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This beach is absolutely stunning and frequently named among the best beaches in the world - it's clear to see why! Beautiful golden sand with lots of space to relax - some of the beach sits in front of the Westin and has seats for their guests but the rest of the beach is wide open to set up your space. The beach can have some strong currents and rips at times so follow lifeguard directions but it is swimmer friendly and plenty of people were enjoying body surfing ! Water is warm too. The beach provides stunning sunsets and breathtaking views at the end of the day! It has public parking and rest rooms and is absolutely worth a visit! There
Hapuna Beach is nice. It is clean and has white sand but I am not sure that the waters are the prettiest and clearest I have seen. At the two times I visited, the waves were strong. In fact on the second day I visited, there were signs put up by the lifeguards warning visitors of rip currents. The pavilion has tables and benches. There are comfort rooms at the top at the parking lot before going down and also down near the beach. We did not have problems finding a parking spot but it's not free.
It was a nice beach. Waves a little stronger than those on Oahu. But overall the weather was nice. Sand wasn't blistering hot. Parking was easy. Just fyi. They charge per car and per person. Ridiculous price to pay for a beach visit
The beach was clean and pretty. The water was bath water warm with calm waves. Great place to relax in the water or tan on the sand. The other local beaches aren't as calm so that makes this beach the best for swimming and families.
This is a very nice beach. Super popular and pretty busy. We stopped by here to use the restroom and decided to stay for a few hours. Parking was not too difficult. People come and go. Parking for entire day through 7pm was $15. As much as I did not want to pay that much, I did. We wanted to get in the water. There are waves so just swim out until you get through those and you'll be fine just floating. The water is not so deep so you can still be standing while out there. Once it hit lunch time, it got busy and we were done with the crowd. When we got to our jeep, we waited for someone who would wait for our parking spot. After a few cars passed by, one finally stopped. I went up to them and handed over my parking pass. The last time we visited this beach a few years ago, someone did the same. I know I shouldn't have but we were only here for less than 2 hrs. I felt like doing the same for someone else and they were very thankful.
Omg! One of the most fabulous and breathtaking beach parks known to mankind! Capturing the mind-blowing sunset is a MUST before you pass on. It can bring one to tears. The beach area is fabulous and clean. The parking is ample also. Truly a must visit when on the Big Island of Hawai'i!
Long velvety white sand beach with turquoise water and life guard towers, restrooms. Plenty of shades, tables in the park. Bring your chairs and umbrella if you want to close to the water. $10 per car parking and $5 each non-Hawaiian residents. Bring water and food since there is no restaurant. Waves are good size, wind is strong, turtles and fish are plenty on both ends. Bring your aloha spirits and voila paradise
DAY 2 of Vacation - We visited Hapuna Beach after zipling since it was on the way to back to our hotel. My bf did research prior to visiting, and he really wanted to visit this beach. Out of all the beaches we visited, we found ourselves constantly coming back to Hapuna. The views here are breathtaking, especially during the sunset. Don't miss it! We also took sunset photos here the day before we departed. Hapuna was absolutely beautiful. The ocean was the cleanest water I've ever swam in. The water was also warm, so we weren't completely frozen. The waves constantly came onto the shore. Depending on the weather, some waves were large and some were small. This is a large beach, so there's plenty of space for everyone. There is a big parking lot. No one was attending the kiosk. It is self-pay at the machine. Though, when we tried paying, the machine constantly acted up. We gave up after that, so we did not pay for parking.
This was our first beach to stop at in Hawaii, and it was a great stop! To start off parking was very easy. Please keep in mind that it's $10 for entry and $5 per person, but it was well worth it. We did not have a long walk from our car to the beach. The water at the beach is very pretty. The currents were very strong so we were not able to swim much, but that's to be expected when going to the ocean. If you're into surfing, the waves looked great for that! Also, keep in mind that you need to bring your own chairs and umbrella. There is no shade on the beach, so if you need some shade, make sure to bring your umbrella. It didn't look like there was a place to rent from here. Overall beautiful beach!
Over the past 20 years, my parents have come to this resort when it was the prince and then got bought out later by the Westin. Year after year this beach has stayed true its name although it does have a public and private side. Everybody is polite and helpful when needed! Snorkeling in the cove is like a dream and the earlier in the morning the more flat and wildlife you'll see! I actually don't know how to swim but I can snorkel so maybe the saltwater helps me stay afloat?! Lol if you stay at the hotel, you can actually rent Snorkel and gear for two hours for free. You just have to sign up. There's a lot of perks to this hotel and I love the cultural center and the classes they offer!! I love the Hawaiian culture and history and I hope with this new mayor, they are able to keep everything the same!! Their history needs to be told!!
