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 can be surges, and inexperienced swimmers should find a calmer, more protected beach.
Great For
Swimming and snorkeling when the water is not too rough, sunbathing, bodyboarding. Snorkeling is best on the far right side of the beach as well as the rocky area on the left where there is some coral.
Highlights
Maniniowali is a favorite local bodyboarding beach. Snorkeling provides for some fun exploring as sea turtles and tropical fish are often seen around the underwater boulders and coral.
Need to Know
This beach is best enjoyed in the mornings before strong winds pick up as happens frequently in the afternoons. Weekends at Maniniowali can sometimes be a bit crowded compared to weekdays. Also, there isn’t much shade at this beach.
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, potable water, parking lot.
Access
Follow Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Hwy. 19) north from Kailua-Kona and go left just after Mile Marker 89. The left turn is a newly paved road that is across from a road on the right with signs for the West Hawaii Veteran Cemetery.