The best beaches in Hawaii. Beach holiday in Hawaii Hawaii where to relax
The Hawaiian Islands are a famous holiday destination, the dream of every inhabitant of the planet. This archipelago is located in the center of the Pacific Ocean, and is the largest in Polynesia. It consists of 24 islands and many smaller islets, which stretch for three and a half thousand kilometers. The largest island is Hawaii, also called the Big Island. In addition, the archipelago is the 50th state of the United States, the capital of which is Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu.
Thanks to the maritime, tropical climate, the islands are a year-round seaside resort, popular among residents all over the world. For – this is the main source of income. The average temperature here is 18 - 25 ° C, and in August it reaches 31 degrees. The six islands that are most popular with tourists are Hawaii, Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai and Molokai. Everyone has their own characteristics. Sea cruises in Hawaii are also very popular, as they allow you to visit several islands at once and combine an excursion with relaxation on the beach.
The island offers a wide range of recreation and entertainment. The unique nature of the island is especially highly valued here, as it helps to take a break from the bustle of the city. In addition, corners where you can retire have been preserved in their original form. The silence and peace is disturbed only by the cries of birds and the surf. Here are also the highest Hawaiian mountains - the Mauna Kea volcano, 4205m high, currently dormant, and the active volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea. All of them are part of the National Park. Thus, the east coast, in the Pune region, will delight you with a rugged coastline, active volcanoes with hot lava flowing in fiery streams into the ocean. Volcanic gases rising from fissures in the ground, charred trees and frozen lava flows play a role in telling visitors about the development of the island. create excellent conditions for diving. On the Kona and Kohala coasts you can go snorkeling or go fishing in the sea.
The island has a rich historical past, being the cradle of Hawaiian civilization. Here you will find preserved petroglyphs - mysterious symbols - and ancient temples. Sightseeing can easily be combined with a tour of traditional fishing villages, where you can taste local wine.
Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa, famous resorts to the west of the Big Island, can be reached from Kona International Airport. If you are planning to visit the National Park, it will be more convenient to get there from the city of Hilo. This town is a picturesque, almost fairy-tale place, surrounded by fields where orchids grow and surrounded by flowers. It takes about forty-five minutes to get to the national park from here.
But not only attractive Hawaii, Where beach is very popular, but also the water element! The ocean, which is almost always calm, is an ideal place for swimming and boating. However, the main attraction of Kona is perhaps the deep-sea fishing. This is where the hunt for Pacific blue marlin takes place. The Hawaii International Marlin Fishing Tournament has been held here for many years. Every summer, the world's best anglers flock to Kailua-Kona.
The capital of Hawaiian golf is located on the Big Island. There are some spectacular golf courses to suit a range of playing levels. Moreover, these fields are laid out along the entire perimeter of the Big Island.
Great Hawaiian coffee has many fans around the world. This aromatic drink is highly regarded by connoisseurs, many of whom consider it the best in the world. This coffee is grown in the area around Kona, on the slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai. In addition, this variety of coffee is the only one grown specifically for gourmets on an industrial scale in the United States.
Moving further north, you can meet Hawaiian cowboys herding cattle on the mountain slopes of this “cowboy country”. There are huge private ranches here, such as the world famous Parker Ranch. There are also extensive hunting grounds, with an abundance of game such as pheasant, partridge, bear, and wild goats and sheep grazing the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Kea.
An ideal climate all year round, inviting beaches, stunning scenery - this is Hawaii. Many would like to take at least a glimpse of these paradise islands, but the prices are prohibitive. However, real travelers always have a couple of trump cards in their pocket, that is, secrets for saving money even in such pretentious places.
More options - lower prices
Read tourism news periodically. Sometimes they bring good news. For example, that in 2018 the American low-cost airline Southwest begins flights to the Hawaiian Islands. What does it mean? That prices will go down - firstly, because it is a low-cost airline, and secondly, because competition will increase. Statistics say that the appearance of a low-cost airline on a route immediately reduces prices by 15 percent. So it's easier now. In addition, it is not necessary to look exclusively at flights to the state capital of Honolulu (there are no direct flights from Russia; in any case, fly through some major US airport). There are Hilo and Kona international airports on the Big Island of Hawaii. Check how much air tickets cost.
Time is money
A standard trick for reducing your travel budget is to choose a low season. For Hawaii, these are the last two weeks of January, February, May, September and October. There is no need to worry about the weather in this case - it is always good there. In addition, in February you are almost guaranteed to see humpback whales, and September is the time of the “Aloha Festival” - a celebration of local culture with songs, dances and flower parades.
