Big Island of Hawaii by Fodor’s Travel Guides

Author:Fodor’s Travel Guides [Fodor’s Travel Guides]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Fodor’s
Published: 2022-08-02T00:00:00+00:00

Mauna Kea and Hapuna

6 miles north of Mauna Lani.

Every visitor to the Big Island should put Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area on an itinerary, especially if you’re not staying at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, located beachfront. This glorious stretch of white-sand beauty will not fail to take your breath away, no matter what the season or time of day. Sheer enchantment also defines the luminous waters and curve of white sand at Kaunaoa, also called Mauna Kea Beach, but it’s more difficult to access due to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s control of the parking area.

; Beaches

HHapuna Beach State Recreation Area

BEACH | FAMILY | One of Hawaii’s most breathtaking beaches, Hapuna is a ½-mile-long stretch of white perfection, with turquoise water that is calm in summer, so it’s good for kids, with just enough rolling waves to make bodysurfing and bodyboarding fun. Watch for the undertow; in winter it can be very rough. There is excellent snorkeling around the jagged rocks that border the beach on either side, but high surf brings strong currents. Known for awesome sunsets, this is one of the island’s best places to see the “green flash” as the sun dips below a clear horizon.

Parking is ample, although the lot can fill up by midday and the beach can get crowded on holidays. Plenty of picnic tables overlooking the beach offer shady respite on a hot day. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking. EHwy. 19 near mile marker 69, Mauna Kea jJust south of the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort P808/961–9544 wdlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks A$10 parking fee per vehicle.

HKaunaoa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach)

BEACH | FAMILY | Hands down one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, if not the whole state, Kaunaoa features a short crescent of pure white sand framed by coconut palms. The beach, which fronts the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, slopes very gradually, and there’s great snorkeling along the rocks. Classic Hawaii postcard views abound, especially in winter, when snow tops Maunakea to the east. When conditions permit, waves are good for body- and board surfing also. Currents can be strong in winter, so be careful. Get a cocktail at the beach cabana and enjoy the sunset.

lPublic parking is limited to a few spaces, so arrive before 10 am or after 4 pm. If the lot is full, head to nearby Hapuna Beach, where there’s a huge parking lot ($10 per vehicle). Try this spot again another day—it’s worth it! Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; swimming; walking. E62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Mauna Kea jEntry through gate to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel AFree.

r Restaurants

Hau Tree

$$$ | MODERN HAWAIIAN | Though it sits on a patio by the pool, this beachside restaurant and beach bar with gazebo is not just for pupus and cocktails. The island-infused dinner menu features excellent entrées, such as the grass-fed Kulana beef tenderloin brochettes, plus plentiful seafood dishes and greens from local farms.

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