Discovering the Richness of Hawaii Kratom: Exploring the Aloha State’s Unique Kratom Culture Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, is also home to a unique kratom scene. As kratom gains popularity worldwide, Hawaii’s kratom industry stands out with its distinctive characteristics and offerings. In this article, we’ll delve into the […]
If you want to avoid kratom withdrawal symptoms, it’s important to approach your kratom use responsibly. “Most people are taking way too much kratom powder,” says Hawaii Kratom farmer Aaron Moeller, “I’ve never experienced kratom withdrawals.” This could be because Moeller consumes most of his kratom in the form of kratom tea. He also drinks […]
Experience Hawaii’s traditional culture and Polynesian heritage by visiting one of the local kava bars across the islands.
Exploring The Neuroprotective Effects of Kavalactones.
2 Mile Hike to Hanakapiai Beach is Worth The Effort
5 Essential Kalalau Hiking Tips
Located at about the midpoint of the two-mile-long, crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay, Waioli Beach Park is a popular gathering place with a wide, white-sand beach and fronted by a large grassy lawn and plenty of shady areas for relaxing. The waves are often good for surfing along this stretch of beach and the main surfing area […]
Located on Wailua Bay along Kauai’s eastern shore, Wailua Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand about 1/2-mile long and up to 100 feet wide. This windward beach is part of Wailua River State Park and includes the river mouth of the huge Wailua River. There is no protective reef offshore and the beach […]
Tunnels beach on Kauai is great for snorkeling & surfing
This 1/2 mile-long white sand beach on Kauai’s south side is named after a wooden boat wreck that graced the shoreline for many years before it was finally destroyed and buried by Hurricane Iwa in 1982. Shipwreck Beach is known as a good bodyboarding beach and also frequented by surfers though the conditions are typically […]
This long and pristine white sand beach is one of Kauai’s prettiest beaches with pristine waters bordered by steep cliffs. Adding to the very picturesque setting of this secluded beach are the scenic views of the north shore coastline including Kilauea Lighthouse as well as the rocky Mokuaeae islet which is the northernmost point in […]
Located in a relatively well-protected cove on Kauai’s western shore, Salt Pond Beach is a crescent beach set between two rock outcroppings connected by a natural lava rock ridge that creates a small lagoon. This lagoon provides a nice swimming area for very small children. The beach has reddish-golden sand and is frequented by local […]
Rock Quarry Beach is a popular local surfing beach located on Kauai’s north shore within a somewhat protected bay. The Kilauea stream empties into this bay. A large sandbar formed by the mouth of the Kilauea River creates a calm area, however, the bay itself is not protected by any offshore reef so it is […]
Fronting Princeville’s elegant St. Regis hotel on the north shore, Puu Poa Beach has nice white sand and shallow offshore waters that are protected by a coral reef. Swimming and snorkeling are good in these shallow waters where you can find some nice sandy spots, but avoid the water during winter swells and times of […]
This relatively safe swimming beach on Kauai’s sunny south shore is one of the island’s most popular beaches. The beach is about 3 miles long and 100 feet wide providing plenty of room for tourists as well as many locals who come to Poipu to enjoy the sparkling white sand beach and ride the waves […]
Also called Kawailoa Beach and sometimes Kauai Beach, this two-mile stretch of white sand beach is the longest beach on the east shore of Kauai. The nearshore waters are shallow and somewhat rocky providing only fair swimming. Snorkeling and scuba diving can be excellent when the water is calm. Fishing is also good in this […]
Considered a living museum and heritage site, Mahaulepu is a scenic, secluded beach that is a great day hike on Kauai’s south shore. This area is home to many endangered Hawaiian species and is also very important in Hawaii’s history and culture. A great deal of scientific research has occurred here including excavations of ancient species […]
A very safe and protected east shore beach, Lydgate Beach is nice for families with kids. With nice swimming and snorkeling areas as well as a wonderful community playground nearby, Lydgate is one of Kauai’s most popular beach parks. The long, white sand beach features a large protected area which is the result of the […]
Located just around the bend from Hanalei Bay, this huge stretch of deep and very white sand actually consists of two beaches. The first is the large expanse of Lumahai Beach near the Lumahai River, and the second is the far eastern end of the beach that is somewhat separated from the main beach and […]
A relatively narrow and small, sandy beach, Lawai Beach Park can sometimes disappear altogether when big waves pound the shore but when the water is calm this is a lovely beach and also one of the south shore’s best snorkeling spots. Lawai Beach is sometimes called Beach House because it is located right next to […]
A beautiful, long stretch of white sand on southwestern Kauai, Kekaha Beach is great for a sunbathing or for a long walk on a seemingly endless beach. Kekaha is not the best swimming beach, however, because it is exposed to the open ocean with no protecting reef offshore. When strong longshore currents are running they […]
Kee Beach, Kauai is one of Hawaii’s most striking beaches and the beginning of the popular hiking trail to Hanakapiai and Kalalau.
