The 5 Best Beaches in Hawaiʻi in 2022
The list of extraordinary beaches in Hawaiʻi could be endless, but here are the Top 5 beaches throughout the Islands as voted by our readers.
Hawaiʻi’s beaches are among the best in the world. The golden coasts and sparkling waters help define the Islands as a tropical paradise. Compiling a list of the best shorelines is nearly impossible, so we asked our readers. The results are here and these are the beaches from around the Islands that HAWAIʻI Magazine readers love the most in 2022.
1. Kā‘anapali Beach, Maui
Below the crystal clear water at Kāʻanapali Beach, snorkelers and divers can explore a vibrant coral reef ecosystem.
Photo: Getty Images
Kā‘anapali Beach on Maui’s west side is the crème de la crème of beaches and this year it takes the top seat as the best beach in Hawaiʻi. Stretching three miles, the white sand and turquoise ocean make the shoreline postcard-perfect. But it’s what you can experience under the sea that makes the beach exceptional. The crystal clear water provides the ideal conditions to snorkel over colorful reefs and spot Hawaiʻi’s playful sea life, including honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a. In the winter months, humpback whales also grace the shores and put on spectacular shows. As the sun sets, be sure to stick around for another show. The lele kawa (cliff jumping) ceremony happens at sunset daily on Puʻu Kekaʻa (aka Black Rock).
2. Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i
From the epic mountain ridges to the iconic pier, Hanalei Bay is known for its striking scenery.
Photo: Getty Images
No matter where you lay your towel at Hanalei Bay, you’ll have incredible views of epic ridges, lush valleys and the iconic Kaua‘i pier. The crescent-shape beach is in one of the largest bays on Kaua‘i and is lined with nearly two miles of white sand. The beach is popular for its striking scenery as well as the array of ocean activities that can be enjoyed. Water-sport enthusiasts can surf, bodyboard and kayak, while thrill-seekers can jump off the pier. And of course, you can spend a day at Hanalei Bay doing absolutely nothing but relaxing.
3. Po‘ipū Beach, Kaua‘i
Poʻipū Beach is one of the best spots on Kauaʻi to watch Hawaiʻi’s famous sunsets.
Photo: Getty Images
Taking the crown in 2021, Po‘ipū Beach remains among the top three best beaches this year. The golden, crescent-shaped beach on Kauaʻi’s south shore is beloved among both residents and visitors. From catching waves and snorkeling with sea turtles, to playing in the gentle tide pools, there’s an activity for all ages. And after a fun-filled day in the sun, Poʻipū Beach is one of the best spots to watch Hawaiʻi’s famous sunsets.
4. Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu
As one of the most recognizable shorelines in the world, Waikīkī Beach is a gathering place for residents and visitors from around the world.
Photo: Getty Images
The vibrant energy, fascinating history and illustrious charm of Waikīkī Beach can’t be replicated. Stretching along the south shore of Honolulu, Waikīkī Beach is one of the most recognizable shorelines in the world. The famous neighborhood was once known as the playground for Hawaiian royalty. Today, it remains a lively gathering place for residents and visitors from around the world. On the golden shores, you can enjoy beachside cocktails, learn to surf in gentle waves and experience the opulence of grand resorts.
5. Hāpuna Beach, Hawai‘i Island
The half-mile stretch of white sand and pristine water at Hāpuna Beach makes it one of the most popular shorelines on Hawaiʻi Island.
Photo: Getty Images
Among lava landscapes and jagged shorelines, Hāpuna Beach is an ocean oasis on the island of Hawaiʻi. Located along the Kohala Coast on the island’s west side, visitors can find a half-mile of white sand with peaceful, clear water that provide ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
See all of the winners of our 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards in our latest issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.
