The List: Hawaii beaches to suit your mood or need
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
In Hawaii, the beach is not a one-stop label for that perfect stretch of sand that disappears into a brilliant blue ocean. There are so many types of beaches here, each with its own unique experience, that you have to ask "What kind of beach do I feel like today?"
So here, depending on your mood, need or whim, is our breakdown of must-see Hawaii beaches by experience:
Best snorkeling beach
TOP PICK: HULOPOE BAY Many, many, many beaches to choose from in this category, but if you had time for only one, head over to Lana'i's southern coast and enjoy the pristine waters of Hulopoe Bay. It's one of many marine preserves around the Hawaiian Islands, but Hulopoe has the honored distinction of being uncrowded by people and boats, with coastal tidal pools that offer even more marine treasures. And if you love dolphins, they love Hulopoe Bay. This area is also a favorite for scuba divers, who take in the heavenly caverns of Cathedrals.
TOP PICK: WHITE PLAINS As the home of modern surfing, we have to give it to Oahu, and though there are excellent (and easily accessible) breaks in Waikiki, we recommend White Plains out at Ewa Beach, on the westernmost corner of Oahu's south shore. Rolling breaks with lots of take off points offer plenty of elbow room, and all skill levels (including novices) are welcome. If you decide to stay in Waikiki, you'll have plenty of fun spots to choose from, but you'll have to navigate crowds as well. Canoes is your best bet there.
OUR PICK: PAPAKOLEA BEACH The unique green color of Papakolea Beach near Hawaii's southernmost tip comes from the gemstone olivine, produced by the volcano and crushed to sand over eons. Weightier than white or black sand, it stays behind as the ocean erodes the other colors away. It's also unique in that it's a two-mile hike to get to the beach. Well worth the effort. (Photo: jonny-mt/Creative Commons)
OUR PICK: WAIKIKI BEACH Of course, Waikiki Beach is where you want to go if you're looking for more than just 'The Beach.' After you've done everything under the sun on the beach (sunning, surfing, snorkeling, canoe rides, sailing), you can retire to your oceanfront room, the spa or a casual meal, or ramp up for the city's storied nightlife and shopping, or catch one of a dozen luaus or shows — or all of the above. You can even hike Diamond Head.
OUR PICK: PAPOHAKU BEACH On Molokai, one of the least populated islands, you can drive out to its westernmost edge and find a beach which, more often than not, you'll have entirely to yourself. Papohaku is Hawaii's largest: more than 300 feet wide in places. Not that you'll need the extra room. Enjoy the vast expanse of sand and views of Oahu's east side.
OUR PICK: LANIKAI BEACH The offshore Mokulua Islands and bathlike, reef-protected waters make Lanikai Beach on Oahu one of Hawaii's most fetching. If you can time it to take a walk along this beach during the full moonrise, you'll have the perfect romantic moment.
