Walk across the white sand of this idyllic beach to reach the warm Hawaiian waters beyond.

Hapuna Beach is one of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island’s west coast. The state park covers 61.8 acres (25 hectares) of the island and is a great destination to hike, swim and snorkel. The park is also home to the popular Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, sister hotel to the famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.

Hapuna Beach is long and expansive, and there is more than enough room even on a crowded day. Stretch out your towel and enjoy the best of Hawaii’s sun, sand and surf. The water here is shallow and often quite warm in summer. The protected section at the northern end of the beach is perfect for swimming with children.

While lifeguards patrol the beach, large swells are known to reach the beach and riptides may form, with waves of 3 feet (1 meter) or higher, especially during winter. Familiarize yourself with the conditions before venturing into the water.

Jump from the cliffs at the south end of the beach into the ocean, an activity popular among the locals. In ancient Hawaii this act was a popular sport called lelekawa, with the aim being to make the smallest splash upon entry.

Hike part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail that runs through the state park. This trail follows the coast of Hawaii’s Big Island for 175 miles (281 kilometers) linking a number of ancient Hawaii’s significant cultural and historical sites.

The Hapuna Beach State Park is a particularly popular location for its wide range of amenities. There are restaurants, bars, small food vendors, equipment rental companies, restrooms and picnic tables. The area also has six shelters for overnight lodging available for rent via the Hawaii State Park website.

Hapuna Beach State Park is located on the Kohola Coast, approximately 32 miles (51 kilometers) north of Kailua-Kona. The park is best reached by car, with ample parking available. Some charter buses serve the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel however, they are not always available for day visitors.

The beach is open daily and a small entrance fee applies.

Plan a trip to see Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

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Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort

Historic Kailua Village

￥106,752

per person

Apr 12 - Apr 17

found 15 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

8.6/10 Excellent! (477 reviews)

The room was the most poorly equipped condo we have ever stayed in. Very few kitchen utensils, tiny skillets, tiny coffee pot. No food storage bags or covered containers. Rusty freezer. The outside facilities were nice, clean pool and hot tub, nice gas grills. Not enough umbrellas for shade. Stayed in E3, below street level. Would not recommend.

Reviewed on Mar 1, 2026

Kona Islander Vacation Club

Historic Kailua Village

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￥152,896

per person

Apr 12 - Apr 17

found 15 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

7/10 Good! (345 reviews)

Convienience because of central location. We had a pool view balcony. Less expensive. A good option to consider.

Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026

Fairway Villas Waikoloa by OUTRIGGER

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￥187,682

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Apr 12 - Apr 17

found 15 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

8.8/10 Excellent! (511 reviews)

Great location near beach and shops Very well manicured property and spacious condos. My only (minor) complaint is the pool closes at 9 pm.

Reviewed on Mar 2, 2026

Popular places to visit

First time to the big island! Stumbled upon some great beaches. #lifeatexpedia

Hāpuna Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Hāpuna Beach during your trip to Kamuela? Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.

Waialea Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Waialea Beach during your travels in Puako? Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.

Mauna Kea featuring tropical scenes, a beach and landscape views

Mauna Kea Beach

Visit what was once the most expensive hotel ever built, one of the first resorts in the region.

Coastline and cliffs to the south of Hapuna

Puako Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Puako Beach during your trip to Kamuela? Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.

Hapuna Golf Course

Play a round of golf at Hapuna Golf Course and enjoy other activities in Kamuela such as snorkeling. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.