This sparkling white sand beach located along Hwy. 56 in Kapaa on Kauai’s eastern shore is popular among local surfers and bodyboarders though the conditions can be challenging for beginners. Kealia Beach is about 1/2-mile long and about 150 feet wide, providing lots of room for relaxing and sunbathing. The north end of the beach […]
Warning: This beach is popular with locals. Have respect. Located on scenic Kalihiwai Bay on Kauai’s north shore near Kilauea town, Kalihiwai Beach offers calm water for swimming during the summer months and is a popular surfing beach during winter. The beach area is bordered by lava cliffs while ironwood trees along the shore provide […]
This lovely crescent of white sand slopes gently into the water making it a great swimming beach that is well visited by locals as well as tourists. About 1/3-mile long and quite wide, Kalapaki Beach fronts the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club and is located in a somewhat protected cove that opens to Nawiliwili […]
Hanalei Bay is a beautiful 2-mile long crescent of white sand nestled beneath a beautiful range of mountains lined with waterfalls. Hanalei Beach Park Pavilion is the next beach over from the pier and is fronted by a large grass lawn. There is a lifeguard station at this beach and the waters are usually safe […]
Scenic Popular North Shore Beach – Gateway to Na Pali This scenic and popular north shore beach has white sand, nice mountain views, pristine aquamarine water, and a large grassy area fronting the beach. Trees provide plenty of shady places to relax and there are picnic tables and full facilities for camping. Haena Beach isn’t […]
A lovely and secluded east shore beach, Donkey Beach requires about a ten-minute walk from the parking lot to reach the water. The shoreline is rocky in areas with one very nice stretch of sand, and trees line the beach providing plenty of places to relax. While Donkey Beach is great for sunbathing and relaxing, […]
A popular local gathering place, Black Pot park is often filled with Kauai families on the weekend. They set up tents and tarps for their picnic areas, fire up the barbecues, and spend the weekend enjoying the beach and enjoying each other’s company. The large grass lawn fronting the beach at Black Pot has plenty […]
Located on Kauai’s beautiful north shore, 3-mile-long Anini Beach is a protected and safe beach for children. A fringing reef runs offshore along this whole stretch of coastline providing a beautiful stretch of pristine blue water. Kamani trees line the shoreline providing plenty of shady areas. Anini Beach is a great spot for beginning windsurfers […]
A protective offshore reef makes Anahola Beach good for swimming except during times of high surf. The white sandy beach is about .5 miles long and surrounded by ironwood trees that provide plenty of shady areas for relaxing. The reef provides good snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities and the nearshore waters have some good pockets […]
This western Molokai beach is quite secluded and also relatively well protected from the open ocean. The beach is a mixture of rock and sand and is located next to Hale O Lono Harbor where the annual Molokai to Oahu Outrigger Canoe race begins. Other than the canoe racers, this whole area is somewhat secluded […]
This small beach on east Molokai is partially protected by an offshore reef which provides good snorkeling and diving as well as nice swimming when the sea is calm. The ease of entry into the sea and the gentle water make Sandy Beach popular with families that have small children. Currents may run near the […]
Pukoo Beach consists of two beaches with the one on the east having clear blue water and a sandy seafloor, while the water at the western beach is sometimes a bit cloudy. A coral reef offshore provides good snorkeling opportunities. Great For Swimming and snorkeling are good here when the sea is calm. Highlights Scenic […]
Located along Molokai’s western shore, two separate beaches here include one that has more sand and is somewhat secluded and one that is fronted by tidepools. A small bluff separates these two beaches along this rocky and sandy shoreline. The beach is next to a large cinder cone called Pohaku Mauliuli (Black Rock). Because this […]
Papohaku Beach Park – Hawaii’s longest white sand beach
Sunbathing is nice at One Alii Beach Park where there are two beaches called One Alii I and One Alii II. Swimming is not great since the beach is narrow and comprised mostly of rock and coral without a lot of sand. However, this is a great place for a picnic or just relaxing and […]
Though it has less sand than nearby Honouli Maloo, Honouli Wai Bay also provides some good swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Located along Hwy. 450 in eastern Molokai, this small sandy beach can be great for snorkeling when the water is calm. Great For Swimming, diving, and snorkeling when the water is calm. Windsurfing and kitesurfing […]
This partially protected bay on Molokai’s eastern coastline provides a nice sandy beach that is good for snorkeling and swimming. Honouli Maloo Bay is located between Sandy Beach and Murphy’s Beach and is known as a good surfing beach. Great For Snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and diving are good here but only when the ocean is […]
An offshore reef provides protection for this coconut palm-lined beach along Molokai’s eastern coastline. The shallow and crystal clear nearshore waters are nice for wading, snorkeling and swimming when the sea is calm but should be should not be entered during times of high surf. The beach is sandy with some rocky areas. Great For […]
