Although we can surely value the idea that “any beach in Hawaii is a good one,” we asked our readers from all around to dissect it and pick their preferred beach (it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it). These are their remarks.
1. Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Touristy isn’t a negative word at all. Waikiki is the gateway for most guests to our lovely islands; their first amazing encounter is sinking their toes in the beach and running in the warm, mild, tropical surf. Of course, then, thousands of our readers chose this welcoming beach in Hawaii.
2. Kaanapali Beach, Maui
The former refuge of Maui’s aristocracy, West Maui’s famous beach—a magnificent 3-mile arc of pristine white sand and crystal-clear blue sea fronting the Kaanapali resorts—is immensely popular with visitors today. Kaanapali Beach is one of the standout beaches in Hawaii.
3. Hapuna Beach, Hawaii Island
Housed in a state park, Hapuna Beach, one of Hawaii Island’s largest white-sand beaches, consistently offers excellent swimming, bodyboarding, sunbathing, and snorkeling conditions. It’s no surprise that Hapuna Beach ranks among the top beaches in Hawaii.
4. Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Dreamy Lanikai, sometimes referred to as the most beautiful beach on Oahu, is located just outside a residential area and provides a length of sheltered, calm, aqua-blue sea with smooth, powdery white sand. Lanikai is also a fantastic spot to see the moon rise, particularly on a full moon. The two islands in the background, known as the Mokulua (“two islands”), easily identify Lanikai as one of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches.
5. Poipu Beach, Kauai
Perfect for snorkeling, swimming, boogie-boarding, and surfing, this seductive beach on Kauai’s south coast is a sequence of lovely golden-sand crescents with crystal-blue water. A protected wading pool makes the distinctive coral formations immediately offshore especially appealing for families with little children; they also guarantee that the water is tranquil year-round. The beach is particularly well-known for its threatened Hawaiian monk seals, who occasionally lounge on the coast. Poipu Beach is certainly one of the must-visit beaches in Hawaii.