The Hawaiian Islands are home to approximately 750 miles of coastline — and countless incredible beaches in a variety of colors and landscapes. Of course, we love the famous beaches — Waikiki and Ka’anapali, for example — but there’s something about visiting a secluded spot that makes your weekend feel much more adventurous. While you won’t find any private beaches in the Aloha State, there is one dreamy destination that restricts access to just 25 guests at any given time. Ready to see how you can visit this stunning stretch of sand for yourself? Read on.
Nestled along Hawaii Island’s Kohala Coast, Kauna’oa Bay, also known as Mauna Kea Beach, is one of a handful of white sand beaches along this coastline. It’s also as pretty as a postcard, but unless you’re a guest at the neighboring Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, it can be hard to visit.
Reuben Bedingfield/Flickr
With calm, crystalline turquoise waters, fine white sand, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, Kauna’oa is quintessentially Hawaiian: it is likely exactly the image that comes to mind when daydreaming about the islands.
Tom Walker/Flickr
Described by many as perfect and recognized as one of the best beaches in Hawaii — and even the nation as a whole — by a variety of sources, Kauna’oa is a gem. The beach was even recognized as America’s best beach in 2000 by Florida International University professor Stephen Leatherman, most commonly known as Dr. Beach.
AlaskaDave/Wikipedia
Kauna’oa Beach, like all beaches on Hawaii, is open to the public, but the parking lot belongs to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The spots in the parking lot are limited (some sources say there are only 25 spots while others suggest a number closer to 40), and its suggested you get there before 8:30 a.m. to snag a spot.
Tiffany/Flickr If you want to risk it, you can attempt to visit anytime, but we suggest using the nearby Hapuna Beach Park as a backup plan.
Stretching on for approximately half a mile, the beach features two coral reefs and generally calm waters. The gently sloping shore makes for idyllic sunbathing, while the rocky, southern side of the beach is popular among snorkelers. Here, you’ll discover an underwater world home to sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
Tom Walker/Flickr
The beach is best visited in the summer months, as winter can bring high surf, a pounding shore break, and strong rip currents that make entering the ocean here hazardous.
Phil Gibbs/Flickr
With pictures like this, it’s easy to see why this half-mile crescent-shaped stretch of sand is a natural draw for sun worshippers, watersport enthusiasts, and even families in search of calm beaches for their keiki.
Gabi L./Flickr
You can access Kauna’oa Bay via Mauna Kea Beach Drive, just west of state Route 19, or Hawaii Belt Road, approximately 2.6 miles south of Kawaihae. Though parking passes are limited at the resort gate, there are public restrooms and showers available.
Robert Linsdell/Flickr
Have you ever visited the striking and secret Kauna’oa Bay? What is your favorite Hawaiian beach? We’d love to hear your opinions in the comments below. Then, click here to learn all about an empty beach that’s worth a visit from any corner of the state.
Reuben Bedingfield/Flickr
Tom Walker/Flickr
AlaskaDave/Wikipedia
Tiffany/Flickr
If you want to risk it, you can attempt to visit anytime, but we suggest using the nearby Hapuna Beach Park as a backup plan.
Phil Gibbs/Flickr
Gabi L./Flickr
Robert Linsdell/Flickr
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