Dreaming of sun-soaked shores and lava-rock coastlines? When we lived on the Big Island, I couldn't say no to a relaxing morning on the beach so we got to explore a lot. I lived just north of Kona, so I'm very familiar with all the beaches in the area. These beaches in Kona offer crystal-clear waters, top-notch snorkeling. You should go in the morning before the water gets choppy (especially in the winter).
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Recommended Beaches in Kona:
1. Kuki'o Beach
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Location:
Kona, Big Island, HawaiiHighlights:
Kuki'o Beach is a breathtaking Hawaiian destination perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, especially those eager to observe sea turtles. Nestled in the Kona area, this beach offers tranquil white sands, peaceful shorelines, and remarkable opportunities to see native turtles in their natural habitat.Recommended For:
Wildlife watchers, sea turtle lovers, photographers, beach walkers, and relaxation seekers.What I Love: ♥
"It’s a place where golden sands meet graceful wildlife — where every step brings you closer to Hawaii’s serene coastal beauty and the quiet marvel of sea turtles sunning onshore."- Observe native Hawaiian sea turtles as they bask along the shore or swim through crystal-clear waters.
- Stroll the beach and enjoy the silky soft sand beneath your feet and panoramic Pacific views.
- Relax in peaceful surroundings, far from crowds, with nature all around you.
Cost:
Free, though access may be limited due to resort proximity; parking may require walking or shuttle assistance.Best time to visit:
Mid-morning to early afternoon for better chances of spotting sea turtles, and during calm weather for optimal shoreline enjoyment.Local tips:
Bring binoculars or a camera with zoom for respectful turtle watching. Avoid loud noises and stay at least 10 feet away from wildlife.Distance:
About 30 minutes north of Kailua-Kona.How to Get to Kuki'o Beach:
From Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (HI-19), enter through the Four Seasons Hualalai gate and request beach access. Limited public parking is available. Follow the path down to the shore.Map:
Kuki'o Beach Map
2. King Kam Beach
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Location:
Downtown Kona, Big Island, HawaiiHighlights:
Also known as Kamakahonu Beach, King Kam Beach is a serene, centrally located spot in Kona, nestled beside the historic Kamakahonu National Landmark. Its calm waters and central position near Kona Pier make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, swimmers, families with young kids, photographers, and sunset seekers.What I Love: ♥
"This gentle, protected cove in the heart of Kona is perfect for a peaceful dip in the ocean, watching fishermen work from the pier, or capturing a postcard-worthy sunset right from the sand."- Swim and snorkel in the calm, protected waters that are safe and welcoming all year long.
- Stroll around the Kona Pier, just steps away, to watch fishermen and book local fishing or diving charters.
- Relax in the golden hour with the sun setting into the Pacific, painting the sky in dramatic hues.
Cost:
Free and open to the public.Best time to visit:
Early morning for quiet beach time and late afternoon for unforgettable sunset views.Local tips:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for rocky patches. Stop at nearby eateries or enjoy shaved ice along Ali’i Drive after a swim.Distance:
Within walking distance from the center of Kailua-Kona.How to Get to King Kam Beach:
Located directly next to the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort and the historic Kamakahonu landmark, parking is available at the hotel or along Ali‘i Drive.Map:
King Kam Beach MapReview:★★★★★ " I loved the easy access right by the pier and the view of the bay. We got there early to grab a shady spot. We saw sea turtles near the rocks!"
Romantic Beaches in Kona:
3. Koholo Bay
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Location:
North Kona Coast, Big Island, HawaiiHighlights:
Kiholo Bay is a stunning, lava-rock-framed lagoon on the Big Island’s Kona Coast. While portions of the area are privately owned, all public areas are clearly marked and accessible, offering visitors a slice of untamed Hawaiian beauty.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, adventurers, tide pool explorers, families with kids, and sunbathers looking for peace and quiet.What I Love: ♥
"During low tide, the retreating waters reveal a treasure trove of tide pools that sparkle like gems and are perfect for exploring with curious kids or snapping great nature shots."- Explore tide pools that appear during low tide and discover small marine life and natural formations.
- Snorkel and swim in the clear blue waters, though strong currents may be present in some areas—caution advised.
- Relax in seclusion away from the crowds, with nothing but lava rocks and crashing waves surrounding you.
