Hawaii is renowned for its world-famous beaches, attracting visitors from around the globe to its sun-kissed shores. However, beyond the popular beaches of Waikiki and Maui lie secluded gems that offer tranquility, breathtaking landscapes, and a break from the crowds. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous hideaway or a peaceful retreat, Hawaii’s hidden beaches provide the perfect escape into paradise. Here are the top 12 hidden beaches in Hawaii that you’ve probably never heard of, but absolutely need to visit.
1. Makalawena Beach, Big Island
Makalawena Beach on the Big Island is a secluded oasis that rewards the adventurous with its pristine beauty. Accessible only by a rugged, unpaved trail or by four-wheel-drive vehicle, this beach offers an untouched slice of paradise far from the crowds. The soft, white sand is fringed by turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach’s seclusion and natural beauty make it ideal for those seeking a peaceful, undisturbed escape.
Review Beach Rating: Makalawena Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families, but challenging to access with young children.
- Accessibility: 4/10 🚶 Accessible by a rough trail or 4WD only.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring everything you need.
- Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Excellent for snorkeling and swimming.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Stunning views of the ocean and volcanic landscapes.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Impeccably clean and untouched.
- Crowd Levels: 4/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often deserted due to its remote location.
- Camping Facilities: 3/10 ⛺ No camping available.
- Parking Availability: 5/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕 Pets allowed but keep them on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️ Nearby snorkeling spots and hiking trails.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️ No dining nearby; bring your own food.
2. Honopu Beach, Kauai
Honopu Beach, often called the “Cathedral Beach,” is one of Kauai’s most elusive and beautiful hidden beaches. Nestled between towering cliffs along the Na Pali Coast, this beach can only be accessed by swimming from a boat or nearby Kalalau Beach. Its isolation, coupled with its stunning scenery, makes Honopu Beach a true gem for those willing to make the journey. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and features a natural arch that’s perfect for exploring and photography.
Review Beach Rating: Honopu Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 5/10 👨👩👧👦 Not ideal for families due to difficult access.
- Accessibility: 3/10 🏊 Accessible only by swimming from a boat or nearby beach.
- Amenities: 2/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring everything you need.
- Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Swimming and exploring the arch are the main activities.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Spectacular cliffs and natural rock formations.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Pristine and untouched.
- Crowd Levels: 2/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Almost always deserted.
- Camping Facilities: 2/10 ⛺ No camping allowed.
- Parking Availability: N/A 🅿️ Accessible only by water.
- Pet-Friendliness: 4/10 🐕 Not ideal for pets.
- Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️ Located near the Na Pali Coast hiking trails.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; strong currents at times.
- Local Dining: 3/10 🍽️ No nearby dining; bring your own provisions.
3. Papohaku Beach, Molokai
Papohaku Beach, also known as “Three Mile Beach,” is one of Hawaii’s longest and widest stretches of sand, located on the quiet island of Molokai. Despite its vast size, this beach is often nearly empty, offering visitors a tranquil escape. The golden sands are perfect for long walks, and the clear waters are ideal for swimming and boogie boarding. The beach’s remoteness and serene atmosphere make it a hidden paradise.
Review Beach Rating: Papohaku Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families, with plenty of space for activities.
- Accessibility: 8/10 🚗 Easily accessible by car with ample parking.
- Amenities: 7/10 🏖️ Basic facilities, including restrooms and showers.
- Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Good for swimming and boogie boarding.
- Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Expansive sandy beach with beautiful ocean views.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Impeccably clean and well-maintained.
- Crowd Levels: 3/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often uncrowded, even during peak season.
- Camping Facilities: 7/10 ⛺ Camping is allowed in designated areas.
- Parking Availability: 9/10 🅿️ Plenty of parking available.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️ Close to hiking trails and other Molokai attractions.
- Safety: 8/10 🦺 No lifeguards; generally safe with low surf.
- Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️ Limited options in nearby towns.
4. Waipio Valley Beach, Big Island
Waipio Valley Beach is a breathtaking black sand beach located at the base of Waipio Valley on the Big Island. The journey to this hidden beach is an adventure in itself, requiring a steep hike or a four-wheel-drive vehicle to descend into the valley. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush green vegetation, with the valley's river flowing into the ocean, creating a stunning contrast against the dark sands. Waipio Valley Beach is perfect for those looking for solitude and dramatic scenery.
Review Beach Rating: Waipio Valley Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 6/10 👨👩👧👦 Challenging access, better suited for older children.
- Accessibility: 4/10 🚶 Steep hike or 4WD required to access the beach.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring everything you need.
- Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Good for swimming and exploring the river mouth.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Spectacular views of cliffs and waterfalls.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean, with some natural debris.
- Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Moderately busy, especially during peak times.
- Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺ No camping allowed on the beach.
- Parking Availability: 5/10 🅿️ Limited parking at the trailhead.
- Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕 Pets allowed but challenging to bring.
- Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️ Nearby hiking trails and viewpoints.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; strong currents at times.
- Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️ No dining nearby; bring your own food.
5. Polihale Beach, Kauai
Polihale Beach is one of Kauai’s best-kept secrets, located on the island’s westernmost edge. This stunning beach stretches for miles, offering a seemingly endless expanse of golden sand and turquoise waters. The beach is remote, accessible only by a dirt road, which keeps the crowds away. Polihale is perfect for watching sunsets, beachcombing, and enjoying the solitude of one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and isolated beaches.
Review Beach Rating: Polihale Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families, but the road can be rough.
- Accessibility: 5/10 🚗 Requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle for access.
- Amenities: 4/10 🏖️ Basic facilities, including restrooms and showers.
- Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Good for swimming and bodyboarding, but strong currents.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Spectacular views, especially at sunset.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean, with some natural debris.
- Crowd Levels: 3/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often uncrowded due to remote location.
- Camping Facilities: 7/10 ⛺ Camping is allowed in designated areas.
- Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️ Close to Waimea Canyon and hiking trails.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution due to strong currents.
- Local Dining: 5/10 🍽️ Few dining options nearby.
6. Honomalino Bay, Big Island
Honomalino Bay is a secluded black sand beach located on the Big Island’s South Kona coast. Accessible only by a short hike through a scenic trail, this beach offers a peaceful retreat far from the tourist crowds. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and coconut palms, with calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Honomalino Bay is perfect for those seeking a quiet, picturesque spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii.
Review Beach Rating: Honomalino Bay
- Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦 Safe and calm, but access might be challenging for young children.
- Accessibility: 6/10 🚶 Short hike required to reach the beach.
- Amenities: 4/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 9/10 🚣 Excellent for snorkeling and swimming.
- Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful black sand and surrounding greenery.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean and well-maintained.
- Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Moderately quiet, especially on weekdays.
- Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺ No camping available.
- Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️ Limited parking near the trailhead.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 6/10 🏞️ Close to local fishing spots and historical sites.
- Safety: 8/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 5/10 🍽️ Few dining options nearby; bring your own food.
7. Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach), Kauai
Secret Beach, also known as Kauapea Beach, is one of Kauai’s most beautiful and secluded spots. Located near the town of Kilauea, this beach is accessible only by a steep and somewhat hidden trail, which adds to its mystery and allure. The beach itself is a long stretch of golden sand framed by lush cliffs and towering palm trees, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Secret Beach offers a serene escape where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Kauai in peace.
Review Beach Rating: Secret Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 6/10 👨👩👧👦 The steep trail makes it challenging for families with young children.
- Accessibility: 5/10 🚶 Steep hike required to access the beach.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Excellent for swimming and snorkeling, with some strong currents.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Well-maintained and pristine.
- Crowd Levels: 4/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often quiet due to difficult access.
- Camping Facilities: 3/10 ⛺ No camping allowed on the beach.
- Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️ Close to Kilauea Lighthouse and hiking trails.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️ Dining options available in nearby Kilauea.
8. Halona Beach Cove, Oahu
Halona Beach Cove, also known as “Cockroach Cove,” is a small, hidden beach on Oahu’s southeastern shore. Nestled between dramatic cliffs, this beach is famous for being featured in the classic movie “From Here to Eternity.” The cove’s secluded location and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the beauty of the rugged coastline. The beach is also a great place to watch the sunrise or explore the nearby Halona Blowhole.
Review Beach Rating: Halona Beach Cove
- Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦 Great for families, but the cove is small and can be tricky to access.
- Accessibility: 6/10 🚗 Short hike required from the parking area.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 9/10 🚣 Excellent for swimming and snorkeling in calm conditions.
- Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful cove with dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean and well-maintained.
- Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Moderately busy due to its small size.
- Camping Facilities: 2/10 ⛺ No camping allowed.
- Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️ Limited parking near the Halona Blowhole.
- Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️ Close to Halona Blowhole and Hanauma Bay.
- Safety: 8/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️ Dining options available in nearby Hawaii Kai.
9. Lumahai Beach, Kauai
Lumahai Beach on Kauai’s north shore is a stunning stretch of golden sand bordered by lush cliffs and clear, turquoise waters. The beach is famous for its role in the movie “South Pacific,” but remains relatively uncrowded due to its powerful waves and strong currents, which make it more suitable for experienced swimmers and surfers. Lumahai Beach offers breathtaking views and a sense of solitude, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
Review Beach Rating: Lumahai Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 6/10 👨👩👧👦 Beautiful but challenging for young children due to strong currents.
