List of Best Beaches in Hawaii 2018

List of Best Beaches in Hawaii 2018

Tripadvisor released their 2018 list of the Best Beaches in Hawaii and overall United States. Several of the best beaches in Hawaii made the list.

#1: Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is #2 on the list. Lanikai Beach is located in Kailua on the island of Oahu. The name Lanikai means “heavenly sea.” It is known for it’s soft powdery white sand and the scenic views of the two islands know as the “mokes.” Parking near Lanikai is difficult. If you want to experience the “mokes” without worrying about a parking spot check out Oahu Kayak Tours in Kailua.

#2: Wai’anapanapa State Park

Wai’anapanapa State Park in Hana is #5. Everyone who drives the Road to Hana on Maui should stop at Wai’anapanapa State Park. The black sand beach named Pa’iloa was created by a lava flow several hundred years ago. Before you drive the Road to Hana be sure to read our Road to Hana tips.

#3: Ka’anapali Beach

Ka’anapali Beach in Lahaina is #6 on the list of Best Beaches in the United States. Kaanapali Beach is a beautiful 3 mile stretch of white sand and crystal clear water. Hotels, condominiums and an open air shopping complex (Whalers Village) are located on this beach. Kaanapali Beach is home to many Maui Luaus and Maui Snorkeling Tours! Read about my morning with Sea Maui and their unique Kaanapali Beach departure.

#4: Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu is #12. Hanauma Bay is known as one of the best snorkeling locations in the world! Hanauma Bay is home to about 400 species of fish and an abundance of green sea turtles.

#5: Poipu Beach Park

Poipu Beach Park on the South Shore of Kauai is #13 on the Tripadvisor list. Poipu Beach park is a great place for snorkeling, boogie-boarding, swimming and even has a natural ocean wading pool. Poipu is a fun place to learn to surf! You may see humpback whales spouting off shore, large Hawaiian green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals! If you are looking for land activities near Poipu check out Kauai ATV and Koloa Zipline.

#6: Manini’owali Beach

Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island is ranked #14. Kua Bay is known for having turquoise waters and sugar fine white sand. Kona is home to a variety of unique Big Island Activities.

#7: Hanalei Beach

Hanalei Beach on the North Shore of Kauai is ranked the 24th Best Beach in the United States. The gorgeous beach is surrounded by mountains. Many will recognize the famous Hanalei Pier from the movie South Pacific.  One of my favorite memories of Hanalei Beach is the day I had the amazing opportunity to surf with Tatiana Weston-Webb.



Check out the complete list of the Best Beaches in the United States on Tripadvisor.

What are your favorite beaches in Hawaii?