Hostel or apartment
Of course, hostels in Hawaii cannot be called very cheap - $35-40 for a bed in a shared room. But this is still the most budget option here. But this price includes breakfast, wi-fi, sometimes even transfer to the beach and the airport, as well as discounts on some events booked through the hostel. It’s good if you are traveling with a group: then you can rent an entire dorm for four, for example. And even better - apartments with a kitchen.
Sit still
I mean, stay on one island. Of course, it’s interesting to look at everything - the Hawaiian islands are very diverse, and each of them is interesting in its own way. But since we are saving. Based on this, it is better to stay on Oahu or the Big Island since that is where the airports you will fly into are located. In addition, these are the largest and most popular islands, which means there is more choice of accommodation, food and entertainment, as well as opportunities not to spend all your money.
Explore public transport
The islands have various public transport networks that can help you save a lot on your travel costs. On Oahu, say, it's The Bus, which offers a variety of routes and a day pass for just five dollars when one trip costs 2.50. So, after spending an evening on the relevant sites, you will understand how to protect your budget from big expenses, and at the same time learn where everything is.
Eating without effort
We avoid expensive restaurants in tourist places (this should be done not only in Hawaii). Let's try to find out from the locals what establishments they eat at, and we'll go there. Or to the farmers market, where we can buy the freshest products cheaply (if you live in an apartment, you can cook it yourself). Also, keep an eye on The Eathestreet Project on their website or follow them on social media. Food trucks with delicious food arrive at the squares of different cities according to a certain schedule and organize a festival of the belly and street food for everyone.
Look for free entertainment
First of all, these are local beaches - in fact, why do people go to Hawaii if not to swim and sunbathe. Don't miss the most interesting ones:
Black Beach Punaluu on the Big Island of Hawaii. The sand here is actually volcanic lava, which has been polished by sea water for years, and is then pleasant. Just be careful: black sand heats up faster and hotter than light sand, and can cause burns. Unfortunately, this beach is intended only for sunbathing; swimming in this place is inconvenient due to sharp stones and cold springs. But you can see sea turtles crawling ashore to bask in the sun.
The red beach of Kaihalulu on the island of Maui is a haven for nudists and extreme sports enthusiasts. Maybe you’re not one of them, but isn’t it interesting to look at the contrast of dark red sand with the bright green of the trees and the blue of the ocean?
Another black beach is Punalu. Same color, same turtles, also not worth swimming because the water here is quite cool.
The green beach of Papakolea - can you imagine, this happens! The sand contains peridot crystals, which give it a green or olive color. Please note that it is strictly forbidden to remove sand, by the way, just like from other colored beaches in Hawaii.
Mahaiula Beach, three kilometers north of Kona Airport, is covered in white sand.
Kivakapu Beach is calm, peaceful, without noisy discos and bars, but with crystal clear water, for which divers adore it.
In addition, on Waikiki Beach on Oahu, for example, there is a Royal Hawaiian Center with free programs for everyone who wants to learn local dancing, playing the ukulele or Hawaiian massage and other interesting things.
Walk
Well, after all, hiking is also good entertainment. You go for a walk, breathe the air. It’s good for the body, and it’s time for yourself to think about something or, conversely, to distract yourself from any extraneous thoughts. Hawaii has many trails for walking, and you only have to pay for the entrance to the national park, if the trails are located there: 10 dollars per person or 20 per car if you happen to be on wheels. The best places for hiking are: Kalalau Trail on Kauai, Diamond Head on Oahu, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and Haleakala National Park on Maui.
Look for discounted tours or coupons
There are companies in Hawaii that offer discounts or discount coupons for various activities, tours or entrance fees. For example, like this one. Discount coupons can be found in local newspapers or This Week magazine, which should be available at the airport.
Beaches of Hawaii- white, black, red and green. Which one do you like? Everyone decides for themselves, but for now let’s see what beaches there are in Hawaii.
The beaches of Hawaii are white!
Hawaii is not a place where you will find dazzling white sand, but there are beaches that are close to white.
What are the white beaches of Hawaii made of? Mainly from calcareous rocks and broken corals and shells. An example of a white sand beach is Waimanalo Beach or Lanikai Beach.
Good news for those who love walking (like me 🙂) - there is almost 5 km of beach. And, of course, magnificent views and azure water! Don’t be afraid of the hot sun; there are trees along the shore, in the shade of which you can hide (if desired). It is located 45 min. from Waikiki Beach (if you go by car). There are two parks on the beach: southern and northern. Both have everything you need: showers, toilets, picnic tables, lifeguards. However, the northern park (Waimanalo Bay State Recreation Area) also has camping opportunities. The south park can be reached from Nakini Street, and the north park can be reached from Aloiloi Street or Tinker Road.
