Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is on many lists of the best beaches of the Big Island, and even all of the Hawaiian Islands. It’s a large beach that’s over 1/3 mile long and has room for everyone.

If the waves aren’t too big, kids and families will be playing in the surf. Boogie-boards are common here. When the surf is high the lifeguards will put out signs and can even close the water for safety reasons. Just use common sense when entering the water here. In general it’s a safe place to swim and play in the waves, but rip currents can occur. Snorkeling is ok if you swim southward from the south end of the beach.

The state operates this beach and they have invested in the facilities including clean covered picnic areas, several restroom buildings, and wide pathways to get where you are going.

The parking areas are large too, but even those are starting to fill up so the county has implemented an entrance fee system for non-residents. After you park you’ll need to find a parking machine and enter the number of people in your group and if you have a vehicle to determine the price you’ll pay. Then you’ll put that ticket on your car if you have one. Kids 3 and younger are free. The fees are currently $10 per vehicle and $5 per person.

If you want to camp, the park has A-frame shelters with four beds and screened exteriors that can be rented and reserved online. These “cabins” are located inland from the beach park, but are walking distance to the beach.

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail runs along the shore for hikers to explore the area. Northward the trail goes into Mauna Kea Resort and continues all the way to Spencer Beach Park. Southward the trail goes along an undeveloped shoreline on the way to Beach 69 and beyond.

To get to Hapuna Beach look for the signed entrance on Highway 19 between Mauna Lani Resort and Mauna Kea Resort.

Address

Old Puako Rd & Hapuna Beach Rd
Waimea, HI 96743

Phone

808-882-6206

Park Name

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Owner

State

Pet Details

No dogs allowed in the park

Fees

Fee for entrance and separate fee for parking

Activities

Sunbathing, Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing, Hiking, Picnicking, Bodyboarding

Amenities

Hotels, Cabins, Restaurants, Concessions Stand, Lifeguards, Restrooms, Covered Pavilions, Picnic Tables, Showers, Drinking Water, ADA Access, Trails