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Papua New Guinea
Beach · Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Hapuna Beach
One of the largest light-sand beaches on the Island of Hawaiʻi, on the Kohala coast north of Kailua-Kona, with blue water, lifeguards and lava fields around. It is inside a state park.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hapuna Beach
Hāpuna Beach is on the Kohala coast, about 55 km north of Kailua-Kona, in one of the driest parts of the island. The light sand stretch, nearly 1 km long, contrasts with the dark lava fields and low vegetation on the slopes. It’s part of a state recreation area, with lifeguards, restrooms, showers and picnic facilities.
In summer months Hāpuna’s ocean typically wakes up calm and clear, good for swimming and snorkeling near the rocks at the ends. In winter, north swells can produce strong shore break, and lifeguards mark the safe swimming areas.
The road to the beach passes near Waimea, an inland town on the Island of Hawaiʻi also called Kamuela, not to be confused with Waimea on Kauai. Along the Kohala coast, other bays such as Kaunaʻoa are just minutes away.
Sunset over the ocean, with the silhouette of Maui on clear days, gathers visitors in the late afternoon.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day at the beach.
Best time
From May to September, when the sea is usually calm. In the morning the sand is cooler and there are more parking spots. In winter, follow the lifeguards’ flags.
How to get there
By Highway 19 (Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway), about 55 km north of Kailua-Kona, roughly a 45-minute drive. Non-residents pay entrance and parking; fees are listed on the state parks website.
Tip
Bring shade and water: there is little natural shade. Use reef-safe sunscreen.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hapuna Beach
Does Hāpuna Beach have lifeguards?
Yes, and it also has restrooms, showers and picnic areas.
How long from Kailua-Kona to Hāpuna Beach?
About a 45-minute drive north via Highway 19.
Is Hāpuna’s sea calm?
Usually in summer. In winter, north swells can create strong shore break; follow the lifeguards’ guidance.