Okay, ladies who wanted to hear all about Hawaii. I'm on part 2 and we're discussing going to the beach. No, I won't discuss every beach in Hawaii. I'm sure there's a book somewhere. Actually, there are hundreds. Check Amazon. Above is what we all picture when we think about Hawaii. It doesn't really matter if we're picturing the beach, the hotels, the party zone or Diamond Head. This is the picture that we all most commonly see of Hawaii, and it's of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.
There is nothing you can't see and do beach wise in Waikiki. They have luaus, they can take you in an outrigger canoe, you can swim, surf, snorkel and whatever. Or, you can just lay on the beach and drink yourself silly before returning to your hotel for a coffee and a night of clubbing. It's a great and fun way to spend a Hawaiian holiday.
But, I wouldn't be doing my proclivities justice, if I didn't mention a few alternatives.
If you've never heard of Hanalei Bay, then where have you been? It's one of the most beautiful beaches and parks on Kauai. I should warn you that it is not a big swimming spot, but it is dead gorgeous. The beach is crescent shaped as its name suggests and the view of the mountains all around is amazing. This is a great surf spot and you can camp overnight with a permit.
Hanauma Bay is beach and park galore. It's on the Big Island and is a scheduled day trip from Waikiki with a lot of resorts. There are endless activities at the park, from diving to snorkeling and all kinds of wildlife watches. There are facilities for overnight and of course, a fabulous beach in a beautiful cove. Honestly, I think that's a must visit.
Just thought I would remind everyone that sunset on a beach is a great thing. This one is Kaanapali Beach in Maui. It is the best known beach on Maui, so it could be crowded. It's on the west side of the island around a lot of hotels and resorts. The huge perk here is that it's just amazing and it's a long one, so you can have your space.
Fleming Beach is also on Maui. It's quieter here than some of the other beaches on the island, so you will have a little peace and quiet here. It's still scenic, and is available for hanging out, swimming in good conditions and surfing with varying levels at different times per weather conditions.
There are so many great beaches in Hawaii, that it's hard to cover them all. Some more of the popular ones on Oahu are Hapuna Beach State Recreational Area, Kailua Beach Park, Lanikai Beach, Waimanalo Beach, and Kaunaoa Beach.
Each beach is popular for its own reasons. Check before you go about activities at your chosen beach. Also check for wave and surf reports, lifeguards on duty, and danger levels for the waters.
If you like to sun on a beach and have a picnic, you can pretty much go anywhere you want. If you like to walk along the beach and take pictures like me, you can also go anywhere you like. I always advise folks to check with the hotel staff where you are staying before going to one of the beaches. Your staff will most likely know the area well and have great tips on where to go for the activity you want.
On Maui there are also some other wonders with great views such as; Kapalua Bay Beach and Wailea Beach. Once again, check before you go about activities and water conditions.
There are so many different kinds of beaches on every island, that it's hard to choose. Like I was saying, check with the staff at your hotel. There is no reason that you have to fly to another island to see the beach you wish to see. There are beautiful beaches literally everywhere. It is Hawaii.
There are three notable exceptions, if you're like me and want to see the unusual. Kaihalulu Beach is the famous red beach of Maui. It sits right in a town, but it is not easy to get to. You have to hike to get there. The surf is dangerous, and the rocks are jagged, but how many red beaches have you gone to?
Papakōlea Beach or the Green Sand Beach is on Oahu, and is another once in a lifetime experience. The green crystals that make up the beach are only found in this spot.
Punaluʻu Beach is the easiest of the black beaches to access and is on Oahu. Being a lava based island chain, you will find other black beaches. This one has a parking area and is set up better for tourists. Do keep your eyes open when visiting, because this beach has turtles. It is their ecosystem and they are protected, so mind your manners.
I hope that I am shedding a little bit of light on Hawaii. It's an amazing place, with a lot to see and do; that's why I'm taking it in parts.
So, come to Hawaii, enjoy the beaches. Look even closer, because I only tackled some of the top rated ones. There are so many more. Most of those are a bit off the beaten path so enjoy!
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