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Hapuna Beach

Photo: Ekrem Canli / CC BY-SA 4.0

Beaches

Hapuna Beach

Waimea, HI · Big Island Kohala Coast$Non-residents $5 a person (3 and under free) plus $10 per vehicle, credit card only; residents free

About

On the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Hapuna's white coral sand sits among black lava flows, and Dr. Beach named it the best beach in America in 2021. Swim and snorkel here in summer. Winter's big waves bring rip currents and a pounding shore break, and once the surf tops 3 feet the state wants everyone but experts out of the water and away from the shoreline. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Highlights

White coral sand among lava flowsDr. Beach's best beach of 2021Summer swimming and snorkelingWinter rip currents and shore breakLifeguards daily, 9:30 to 4:45

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