Are you looking for some awesome Big Island beaches for your next Hawaii trip? These are the top beaches on the Big Island for kids and families.
This list of the best beaches on the Big Island with kids was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Looking for amazing Big Island beaches where your kids can actually play without you having a heart attack every five minutes? You’re in the right place.
The Big Island has some of the most unique beaches in Hawaii. We’re talking black sand, white sand, calm bays perfect for toddlers, and snorkeling spots where you’ll see more turtles than tourists.
After visiting Hawaii over 40 times (yes, I’m a self-proclaimed professional tourist), I’ve learned which beaches work for families and which ones are better left to the surfers and adventurers.
Here’s the thing about Big Island beaches: they’re different from what you’ll find on Maui or Oahu. Many are rockier, some have strong currents, and you won’t find that postcard-perfect white sand everywhere. But that’s what makes them special.
The black sand beaches are wild and beautiful, and when you do find those calm, protected bays, they’re absolute magic for kids.
I’ve narrowed this list down to the best of the best. These are the beaches where you can actually relax, let the kids explore, and maybe even read a few pages of your book (okay, maybe half a page before someone needs a snack).
Want to plan your whole Big Island trip with confidence? Check out my Big Island Travel Guide for Families or sign up for my free 7-day email course on planning a Big Island trip. I’ll walk you through everything from where to stay to how to see the lava (when it’s flowing).
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the planning? I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where we can map out your perfect family trip together.
1. Old Kona Airport State Park
This is my go-to beach when I’m on the Big Island, and for good reason. It’s the only beach on this list I’ve personally spent time at with my family, and we absolutely loved it.
What used to be an actual airport runway is now a mile-long beach park with tons of space to spread out. The old terminal? It’s a pavilion now.
The parking is easy (just drive down that old runway), and there’s plenty of grass for the kids to run around when they need a break from the sand.
The beach itself is a mix of sandy patches and lava rock, which sounds weird but actually works great. The tide pools on the south end (called Keiki Ponds) are perfect for little ones who want to splash around and look for tiny fish and crabs. My kids spent hours there.
The northern section has more activity if you want to snorkel or bodyboard. Just know that getting in the water can be a bit tricky because of the lava rocks, but once you’re in, it’s usually pretty calm. Go in the morning before the afternoon winds pick up.
There are picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and tons of shade trees. Locals come here for sunset picnics, and honestly, the sunset views are incredible. If you’re staying in Kona, this beach is super close and you don’t need any special planning to get here.
Park hours: 7 AM to 8 PM daily
Best for: Families with kids of all ages, tide pool exploring, sunset watching
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, pavilions, parking
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2. Hapuna Beach
If you only go to one white sand beach on the Big Island, make it Hapuna. This place consistently makes those “best beaches in America” lists, and it’s not hard to see why.
The beach is huge (almost half a mile long) with soft white sand that’s perfect for building sandcastles. In summer, the water is calm and great for swimming. Kids will love bodyboarding here when the waves are moderate.
Here’s what you need to know: winter is a different story. From November to March, the waves can get big and the currents get strong.
Check with the lifeguards before letting anyone in the water during these months. But even if the water’s too rough, the beach itself is gorgeous for playing in the sand.
The facilities here are excellent. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. You can even rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you don’t want to lug your own stuff from the car.
Fair warning: this beach gets crowded, especially on weekends. The earlier you arrive, the better parking spot you’ll snag.
Current entry fees (2025): $10 per vehicle, $5 per person (kids 3 and under are free)
Best for: Families with older kids, bodyboarding, swimming (summer months)
Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking
Looking for a hotel near Hapuna? Check out options on Expedia to compare prices on nearby Kohala Coast resorts.
3. Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Real talk: your kids will flip out over this beach. Black sand beaches are rare, and this is the most famous one in Hawaii. The sand is made from volcanic lava that exploded into tiny fragments when it hit the ocean.
But the real reason everyone comes here? The turtles. Hawaiian green sea turtles love basking on this warm black sand (it heats up like crazy under the sun, so be careful walking on it barefoot).
You’ll usually spot at least a few turtles hanging out, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM.
The beach has volunteers who rope off areas around resting turtles, which is great because it keeps everyone at a safe distance.
