Waikoloa Village is a stone’s throw away from some of the most iconic beaches on the Big Island.
These world-famous sandy gems offer unparalleled swimming, tanning, and snorkeling opportunities.
Most of the options on the list are classic Hawaiian beaches with golden-sand coves hugged by charcoal-black lava rocks.
Other options are not as sandy and more suited for hikers, divers, and snorkelers who love to investigate the kaleidoscope of local marine life.
Many of the options are hidden behind hotels and resorts but have public access, usually with modest parking.
Discover the best beaches near Waikoloa Village!
1. Hapuna Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 13 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, hiking, snorkeling, bodysurfing
- Facilities: picnic table, lifeguards, parking
The most popular beach in the area, Hapuna Beach stands as a testament to nature’s splendor.
Accessible with a nominal parking fee, this expansive sandy retreat sprawls for over half a mile, offering ample space for sunbathers and sea enthusiasts alike.
Its soft, warm sands and minimal rocky interference make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Visitors often commend the calm morning waves, further accentuated by the reassuring presence of lifeguards.
Given the limited natural shade, carrying beach umbrellas is recommended.
With abundant parking and a picnic zone, Hapuna Beach promises an unparalleled coastal experience.
2. Beach 69
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 12 miles
- Activities: snorkeling, surfing, swimming, sunbathing
- Facilities: showers, restrooms, picnic tables, parking
Nestled just south of the famed Hapuna Beach, Beach 69 stands out as a tranquil coastal haven near Waikoloa Village.
Characterized by its bountiful shade, courtesy of the myriad trees lining its sands, this beach is a respite for those seeking both sun and shelter.
Whether it’s snorkeling amidst the vibrant aquatic life, enjoying the serene clear blue waters, or simply lounging under the natural canopy, the beach promises varied activities for all.
Early risers are rewarded with superior visibility for underwater exploration, while sunset admirers tout the spot as picture-perfect.
Accommodating its visitors, Beach 69 boasts well-maintained amenities including clean restrooms, fresh water showers, and easily accessible parking.
With picnic tables and scenic nooks, it encapsulates a holistic beach experience that’s both intimate and inviting.
3. Holoholokai Beach Park
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 10 miles
- Activities: surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, hiking
- Facilities: restroom, parking, dog-friendly, picnic tables
The nearest beach to Waikoloa Village, HI, Holoholokai Beach Park offers a mesmerizing blend of natural wonders.
Distinguished by its unique mix of white and black lava rocks, this beach promises an experience unlike any other.
Beyond its ethereal landscapes, it beckons adventurers with coastal hiking trails that wind along some of the Pacific’s most awe-inspiring coastlines.
Along the way, secluded sunset spots and rich tide pools brimming with sea life await.
The park also caters to visitors with ample parking, restrooms, rinse-off areas, and picnic benches.
For marine enthusiasts, it’s not uncommon to spot surfing aficionados, sea turtles, and even breaching whales in the distance.
While not ideal for general swimming, its shores provide unparalleled snorkeling opportunities.
Remember, reef-safe sunscreen is a must!
4. Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 15 miles
- Activities: snorkeling, bodyboarding, hiking, swimming, sunbathing
- Facilities: limited parking, bathrooms
Tucked behind the gates near bustling Mauna Kea Resort, Kaunaʻoa Beach is a breathtaking slice of Hawaiian beauty.
With its sun-kissed shores stretching along the cove, the soft, pristine sands beckon visitors for a tranquil escape.
The waters, warm and inviting, are complemented by a sandy underfoot, making it ideal for both swimmers and those keen on paddleboarding.
Early risers are often rewarded with a spectacular snorkeling experience, spotting turtles, manta rays, and a kaleidoscope of fish.
For the land lovers, its amenities do not disappoint: well-maintained restrooms, changing areas, and a sprinkling of shade for those looking to retreat from the sun.
Though the public parking might require patience, the reward is a postcard-worthy panorama.
Whether it’s watching a serene sunset or simply lounging, Kaunaʻoa is the epitome of paradise.
5. Mau’umae Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 15 miles
- Activities: hiking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, sunbathing
- Facilities: shower, limited parking, dog-friendly
Free from crowds, Mau’umae Beach is a serene haven for travelers seeking tranquility.
