One Of The World's Top 10 Beaches Is In This Breathtaking Hawaiian Spot
By Ashley Burns
VACATIONS
Known for its expansive white-sand shores that stretch up to 200 feet wide in summer, Hāpuna Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii frequently ranks among the world's top 10 beaches.
It was named the best beach in the U.S. by Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, in 2021 and won the top spot in Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Beaches
in 2022.
Local acclaim is also strong, with 45% of Big Island Now readers voting it the best beach on the island. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling year-round and surfing in the winter.
The half-mile-long beach is spacious enough to accommodate large numbers of guests without feeling crowded, and it even features a private area accessible only to resort guests.
The Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., providing amenities like picnic tables and cooking facilities for a small entry fee of $5 per person.