Please, please, please don’t let your kids get too close or try to touch them. These turtles are endangered and protected by federal law. Stay at least 10 feet away.
Swimming here is usually pretty rough. The currents can be strong, so this isn’t really a swimming beach. It’s more of a “walk around, take a million photos, and watch the turtles” kind of place. There are some calmer tide pools if your kids just need to get their feet wet.
The facilities are decent. There are restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and usually a snack shack selling shave ice and souvenirs.
Location: About an hour south of Hilo, between Pahala and Naalehu
Best for: Turtle watching, photography, older kids who can handle not swimming
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking
Want to explore more of the volcano area? Browse Big Island tours on Viator to find volcano and black sand beach excursions.
4. Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay)
Everyone calls this beach “A-Bay” because trying to pronounce Anaehoomalu is a workout. This is one of the most family-friendly beaches on the Kohala Coast, and it’s gorgeous.
The bay is protected by an offshore reef, so the water stays relatively calm. This makes it perfect for younger kids who want to swim and paddle around. The sandy bottom slopes gently, and there’s plenty of shallow area for little ones.
Behind the beach, you’ll find two ancient Hawaiian fishponds. Walk around them and you’ll see some cool petroglyphs and archaeological sites with signs explaining the history. It’s like a mini cultural lesson without the museum vibe.
The snorkeling here is okay but not amazing. The water can be a bit murky, and you’ll need to swim pretty far out (500+ feet) to see much.
That said, you might spot sea turtles, and kids love the easy access to the water for paddling around.
The Marriott resort is right on the beach, but don’t worry, it’s a public beach with its own parking lot. You don’t need to be a guest to enjoy it. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, plus a beach hut that rents kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear.
If you’re here in the afternoon, the sunsets are absolutely spectacular. The palm trees, the fishponds reflecting the pink sky, boats in the bay… it’s the kind of sunset that makes you understand why people move to Hawaii.
Best for: Families with young kids, sunset watching, easy swimming
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, equipment rentals, parking
For professional family photos on the beach (because phone photos are great but professional ones are next-level), check out Flytographer.
You can save $20 when you book through my link, and they’ll meet you at any beach to capture those memories.
5. Maniniowali Beach (Kua Bay)
If you want that magazine-cover white sand beach experience, Kua Bay is it. The sand here is ridiculously soft and white, and the water is that crazy turquoise color that doesn’t even look real.
This beach is part of Kekaha Kai State Park. The state built a paved road and stairs down to the beach a few years ago, which made access way easier. Before that, you had to scramble over lava rocks to get here.
The bodyboarding at Kua Bay is some of the best on the island. When the waves are just right (usually summer), it’s perfect for kids and adults who want to ride some fun waves.
But when the surf is up in winter, this beach can get dangerous with strong currents. Always check conditions before getting in the water.
There’s now a lifeguard tower (installed in 2019), which is a huge plus for families. The bathrooms and showers are up near the parking area, and there are a few shaded picnic tables.
Here’s the catch: there’s almost no natural shade on the beach itself. Bring an umbrella or pop-up tent if you’re planning to spend more than an hour. The sun here is intense.
The parking lot fills up fast on weekends, so get there early. If the lot’s full, you can park along the access road, but it’s a bit of a walk.
Park hours: Gate opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM (closed Wednesdays)
Best for: Older kids, bodyboarding, white sand beach experience
Amenities: Lifeguard, restrooms, showers, limited picnic tables, parking
6. Spencer Beach Park
If you have younger kids or anyone who’s nervous in the ocean, Spencer Beach is your spot. This is hands-down one of the safest beaches on the Big Island.
An offshore reef and the nearby Kawaihae Harbor breakwater keep the waves small and the water super calm. The beach has a gentle sandy slope, perfect for toddlers who want to splash around in ankle-deep water.
There’s tons of shade from huge native trees, which is a lifesaver when you need a break from the sun. The facilities here are excellent: restrooms, showers, a big pavilion with picnic tables and electrical outlets (handy if you need to charge devices), and even BBQ grills.
