The Top 5 Beaches on the Kona Coast, Hawaii
The Kona Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, offering everything from powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters to black lava shores and world-class snorkeling spots. Whether you’re a local resident or considering a move to Kailua-Kona, these beaches are some of the best places to relax, explore, and experience Hawaii’s incredible natural beauty.
As a top 1% producing real estate agent in Kona, I often help my clients find homes near some of the most stunning beaches on the Big Island. Let’s dive into my top five must-visit beaches on the Kona Coast!
1. Hapuna Beach – The Best White Sand Beach 🏖️☀️
📍 Location: Kohala Coast (45 minutes from Kailua-Kona)
🏊 Best For: Swimming, sunbathing, boogie boarding
🐠 Wildlife: Occasional sea turtles & tropical fish
If you’re looking for the ultimate postcard-perfect Hawaiian beach, Hapuna Beach State Park is the place to be. With its long stretch of soft white sand, gentle waves, and clear blue waters, this beach is perfect for families, swimmers, and sun worshippers.
🌊 Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Spacious shoreline—great for walking and relaxing
✔ Lifeguards on duty for extra safety
✔ Picnic tables and restrooms available
Local Tip: Arrive early! Hapuna is one of the most popular beaches on the island, and parking fills up quickly.
2. Manini‘ōwali Beach (Kua Bay) – Crystal Clear Waters & Epic Sunsets 🌅🐬
📍 Location: Kekaha Kai State Park (15 minutes north of Kona)
🏊 Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, bodyboarding
🐠 Wildlife: Spinner dolphins & sea turtles
Known for its turquoise waters and pristine white sand, Manini‘ōwali Beach (Kua Bay) is a favorite among both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim or to catch a breathtaking sunset.
🌊 Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Vibrant blue water, great for snorkeling on calm days
✔ Frequent dolphin sightings in the early morning
✔ A quieter alternative to Hapuna Beach
Local Tip: The waves can get strong in winter—be cautious if swimming with kids.
3. Kahaluʻu Beach Park – The Best Snorkeling Spot 🤿🐠
📍 Location: 5 minutes south of Kailua-Kona
🏊 Best For: Snorkeling, beginner surfers
🐠 Wildlife: Colorful reef fish, sea turtles, eels
If you love snorkeling and marine life, Kahaluʻu Beach Park is a must-visit. This small but vibrant beach offers one of the best snorkeling experiences on the Big Island, with shallow waters full of coral reefs and tropical fish.
🌊 Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Calm, shallow waters make it perfect for beginners
✔ Abundant marine life, including sea turtles and butterflyfish
✔ On-site snorkel rental shops and picnic areas
Local Tip: Please use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the delicate coral ecosystem!
4. Makalawena Beach – A Secluded Tropical Paradise 🌴🚶♂️
📍 Location: Kekaha Kai State Park (20 minutes north of Kailua-Kona)
🏊 Best For: Relaxing, swimming, exploring
🐠 Wildlife: Monk seals, tropical birds
Looking for a hidden gem away from the crowds? Makalawena Beach is a secluded, unspoiled paradise that requires a short 20-minute hike across lava fields to reach—but trust me, it’s worth it!
🌊 Why You’ll Love It:
✔ One of the most secluded, peaceful beaches on the island
✔ Soft golden sand and gentle waves for swimming
✔ A great spot for picnicking and sunbathing
Local Tip: Bring water, snacks, and an umbrella—there are no facilities or shade at this remote beach!
5. Magic Sands Beach (La‘aloa Beach) – Best for Bodyboarding & Surfing 🏄♂️🌊
📍 Location: 10 minutes south of downtown Kailua-Kona
🏊 Best For: Bodyboarding, sunbathing, sunset watching
🐠 Wildlife: Occasional sea turtles
Magic Sands Beach gets its name from the way the sand mysteriously disappears and reappears with the tides! It’s a local favorite for bodyboarding and sunbathing, with golden sand and vibrant blue waves.
🌊 Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Exciting waves for bodyboarding & surfing
✔ Close to restaurants and shops in Kailua-Kona
✔ Stunning sunset views
Local Tip: The waves can be strong in winter—watch for rip currents and always check surf conditions before heading in.
Thinking About Living Near One of These Beaches? Let’s Find Your Dream Home! 🏡🌊
The Kona Coast isn’t just a vacation paradise—it’s an incredible place to call home. Whether you’re looking for a luxury oceanfront estate, a second home, or a vacation rental, I can help you find the perfect property close to these stunning beaches.
As a top 1% producing real estate agent on the Big Island, I specialize in:
✅ Luxury homes near the best beaches
✅ Resort-style living in gated communities
✅ Investment properties and vacation homes
Let’s explore the best beachfront properties in Kailua-Kona today!
📞 Call/Text: 808-365-3528
📩 Email: soraya.letournel@compass.com
🌐 Visit: https://sorayaletournel.com/
Check out Living in White Sands Beach Estates, Hawaii
Link to Hawaii Snorkeling Safety Guide
Whether you’re visiting or planning to move to the Kona Coast, these five beaches offer unmatched beauty and relaxation. If you’re dreaming of a home near one of these world-class beaches, let’s make it happen!
📞 Call me today to start your home search in Kailua-Kona!