From November to March it can be a little cool here (due to the wind). However, you won't find surfers here - the waves here are not high.
Very often newlyweds choose this beach for photo sessions.
Black Beach
Black Beaches of Hawaii can be found on the Big Island of Hawaii. This is due to the fact that only this island has active volcanoes. Did you think black sand came from? And this is nothing more than flowing volcanic lava! True, the sand changes its color after a few centuries if the volcano does not become active. Black sand is carried away by the waves into the ocean...Well, I think you will have time to see. 🙂
The most beautiful black beaches are Punaluu Black Sand Beach and Waianapanapa (Kauai island).
Large green turtles love the coast of Punaluu Black Sand Beach. However, I hasten to inform lovers of wildlife that TURTLES CANNOT BE TOUCHED. It is generally not recommended to approach them closer than 4.5 meters.
These turtles do not have immune cells that kill bacteria transmitted by humans.
The Punaluu Black Sand Beach area was affected by tsunamis in 1868, 1960 and 1975.
There is a legend according to which anyone who takes a stone from this beach will be cursed by the goddess Pele. Tourists, of course, happily ignore this legend. However, if you visit the Kilauea Military Camp, you can see a shelf displaying stones sent back to Hawaii by people who once ignored the legend and have faced misfortunes since that fateful day. Letters in which they describe their problems are also presented here. Be that as it may, even for those who don’t believe in legends, taking pebbles and sand from the beach is prohibited.
It may not be very comfortable to walk barefoot on the beach (make sure you have the right shoes).
Red Beach
The red beaches were formed as a result of volcanic rocks rich in iron. Example: Kaihalulu Beach (Maui island).
Not everyone can get to this beach - the path to it is very challenging! 🙂 But if you hold on tight and take your time, you can enjoy the magnificent red sand, green vegetation around, black lava beaches and blue ocean. And all this - in one bottle!
Green beach in Hawaii
The green beaches of the Hawaiian Islands were formed from basaltic lava containing large amounts of olivine.
Getting to this beach is also not so easy. You will have a 5-kilometer walk through quite “wild” places, so stock up on cream with spf filters, plenty of water, hats, comfortable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind throwing away after an outing. I’m not “treating” you, but in reality there are many tourists who simply turn around halfway because they can’t do it. There are no signs or maps here, so let's go by feel, guys! The main thing is not to despair. 🙂
There are surveillance cameras installed in the trees along the way, and somewhere in his closet sits some uncle Ikaika (how do you like Hawaiian names?) and laughs at you with all his heart. I'm just kidding.
It is recommended to swim (after such a long journey!), but not far from the shore. The currents can be strong and there will be no one to save you. You didn’t think that there were rescuers here and that’s how they get to work every day, did you?
At sunset, the green sand seems completely unreal! However, you shouldn’t linger until sunset, because climbing through the wilds in the dark is not a very pleasant or safe activity.
Dedicate the whole day to Green Beach: the journey there takes 2 hours, 2 hours back (if you are young and energetic)
On the way back, take the left “lane” (i.e. the path) - and you will be happy. Yes, yes, the right path is more attractive, but walking along it is more difficult!
That's all for today about the beaches of the Hawaiian Islands! Which beach do YOU want to visit? We write the answer in the comments 😉
Would you like to receive articles from this blog by email?
There is probably not a single person in the world who does not dream of going to Hawaii, with the exception, of course, of the lucky ones who were born there. The beauty of this paradise is that no matter how colorful the pictures your imagination paints, the reality will so exceed your expectations that after Hawaii it will simply be impossible to surprise you with the beauty of tropical nature and the ocean. Today we will talk about the most beautiful beaches and coasts of the island of Oahu.
The island of Oahu is the same one on which the capital of Hawaii is located. During the day, it can be called an ordinary resort metropolis: 40-story hotels, shopping centers and a long beach, part of which is occupied by surfers, and the other is separated by breakwaters and given to bathers. But at night, Honolulu is transformed: all the streets are lit not by lanterns, but by real torches with live fire, and from the beach there is a breathtaking view of the glowing city and its reflection in the ocean. It’s definitely worth staying here at least on the 20th floor, renting an open-top car and driving around the island.