The water clarity isn’t always perfect because of the proximity to the harbor, but it’s still nice for swimming. There’s usually a lifeguard tower, though I’ve heard it’s not always staffed, so don’t rely on that.
This beach is super popular with local families, especially on weekends. It can get busy, but there’s enough space that it never feels overcrowded.
If you’re interested in Hawaiian history, the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site is right next door. It’s a massive temple built by King Kamehameha I in the 1790s, and you can walk over to check it out.
Best for: Toddlers, young kids, nervous swimmers, picnics
Amenities: Lifeguard (weekends), restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, BBQ grills, parking
I talk more about family-friendly Big Island activities in my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast. You can listen while you’re planning your trip!
7. Honaunau Bay (Two Step)
Okay, this one isn’t really a “beach” beach because there’s no sand. It’s all lava rock. But if your kids are old enough to snorkel (or you want to), this is THE place to go on the Big Island.
Honaunau Bay is famous for world-class snorkeling, and locals call it “Two Step” because of the natural lava rock steps that make it super easy to get in and out of the water.
You literally sit on the steps, put your fins on while fish swim around your feet, and slide into some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii.
The marine life here is insane. You’ll see tons of tropical fish, sea turtles, eels, and if you’re lucky, spinner dolphins in the early morning. The water is usually calm and clear, especially in the morning before the afternoon clouds roll in.
Here’s what you need to know: parking is very limited. There’s a small paid lot ($5) and street parking along a narrow residential road. Get there early (like, really early) or you’ll be circling forever. Mornings are also better for visibility and calmer water.
The Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is right next door. This was an ancient Hawaiian place of refuge, and it’s absolutely worth walking through. The carved wooden figures, the stone walls, the whole vibe is incredible.
This isn’t a beach for little kids who need to build sandcastles and play in the sand. But if your family loves snorkeling and your kids are comfortable in the water, this is a must-do.
Best for: Confident swimmers, snorkeling families, older kids
What to bring: Snorkel gear (or rent from nearby shops), water shoes for the lava rocks, $5 cash for parking
Amenities: Portable toilets, picnic tables, limited shade
Looking for snorkel gear? You can find highly-rated sets on Amazon with quick shipping to Hawaii.
8. Onekahakaha Beach Park
If you’re staying in Hilo or exploring the east side of the island, Onekahakaha is your best bet for a family beach day.
This beach has protected tide pools created by natural lava breakwaters. The pools are shallow and calm, making them perfect for young kids to splash around and look for little fish.
There’s also a sandy area and slightly deeper water for older kids and adults who want to actually swim.
Lifeguards are on duty here, which is a big plus. The facilities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. It can get busy with local families on weekends, but it’s usually pretty chill during the week.
The Hilo side of the island gets more rain than the Kona side, so don’t be surprised if you get a quick shower. But honestly, warm Hawaiian rain is kind of nice, and it usually passes quickly.
Best for: Families with young kids, Hilo-side beach day, protected swimming
Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, parking
9. Mauna Kea Beach (Kaunaoa Beach)
This beach is part of the Mauna Kea Resort, but it’s still a public beach with public access. You just need to know how to get there.
Mauna Kea Beach has some of the softest white sand on the Big Island and crystal-clear water. When it’s calm (usually summer), it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
But when the surf picks up in winter, this beach gets waves that are better suited for experienced bodyboarders and surfers.
The beach is crescent-shaped and absolutely gorgeous. You might spot spinner dolphins in the morning, and in the evening, manta rays sometimes come into the shallows to feed on plankton.
Here’s the access situation: public parking is very limited (only about 10 spots), and it’s first-come, first-served. You can’t make reservations. Get there early or you won’t get in. There are restrooms and showers available.
Best for: Strong swimmers, families with older kids, pristine white sand
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, very limited parking
10. Kikaua Point Beach
This is a smaller, lesser-known beach that’s perfect when you want something quieter. It’s located next to the Kikaua Point golf course and has a nice mix of sand, lava rock, and palm trees for shade.
There’s a grassy lawn area that’s great for kids to play on when they need a break from the beach. The water access can be a bit rocky, but there are some protected areas where kids can wade and explore.
This beach doesn’t have the same amenities as the bigger parks, but it has restrooms and usually isn’t too crowded. It’s a good option if the more popular beaches are packed.