- Accessibility: 7/10 🚗 Easily accessible by car with a short walk from the parking area.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Best for experienced swimmers and surfers.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Stunning views with lush cliffs and clear waters.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean and well-maintained.
- Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Moderately busy, especially during peak season.
- Camping Facilities: 3/10 ⛺ No camping allowed on the beach.
- Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️ Close to Hanalei Bay and hiking trails.
- Safety: 6/10 🦺 No lifeguards; strong currents; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️ Dining options available in nearby Hanalei.
10. Kaupoa Beach, Molokai
Kaupoa Beach on the island of Molokai is a hidden gem known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. This remote beach is lined with palm trees and offers soft, golden sands and clear, gentle waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Kaupoa Beach is rarely crowded, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful day of relaxation and enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Molokai.
Review Beach Rating: Kaupoa Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦 Safe and calm, with plenty of space for families.
- Accessibility: 7/10 🚗 Accessible by car with a short walk to the beach.
- Amenities: 4/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Great for swimming and snorkeling.
- Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful palm-lined beach with clear waters.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Well-maintained and pristine.
- Crowd Levels: 3/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often uncrowded due to its remote location.
- Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺ No camping available.
- Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 6/10 🏞️ Close to other secluded beaches and cultural sites.
- Safety: 8/10 🦺 No lifeguards; generally safe with calm waters.
- Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️ Few dining options nearby; bring your own food.
11. Papakolea Beach (Green Sand Beach), Big Island
Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is one of only a handful of green sand beaches in the world. Located on the southern tip of the Big Island, this beach is famous for its unique green-hued sand, which gets its color from the mineral olivine. The beach is remote, requiring a hike of about two miles to reach it, but the striking scenery and rarity of the green sand make it well worth the effort.
Review Beach Rating: Papakolea Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 6/10 👨👩👧👦 Fascinating for kids, but the hike is challenging.
- Accessibility: 4/10 🚶 Requires a 2-mile hike or 4WD.
- Amenities: 2/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring everything you need.
- Water Activities: 7/10 🚣 Good for swimming in calm conditions.
- Scenery: 10/10 🌅 Unique green sand and stunning coastal views.
- Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹 Generally clean and well-maintained.
- Crowd Levels: 5/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Moderately busy, especially during peak times.
- Camping Facilities: 3/10 ⛺ No camping allowed on the beach.
- Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️ Limited parking at the trailhead.
- Pet-Friendliness: 5/10 🐕 Pets allowed but keep them on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️ Close to Ka Lae (South Point) and cultural sites.
- Safety: 7/10 🦺 No lifeguards; swim with caution.
- Local Dining: 3/10 🍽️ No dining nearby; bring your own food.
12. Lopa Beach, Lanai
Lopa Beach on the island of Lanai is a secluded beach known for its quiet, serene atmosphere. This hidden gem is surrounded by ironwood trees and offers a long stretch of soft sand and calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing, and its isolation ensures that you’ll often have the beach to yourself. Lopa Beach is ideal for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Review Beach Rating: Lopa Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 7/10 👨👩👧👦 Safe and calm, but remote location may be challenging for families.
- Accessibility: 6/10 🚗 Accessible by car with a short walk to the beach.
- Amenities: 3/10 🏖️ No facilities; bring your own supplies.
- Water Activities: 8/10 🚣 Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
- Scenery: 9/10 🌅 Beautiful, quiet beach with surrounding ironwood trees.
- Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹 Well-maintained and pristine.
- Crowd Levels: 3/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️ Often uncrowded due to its remote location.
- Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺ No camping available.
- Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️ Limited parking; arrive early.
- Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕 Pets allowed on a leash.
- Local Attractions: 6/10 🏞️ Close to other secluded beaches and cultural sites.
- Safety: 8/10 🦺 No lifeguards; generally safe with calm waters.
- Local Dining: 4/10 🍽️ Few dining options nearby; bring your own food.
Hawaii’s hidden beaches offer a unique opportunity to experience the islands’ natural beauty in a more intimate and secluded setting. Whether you’re hiking to the stunning green sands of Papakolea, relaxing in the serene waters of Kaupoa Beach, or marveling at the dramatic cliffs of Honopu Beach, these hidden gems provide a retreat from the well-known tourist spots. Each beach on this list offers something special, from breathtaking scenery to peaceful solitude, making them perfect for your next Hawaiian adventure. So, when you’re planning your trip to the Aloha State, consider exploring these off-the-beaten-path beaches for an unforgettable experience.
Stay tuned for more waves of aloha and beachside adventures at Beach Review!
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