Are you dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway without the crowds and the noise? Do you crave the serene beauty of unspoiled white sands, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation? Look no further than Hawaii’s secluded beaches, where you can escape the tourist hot spots and soak up the natural beauty of the Aloha State. From the pristine Makalawena Beach on the Big Island to Palauea Beach on Maui, Hawaii’s off-the-beaten-path beaches offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a quiet spot to unwind, these beaches have something for everyone.
The Underwater Wonders of Makalawena Beach (Big Island)
Tucked away in the 175-mile-long Kekaha Kai State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, this secluded beach is one of the best-kept secrets in the area. Only accessible by foot or 4-wheel drive, this beach sees the least foot traffic of the three stunning beaches in the park, which means you’ll have uninterrupted access to the sand dunes, clear turquoise waters, and incredible marine life. So snorkelers, get ready to be wowed by the octopus and white-spotted puffers that call these waters home. And if you need a break from the sun and sand, check out the ancient Opae’ula freshwater pond, one of the Big Island’s bird sanctuaries and home to the endangered Hawaiian stilt.
Soak up the Sun on the Golden Sands of Polihale Beach (Kauai)
Polihale Beach is a 17-mile stretch of golden sand waiting to be explored. Located in Polihale State Park, this stunning beach boasts desert cacti and dunes up to 100 feet high, thanks to its location on the edge of the Mana Plains. Due to stronger ocean currents and no lifeguards on duty, swimming is not recommended, but the beach is perfect for spending hours sunbathing and hunting for seashells. Be sure to stick around for the spectacular sunset over the distant islands of Niihau. FYI – getting there isn’t easy. You’ll need to drive to the end of Highway 50 and navigate a rough dirt road, but the beach’s beauty is well worth the effort.
A Snorkeler’s Paradise at Palauea Beach (Maui)
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Maui’s southern coast at Palauea Beach. You’ll take a short hike in a residential area near Makena Road to reach this stunning spot. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a 300-yard stretch of shoreline and crystal-clear blue waters that are perfect for snorkeling. Watch the ocean come to life with abundant sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. And when you’re ready to head back to civilization, don’t worry – Palauea Beach isn’t too far from spas and restaurants where you can relax and rejuvenate.
A Peaceful Respite on Kawaikui Beach (Oahu)
Another blink-and-you’ll-miss-it destination, Kawaikui Beach, is a quiet, relaxing spot right off Kalanianaole Highway, just before Hawaii Kai on the southeastern side of Oahu. There’s quite a lot of grassy space to enjoy here, with tables, natural shade from the towering palms, and an overall peaceful essence perfect for a picnic. The shore itself is pretty narrow, but the main feature that makes Kawaikui Beach such a must-visit is the sensational views of the distant Koko Kai Beach and the Kuilei Cliffs. While the water is too shallow for swimming, this is a popular spot for kayaking, windsurfing (further from shore) and fishing.
A Scenic Off-Road Adventure to Polihua Beach (Lanai)
Though its unpredictable currents mean swimming is off the table, Polihua Beach remains one of Hawaii’s best beaches thanks to its unbeatable views. Come when the sky is clear, and you’ll be able to see Molokai and Oahu’s Diamond Head standing tall across the Kalohi Channel. Coming in at 1.5 miles long, this is also the largest white-sand beach on the island, so there’s plenty of places to sunbathe or picnic. Found on the northern coast, you’ll need a car with 4-wheel drive to make it down the rough Polihua Trail, starting from Keahiakawelo (or Garden of the Gods), which will take you right to the shore. The island offers guided tours to the beach, so if you’re inexperienced in off-roading, be safe and go with an expert.
An Endless Stretch of Sand (Papohaku Beach, Moloka’i)
As the largest beach on Molok’ai, Papohaku Beach is known by almost everyone on the island. However, that’s not to say it isn’t easy to avoid crowds. In fact, you’ll find it difficult to encounter another adventurer during your time on the massive shoreline. Stretching over three miles, this white-sand beach is probably the best place to go if you want to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy long walks in private—all made complete by those breathtaking sunset views. You’ll have access to outdoor showers and campsites along the beach, but be aware that swimming is discouraged between October and March due to rougher seas. To reach Papohaku Beach, drive toward Maunaloa via Highway 460 West, turn on Kalua Koi Road, and continue until you reach Papohaku Beach Park.
