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Destination: Hawaiian Islands Article Source: Outrigger
What’s your perfect beach experience? Are you an adrenaline junkie looking for the perfect wave? Celebrating love with a memorable sunset? Seeking calmer shores to build a masterpiece sand sculpture? Use our Hawaii beach infographics and guide to help you find your perfect beach experience on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island.
Sun. Sand. The Pacific Ocean. Nothing beats a day at the beach, even during winter. And, boy, do the Hawaiian Islands offer up a selection of beaches. There are hundreds that dot the coastlines from Hilo to Haena. Some change with the seasons. Each has its own story. Find your perfect season and create your very own beach story with the help of our Hawaii beach guide and infographics!
Islands and beaches. Some things just go better together. Macadamia nuts and pancakes, for example. Tropical sunrises and Kona coffee. In summer, nothing beats a day at the beach. And, boy, do the Hawaiian Islands offer up a selection of beaches. Practically no two beaches are alike; the best beaches vary by season and reason. Use our Hawaii beach guide and infographics to find your perfect beach experience on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island.
Kim Steutermann Rogers Destination: Hawaiian Islands Article Source: Outrigger
Pioneering undersea explorer, Dr. Sylvia Earle says that every breath of air we take comes from the sea. The ocean is important, because without it, we would not exist. “There’s plenty of water in the universe without life, but nowhere is there life without water.” And at 97% of the Earth’s water, the ocean is the life-support system for all creatures on our planet. That’s a pretty clear reason why we should care about and for our seas.
Destination: Oahu/Waikiki Article Source: Outrigger
Waikiki Beach contains a world of beach adventures to keep you exploring for days and weeks on end. So here's what you need: the be-all, end-all, grandaddy list of all lists for the best spot along Waikiki Beach to do just about whatever it is you could imagine doing.
Destination: Oahu/Waikiki Article Source: Copyright © 2012 by Fodor’s Travel, a division of Random House Inc. All rights reserved.
Some favor the cool grass and rolling hills of Kakaako Park, where you can picnic with a view. Others dine in style and watch nature's beauty from the 32nd floor Hanohano Room in the Sheraton Waikiki. But a favorite for most is seeing the sun melt into the horizon from a beach blanket, toes curled into the warm sand. Ala Moana Beach Park's Magic Island, while crowded, is a good spot. For a more private view, try Lanikai Beach in Kailua or Sunset Beach on the North Shore.
You'll be one of the few outsiders at this Waianae Coast beach at the very end of the road. If it weren't for the little strip of paved road, it would feel like a deserted isle: no stores, no houses, just a huge sloping stretch of beach and some of the darkest-blue water off the island. Locals come here to fish and swim in waters that are calm enough for children in summer. Early morning brings with it spinner dolphins by the dozens just offshore. Though Makua Beach up the road is the best spot to see these animals, it's not nearly as beautiful or sandy as "Yokes." Amenities: showers; toilets; parking (no fee). Best for: solitude, sunset, swimming.
Concealed from the public eye for many years as part of the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station, this beach is reminiscent of Waikiki but without the condos and the crowds. It is a long, sloping beach with numerous surf breaks, but it is also mild enough at shore for older children to play freely. It has views of Pearl Harbor and, over that, Diamond Head. Although the sand lives up to its name, the real joy of this beach comes from its history as part of a military property for the better part of a century. Expansive parking, great restroom facilities, and numerous tree-covered barbecue areas make it a great day-trip spot. As a bonus, a Hawaiian monk seal takes up residence here several months out of the year (seals are rare in the Islands). Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming.
Made popular in that old Beach Boys song "Surfin' U.S.A.," Waimea Bay is a slice of big-wave heaven, home to king-size 25- to 30-foot winter waves. Summer is the time to swim and snorkel in the calm waters. The shore break is great for novice bodysurfers. Due to its popularity, the postage-stamp parking lot is quickly filled, but it's also possible to park along the side of the road and walk in. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling (in summer); surfing (in winter); swimming (in summer).
One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Waimanalo is a local pick, busy with picnicking families and active sports fields. Expect a wide stretch of sand; turquoise, emerald, and deep blue seas; and gentle shore-breaking waves that are fun for all ages. Theft is an occasional problem, so lock your car. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; swimming; walking.