This important Hawaiian cultural area is situated on the northwestern coastline of Molokai and includes three separate beach areas known as Kawaaloa, Keonelele, and Moomomi. The region is managed by the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii which offers informational guided tours. The small white-sand beach is on the east corner of the bay. The nearshore waters […]
This is a nice beach for relaxing and enjoying the scenery though it isn’t the best swimming beach due to the expanses of mud-flats around this portion of Molokai. The nearshore waters are sandy and rocky, and also very shallow. To the west of the beach is Kapuiwa Royal Coconut Grove that covers about ten […]
This long and wide sandy beach along Molokai’s western coast is the main beach for the Kaluakoi Resort. The shoreline is a mixture of sand and rock. While summer waters at Kepuhi can be quite pleasant it isn’t the best swimming beach due to the rocky seascape. Despite less than ideal swimming conditions, however, this […]
Located on the west coast of Molokai, Kaupoa Beach is a picture-perfect postcard beach with palm trees and gentle breezes for a classic Hawaiian beach experience. Kaupoa Beach consists of two crescents of fine white sand divided by a rock outcropping. The water is typically very clear and blue, and swimming and snorkeling are good […]
Located on the south coast of Molokai, Kakahaia is a 42-acre beach park nice for birdwatching or picnicking though not a good swimming beach due to the rocky, shallow seafloor. Fishermen also frequent this beach which is part of a bird sanctuary and the Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge. Great For Picnics, fishing, birdwatching. Highlights This […]
This small, south Molokai beach is popular among fisherman though is not great for snorkeling or swimming beach because the seafloor is somewhat rocky. The beach is long and narrow. Located nearby is Hale O Lono Harbor which is the starting point of the annual Molokai to Oahu Outrigger Canoe Race. Great For Fishing, whale […]
The two nice swimming beaches called Kawili (on the right) and Kamalaea (on the left) are located in Halawa Bay along Molokai’s eastern shore. While Kawili is a bit rocky and more exposed, Kamaalaea is a pleasant curving beach with fine white sand (Halawa means “Curve”) that gently slopes into the sea. Halawa Beach Park […]
This southwestern Molokai beach is located at the head of a small bay surrounded by outcroppings of lava on Kapukahehu Bay. The small crescent of white sand of Dixie Maru Cove is relatively well protected from the open sea by a fringing coral reef. This beach was named after the Japanese sailboat called Dixie Maru […]
This east Lanai beach is not a great swimming beach due to its shallow and rocky ocean bottom though there are a few pockets of sand that allow you to enjoy the water. Most visitors to Naha are fishermen, and indeed this area was once the site of a fishing village. Also located at Naha […]
This small yet charming white-sand beach on the south coast of Lanai is situated at the east end of beautiful Manele Bay, which also contains the island’s only public harbor and the place where you can take the ferry to Maui. The seafloor is mostly sand and gravel and the beach is surrounded by rocky […]
This remote northeast Lanai beach is six miles long and protected by a wide offshore reef that is one of Hawaii’s longest fringing reefs. Keomuku Beach is very remote and secluded and is actually a series of cobblestone and black sand beaches with clear blue water. The beaches are mostly rocky though there are some […]
This long, winding beach on east Lanai is frequented by local fishermen though it is not a great swimming beach because of the shallow, rocky ocean floor. The sand includes a mixture of coral rubble. Kiawe trees overhanging the right side of the beach provide some shade. Great For Fishing, sunbathing, beachcombing, exploring. Highlights Kahemano […]
This south Lanai beach isn’t very big but it is quite secluded, backed by sea cliffs. The salt-and-pepper sand borders numerous tidepool areas along a shelf of lava. The beach is surrounded by sea cliffs, and perched above Huawai Bay is the Challenge at Manele Golf Course that was designed by Jack Nicklaus. Huawai Bay […]
This long and wide white-sand beach stretches for more than 1.5 miles along Lanai’s northwest coastline providing a nice view of the island of Molokai. If you squint you can even see Diamond Head on Oahu. Polihua is a wonderful beach for a walk or even a picnic (if the winds aren’t blowing too strong). […]
In addition to a lovely, long white-sand beach, this somewhat secluded and remote area of east Lanai is designated as a bird sanctuary and is the site of the Loko Lapa Fishpond dating to ancient times. Unfortunately, Lopa Beach is not a good swimming beach due to the ocean currents and topography of the seafloor […]
This white sandy cove is located adjacent to Shark’s Bay with the two being divided only by a rock outcropping. Shark’s Cove is a nice spot for quiet relaxation or a private picnic, but like Shark’s Bay, this isn’t the best swimming beach because the ocean floor is quite rocky and strong currents often flow […]
This sandy and relatively well-protected cove are bordered by lava rock. The red lava jutting out between Shark’s Bay and Hulopoe Beach provides nice views of Lanai’s seacoast in both directions, and about 150 feet offshore is a Puu Pehu, also known as Sweetheart Rock, jutting some 80 feet up from the ocean. Shark’s Bay […]
Hulopoe Beach – named America’s Best Beach by Dr. Beach