Cost:
Free. Public parking available off Queen Ka?ahumanu Highway.Best time to visit:
Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures. Visit during low tide for tide pool exploration.Local tips:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes. Shade is limited, so wear a hat or bring a beach umbrella. Respect private land signs—stay in designated public areas.Distance:
About 30 minutes north of Kailua-Kona by car.How to Get to Kiholo Bay:
From Queen Ka?ahumanu Highway (Route 19), turn onto a gravel access road (near mile marker 82) that leads toward the bay. A short hike is required to reach the shoreline.Map:
Kiholo Bay Map
4. Kahalu'u Beach Park
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Location:
Ali'i Drive, Kona Coast, Big Island, HawaiiHighlights:
Kahalu'u Beach Park is one of the Big Island’s most popular beaches, especially in the Kona region. Known for its calm waters and vibrant marine life, it offers ideal conditions for snorkeling and family swimming adventures.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, swimmers, families, beach lovers, and early risers looking to avoid crowds.What I Love: ♥
"Protected by a reef offshore, this beach boasts shallow, clear waters perfect for spotting fish, sea turtles, and more—right from the shoreline!"- Snorkeling heaven thanks to calm waters and abundant marine life sheltered by the nearby reef.
- Full-service amenities including equipment rentals, a snack bar, restrooms, and shaded picnic areas.
- Accessible and family-friendly, though best enjoyed in the morning before it gets crowded.
Cost:
Free. Limited free parking is available, but it fills quickly during peak hours.Best time to visit:
Early morning for fewer crowds and clearer water visibility for snorkeling.Local tips:
Arrive early to secure a good beach spot and parking. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera for underwater photography.Distance:
About 10 minutes south of Kailua-Kona by car.How to Get to Kahalu'u Beach Park:
Drive south on Ali'i Drive from downtown Kona. Look for signage near the bend in the road where the beach park is clearly visible.Map:
Kahalu'u Beach Park Map
Unique Beaches in Kona:
5. Kika'ua Point Beach
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Location:
Kohanaiki Beach Park, North Kona, Big Island, HawaiiHighlights:
Kika'ua Point Beach is more of a tranquil lagoon than a traditional sandy beach, known for its calm, warm, and shallow waters that make it an ideal retreat for families with young children.Recommended For:
Families with small children, first-time swimmers, and those seeking a peaceful, wave-free beach experience.What I Love: ♥
"You likely won’t spot a single wave—just warm, glass-like waters and safe shoreline paddling for all ages."- Perfect for kids thanks to still waters and gradual shoreline depth.
- Peaceful atmosphere surrounded by lava rock and lush greenery.
- Hidden gem offering a relaxing experience away from the tourist rush.
Cost:
Free. Limited parking nearby—arrive early to secure a spot.Best time to visit:
Early to mid-morning, especially during weekdays for lighter crowds and cooler temperatures.Local tips:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and your own snacks, as amenities are minimal. Be sure to check for signs marking public access pathways.Distance:
About 25 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, near the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.How to Get to Kika'ua Point Beach:
Head north on Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (Route 19), turn into the Four Seasons entrance, and follow signs to the public beach access path.Map:
Kika'ua Point Beach Map
6. In Conclusion
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Of all the prime beach destinations on the planet, Hawaii really stands out. The Aloha State, made up of many different islands, has an exceptionally long coastline and an almost never-ending list of breathtaking beaches for everyone to enjoy. No matter where you happen to be in Hawaii, you’re never too far away from the sort of beach that will make your jaw drop and give you magical memories to last a lifetime. The Kona region of Hawaii’s Big Island is an especially popular place for beach-goers of all kinds, and there are a lot of lovely shoreline spots to appreciate and admire around Kona.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- What should visitors know about Kona’s beaches?
- If you’re heading to the Kona region on the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island, you’ve got some big decisions to make.
- Why is it difficult to choose a beach in Kona?
- Choosing which beach to visit can actually be quite difficult as there are simply so many beautiful spots in the area, but hopefully the information below will be able to help you.
- What information is available about Kona’s beaches?
- We’ve taken a look at Kona’s beaches and highlighted some of the very best beach spots in the region, noting the various amenities and activities you can enjoy at each location.
🌤 Best Time to Visit Kona Beaches
- April to October – Best overall time with dry, sunny weather perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- June to August – Peak summer with warm ocean temps, clear skies, and ideal beach conditions.
- May & September – Fewer crowds and great weather—ideal for relaxed coastal experiences.
- November to March – Slightly cooler with occasional rain, but great for whale watching and peaceful beach days.
- Year-Round – Kona’s west coast offers calm seas and beautiful beaches like Magic Sands and Kua Bay any time of year.
Plan Your Trip