Awesome beach/ didn't mind paying the parking (10 per vehicle and 5 per person). Nice shallow and sandy slope, few rocks, perfect for two hours of swimming at least Would return Wish you could rent umbrellas and chair
I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do... When you think of a white sand beach in paradise... Hapuna beach is the picture you have in your mind. Beautiful white sand and blue water. Parking can be expensive, but it's worth it if you've already invested in the trip to Hawaii. Along with the picturesque beach itself there are modern bathroom facilities and you may get to experience some of the local wildlife. Feral chickens and Nene geese. While you are in Hawaii please spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants!
10/10 recommend this beach to people of all ages. There are 2 different parking areas where you have to pay for parking. Parking is $40 and the machines accept cash/card. You can park outside the gates for free but it is a farther walk. It's not far at all of a walk to the beach from the parking lot. No stairs. The waves were so calm and it is shallow for a long while before it dips we went here with my six month old and three year-old. We brought a Sun tent, which was the right thing to do since there aren't any umbrellas. It seems like people were renting umbrellas from the resort connected to the beach, which is the Westin. There are different wash off showers all over at each entrance of the beach and parking lot . Bathrooms close by. Can't wait to come back here!
This was our favorite beach while visiting the Waikōloa area on the Big Island. The sand is like powder, the water is warm and shallow (check tide conditions), it's clean, and the kids loved it. Besides the beach area, there is a large grassy area with canopies, picnic tables, and a large lawn area. The lawn area gave us shelter from the sun, and was a great place to take breaks and have snacks. There were a few chickens wandering around the grassy area, so watch your food. The bathrooms are decent, and there are several water spray areas to wash off. The kiddos just loved wading in the water and letting the waves wash over their legs. It's a great place for the whole family. read more
Love Hapuna. Our fav while visiting the Big Island. Although it is a bit expensive at $10/car plus $5/pp. Get there early especially during summer. Soft white sand and crystal blue waters! Plus they have several shaded picnic areas and restrooms. read more
8 months ago
We came to see if there were waves for surfing. I saw a lot of Boogie Boards in the Beach. I brought mine from home. But no waves today and incredibly crowded. Not much shade , bring your own. Lots of paid parking And shade area s to picnic. A nice big big area for families. read more
This beach is absolutely stunning and frequently named among the best beaches in the world - it's clear to see why! Beautiful golden sand with lots of space to relax - some of the beach sits in front of the Westin and has seats for their guests but the rest of the beach is wide open to set up your space. The beach can have some strong currents and rips at times so follow lifeguard directions but it is swimmer friendly and plenty of people were enjoying body surfing ! Water is warm too. The beach provides stunning sunsets and breathtaking views at the end of the day! It has public parking and rest rooms and is absolutely worth a visit! There read more
Hapuna Beach is nice. It is clean and has white sand but I am not sure that the waters are the prettiest and clearest I have seen. At the two times I visited, the waves were strong. In fact on the second day I visited, there were signs put up by the lifeguards warning visitors of rip currents. The pavilion has tables and benches. There are comfort rooms at the top at the parking lot before going down and also down near the beach. We did not have problems finding a parking spot but it's not free. read more
It was a nice beach. Waves a little stronger than those on Oahu. But overall the weather was nice. Sand wasn't blistering hot. Parking was easy. Just fyi. They charge per car and per person. Ridiculous price to pay for a beach visit read more
10 months ago
5 months ago
The beach was clean and pretty. The water was bath water warm with calm waves. Great place to relax in the water or tan on the sand. The other local beaches aren't as calm so that makes this beach the best for swimming and families. read more
7 months ago
This is a very nice beach. Super popular and pretty busy. We stopped by here to use the restroom and decided to stay for a few hours. Parking was not too difficult. People come and go. Parking for entire day through 7pm was $15. As much as I did not want to pay that much, I did. We wanted to get in the water. There are waves so just swim out until you get through those and you'll be fine just floating. The water is not so deep so you can still be standing while out there. Once it hit lunch time, it got busy and we were done with the crowd. When we got to our jeep, we waited for someone who would wait for our parking spot. After a few cars passed by, one finally stopped. I went up to them and handed over my parking pass. The last time we visited this beach a few years ago, someone did the same. I know I shouldn't have but we were only here for less than 2 hrs. I felt like doing the same for someone else and they were very thankful. read more
Omg! One of the most fabulous and breathtaking beach parks known to mankind! Capturing the mind-blowing sunset is a MUST before you pass on. It can bring one to tears. The beach area is fabulous and clean. The parking is ample also. Truly a must visit when on the Big Island of Hawai'i! read more
