral does not grow where there is silt run-off from the shore.

You will be happy to know at the Best Beach in the World, Poipu Beach Park, there's a lifeguard on duty. The park offers showers, restrooms, picnic tables and shade. The grass is well manicured and we found no trash or debris on the property. In fact, a crew keeps the grounds clean all through the day. So, stay the whole day if you like!

Now if water-play isn't your piece of cake: warm Pacific ocean, surfing or skim boarding, boogie boarding, snorkeling; well, you'll be enamored by the palm fronds swaying in the wind while you lay out or catch up on your latest novel as you hear the gentle surf come to shore as its done for thousands of years. The beach, three crescents, is big enough that you'll feel like you're on your own little piece of paradise. And come to think of it, you truly will be.