Hanauma Bay on the southeast shore of Oahu is the most popular beach for snorkeling (a type of snorkeling). It is enclosed in a rocky volcanic ring with a small strait into the ocean. A narrow path leads from the sandy beach to the cliff, and if you follow it to the end, you can see a natural stone bridge that passes directly over the raging waves. However, it is not recommended to walk on it, since a large wave that suddenly rolls in can knock you off your feet, so it is better to admire it from a safe distance.
This incredibly beautiful beach with dazzling white sand is named after the famous liquor - Kahlua. The ocean there is absolutely amazing, from the shore it looks like milk was painted blue, but once you go even ankle-deep, it turns out that the water is absolutely transparent, but the temperature is exactly like fresh milk. The beach offers stunning views of the volcano, and here you can rent a kayak and swim to a small flat island 400 meters from the shore. Take shoes with you, as walking is only allowed on the sharp rocky edge of this islet, while its center is at the disposal of nesting birds.
If you like to dive into the water, Oahu has quite a few cliffs overhanging the bays. Including China Walls, that is, Chinese walls located near the southernmost point of the island. On days when the ocean is calm, you can jump into the water from a cliff from several levels, higher and lower. If the waves are big, the jumps become too dangerous, but you can watch the surfers from an unusual and very interesting angle. Everything looks like filming from a drone, but only live, when the heart skips a beat with the understanding that one wrong move and the person with the board will fly straight into the stones.
Everything in Hawaii seems so magical that, looking at the ocean, it’s easy to believe in the existence of mermaids. They would even have their own home here - the Mermaid Caves. The rock on the western shore of Nanakuli Beach Park is pierced by a network of tunnels, in the arches of which there are quite a lot of small holes. The sun's rays break through them, illuminating the water and decorating the walls of the cave with sunbeams. The depth of the bay and the height of the vaults are small, just under human height, so you can spend at least a whole day there waiting for the mermaids, and it doesn’t matter that they probably won’t come.
If you happen to be in Hawaii in December, be sure to head to the north coast to watch the spectacular Billabong Pipe Masters surfing competition. All the surfing stars come here to compete for the title of world champion, and the action takes place on the most dangerous and powerful wave on the island. The event is more than interesting even for those who are far from surfing.
Known for their beauty. In the vastness of the Pacific Ocean there is a chain of 24 large islands and more than 100 small ones. Most of them are uninhabited. The island of Hawaii is the largest, occupying up to 62% of the islands' land area. All of them have their own unique beauty, differ in landscape, weather and representatives of the animal and plant world.
This paradise in the middle of the ocean was formed as a result of active volcanic activity. Today, some of the volcanoes are extinct, and some are dormant. has been spewing lava flows almost continuously since 1983. It's time to find out where the island of Hawaii is.
Climate
For warmth, since they are located on the outskirts of the tropics. The intensity and amount of precipitation in the region depend on the prevailing winds. Northeast winds predominate, so the northern and eastern parts of the mountains and volcanoes receive more rain moisture than the opposite side of the island.
In winter, the amount of precipitation is significantly higher than in summer. However, even in winter, cloudy weather on the islands is very rare. Clear weather prevails here, so there is no need to be afraid of being caught in a series of rainy days. Therefore, the island of Hawaii attracts many tourists.
The season of storms and hurricanes on the islands lasts from June to September. Strong winds blow into Hawaii from the north or northeast. Bad weather originates off the American coast and moves towards the archipelago. Along the way, the vast majority of hurricanes manage to weaken significantly. But the residual force is sometimes still noticeable. Tropical storms bring a lot of trouble to the Hawaiian Islands. The main blow falls on those of them that are deprived of a shield of volcanoes and rock masses.
Tsunami
From the north, giant waves from the vast ocean sometimes approach the archipelago. Cities located on the shores are greatly affected by the tsunami. Some bays are capable of concentrating the shock force of waves in a small volume. As a result, cities built in such bays are subject to regular destruction from natural disasters.
But the dangerous weather events mentioned above are extremely rare. Therefore, you should not neglect visiting this paradise on earth because of them. Many tourists fell in love with this place and return here again for new experiences.
The fresh air is usually not hot. The temperature throughout the year is around +25 ºС. In winter - about +20 ºС, and in summer - about +30 ºС. In winter, snow may even fall on the tops of volcanoes. This phenomenon is rather exotic.
Nature
Gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean and the bright sun, spreading palm trees and menacing volcanoes, black grains of sand on the beach in Paunaluu Bay and snow-white beaches in other places, round boulders on the shores and a lava tunnel, as well as many bright and attractive flowers. The natives sell orchids by weight because they grow everywhere.