Long velvety white sand beach with turquoise water and life guard towers, restrooms. Plenty of shades, tables in the park. Bring your chairs and umbrella if you want to close to the water. $10 per car parking and $5 each non-Hawaiian residents. Bring water and food since there is no restaurant. Waves are good size, wind is strong, turtles and fish are plenty on both ends. Bring your aloha spirits and voila paradise read more
2 years ago
DAY 2 of Vacation - We visited Hapuna Beach after zipling since it was on the way to back to our hotel. My bf did research prior to visiting, and he really wanted to visit this beach. Out of all the beaches we visited, we found ourselves constantly coming back to Hapuna. The views here are breathtaking, especially during the sunset. Don't miss it! We also took sunset photos here the day before we departed. Hapuna was absolutely beautiful. The ocean was the cleanest water I've ever swam in. The water was also warm, so we weren't completely frozen. The waves constantly came onto the shore. Depending on the weather, some waves were large and some were small. This is a large beach, so there's plenty of space for everyone. There is a big parking lot. No one was attending the kiosk. It is self-pay at the machine. Though, when we tried paying, the machine constantly acted up. We gave up after that, so we did not pay for parking. read more
2 months ago
This was our first beach to stop at in Hawaii, and it was a great stop! To start off parking was very easy. Please keep in mind that it's $10 for entry and $5 per person, but it was well worth it. We did not have a long walk from our car to the beach. The water at the beach is very pretty. The currents were very strong so we were not able to swim much, but that's to be expected when going to the ocean. If you're into surfing, the waves looked great for that! Also, keep in mind that you need to bring your own chairs and umbrella. There is no shade on the beach, so if you need some shade, make sure to bring your umbrella. It didn't look like there was a place to rent from here. Overall beautiful beach! read more
Over the past 20 years, my parents have come to this resort when it was the prince and then got bought out later by the Westin. Year after year this beach has stayed true its name although it does have a public and private side. Everybody is polite and helpful when needed! Snorkeling in the cove is like a dream and the earlier in the morning the more flat and wildlife you'll see! I actually don't know how to swim but I can snorkel so maybe the saltwater helps me stay afloat?! Lol if you stay at the hotel, you can actually rent Snorkel and gear for two hours for free. You just have to sign up. There's a lot of perks to this hotel and I love the cultural center and the classes they offer!! I love the Hawaiian culture and history and I hope with this new mayor, they are able to keep everything the same!! Their history needs to be told!! read more
I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do... When you think of a white sand beach in paradise... Hapuna beach is the picture you have in your mind. Beautiful white sand and blue water. Parking can be expensive, but it's worth it if you've already invested in the trip to Hawaii. Along with the picturesque beach itself there are modern bathroom facilities and you may get to experience some of the local wildlife. Feral chickens and Nene geese. While you are in Hawaii please spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants! read more
10/10 recommend this beach to people of all ages. There are 2 different parking areas where you have to pay for parking. Parking is $40 and the machines accept cash/card. You can park outside the gates for free but it is a farther walk. It's not far at all of a walk to the beach from the parking lot. No stairs. The waves were so calm and it is shallow for a long while before it dips we went here with my six month old and three year-old. We brought a Sun tent, which was the right thing to do since there aren't any umbrellas. It seems like people were renting umbrellas from the resort connected to the beach, which is the Westin. There are different wash off showers all over at each entrance of the beach and parking lot . Bathrooms close by. Can't wait to come back here! read more
Hapuna was my first Hawaiian beach I've ever set foot on and it was a doozy! We pulled up pretty early in the morning after grabbing malasada for breakfast. We got to the beach around 9am and there was plenty of parking in the free public lot. The beach was still pretty quiet and perfect for taking peaceful photos without people in the background. The water is beautiful - the whole scene looks like something out of a computer screensaver or a postcard. It got a little busier after a couple hours so we decided to head out and grab lunch. Definitely recommend if you're visiting Kona! read more
1 year ago
My absolute favorite beach on the Big Island. Hapuna is a long white sand beach with soft sand and plenty of space. We had our own little area where we set up for the day and had plenty of room since it's so large. There is a parking lot where you pay to be at the beach and there are indoor bathrooms and outdoor showers available for the public. When we went, we also saw lifeguards on duty. The water is warm and crystal clear. Most of the beach is not great for snorkeling unless you go to the rocky area, I only saw a few translucent fish while swimming and am not sure how it is by the rocks. It's amazing for swimming and boogie boarding. This beach is also close to the Westin resort. I highly recommend bringing umbrellas as there is not much shade on the beach itself. They do have covered picnic tables if you wish to sit somewhere not on the beach. We also saw nene geese which was awesome. I cannot wait to come back. read more
