Hawaii, the land of aloha, is known for its postcard-perfect beaches. But beyond the famous Waikiki and Wailea, there lies a treasure trove of secluded shores – secret beaches that whisper tales of untouched beauty, known primarily to the locals. Ready to ditch the crowds and discover these hidden gems? Let’s dive into seven of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets, complete with directions, insider tips, and all the info you need to make your adventure unforgettable.
Polihale State Park, Kauai: Beyond the End of the Road
Polihale State Park on Kauai isn’t exactly a secret per se, but its remote location keeps it far off the beaten tourist path. Imagine vast, windswept dunes meeting a seemingly endless stretch of golden sand. That’s Polihale. The drive itself is an adventure: you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the last five miles of unpaved road. Seriously, don’t try it in a sedan – you’ll regret it! Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Napali Coast, especially at sunset.
Directions: From Waimea, take Highway 50 west. Follow the signs towards Polihale State Park. The paved road ends and turns into a bumpy dirt road. Continue on this road for about 5 miles until you reach the park entrance. Be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride!
Things to do: Stargazing here is incredible, thanks to the minimal light pollution. Bring a blanket, snacks, and settle in for a celestial show. You can also hike along the beach, build sandcastles, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents, so be cautious. Check surf conditions before entering the water. Camping is permitted with a permit. Visit the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website for information on obtaining a permit and current park conditions.
Cost: Entry to the Park is free for residents; non-residents are charged a parking fee per vehicle. Camping permits also incur a fee. Costs are subject to change, so consult the DLNR website.
Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach), Kauai: A Clothing-Optional Paradise
Okay, “secret” might be pushing it a bit, as it’s become more popular in recent years. Kauai’s Secret Beach, also known as Kauapea Beach, is still a relatively secluded spot compared to Poipu. What makes it special? Well, besides its stunning beauty, it’s a clothing-optional beach. Don’t feel pressured to participate if you’re not comfortable – many people simply enjoy the sun and sand in swimsuits. The beach is quite large with plenty of space for everyone.
Directions: Head north on Kuhio Highway (Highway 56) past Kilauea. Look for a small dirt parking lot on the mauka (mountain) side of the road, just past the Kilauea Lighthouse. From the parking lot, follow the steep, downhill trail for about 10-15 minutes to reach the beach. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be slippery.
Things to do: Sunbathing, swimming (be mindful of the waves and currents), and spotting monk seals (they occasionally haul out on the beach) are popular activities. The eastern end of the beach is generally the most secluded. The views from the beach are spectacular, especially looking towards the Kilauea Lighthouse.
Cost: Free. Parking can be limited, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
Makalawena Beach, Big Island: Desert Oasis Meets Volcanic Shoreline
Imagine hiking through a lava field to reach a pristine white sand beach. That’s the experience at Makalawena Beach on the Big Island. Getting there requires a bit of effort, but the reward is well worth it. The beach is protected by a barrier reef, making the water calm and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life. Plus, the contrasting landscape of black lava rock against turquoise water is simply breathtaking.
Directions: From Kona, take Highway 19 north. Turn left onto a dirt road just past mile marker 90 (look for a small dirt road with a locked gate – you’ll have to park here and walk). Follow the road makai (towards the ocean), then turn left onto the trail heading south along the coast. The walk is about 20-30 minutes. Wear closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals and bring plenty of water and sun protection. Alternatively, from the north, you can park closer but that’s by way of walking through a less favorable path.
Things to do: Snorkeling is excellent here. Look for colorful fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a manta ray. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Explore the tide pools and keep an eye out for shorebirds. Remember to bring your own equipment, as there are no rentals available on the beach.
Cost: Free. Be prepared for a hot and sunny walk, as there is little shade along the trail.
Hulopo’e Beach Park (Tide Pools), Lanai: A Family-Friendly Adventure
While Hulopo’e Beach Park itself isn’t a secret (it is often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world); the tide pools on the south end of the beach are an often-overlooked wonder. During low tide, a series of shallow pools are exposed, creating a natural aquarium teeming with marine life. This is a fantastic spot for families with young children to explore the wonders of the ocean in a safe and shallow environment. You won’t find pounding surf here.
Directions: Hulopo’e Beach Park is located on the southern coast of Lanai, near the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. If arriving by ferry, you’ll need to arrange transportation to the beach. Most hotels offer shuttle services or rent a car. Once at the park, follow the paved path to the south end of the beach to access the tide pools. Check the tide charts before you go to ensure low tide. It’s worth the time and the effort to arrange for a 4×4 vehicle to truly access the island.
Things to do: Explore the tide pools. You can see starfish, sea urchins, small fish, and other fascinating creatures. Be gentle and avoid disturbing the wildlife. Swimming and snorkeling are also great here. The bay is protected and offers calm waters perfect for beginners.
Cost: Free. However, transportation to Lanai and within the island involves costs for ferry tickets, rental cars, or resort shuttles. The ferry from Maui can cost around $30-50 per person, each way.
Papakolea (Green Sand) Beach, Big Island: A Geological Marvel
One of only four green sand beaches in the world, Papakolea Beach on the Big Island is a truly unique experience. The green color comes from olivine crystals, a mineral rich in magnesium and iron, formed within the nearby volcanic cinder cone. Getting to the beach requires a fairly strenuous hike across a barren landscape, but the otherworldly beauty of the green sand and the crashing waves is worth the effort. The climb down can be dangerous if you have limited dexterity due to the steep walls, so it’s important to consider this when deciding to visit.