On the archipelago - Hawaii. It has a special picturesque nature. It has many endemic plants. Volcanoes regularly erupt in this place, giving rise to new land areas. Remember that vacationing in Hawaii is fraught with danger due to volcanic activity.
The two volcanoes are not dormant. Hot lava, rising from the depths, spreads over the surface, after which it slides from the shore into the water and freezes there. This process leads to a gradual increase in land surface. At the end of the next powerful eruption, a natural park was created. It was called “Lava Trees” because the hot mass from the depths flowed through the trees and other plants and formed a stone shell on them.
Golden sands on the shore
The beaches attract with their golden sand, the blue lagoons attract with stunning views, and the humid and warm climate invites relaxation. In the mountains, tourists can admire views of canyons, high waterfalls and extraordinary nature. And on the ocean shore, diving, surfing and swimming await them.
Among the chain of islands there are also private properties. You can get to one of these private islands by invitation. This invitation gives you the opportunity to feel like Robinson and live in a bamboo hut. There are about two hundred such huts in different parts of the island. Tourists love the island of Maui. Hawaii is a picturesque place, many untouched by civilization.
The Hawaiian alphabet consists of only twelve letters. The official language is English. On the islands you can hear “Aloha” everywhere. This word is very common and has many meanings. This is the name of the tower in Honolulu.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanic activity lasting thousands of years created these islands. The ecosystem has also developed in a unique way. The park is home to the active Kilue Volcano.
Don't miss the opportunity to look at the huge Waimia Canyon. It is located on o. Kauai. For numerous tourists, a platform has been organized from which one can admire wide valleys, majestic cliffs and gorges. They attract many tourists who flock to Hawaii in droves. The island of volcanoes is truly beautiful and unique.
Haleakala National Park
(Hawaii) too. Pristine nature and yellow beaches come together in this incredible place. Tourists love to visit the Hosmer Grove, where rare tree species harmoniously coexist on a small plot of land. Maui is considered the most beautiful island of the archipelago.
Local beaches are famous for their warm, clean sand. The beach located in Konolua Bay is especially popular. Tourists can always try their hand at diving, snorkeling and other outdoor activities. The coastal zone reaches two hundred meters in length. And this is not the only beach worthy of your attention.
Kauai Botanical Gardens
This general name includes several small gardens. famous for the local Fern Grotto cave. It is popular with newlyweds who organize their wedding ceremonies here. Getting into it is not easy: you need to go by boat along the river. Wailua. But the impressions gained are worth it. Be sure to bring your camera when traveling to the island of Hawaii. The photos will turn out juicy and rich.
These places are famous for the filming of popular films:
- "Jurassic Park".
- "King Kong".
- "Indiana Jones".
Museums
The Bishop Museum, located in Honolulu, is both cultural and natural science. You can glean historical information about the island and the Pacific Ocean as a whole from more than 1 million exhibits. The island of Hawaii has its own cultural centers.
The Lahaina Heritage Museum will reveal the details of life in the legendary whaling village. It is one of the most interesting and fascinating museums. Find out the story of Fr. Kauai can be visited at the Kauai Island Museum, which is located in Lihua. Be sure to visit this island.
The capital of Hawaii, Honolulu, gives vacationers the opportunity to visit the royal palace, which is the only one in the United States of America. Its second name is Iolani Palace. It was created for the ruling people of the islands. This building preserves all the attributes characteristic of the power of kings, a huge library and royal mansions.
Who doesn't know the Pearl Harbor military base? It is also located on these islands and is a war monument. All US citizens are proud of her.
Festivals
Fun festivals are an integral part of the Hawaiian Islands. One of the beaches about. Oahu has traditionally been a festival destination for ethnic music lovers. On it, folk songs are performed with a guitar. Viewers will definitely see folk dances and receive interesting information about the traditional culture of Hawaii. The whole family can attend this festival.
Kona Slack Key is a fun festival that's all about the ukulele. This small guitar is a traditional musical instrument of the islands and has spread throughout the world.
When going on vacation to this paradise, you should not stock up on warm clothes; you can also leave your business suits at home. A light windbreaker will protect you from the coolness of the night and possible bad weather. Keep in mind that most of the population speaks English. The Hawaiian Islands will always attract tourists from all over the world. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to visit them, then go without hesitation. You will not only relax and see the beautiful underwater world, but also enjoy wildlife. It’s especially nice to spend honeymoon trips here; they will be remembered for the rest of your life. These islands can safely be called a paradise.