The Hapuna Beach is a gem on the Big Island of Hawaii, offering not only beautiful white sand beaches and clear waters but also a variety of fun activities that visitors can enjoy.
To ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the fun, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Hapuna Beach. From snorkeling and hiking to exploring the local culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this amazing beach!
So stop worrying, instead sit back, relax, and let us guide you through your Hapuna Beach adventure!
Where Is Hapuna Beach Located?
Hapuna Beach is a beautiful beach state recreational spot that’s located along the Kohala Coast, near the Kaunaoa Point, approximately 31 miles north of Kailua-Kona. You can easily find it near Highway 19 or just drive through the Old Puako Road. It’s also near the Kumulani at Mauna Kea Resort and Beach 67 or Beach 69.
10 Fun Things To Do At The Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is an idyllic destination for those seeking a fun-filled day in the sun. This gorgeous stretch of coastline offers plenty of activities for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or get your adrenaline pumping with water sports.
Here are ten fun things to do at Hapuna Beach that will make your visit an unforgettable one:
Swimming In The Crystal Clear Waters
Swimming in the crystal clear waters at Hapuna Beach is a must-do activity for any visitor. The turquoise blue waters offer a refreshing and invigorating experience, while the calm waves make it a safe place for swimmers of all levels.
All you would have to do to enjoy its crystal clear waters is jump in and cool off from the tropical sun, while enjoying the stunning scenery around you!
Sunbathing On The Soft, White Sand
Sunbathing on the soft, white sand is one of the most popular activities to do at Hapuna Beach. The beach is wide enough that even on crowded days, you’ll still have plenty of space to relax. Also, there are plenty of shaded areas if you prefer to take a break from the sun. And when you get too hot, you can always take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters just steps away.
Snorkeling To See The Colorful Marine Life
Snorkeling at Hapuna Beach provides a thrilling opportunity to explore the underwater world and observe a variety of marine life. Thanks to its crystal-clear waters and an abundance of vibrant reefs, visitors can see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures.
Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear and a waterproof camera to capture your unforgettable underwater adventure. And in case you did not bring any gear, make sure to ask around for rental gear!
Bodyboarding Or Surfing The Waves
For those seeking an activity that’s thrilling, the Hapuna Beach is the place to go. This beach is one of the perfect spots in Hawaii for bodyboarding and surfing all thanks to its consistent swell year-round, allowing the beach to offer great waves that are suitable for both beginners and pros alike.
Picnicking With Friends And Family
One of the best ways to enjoy a day at Hapuna Beach is to pack a picnic and enjoy a meal with friends and family on the soft, white sand. With plenty of tables and shaded areas, the beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening gathering.
As you enjoy the beach, you get to take in the stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills while enjoying your favorite snacks and drinks. Just make sure you don’t forget to bring a frisbee or a ball for some fun activities after your meal.
Taking A Stroll Along The Beach To Enjoy The Scenery
Taking a stroll along Hapuna Beach is a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery and unwind. The soft white sand and turquoise waters are a feast for all our senses, while the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore creates a soothing backdrop for your walk.
Note: As you stroll along the beach, there’s a huge possibility that you may spot some local wildlife, including turtles, crabs, and birds.
Playing Beach Sports With Friends
For something sporty, playing beach volleyball with friends at Hapuna Beach is an excellent way to have fun in the sun while getting some exercise. The soft sand and ocean breeze creates a perfect atmosphere for a friendly game of volleyball, and the beach’s expansive shoreline means there’s plenty of space for multiple games to be played at once. If you’re not into playing volleyball, you can try out beach football or futsal.
Collecting Seashells As Souvenirs
Collecting seashells as souvenirs at the Hapuna Beach is an enjoyable activity that allows you to take home a piece of the beautiful beach. The beach’s unique location and clear waters offer an abundance of various seashells, making it a treasure trove for shell collectors. From delicate sand dollars to intricate seashells in different shapes and sizes, there’s an endless array of shells to find and admire.
Watching The Sunset Over The Ocean
As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, Hapuna Beach takes on a magical glow that makes watching the sunset over the ocean a must-do activity. The warm, golden hues reflecting off the water are simply breathtaking, and the beach’s unobstructed view of the horizon ensures a clear and stunning display of color.
Reminder: Make sure you bring the best camera that you have when visiting this beach to watch the sunset over the ocean.
Taking Scenic Photographs To Capture The Beauty Of The Beach
Speaking of cameras, the Hapuna Beach offers an ideal backdrop for capturing the perfect shot. From the crystal-clear waters and soft white sand to the stunning sunsets and lush greenery, every angle of the beach offers something worth photographing. Plus, with the beach’s relatively uncrowded setting, you won’t have to worry about competing with others for the perfect shot. So bring your camera or smartphone and get ready to take some unforgettable photos to remember your time at Hapuna Beach.
10 Tips That Will Help You Make The Most Of Your Visit To Hapuna Beach
To help you make the most of your visit to the Hapuna Beach, we have put together some of the best tips that will ensure that your time at the beach is enjoyable, relaxing, and unforgettable:
Arrive Early
Hapuna Beach is a popular destination, especially during peak season, which means it can get crowded quickly. To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot on the beach. This will also give you a chance to explore the beach before it gets too busy.
Bring Plenty of Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The sun at Hapuna Beach can be intense durong the summer months, so be sure to bring plenty of reef-safe sunscreens to protect your skin. Try to reapply it throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
Pack Plenty of Water and Snacks
There are no restaurants or food stands directly on the Hapuna Beach, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks or any type of food that would keep your tank full. This will also save you time and money.
Rent Snorkeling Gear
Hapuna Beach is home to some of the best snorkeling spots on the island. To make the most of your visit, rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world. You may even spot some colorful fish or sea turtles!
Tip: Visit the nearby Beach 69 for snorkeling. It’s usually empty and very calm!
Take a Beach Walk
The Hapuna Beach is a pretty long and beautiful stretch of sand, so take a leisurely beach walk to explore its full beauty. You may even stumble upon some hidden coves or tidal pools.
Watch the Sunset
The sunsets at Hapuna Beach are spectacular, so be sure to stick around for an evening show. Pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Bring a Camera
Hapuna Beach is a photographer’s paradise, so be sure to bring your camera to capture its beauty. From the golden sand to the turquoise waters, there’s no shortage of picturesque scenes to photograph.
Stay Hydrated
It’s important to stay hydrated in the hot Hawaiian sun, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. There are water fountains near the restrooms if you need to refill your water bottle.
Respect the Environment
Hapuna Beach is beautiful, but it has a fragile ecosystem, so be sure to respect the environment while you’re there. Make sure you avoid littering, are not disturbing the wildlife, and stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the environment.
Have Fun
Most importantly, have fun! The Hapuna Beach is a beautiful and relaxing destination, so take the time to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Hapuna Beach Entrance Fee
If you’re wondering whether Hapuna Beach is free to visit, the answer is no, at least for non-residents. There is a per person entrance fee of $5 to access the beach. However, children under 3 years old are not required to pay.
Hapuna Beach Parking
There is paid parking lot available for visitors, which costs $10 per vehicle. However, free parking is available for Hawaii residents. The parking lot is large and paved, providing ample space for cars.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to visit Hapuna Beach and want to make the most of your experience, it’s worth considering renting a vacation rental property near the beach through Hawaiian Beach Rentals. This will not only give you easy access to the beach but also provide you with all the comforts and conveniences of home, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy your time in Hawaii! To take a look at all the rental properties near Hapuna Beach, browse our listings!