Located along the Big Island’s scenic Hamakua Coast, Waipio Valley is the southernmost and largest of seven large valleys on the windward side of the Big Island’s Kohala Mountains. Waipio was home to Hawaiian royalty in ancient times and today the secluded beach is a great place to relax. Cliffs rise thousands of feet from […]
This beach park is situated on a peninsula of lava that just out from the northern coastline of the Big Island, creating a very scenic area that is well worth the drive off the main thoroughfare. A large lawn provides a nice place to relax. A plaque at Laupahoehoe Point Park memorializes the 24 people […]
Leleiwi Beach just southeast of Hilo includes several inlets, coves, and natural ponds as well as tidepools in the lava rocks. This beach is a popular snorkeling location due to the nearshore coral reef and the variety of marine life that can be seen here including Hawaiian green sea turtles and even spinner dolphins. Bodyboarders […]
This classic Hawaiian black sand beach includes a palm-lined freshwater fishpond. The jet black sand on the beach (true black, not gray or salt-and-pepper) was created when the molten lava from Kilauea Volcano flowed into the cool sea causing the lava to break apart into tiny fragments that later washed up on the beach. Plenty […]
This green sand beach near South Point, the southernmost tip of the island, is located in a small cove at the base of a huge cinder cone called Puu O Mahana. The striking green sand of Green Sand Beach, also called Mahana Beach and Papakolea Beach, is the result of olivine deposits in the nearby […]
This family-friendly beach at the north end of Kauhako Bay on the South Kona coast is frequented by young children who enjoy the small surf and tide pools. The beach sand is composed of lava sand and fine gray coral. Snorkeling is best on the left side of Hookena Beach. This area was a boat […]
This white sand beach is centrally located in downtown Kailua-Kona between Kailua Pier and King Kamehameha Hotel. “King Kam” Beach is family-friendly, frequented by young children who enjoy the calm and relatively well-protected waters and gentle wave action. There are also shady areas to relax, and the cove waters are popular among recreational swimmers. Locals […]
These two beaches are located not far from Kona town. Protected by a large offshore reef, Aiopio Beach is fun for kids who often play in the tidepools within the sandy inlet, and there are plenty of shady areas for relaxing. As part of the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park, Aiopio Beach is rich in archaeological […]
A large tidepool surrounded by a lava rock wall fronts this long and wide, sandy beach, creating a nice shallow swimming area where the water is warmed up by the sun. The beach sand is soft with some coral debris mixed in. When the surf in the open sea is too large this beach provides […]
This scenic Big Island beach is actually three crescent-shaped beaches along 3/4-mile of Kona coastline. There are plenty of shady trees and even a freshwater pool near the dunes that is great for washing off the saltwater. Bodyboarding and surfing are also popular at Makalawena Beach, though it is fairly remote and never crowded. The […]
Located on Kua Bay, the fine white-sand Maniniowali Beach gently slopes to the sea and the water is usually crystal clear. The crescent-shaped beach is one of the best places in Kona for swimming as long as the waves aren’t too big. Bodyboarding can also be very good but if the water is rough there […]
This idyllic white-sand beach is backed by a pleasant grassy area and is one of the Big Island’s nicest beaches. Palm trees and lava rocks surround this family-friendly beach, and a protected inlet area has shallow water where kids often play. Great For Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing. Highlights Views of Maui and Mauna Kea volcano add […]
Hapuna Beach is located between 2 posh resorts.
Some consider Kaunaoa Beach the nicest beach on the Big Island
This attractive white sand beach on the Kona side of the Big Island is popular with kids due to the gently sloping sand and protective offshore reef that provides for safe swimming almost all year around. Spencer Beach Park is also one of the Big Island’s best beach parks for camping. Open grass lawn areas […]
Honolua Bay – surf in the winter & snorkel during summer
The name of this rocky, remote beach—Oneuli—means “dark sand” and refers to the burnt cinder from Puu Olai cinder cone which was created by volcanic eruptions. Erosion of the cinder cone by waves created the black sand of the beach which is mixed with crushed seashells creating a salt and pepper beach. The waters of […]
This beach is famous as one of the world’s premier windsurfing and kitesurfing spots along with Hookipa Beach. Surfers also enjoy the waves of Kanaha when a swell is running. Many locals frequent Kanaha to fish, swim and play volleyball as well as watersports. The area on the Kahului end of Kanaha is often referred […]
This 36-acre beach park includes various sports fields, an inline skating rink, tennis and basketball courts, and a 20,000-foot skateboard park. The beach is relatively small but the park is large and a favorite gathering place for local kids and families. Lots of picnics and family gatherings are held here as well as festivals and […]
Warning: This beach is dangerous! The trail has eroded and just getting to the beach is difficult. A Maui landmark, Red Sand Beach provides scenic views as well as uniquely red sand that comes from the erosion of the cinder cone surrounding the bay. Some areas of the beach are somewhat protected by lava formations […]
