Hidden Beaches: Secret Spots Only Locals Know

While the Big Island isn't known for beaches the way Maui or Oahu are, it hides some truly special coastal gems. These lesser-known spots reward those willing to explore a bit off the beaten path.

Unique Beach Types

The Big Island's volcanic nature creates beaches you won't find anywhere else:

• Black sand: Crushed volcanic rock
• Green sand: Olivine crystals from volcanic eruptions
• White sand: Coral and shell fragments
• Salt and pepper: Mix of all the above

Hilo Side (East)

Honoli'i Beach Park

A local favorite for bodyboarding and surfing. The small black sand cove is tucked beneath a bridge, often overlooked by tourists driving to waterfalls.

• Best for: Watching local surfers, picnics
• Access: Easy, roadside parking
• Swimming: Experienced only (strong currents)

Carlsmith Beach Park (Four Mile Beach)

A calm, pond-like swimming area protected by a reef. Locals come here for relaxed swimming and turtle sightings.

• Best for: Swimming, families, turtle watching
• Access: Easy, with facilities
• Swimming: Very calm, protected

Kehena Beach

A secluded black sand beach in the Puna district, known for its bohemian atmosphere. Clothing optional and often visited by spinner dolphins in the morning.

• Best for: Solitude, dolphin watching
• Access: Steep trail down cliffs
• Note: No lifeguards, strong currents

Kona Side (West)

Makalawena Beach

Consistently rated one of Hawaii's best beaches, yet rarely crowded due to access. Turquoise water, white sand, and no development in sight.

• Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, solitude
• Access: 20-minute walk over rough lava or 4WD road
• Bring: Everything—no facilities

Kiholo Bay

A stunning turquoise lagoon with turtles, anchialine ponds, and lava tubes to explore. The access road is unmarked, keeping crowds away.

• Best for: Snorkeling, turtle watching, exploring
• Access: Mile-long walk from highway or rough road
• Special feature: Lava tube you can swim through

Kua Bay (Manini'owali)

While increasingly known, this gorgeous white sand beach is still less crowded than resort beaches. The turquoise water is among the island's best.

• Best for: Swimming, bodyboarding
• Access: Paved road, gated (closes at sunset)
• Tip: Arrive early on weekends

South Point Area

Green Sand Beach (Papakolea)

One of only four green sand beaches in the world. The olivine crystals create an otherworldly green tint. Getting there is an adventure.

• Best for: The experience, photography
• Access: 5-mile round trip hike or local shuttle
• Swimming: Possible but challenging entry

North Kohala

Pololu Valley Beach

A black sand beach at the end of a steep trail into a dramatic valley. The views alone are worth the hike.

• Best for: Scenery, photography, solitude
• Access: Steep 20-minute hike down
• Swimming: Not recommended (currents)

Hidden Beach Tips

• Leave no trace: Pack out all trash
• Respect locals: These are often local hangouts
• Check conditions: Remote beaches have no lifeguards
• Bring supplies: Water, sunscreen, snacks
• Start early: Best light and fewer people
• Tell someone: Let someone know where you're going

Safety Reminders

• Never turn your back on the ocean
• When in doubt, don't go out
• Rogue waves can appear without warning
• Currents can be strong even in calm-looking water
• Reef shoes protect against sharp lava rock