8 months ago
This is one of the only large sandy beaches on the Big Island, and it's worth the drive if you are on the Kona side. The rumors that the sand has been imported from Australia are totally false. This is an excellent, kid-friendly beach and it is absolutely beautiful. There is plenty of space to spread out and find your own slice of paradise. Be sure to bring a beach umbrella--there is no shade and it can get quite hot. Also, rent a boogie board before you go--there are no rentals at the park. Yes, there is a parking fee for non-natives--but the price is worth it. We will definitely be back the next time we visit the Big Island. read more
While I love coming to Hapuna Beach, unfortunately, today (7/28/23) I had to give my favorite beach a 1 star rating because get this-- NO FRESH WATER at the beach. Apparently, there hasn't been any fresh water since OCTOBER 8, 2022 that's almost a year! That's right, there was no way to wash our salty bodies after a relaxing swim in the ocean. That really should never be the case at a State Beach Park. Other than that, it was really a pleasant way to spend the afternoon. The kids had a fun time boogie boarding and the waves are perfect for it. But not having any running fresh water really was a drag. The powers that be need to get this problem fixed. The grass in the area is drying up and the palm trees are dying. This is all surprising to me given that the people of Hawaii take much pride in their land and to see this beach go to shit is upsetting. read more
2 years ago
Loved this beach! It's pretty quiet with soft white sand and clear waters. Fyi, there's a parking fee and only a small water spout to wash off read more
this is one of the most amazing white sand beaches on the big island . No lava rocks so you don't need reef shoes and the walk from parking is minimal for people with orthopedic or asthmatic issues . A cart is helpful but if you pack light you really don't need it . We arrived a round 9:30 -10:00 am and there was a handful of people by noon it had doubled . The water was quite warm probably 70+ degrees. The water was also very calm, no white caps until about 2pm when the wind picked up . This is a very windy beach so please leave your umbrella at home. Seriously , leave it at home unless you want the liability when your umbrella smacks someone in the head . Several people had umbrellas that were being pulled out of the ground by the wind gusts and one went flying so fast end over end it almost hit another group of people. it would have but someone caught it . We had a beautiful peaceful day. The huge difference between CA beaches and HI beaches is in Hawaii there are no seagulls and no sand fleas. i highly recommend this beach for small children . The depth is pretty shallow even 100 yards off shore. There is a jetty of lava that many people were snorkeling around . The water was crystal clear well our past the reef. Take nothing but a photo, leave nothing but a footprint . read more
It is a really beautiful beach with good sized waves, perfect for boogie boarding. There is very little shade. We came from Waikoloa and bought a $25 umbrella at queens marketplace island market, as well as several spam musubi's because there is no food at all. Parking was $15 pay station. When we got there at 10 am there was plenty of space, when we left at 12:30 almost all spots were gone. The water is beautiful, sand is very soft. We would definitely come back, maybe with more food next time which was our limiting factor. read more
3 years ago
Best beach on Big Island ! Large covered picnic areas, lots of parking. Best of all was the soft white sand on a large beach and the fact that it continued all the way into the ocean as far as I could go. Big fun waves to play in! Lots of body / boogy board fun! No rocks to hurt your feet on which was amazing ! People of all ages having FUN !!! The only thing was the bathrooms seemed to consist of porta potties and the water fountains for drinking and rinsing off feet were not working at all. I wasn't there for as long as I wanted to be, so I may of missed some other stuff. It gets very hot so please apply your sunscreen ! Then re- apply often. I saw some very nasty sun burns !! Highly recommend if you love the beach and swimming ! My only regret was not being able to stay longer!!!! read more
2 years ago
Absolutely beautiful beach with lots of parking. If you go in the morning, definitely calm seas here and great for family outings & gatherings. Multiple recreation areas on the grass Hill with lots of bathroom and BBQ space here. Mostly sandy beaches, little bit of rocks here and there. read more
Large beach with amazingly clear water! The kids body boarded in the waves and built sand castles in the sand. There is a bit of a walk down the hill to the beach (that means back up after!), water to rinse afterwards which is appreciated. This is NOT a place to snorkel! Do NOT come her for snorkeling, this is a fun beach for playing in the water and in the sand. Bring everything you need for your time here as there is nothing else. It is a really nice beach as long as you don't think you are going to go snorkeling. :/ read more