One of Maui’s nicest swimming and snorkeling beaches, Napili Beach is known for its shimmering blue water and beautiful white sand. Located on Maui’s northwestern coast, Napili Bay is situated between two rocky points. The ocean bottom is sandy though it gets deep relatively quickly. A strong shore break during the winter months provides waves […]
Kamaole Beach has three separate sections called Kamaole I, II, and III, each divided by rocky points. Swimming is good at all three of these beaches. Kamaole III, which is the southernmost of the three beaches, features a wide and sandy beach and also a nice grassy area that is terrific for picnics. The sandy […]
Located in Paia, this lovely beach is quite long with nice sand, clear blue water, and a calm lagoon area for babies to play. There are also plenty of shady and grassy areas for relaxing. The water at Baldwin is sometimes a bit murky due to nearby runoff. This popular local beach is often very […]
This picturesque red sand beach is located just to the south of Hana town on Maui’s southeastern coastline. Experienced surfers appreciate the waves at Koki though it is not a great swimming beach for beginners. The ocean slopes gently to the sea and does not get overhead for several hundred feet, yet the conditions may […]
One of the world’s best windsurfing beaches, Hookipa is also a favorite hangout for kitesurfers and surfers as well as other water sports enthusiasts. The sandy beach and scenic rocky shoreline provide a nice place to relax when the winds aren’t blowing too strong. A coral reef offshore provides some protection near the beach making […]
Shaped like a half-moon, Hamoa Beach is about 900 feet long and 100 feet wide with gray sand comprised of a mix of coral and lava. This flawless beach is surrounded by tropical growth and 30-foot high black lava sea cliffs with nice views of the palm-topped seabird sanctuary offshore which is known as Alau […]
This local gathering place is great for picnics on summer days when you may see outrigger canoes clubs practicing, community events taking place, or people just enjoying the grassy lawn and black/brown sand beach created by eroded lava. Hana Bay is typically very calm as it is relatively well protected from the open sea, making […]
Located along the Hana Highway just a few miles before Hana town, Waianapanapa State Park encompasses about 120 acres along Maui’s eastern shore. The beach is comprised of small black pebbles. The grassy area set above the sea is wonderful for a scenic picnic along the coastline of low black lava cliffs amidst tropical flora, […]
Makena Beach State Park includes two of Maui’s nicest beaches–Big Beach and Little Beach. The wide, golden-sand Big Beach is edged with palm trees and bordered by grass-topped sand dunes between two black lava points on the south side of Maui’s resort coastline of Wailea. This white and orange sand beach is nearly one mile […]
Wailea Beach in southwest Maui is a beautiful crescent of golden sand and one of the five beaches near the Wailea Resort. Wailea Beach is big and wide, and fronts the elegant Wailea Four Seasons Resort as well as the Grand Wailea Resort. An excellent swimming beach, Wailea Beach is backed by sand dunes on […]
Sunbath & snorkel at popular Kaanapali Beach
Considered by many to be the finest beach on Maui and definitely one of the most popular tourist beaches, Kapalua Beach is a nice crescent of golden sand lined with palm trees. Kapalua Beach borders Kapalua Resort yet there is plenty of room for everyone on this large beach which provides prime swimming and also […]
This lovely northwestern Maui beach begins near the 16th hole of the beautiful Kapalua golf course at Makaluapuna Point and continues to the other side of the cove on Honokahua Bay which is bordered by sea cliffs. Fleming Beach is long and wide and is usually great for swimming and snorkeling while also providing good […]
Located on Maui’s south-central coastline, this scenic wetland area encompasses about 700 acres and is home to a variety of Hawaiian waterbirds including the black-necked stilt and Hawaiian coot. The Refuge is the site of habitat restoration projects as well as local environmental education, bird watching, photography, and other wildlife-oriented activities. The Reserve was established […]
Remote and beautiful, this cool and misty high-country park provides wonderful mountain hikes through forests of cypress, ash, eucalyptus, sequoia, redwood, cedar, and pine trees with many scenic views. Located upland of Kula, Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is set an elevation of 6,200 feet and includes the ten acres of planned forest in the […]
Kaanapali is a posh resort area in West Maui. Just a couple of miles up the coast from Lahaina is the posh resort area of Kaanapali with upscale high-rise hotels bordering a pristine, white-sand beach. The waters offshore of Kaanapali Beach are a favorite swimming area for humpback whales which are often seen during the […]
Set in the shadow of the Haleakala Volcano and the West Maui Mountains, this lovely wildlife sanctuary in Kahului between the harbor and the airport was formerly a fishpond for the Hawaiian monarchy. According to legend the stone for the walls of Kanaha Pond was passed from hand-to-hand all the way to the site. Kanaha […]
This interesting educational museum in central Maui displays various exhibits about sugarcane and the early years of Hawaii plantation life including the many different immigrant cultures who came to Hawaii to work on the sugarcane plantations. An exhibit about the production of sugarcane features a scale model of a cane crusher. The museum building itself […]
Iao Valley – Hiking & Educational Programs, 30 Hands-on Exhibits