Directions: From South Point Road, follow the dirt road to the parking area (about 3 miles). The road is rough and requires a sturdy vehicle with high clearance, preferably 4WD where you can navigate around other cars. Alternatively, park at South Point and hike about 2.5 miles each way to the beach. Be aware that the “taxi” services offered by locals using their trucks are not regulated and can be dangerous. The hike across the plains is hot and exposed, where walking through the ruts can be difficult. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The trail to the beach is steep and can be slippery; those with mobility issues should carefully assess if they are able to make the climb.
Things to do: Admire the green sand. Take photos, but do not remove any sand—it is illegal. Swim in the ocean, but be aware of strong currents and waves. Climbing down to the beach requires caution due to steep sections and limited foot holes.
Cost: Free. The unauthorized taxi services are pricey, but are available for a cost and dependent on the driver providing it.
Halona Beach Cove (Eternity Beach), Oahu: Romance and History Combined
Halona Beach Cove, also known as Eternity Beach, on Oahu is a small, picturesque cove nestled between lava rocks. This beach gained fame as the location for the iconic kissing scene in the movie “From Here to Eternity.” The dramatic coastline, clear turquoise water, and secluded setting make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and romantic getaways. Arrive early, as the cove is small and the parking lot fills up quickly.
Directions: Halona Beach Cove is located near the Halona Blowhole Lookout on Oahu’s southeast coast. From Honolulu, take Highway 72 (Kalanianaole Highway) east towards Hanauma Bay. Just past Hanauma Bay but before Sandy Beach, look for the Halona Blowhole Lookout on the right side of the road. Park in the lookout parking lot and walk down the stairs to access the beach.
Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling are popular activities. The water is generally calm and clear, but be aware of potential currents near the rocks. Explore the tide pools and keep an eye out for sea turtles. The beach is small, so it can get crowded, especially on weekends. The Halona Blowhole lookout point offers great views of the surrounding coastline.
Cost: Free.
Keawa’ula Beach (Yokohama Bay), Oahu: Wild Beauty on the West Side
Keawa’ula Beach, also known as Yokohama Bay, on Oahu’s west side offers a different experience from the beaches of Waikiki. This long stretch of sandy beach is backed by the rugged Waianae mountain range, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. The waves here are powerful, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers and bodyboarders. Swimming can be dangerous, especially during high surf, so exercise caution and heed warning signs. The sunsets here are legendary.
Directions: Take H-1 West to its end. Continue onto Farrington Highway (Highway 93) towards the west side of Oahu. Follow Farrington Highway past Makaha and continue until you reach Keawa’ula Beach (Yokohama Bay). There are several parking areas along the beach. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding in places. Be respectful to those using the area for fishing and camping; do not trespass on their areas.
Things to do: Surfing, bodyboarding, and kite surfing are popular activities. Sunbathing and enjoying the scenery are also great options. Swimming is not recommended when the surf is high. Watch for whales during the winter months (November-May). Remember to bring your own shade, as there is little natural shade on the beach.
Cost: Free.
FAQ Section
Q: Are these beaches safe for swimming?
A: Safety can vary greatly from beach to beach and depends on current conditions. Some beaches, like Hulopo’e, are generally calm and safe for swimming. Others, like Polihale and Keawa’ula, can have strong currents and dangerous waves. Always check the surf report before entering the water and heed any warning signs. When in doubt, ask a lifeguard.
Q: What should I bring to these secret beaches?
A: Pack the essentials: sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, snacks, a towel, and a swimsuit. Depending on the beach, you might also want to bring reef-safe sunscreen, a cooler, beach chairs, an umbrella, snorkeling gear, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Mosquito repellent can be useful, especially in the evenings.
Q: Are there facilities (restrooms, showers) at these beaches?
A: Facilities vary greatly. Some beaches, like Hulopo’e Beach Park, have restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Others, like Makalawena and Papakolea, have no facilities at all. Be prepared to pack out everything you bring with you and use restrooms before you arrive at the beach. Respect the environment and leave no trace.
Q: How can I be respectful of the local culture and environment?
A: Respect is paramount. Always be mindful of local customs and traditions. Avoid trespassing on private property. Do not disturb wildlife or remove anything from the beach (sand, shells, rocks). Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. Pack out all your trash. Be mindful of noise levels and avoid playing loud music. Support local businesses whenever possible. By being a responsible visitor, you can help preserve the beauty and culture of Hawaii for future generations.
Q: What about accessibility needs? Which beaches are most or least accessible?
A: Accessibility can be a challenge at many of Hawaii’s secret beaches, due to their remote locations and natural terrain. Hulopo’e Beach Park is the most accessible of the beaches listed, with paved paths and facilities. Halona Beach Cove has stairs leading down to the beach, which may be challenging for some individuals. The other beaches, such as Polihale, Makalawena, Papakolea, and Keawa’ula, involve hiking or driving on unpaved roads, which may limit accessibility for people with mobility issues.
Q: How do current weather conditions impact the experience at these beaches?
A: Weather plays a crucial role in the experience at each beach. Rain can make trails slippery and beaches less enjoyable. High surf can make swimming dangerous at beaches like Keawa’ula and Polihale. Strong winds can affect visibility and make snorkeling less pleasant. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.
References
Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources – Division of State Parks.