Its powdery soft sand beckons beachgoers, while the gentle waters offer a calm embrace, perfect for a refreshing swim or wading over to the intriguing rock formations.
Not just a sunbather’s paradise, it boasts a unique nighttime spectacle: phosphorescence causes the waters to glow an ethereal blue, leaving magical, glowing footprints on the shore.
With amenities like shady spots and an expansive area for relaxation, it never feels busy.
However, this destination comes with a price: a 15-minute scenic trail from Spencer Beach Park—marked with wooden bridges—leads you to this coastal gem.
6. Spencer Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 15 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, hiking, snorkeling, camping, fishing
- Facilities: dog-friendly, lifeguard, pavilions
Discover a haven where warm waters meet soft sands at the idyllic beach called Spencer Beach, just a 15-mile drive from Waikoloa Village.
Renowned for its child-friendly waves and pristine shallows, it’s a favorite among families and seasoned swimmers alike.
Sheltered under the majestic banyan trees, visitors can relax in ample shade or claim a spot at one of the many picnic tables.
Those with a sporting spirit can head to the adjacent basketball court, while snorkel enthusiasts will find hidden treasures beneath the calm waters.
As the sun sets, the horizon treats spectators to breathtaking views, making it the perfect end to a day of beachside camping, fishing, or simply lounging with a book.
With clean facilities, BBQ spots, and a dedicated play area, it’s the ultimate seaside retreat for every age.
7. Lapakahi State Historical Park
- Distance from from Waikoloa Village: 27 miles
- Activities: hiking, picnicking, snorkeling
- Facilities: picnic tables, restroom, parking, bathroom
Lapakahi State Historical Park, situated on the North’s scenic shoreline, is a place to embark on a captivating journey through an ancient 600-year-old fishing village.
This enchanting trail, though rugged in spots, offers travelers a unique blend of history and nature.
As you traverse the rocky paths, breathtaking ocean vistas unfold, punctuating the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Armed with a guide from the trailhead, enthusiasts can trace back the village’s tales, each stop shedding light on an era gone by.
While this is not a typical beach destination, the serene azure waters beckon snorkelers who enjoy exploring the rugged coves.
Though off the beaten path, with its free entrance, the park promises an enriching, crowd-free experience.
Remember: good shoes and water are a must!
8. Māhukona Beach Park
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 28 miles
- Activities: kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, hiking
- Facilities: restroom, picnic table, limited parking
Tucked away on the Kohala Coast, some 28 miles from Waikoloa Vilalge, lies Mahukona Park, an aquatic treasure not to be missed.
While it may not boast sandy shores, the crystal-clear waters offer unparalleled snorkeling experiences, revealing vibrant fish like the rare Eight Line Wrasse and remnants of sunken vessels from bygone eras.
Beyond snorkeling, the park is a haven for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even scuba diving.
During a dive, you might just be graced by the gentle dance of manta rays.
On land, visitors can enjoy picnic areas equipped with BBQ facilities, although note the spigots may be out of order.
Parking is limited, yet handicap-friendly.
As the sun sets in the winter months, this spot transforms into a tranquil vantage point.
Whether underwater or above, Mahukona beckons all to its serene embrace.
9. Kapa’a Beach Park
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 29 miles
- Activities: picnic, snorkeling, camping
- Facilities: restrooms, picnic tables, shower
Perched on the coastline, Kapa’a Beach Park is not your typical sandy escape.
Rather, it serves as an unspoiled haven for nature enthusiasts, blending the allure of snorkeling with mesmerizing vistas of distant Maui.
This coastal gem, though devoid of sandy expanses, offers a marine wonderland featuring a vivid spectrum of fish dancing amidst the expansive lava boulders.
For divers and casual observers alike, the park often rewards with majestic sights of whales tracing the horizon.
Beyond its aquatic delights, Kapa’a seamlessly combines the rustic with the comfortable.
Campers find solace in designated spots, and everyone can enjoy amenities like picnic benches and BBQ pits crafted from native lava rock.
With well-paved roads, pristine toilets, and showers, the park leaves no stone unturned.