This site has panoramic views of central Maui and consists of two heiaus: Haleki‘i Heiau and Pihanakalani Heiau. Haleki‘i Heiau was rebuilt in 1958 with the goal of replicating the original structure as it looked when it was built, which is thought to have occurred around A.D. 1200. Today the lava foundations and remains of […]
This charming historic structure on the main street across from Kaahumanu Church was built for missionaries Edward and Caroline Bailey in 1833 on the former site of the Hawaiian royal compound. Lava rock and native woods including koa were used in the construction of the building which originally housed the Wailuku Female Seminary. This was […]
This secluded Marine Preserve about 7 miles south of Wailea spans from La Perouse Bay to Ahihi Bay and includes great snorkeling and scuba diving areas featuring some of Maui’s clearest blue waters. The rocky shoreline gives way to underwater coral and lava formations that make for interesting exploring. No fishing is allowed, and you […]
This charming county park in central Maui includes various ethnic displays memorializing the different cultures that have played a role in the history of the Hawaiian Islands. The memorials at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens include traditional Hawaiian dwellings of ancient times as well as the traditional homes of the people who came from Portugal, China, New […]
This 384-acre park above Aiea north of Pearl Harbor and about 12 miles from Waikiki includes the historic Heaiwa Heiau which is near the park entrance. Further down the paved road are campgrounds as well as picnic areas and the trailhead for the Aiea Loop Trail. The 4.8-mile trail leads through a forested area above […]
Located next to the Hawaii State Library on the grounds of Iolani Palace, the Hawaii State Archives houses a vast collection of important Hawaiian history including personal papers, collections, government documents, speeches, press releases, and documents from all governmental branches including the Judiciary, Legislature, and Executive. More than 100,000 photographs are preserved within the Archives […]
Ahupuaa O Kahana State Park is located between Laie and Kaneohe on Oahu’s windward side. The park is a traditional Hawaiian ahupuaa, which is a land division extending from the mountains to the sea and including everything needed for subsistence. Kahana Valley is one of only a few ahupuaa in the state that is owned […]
This refuge near the northernmost point of Oahu was established in 1976 with the goal of providing habitat for Hawaiian waterbirds and migratory waterbirds as well as native plants that require a wetland habitat. Kahuku Point marks the end of the north shore and the beginning of Oahu’s windward coast. Just south of the point […]
Set in a 60-acre basin within the landmark Koko Crater in eastern Oahu is a lovely botanical garden featuring a dryland collection of plants that is a model of xeriscape concepts supporting a drought-tolerant landscape in tune with the surrounding environment. Koko Head is known geologically as a tuff cone and forms the south-west side […]
Waikiki Beachboys & Duke Kahanamoku Popularized Surfing. The beachboys were symbolic of everything that was great about Hawaii. History The Beachboys of Waikiki is a renowned group of Hawaiian watermen who worked on the beaches of Waikiki from the 1920s to the 1950s when guests from all around the world began arriving to stay at […]
Kawainui Marsh is Hawaii’s largest remaining wetland encompassing 830 acres. Kawainui receives the waters from rains in the uplands of Maunawili Valley. A traditional fishpond in ancient times, Kawainui was planted with rice during the 1900s. Today Kawainui has been restored as a wetland that provides valuable habitat for Hawaii’s native waterbirds including the stilt […]
Heeia State Park is located at Kealohi Point in Kaneohe Bay on Oahu’s windward side and provides scenic views of one of Hawaii’s largest fishponds as well as Heeia-Kea Harbor. Three of Oahu’s five remaining ancient fishponds are located on Kaneohe Bay. Heeia State Park serves as an outdoor classroom for community groups. The non-profit […]
This 400-acre park above Kaneohe on Oahu’s windward side lives up to its name which means “Peaceful refuge.” Hoomaluhia is Oahu’s largest botanical garden. The plants are grouped to represent major tropical growing regions including Polynesia, Melanesia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and India, Africa and Tropical America. Plants at Hoomaluhia include palms and aroids, heliconias, native […]
This attractive vermilion temple on Oahu’s windward side is set beneath the stunning Koolau mountains and overlooks Kaneohe. The temple is a full-size replica of a 900-year-old temple called Byodo-In and located in Uji, Japan. The Oahu site is also a memorial park with numerous crypts and mausoleums that are the resting places of many […]
This 27-acre city park between the Waianae and Koolau Mountains in central Oahu features hiking trails and more than 60 types of old trees as well as a distinguished fern collection. The park is one of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens. Set on a plateau at an elevation of nearly 1,000 feet above sea level, the […]
This lovely 700-acre tropical garden is a nature preserve and bird sanctuary that is family owned and set in a majestic location beneath the strikingly beautiful Koolau mountain range. Highlights Highlights of the Garden are 70 varieties of edible fruits and nuts as well as a palm garden with more than 80 types of palms, […]
The Hawaii State Library is housed in a historic Classical Revival style building in downtown Honolulu just to the west of Honolulu Hale. The structure serves as the central branch of the statewide library system. The library’s main building is a four-story rectangular structure with a six-story tower in the rear. The library’s entrance features […]
