Best Beaches of Hawaii

Really, there isn't a place that we know of quite like this handful of sun-drenched beauties, sitting pretty in the middle of the Pacific Ocean - it the Hawaiian Islands. You've seen them in the movies, and in the fancy brochures down at the travel agency or online - and guess what? They do exist! Welcome to Hawaii!


Take a moment and soak in this photograph of Lanikai Beach. And if you've been to Hawaii before, you know it's not really that hard to capture something similar in your lens and record it forever. These moments exist all over the Hawaiian islands just waiting for people like you and me to open our senses and take them in. And it happens day after day, decade after decade right here.

You'll find those "blue lagoons", the plush rain forests, spectacular gardens, wonderful waterfalls and rivers running through breathtaking canyons, back dropped by soaring volcanoes. Or make your way to Maui and visit the famous Black Sand beach!

And because there is so much to do here, you'll join the many who come back year after year to the Aloha state of Hawaii. But be warned - the touristy schlock exists even here in paradise. Stay away from any "free" excursions or sailing trips. You'll be sorry you wasted so much time.

If you think surfboards and outriggers at Waikiki when you think of Hawaiian beaches, you’re in for a surprise as we list the three best on the magnificent island chain. Interestingly, that beach of the ages may be picturesque, but it didn’t make the top three. Which did? We'll get to that in just a sec. One nice note is that you don't need a passport to travel here if you're an American.

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 months, 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.

December through March are the wettest months. Expect a shower, especially if you are visiting our beach pick on the "Garden Island" of Kauai.

And now, let's visit the top three beaches of Hawaii - plus, all the runner-ups! Next! >>

Hawaii Beach Videos

Because you can't get enough, we've compiled these Hawaii Beach videos for you to see the splendor of Hawaiian paradise before you make your trip - or, after you've arrived home and want to reminisce.

Aerial view of the Grand Hyatt, Poipu, Kauai


Aerial view of Ko Olina Beaches and resort, Oahu


Aerial view of Pearl Harbor, Oahu


Aerial view of Haunama Bay, Oahu


Aerial view of Waikiki, Honolulu