Ocean
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Float above lit ocean water after dark as Kona's resident manta rays somersault inches beneath you, the Big Island's single most unforgettable hour.
Ocean
Best Beaches on the Kohala Coast
White sand, turquoise water, and reliable sun. From Hapuna to hidden coves, the Kohala Coast holds the Big Island's finest beaches, most within twenty minutes of Hali'i Kai.
The Kohala Coast holds the Big Island’s best beaches, and most are within twenty minutes of Hali’i Kai. Hapuna is a wide crescent of white sand and bodyboarding surf; Kauna’oa, the Mauna Kea beach, is a postcard cove; and Anaeho’omalu Bay, right at your door, offers calm water, palms, and sunset over the old fishponds.
For the adventurous, hidden coves like Makalawena reward a short walk over lava. Our concierge knows the coast and will steer your day around the tides, the crowds, and where the turtles are hauling out.
Good to know
Which beach is best with young kids?
Anaeho'omalu Bay right at Hali'i Kai is calm and shallow with shade and turtles. Hapuna and Kauna'oa are gorgeous too; our concierge steers you by the day's surf and tides.
Do the beaches have facilities?
Hapuna and Kauna'oa have restrooms, outdoor showers, and some shade, and A-Bay has parking and a beach path from your suite. Food is limited, so bring water and snacks, and we are happy to point you to the nearest market to stock up.
How early should I arrive, and is there parking?
On weekends the popular lots fill by mid-morning, so aim to arrive before ten. A few beaches charge a small parking fee, while A-Bay is a five-minute walk with no parking to worry about.
Is the water safe for swimming?
The surf is calmest from about May to September. Winter can bring a stronger shorebreak and currents, especially at Hapuna, so watch the posted flags, swim near the lifeguard towers, and check with us on the day's conditions.
Where can we snorkel?
On calm days the sheltered ends of Kauna'oa and A-Bay offer easy snorkeling, and nearby Waialea, known as Beach 69, has gentle reef. Our concierge points you to the clearest water for that day.
More ways to spend the day
Culture
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge)
A sacred place of forgiveness on a lava point of carved ki'i, royal fishponds, and swaying palms. One of Hawaii's most powerful cultural sites, and its best preserved.
Ocean
Kealakekua Bay Kayak & Snorkel
Paddle a glassy marine sanctuary to the Captain Cook Monument, where spinner dolphins pass and the reef drops into some of Hawaii's clearest water.