And as twilight nears, it morphs into a sunset viewing sanctuary – all free of parking charges.
10. ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 15 miles
- Activities: snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking
- Facilities: parking, restrooms, showers
A 15-mile drive from Waikoloa Village, ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach beckons families and beach aficionados with its pristine white sands, devoid of intrusive lava rocks.
With ample parking and impeccably maintained facilities, visitors can indulge in a day of sun-soaked relaxation or explore the crystalline waters with snorkeling gear, hoping for a glimpse of the local sea turtles and vibrant fish.
As palm trees sway, they offer shaded havens, perfect for those seeking reprieve from the sun.
Enthusiasts can traverse nearby tide pools or opt for paddle board yoga amidst the gentle waves.
As evening approaches, the horizon paints a breathtaking tableau, making sunset viewing a must.
Undoubtedly, ʻAnaehoʻomalu is not just a beach; it’s an experience that perfectly marries nature’s tranquility with modern conveniences.
11. Kikaua Point Park
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 20 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, limited parking
Nestled within a secure gated haven, Kikaua Point Park boasts one of the most pristine beaches around, framed by imposing lava formations.
A mere 5-minute stroll on a paved path reveals a serene oasis where white sands meet crystalline waters, alive with a dazzling array of sea life, from graceful turtles to vibrant pufferfish.
For enthusiasts, its snorkeling offers an immersive, almost aquarium-like experience.
Adjacently, the park offers a well-maintained grassy expanse near the shoreline, ideal for relaxation.
Limited yet convenient parking ensures the beach remains uncrowded, preserving its tranquil ambiance.
Essential amenities are top-notch, with sparkling clean restrooms and showers right at the parking lot.
12. Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 21 miles
- Activities: snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, bodyboarding
- Facilities: restrooms, showers, limited parking, picnic tables, lifeguard
Nestled amidst azure waters, Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) is every sun seeker’s dream, boasting pristine white sands that stretch invitingly for all to revel in.
Frequented by families, its crystal-clear waters beckon swimmers and snorkelers, revealing the occasional glimpse of turtles near rocky outcrops.
Those into active pursuits will find the waves perfect for bodyboarding and bodysurfing, with some days presenting stronger, exhilarating waves.
On a fortunate day, one might even spot whales making a majestic leap!
Amenities aren’t lacking either: a vigilant lifeguard keeps watch, while visitors benefit from clean bathrooms and warm showers.
While parking is limited within, ample roadside parking means only a short walk to this paradise.
Bring sunblock and shade – this beach is exposed and has little shade.
13. Makalawena Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 21 miles
- Activities: hiking, swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling
- Facilities: restroom, parking
Makalawena Beach is an undiscovered haven demanding a light hike or an off-road drive for access.
This secluded spot offers powdery-soft sand juxtaposed with turquoise waters, creating the ideal backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.
The beach comes with a dual personality: serene areas perfect for a peaceful swim and rocky patches where exploring becomes a thrilling endeavor.
Though low on amenities like shade and lifeguards, 24/7 Beach Caretakers fill the void by ensuring visitor and wildlife well-being.
Hawaiian Monk seals are often sighted lounging nearby.
Visitors are advised to head back to their cars an hour before dusk, aligning with the beach’s sunrise-to-sunset public access policy.
A captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure, Makalawena Beach remains a well-kept secret worth discovering.
14. Kekaha Kai State Beach
- Distance from Waikoloa Village: 22 miles
- Activities: snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, hiking
- Facilities: restrooms, shower, parking, lifeguard
Nestled amidst stunning lava formations, Kekaha Kai State Beach boasts not only clear turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling but also the chance to spot cruising turtles.
Families will appreciate the calm waters suitable for young children, and the exquisite white sands crafted from parrotfish nibbling on coral.
Asides from its natural beauty, the beach offers a range of amenities, including clean restrooms and an abundance of trash bins to maintain its pristine condition.
Those wishing to lounge can find solace under the sporadic shade of trees, though bringing an umbrella is advisable.
Prepare for a captivating sunset, and enjoy the available picnic and BBQ spots, equipped with tables and concrete pads.
However, visitors should note the limited parking and rocky approach to this hidden gem.