This beach os beautiful and probably the best in the northern area of the island near Kona/Waikoloa Village. The problem is that is COSTS to be here at this state run beach. I hate that as Americans, who pay taxes, we are required to PAY to go to a beach in this Country...$10/vehicle + $5/person...saw lots of families leave after they were approached about paying. There are beach staff attendants who literally walk up to you right when you get out of your car to make sure that you paid the fees to be there...Super UnAmerican. They have 2-4 life guard towers, beautiful picnic gazebos with coverage, a grassy area, some shade spots, and showers to wash the sand off. The attendant told us there was no shade, and advised us to go about a mile south to the WaiLea Bay Beach. He said, "If you want shade there are all trees at that one..." We left and headed there..HORRIBLE beach. Rock Reefs, rocks, and ugly, old, and rotting trees lined the tiny beach area of about 100 feet. We spent some time there, where you pay the same price: $10/vehicle + $5/person, and then drove back after getting cut on our feet and knees from being in the water. We headed back to Hapuna State Beach, since we had already paid until 6pm. Got there, and the attendant lied. There was plenty of covered gazebos, picnic spots, trees, and some other shade places we could have been setup under. Never trust a local. He hates that we are here to enjoy HIS beach...at a price. Ruined our whole beach experience this day. Oh well, we learned our lesson and will head to Makalawena Beach about 15min south next time. A true local pointed us there, and assured us that it would be a greater experience. read more
4 years ago
White sand beaches and fairly sheltered swimming cove! What a lovely, accessible state Park beach access! $10 to park plus $5/person entrance fee (look for the kiosk near the bathrooms). This beach has shaded picnic tables and amazing coastal access! It's hard to find beaches that aren't sharp, hot, black lava, but Hapuna State Beach is covered in soft white sand with plenty of shaded bits to tuck into as the heat picks up. Family friendly, the coast is protected from large winds and waves, making it accessible for those just learning to swim. If you're staying at the Westin, the resort hard beach access from the hotel. read more
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a very popular beach to go to and even with the large parking lot, it may be hard to find a good spot to park at. The waves can get rather intense during the winter months but the sand itself is great overall. There are also some covered picnic areas nearby and restrooms are close by. read more
Loved this beach so much we came here twice during our trip. They have picnic tables and porta potties. The water is clean and have super soft sand. It's a decent sized beach so you still have space around you even when it's busy. read more
3 years ago
A compliment to the staff at Hāpuna State Beach for well maintained grounds and facilities. There is a restroom facility, parking lot, rinse-off showers, paved walkways for easy access to the beach, picnic tables, shade structures and an easy to use parking/entrance fee pay station. Parking is $10 per vehicle with a per person fee. This is a great price for a full day of entertainment, great sandy beach and swimmable waves. Our family visited this state park more than once in our short visit to Kona. The sandy beach and sandy shoreline were the best. You didn't have to worry about hurting your feet on sharp rocks and definitely do not need water shoes. We brought a picnic a couple umbrellas and bamboo mats but all you need is your bathing suit and sunblock. Will see you next nice Hāpuna. Mahalo! read more
Probably the best beach on the Big Island. You have to pay for parking and admission but worth it. I was bummed that they are renovating the bathrooms so no running water so you have to us port-a-potties but that's a minor inconvenience. Sand is white and fine. Snorkeling was good especially by the hotel. Very spacious and family oriented. This is definitely my favorite beach in all of Hawaii. Definitely will be back. read more
Beautiful white soft sand beach with ample parking. Incredible visibility in the water and lots of fun for the family! There's restrooms and a place to rinse off the sand after your visit. There's also a few covered picnic areas and 2-3 lifeguard stands along the beach. If you looks at the rocks on the west side then you might see some kids jumping from them! You can't go wrong with hapuna beach! read more
Sand sand sand!!! There's a dearth of sandy beaches on the big island. They are here, but so are a plethora of ouchy lava rock beaches where a thick soles shoes are highly recommended. Ah, that is where the answer to our prayers comes in. Bless you Hapuna Beach founders. You done good. So many perfect boogie boarding and body surfing waves. Soft sand will cushion your landing if you wipe out. It was a lot of fun watching everyone frolicking in the water. There are also plenty of trees around and picnic tables on the hill down from the parking lot to the beach. All you fair-skinned folk - rejoice! read more
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More info about Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Old Puako Rd
Waimea, HI 96743
Directions
Visit Website
https://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/hapuna-beach-state-recreation-area
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Ask the Community - Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Is it easy to get an Uber or Lyft from here?
No it's not. It's pretty remote so you really need a rental car
Is the food shack and equipment rental open?
As of last week, no. We found an equipment rental shop in Kailua called Alii adventures
Review Highlights - Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
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