Hawaii Beaches – From White Sand to Black, They’re All Beautiful!
Hawaii is well known for its scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the gorgeous waterfalls, views of majestic mountains or Hawaiian beaches, you will find this place a haven for natural picturesque splendors. Because Hawaii is surrounded by water, it is perhaps best known for its marvelous beaches. And one of the things that makes these beaches so special is the fact that each one is totally unique from the others. From the sand color to the waves that splash on the shore and even to the ease of accessibility, the beaches of Hawaii are as different as they are beautiful.
On the north end of the island, you will find white sand beaches. The sand here consists of crushed shells and corals. Black sand beaches are mostly located on the southeast part of the island. Punaluu Beach is said to be the best black sand beach on Earth. This dark sand evolves from ground lava. Green sand beaches are not as common. Green sand is made from olivine crystals. Puu Mahana Beach, located in the Kau district, consists of green sand. This beach literally sits on the slopes of Mauna Loa, which is the world’s largest active volcano. Getting to this beach requires either a six-mile hike from South Point, Ka Lae or the use of a four-wheel drive vehicle.
For those who simply want to enjoy beautiful beaches, Mauna Kea Beach, Hapuna State Beach Park, Makalawena Beach and Kua Bay Beach Park are ideal. Beaches considered excellent for families include Spencer Beach Park, Kikaua Point Beach, Anaehoomalu Bay Beach and Kahaluu Beach Park, which is also noted as a top place for snorkeling. Honaunau Place of Refuge is another favorite snorkeling spot – it is also the best shore diving beach. Anaehoomalu Bay Beach, Spencer Beach Park and Kahaluu Beach Park are great beaches to observe sea turtles as well.
If enjoying a gorgeous view of Hualualai Mountain as you swim in the Pacific Ocean or relaxing on the beach listening to the sounds of wild birds is your idea of a perfect getaway, Honokohau beach (Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park) is the place you should consider. Although the black sand beach at Punaluu is also nice for swimming, there is an undercurrent in the bay area that can be dangerous. A better place for swimming may be Lanikai Beach. This clean beach is wide and the waters are clear. Speckled with swaying coconut palms, this beach offers paradise-like scenery.
Hawaiian beaches offer everything from seclusion and romantic settings to crowded spots overflowing with tourists, shops and attractions. Along with that, you will also find fabulous Hawaii hotel deals that will meet the needs of every traveler in every Hawaii location.
About The Author:
Dan Larue enjoys sharing his insights about Hawaii with others. According to Larue, everyone deserves to bask in the pleasures of Hawaii at least once in their lifetime. He says that the beautiful Marriott Hawaii vacation hotels make it easy for anyone to find accommodations that will meet both their needs and their budget.