Waialea Beach

This beach is absolutely stunning, offering breathtaking views of Maui and charming rocks in the water, along with the beauty of overhanging trees. It's my personal favorite on the island for simply relaxing and spending the entire day doing nothing. The beach is actually made up of a series of smaller beaches, separated by trees that extend over the water. However, depending on the tide, you can walk along the length of the beach at the waterline, as long as you don't mind maneuvering around a few tree trunks and branches. The best and largest sandy areas are located towards the left (south) end of the beach. There are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, although the water can sometimes be a bit murky. Generally, the beach is sheltered and calm, making it perfect for swimming. However, it's important to note that the ocean floor is more rocky than sandy, so it's recommended to wear light water shoes. Fortunately, you won't need to bring a beach umbrella here, as there is plenty of shade available. On the busiest days, finding a sunny spot may be a bit challenging, although it's not a common occurrence. The beach also offers nice restroom facilities and showers. However, it's worth mentioning that parking can be expensive, as many others have mentioned. The gravel parking lot is quite large and is unlikely to fill up, even during busy times like Hapuna beach.

It's a great place to unwind under the shade, with plenty of driftwood, coral, and lava rock that add to its scenic and picturesque charm. The waves can be a bit rough for those who aren't experienced swimmers, but they're perfectly fine closer to the shore.

This beach is simply amazing and a favorite among locals. The setting and water are absolutely perfect. Pay parking is available, and although it's not overly crowded, it's advisable to arrive early. On the main road leading to the beach, you'll find a malasadas truck, which is a delightful treat. Overall, this is probably the best beach in Hawaii.

This beach near Hapuna is quite lovely. It was quite bustling on a Saturday afternoon. There is ample shade and numerous lava formations scattered around, creating a pleasant atmosphere to simply sit back and relish the soothing waves. I'm certain that this spot would be ideal for witnessing a stunning sunset.

The Big Island offers a stunning location to witness a mesmerizing sunset. It's not overcrowded and provides convenient full bathrooms and wash stations for public use. Moreover, there is a spacious parking area that is easily accessible. However, due to the presence of rocks near the shore, I wouldn't recommend swimming too much here. Nonetheless, the water and the overall ambiance are absolutely beautiful.