Mauna Kea Beach Resort
Mauna Kea Beach (Kaunaoa Beach)
Kaunaoa Beach at Mauna Kea has long been on the list of “America’s Best Beaches.” This beautiful crescent-shaped white sand beach is located in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The water is calm and crystal clear most of the year and is protected by two black-lava points. Swimming is excellent unless there are higher winter waves. Snorkelers prefer the rocky points, where fish thrive in the surge. Facilities include rest rooms and showers. Lifeguards are on duty daily. The beach is most easily accessed through the Mauna Kea Resort entrance and there are a limited number of public access parking spots available. Come early for parking.
Hapuna Beach Resort
Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach was rated the “Best Beach in America” by Conde Nast Traveler magazine in 1993. Hapuna Beach is a ½ mile long stretch of pristine white sand and is a great beach for swimming and recreation. It is located in front of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel but public access parking is also available from the main highway entrance. Hapuna is calm most of the year and is great for swimming. In winter, the higher surf makes great body surfing waves. Facilities include rest rooms, picnic tables, cabin rentals, and a small restaurant.
Mauna Lani Resort
The Beach Club
The Beach Club is a private beach for resort owners and guests. This white sand beach faces perpendicular to the ocean waves and remains calm and excellent for swimming all year. Snorkeling is wonderful here as there are many beautiful reefs fronting the beach. The Beach Club has lounge chairs, showers, a restaurant, and protected parking. A Resort access card is needed for access unless one wants to walk a considerable distance.
Waikoloa Beach Resort
Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay)
A spectacular white sand beach in the center of Waikoloa Beach Resort. This popular beach is protected from the major ocean waves by a reef and is a great place for families. Behind the beach are ancient Hawaiian fishponds. It fronts the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and is enjoyed by guests and locals alike. Guests can swim, snorkel, dive, kayak, and windsurf at this fine beach. Equipment rental and snorkeling, scuba, and wind-surfing instruction is available. “A-Bay” also features rest rooms, showers, picnic tables, and ample parking.