Best for: Quieter beach day, families who want shade and grass areas
Amenities: Restrooms, parking
Planning Your Big Island Beach Days
Here’s what I’ve learned from years of taking my family to Big Island beaches:
Timing matters. Mornings are usually calmer for swimming and snorkeling. Afternoons often bring wind and choppier water. If you want to avoid crowds, go on weekdays.
Pack smart. Bring reef-safe sunscreen (it’s required by law in Hawaii), water shoes for rocky entries, plenty of water and snacks, and something for shade. Most Big Island beaches don’t have the natural shade you’ll find on other islands.
Check conditions. Hawaii beaches can change dramatically with the seasons. Summer (May to October) generally has calmer water. Winter (November to April) brings bigger waves and stronger currents. Always look for warning signs and ask lifeguards about current conditions.
Respect the turtles. If you see a turtle on the beach or in the water, stay at least 10 feet away. Don’t chase them, touch them, or block their path to the ocean. They’re endangered and protected by federal law.
As a Hawaii travel expert, I can’t stress enough how important it is to plan ahead. The Big Island is huge (hence the name), and driving between beaches takes time. Don’t try to hit five beaches in one day. Pick one or two and really enjoy them.
Need help planning your whole Big Island itinerary? I put together a comprehensive Big Island Travel Guide for Families with everything you need to know.
Or grab my free 7-day email course that walks you through planning your trip step by step.
And if you’d rather have someone else do the planning? That’s literally what I do. Book a Hawaii travel consultation and we’ll create your perfect family itinerary together.
I’ll help you figure out which beaches work best for your kids’ ages, where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your time.
Big Island Beach Safety Tips
I’m not trying to scare you, but the ocean in Hawaii is powerful and demands respect. Here are my top safety tips:
Never turn your back on the ocean. Waves can come out of nowhere, especially at beaches with no reef protection.
Watch for signs and flags. Red flags mean dangerous conditions. Yellow means caution. If there’s no lifeguard and you see red flags, seriously consider skipping that beach for the day.
Teach kids about riptides. If you get caught in one, don’t panic and don’t swim against it. Swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current, then swim back to shore.
The Big Island has sharp lava rocks. Water shoes are your friend. I’ve seen too many cut feet to count.
Portuguese man-o-war can wash up on beaches. They look like blue balloons but their tentacles can sting even when they’re dead. If you see them, stay away and warn other beachgoers.
Best Time to Visit Big Island Beaches
The Big Island doesn’t have a traditional “beach season” like some places, but there are definitely better times depending on what you want to do.
For calm swimming and young kids: Visit May through October when the ocean is typically calmer on the west side.
For bodyboarding and bigger waves: November through March brings larger swells, which older kids and experienced swimmers might enjoy.
For whale watching: December through April, you might spot humpback whales from any west-facing beach.
For avoiding crowds: Weekdays are always better than weekends. Early mornings (before 10 AM) are your best bet at popular beaches like Hapuna and Kua Bay.
More Big Island Resources
Looking for more Big Island trip planning help? Here’s what I’ve got for you:
- Listen to my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast episode on Big Island planning
- Download my Big Island Travel Guide for Families for detailed itineraries and tips
- Join my free 7-day email course on planning a Big Island trip
- Book a personalized Hawaii travel consultation if you want one-on-one planning help
The Big Island is special. The beaches are different from what you’ll find on the other Hawaiian islands, but that’s what makes them so memorable.
Black sand, calm tide pools, world-class snorkeling, and those incredible Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun.
Take your time, be flexible with your plans (Hawaii weather can be unpredictable), and don’t stress if you can’t see every beach on this list. Pick a few that match your family’s vibe and enjoy them fully.
And remember: as a professional tourist who’s made plenty of mistakes over 40+ trips to Hawaii, the best beach day is the one where everyone’s happy, no one gets sunburned, and you actually have fun instead of rushing around trying to check everything off your list.
Have questions about Big Island beaches or planning your family trip? Drop them in the comments or reach out through my consultation page. I’m always happy to help!
P.S. Join our Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group to get connected with other families planning a trip to Hawaii!
