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! >>

Mokuleia Beach Park, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

It's one of the better surfing spots of Hawaiian beaches, Mokuleia Beach will be full of locals any time the surf is up. Watch for repeat vacationers, driving from Honolulu. Why? Six miles of sand, 150 feet wide from Kaiaka Bay to Camp Erdman. When you come here, expect a few kids. This is the local hangout of the teens growing up here and it's simply filled with good, clean fun.

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!

Back to the Hawaiian Beach Index.

Lanikai Beach – Oahu, Hawaii

Which beach do locals vote as best? Hands down it would have to be Lanikai off Mokulua Drive on Oahu. The beach is over a mile long and, yes, bring the camera, this is the most spectacular beach for photographs on the island.

Postcard perfect, the water is amazingly crystal clear. Couple that with the swaying coconut palms and you have the makings of a photo op you won’t soon forget.

Okay, so why is Lanikai Beach so very cool?

It’s sheltered by a wide, protective offshore reef, the kind you see in those pictures of Fiji. So the shoreline is a natural swimmers paradise. You will find kayaking and outrigger canoeing (gotta try it!), sailing and surfing all within view of this gem in the Pacific.

Or, do like the locals and just come down here for a relaxing day at the beach - tan, read, enjoy the break. This is a gem and much recommended.

And did we mention windsurfing?

Because of the reef, wind- surfing conditions are almost always perfect. You can try your skill by renting a board or taking lessons from the local shops, or grab that camera again for some memories to take back to the mainland.

Lanikai Beach certainly is “heavenly sea” – translated from Hawaiian.

Lanikai Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand – white/gold, medium grain, soft
• Facilities – full service
• Shade – palms and other adult trees
• Sports – local rentals
• Notes – clean, usually surf-free, beautiful small islands close by

Now - which beachs tops off the Number One spot in Hawaii? Next >>