Honolulu Hale opened in downtown Honolulu in 1927 featuring pillars and arches, ceiling frescoes, decorative balconies, and a tiled roof. The building was designed by the renowned architect of the time Charles William Dickey. Modeled after the Bargello Palace built in Italy in the 13th century, Honolulu Hale has an open-air courtyard at the center […]
Bishop Street in downtown Honolulu is the nexus of Hawaii’s business world including banking and other major financial activities. Honolulu is considered the financial center of the Pacific, and Bishop Street is the financial center of Hawaii. Downtown Oahu’s business district is centered on Bishop Street and Fort Street Mall and bounded by Vineyard Boulevard, […]
The unique architecture of Hawaii’s State Capitol building features volcano-shaped Legislative chambers as well as a large open central court area and tall supporting columns. Reflecting pools surrounding the complex symbolizes the ocean around Hawaii. The open-air rotunda area is open to the public and allows a view into the Legislative chambers where you can […]
Just across the street from Hawaii’s State Capitol building in downtown Honolulu is Washington Place, the former home of Queen Liliuokalani. Twelve of Hawaii’s governors also lived in the home. In 2001 a new 5,000-square-foot governor’s residence was constructed on the same land as Washington Place, which became a museum for visitors to learn more […]
Aliiolani Hale—King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center of Hawaii The historic Aliiolani Hale building was the first major Western-style structure built by the Hawaiian monarchy and is notable for its distinctive clock tower. Today the building houses the King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center which features exhibits as well as multimedia presentations on landmark Hawaii […]
Lanai Cathedrals Scuba Adventure
Snowboard atop Hawaii’s Mauna Kea Volcano. For one of the most unique skiing or snowboarding experiences of your life consider an adventure to the Big Island of Hawaii and its tallest volcano called Mauna Kea, which means “White Mountain.” 10 Tips To Ensure A Safe and Thrilling Hawaii Ski Adventure 1. Best Time To Go […]
Surf and play on crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay – one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and best surfing beaches.
A pleasant, sandy beach fronted by a grassy lawn, Haleiwa Beach Park is located just north of the small north shore town of Haleiwa and enjoys a nice view of Kaena Point. The sandy beach is relatively narrow and swimming is not great due to the rocky and shallow ocean bottom. However, this is a […]
During the winter months, the world-renown Waimea Bay is the site of some of the world’s biggest waves. Other times of the year this is a quiet, placid beach, great for swimming and snorkeling.
Shark’s Cove & Three Tables offer Oahu’s best snorkeling & scuba
Ehukai Beach is the site of one of the world’s most famous surfing waves, the Banzai Pipeline. The beach is wide and sandy, particularly during the summer months when lots of sand is deposited onshore. Summer is also when the water is generally calmer so it may be safe to swim. Ehukai Beach Park has […]
Winter Surfing Haven. Summer Snorkeling and Swimming. This famous surfing beach comes alive during the winter months when big ocean swells draw the best surfers from all around the world. At all times of years, the scenic beach is a joy to visit, and during the calmer summer months it can be a nice swimming […]
Malaekahana State Recreation Area The beach at Malaekahana is a mile-long crescent of sand bordering relatively well-protected ocean waters that are good for swimming when the surf is not too large. This is also a good beach for surfing and bodyboarding. Three campgrounds at Malaekahana are surrounded by pine trees and have camping facilities including […]
This is a lovely, scenic beach between Laie and Kalani Points with fairly calm water when the surf is not too large. However, there isn’t much shade at this beach. The beach is located at the town of Laie on Oahu’s northeastern coast and most of the visitors to this beach are students of Brigham […]
Though the seafloor is mostly coral reef, the protection of the reef makes this is a good swimming beach unless the surf is large. A nice sandy offshore area can be found just to the left of the beach access path. Trees along the shore provide shady areas. Great For Swimming, sunbathing, relaxing in the […]
Benefitting from the protection of an offshore reef, Punaluu Beach Park provides calm waters that are good for swimming as long as the ocean waves are not too big. This is not such a good beach for snorkeling, and during the winter the beach becomes quite narrow due to large surf. Great For Swimming, snorkeling, […]
Situated on the 150-acre peninsula of Kualoa Point on the north side of Kualoa Bay, this is great for swimming when the surf is not too large. Rising above this very scenic beach is the cliff called Paliku, which means “Vertical cliff,” and the beach has great views of the Koolau mountains. Kualoa is a […]
35 acre Kailua Beach Park is one of Oahu’s nicest beaches
Great Snorkeling for Kids
This popular east side park is a great swimming beach protected by an offshore reef and a great sunbathing beach with soft, white sand. The shallow water and consistent shore break are often utilized by beginner surfers and bodyboarders. Bellows Field Beach Park usually provides calm water conditions unless the ocean waves are large. This […]
