Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, Hawaii, United States

5JoMich 5:00 PM Feb 14, 2022

Unbelievable!
There is a reason that this beach has been called the most beautiful in the country. Part of a state park, Hapuna is a long, gentle expanse of soft golden sand, affording views of Mauna Kea and Hualalei volcanoes. We happened to go on a day when there was a high surf warning, so only the most intrepid were out body surfing or boogie boarding. The waves were as high as 10 feet, and it was thrilling to watch them crash against the rocks or even just break along the beach. The lifeguards were truly impressive as we saw them pull a couple of people out of the surf, including a young girl who became terrified when the undertow started pulling her, and the older people around her were unable to help. There is a truly magnificent hike—the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail—that is easy to walk and provides absolutely breathtaking views from the bluffs, especially during high surf! Hapuna Beach also includes clean bathrooms and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables. There are a few shady spots on the beach, but they fill up early. There is a charge both per person ($5 for residents and $7.50 for non-residents) and per vehicle ($10), but it is well worth the fee to experience this gorgeous beach.

4Greg S 5:00 PM Sep 24, 2021

Pleasant Day at Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is a beautiful, spacious white sand beach about 25-30 minutes north of the core Kailua-Kona commercial area. There is a $5 per person entrance fee and a $10 per vehicle parking fee. There was plenty of controlled parking area when we visited. It is under state management with state employees on site so this provides a certain degree of security. I didn't notice a rental place for beach umbrellas, chairs, etc., but most people had brought theirs. You may wish to rent these in advance. We spent a wonderful 3 hours walking the beach and enjoying the gentle surf.