This classic Hawaiian beach on Oahu’s eastern shore is a great place for a long beach walk along Waimanalo Bay followed by a swim in the mostly protected, turquoise waters. Waimanalo Bay is Oahu’s longest beach stretching for more than 5 miles along the windward shore from Wailea Point to Makapuu, and with great views […]
Set beneath the stunning Koolau mountain range, Waimanalo Beach Park is a long, sandy beach with relatively calm water unless the ocean waves are large. Ironwood trees provide some shady areas. Waimanalo Beach Park is just one of three prominent beaches on Waimanalo Bay. The other two are Bellows Field Beach Park and Waimanalo Bay […]
This is a lovely golden-sand beach on Oahu’s easternmost point is about 1,000 feet long and is backed by black Koolau cliffs, Makapuu has a classic natural Hawaiian beauty that has been displayed in such shows as Hawaii Five-O and Magnum, P.I. However, swimming is only recommended when the water is very calm. Offshore of […]
Sandy Beach is a popular beach that is about 1,200 feet long and is great for getting away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki and laying out on the golden sands. A wide and expansive beach, Sandys is nice for swimming when the waves are very small, but most often there is a pounding […]
This impressive crescent-shaped bay (Hanauma means “Curved Bay”) lined with lava rock ledges was formed by two sunken craters and is renowned for its myriad tropical fish. As one of Hawaii’s most popular visitor destinations, Hanauma Bay draws more than one million people each year. The sandy beach at Hanauma is nice for relaxing, but […]
This pleasant swimming and snorkeling area at the eastern end of Waikiki is protected by a coral reef and used by many local swimmers who like to swim laps in the ocean. The Outrigger Canoe Club Beach is located just east of San Souci Beach and fronts the Outrigger Canoe Club. Great For Swimming, snorkeling, […]
Extending from the Kapahulu Groin at Kuhio Beach all the way to the Waikiki Aquarium, Kapiolani Beach is popular among bodyboarders who ride the waves along the midsection of the beach. A surfing spot farther offshore is known as the Publics. Great For The grassy areas and coconut palm trees fronting Kapiolani Beach Park provide […]
The Kapahulu Groin is a storm drain that extends out into the ocean at the eastern end of Kuhio Beach Park. From the Kapahulu Groin, a breakwater extends parallel to the beach for more than 1,000 feet providing a safe area where onlookers can see the local bodyboarders riding waves perilously close to the wall. […]
Located directly in front of the charming and historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel as well as the Royal Moana and the Outrigger Waikiki, this beautiful white-sand beach is enjoyed by swimmers and sunbathers as well as surfers who enjoy the waves offshore. As you relax on the soft sand you can enjoy great views of Diamond […]
Gray’s Beach is located just to the east (on the Diamond Head side) of the Waikiki’s Halekulani Hotel. Due to the seawall in front of the hotel, the beach may be inundated with water at high tide. Great For Sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and people watching. Highlights When visiting Gray’s Beach you will notice that there […]
This 1,800-foot-long Waikiki beach is situated directly in front of the 20-acre Fort DeRussy Military Reservation which provides a recreational area for U.S. military personnel and families. Two huts along the beach here rent water sports equipment. Great For Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and people watching. Highlights The grassy and shady areas along the beach at […]
Directly in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel at the western end of Waikiki, Kahanamoku Beach features a breakwater and pier with coral running between them. This provides a nice swimming area that is relatively safe for kids. The pier at Kahanamoku Beach is used to provide water taxi service for submarine cruises and […]
Sand, Surf & Shopping Galore
This beautiful sandy beach within Ala Moana Beach Park is somewhat protected from the open sea, although the usually calm water is sometimes subject to strong currents as well as ocean surges. The nearby grassy area and palm trees lining the shore add an extra charm. Snorkeling isn’t as good as some other beaches. Great […]
Sandy Beach, Calm Water
Ko Olina Lagoons consists of sandy beaches along four picturesque lagoons—Hanu, Naia, Kolola, and Ulu—situated in a luxurious resort area. The lagoons were fashioned by human hands to provide a nice beach and safe swimming area for kids and novice swimmers. The semi-circular shape of the lagoon and the stone walls create a protective barrier from the […]
“He wore a malo and a coconut hatOne was for this and the other for thatAll the people shouted as he went byHe was the cockeyed mayor of Kaunakakai He wore a lei and he wore a smileHe drank a gallon of oke to make life worthwhileThen he made ’em laugh ’till he made them […]
This gentle west side beach is family-friendly with calm water and shady areas. When other Waianae beaches are experiencing strong surf and dangerous conditions, Pokai is often still very hospitable. The swimming areas at Pokai are marked with buoys. Pokai is also a popular canoe-launching beach. Highlights On days when other beaches are too rough, […]
Ancient Hawaiian Surf Grounds This mile-long, golden-sand beach on Oahu’s western shore was famous in ancient Hawaii as a place where the experts rode the waves—this remains true today during large winter swells. During the summer months when the waves are small, novices also enjoy Makaha’s waves that provide long rides for bodyboarders and surfers. […]