Hawaii: A bounty of beaches

All of Hawaii’s six islands have long, unspoiled stretches of coastline that have long been a beacon for visitors. Whether it is Kauai, Big Island, Oahu, Molokai , Lanai or Maui there is something unique about each of them.

KAUAI

There’s more beach per mile of coastline here than on any other Hawaiian Island. Forty-three beaches in total, varying from quiet white-sand lagoons, to calm water bays, to expansive pounding ocean shores.

Kauai is also Hawaii’s water world. With rivers, waterfalls, and the deep blue Pacific, if it involves water, you’ll find it here. There’s nothing like floating on a kayak in a cobalt sea where spinner dolphins, green sea turtles and schools of brightly colored fish frolic. And, in the winter, you may even spy a humpback whale. Or take to the rivers — Kauai has the only navigable ones in the state. Explore the Wailua River, or travel up the Hanalei River like Indiana Jones through a federal wetlands bird refuge, or take a guided ocean kayak trip along the spectacular Na Pali coastline.

Depending on the time of year, you may want to rent a surfboard or take a surf lesson. Windsurf the breezy shores and fish the quiet ones. Or make like a fish yourself and scuba dive. Kauai’s diverse coastal reef formations make it a good location for snorkeling or shore diving. Makua Beach (Tunnels) on the North Shore, and Koloa Landing and Prince Kuhio Park at Poipu Beach are among the best spots. Cave dives are also plentiful, as are the marine life you’ll see. Dives on the island come with underwater lava tubes, shipwrecks and fish-filled reefs.

From the peaceful serenity of sailing into the sunset, to the thrill of a high-powered Zodiac raft ride up the Na Pali Coast, to cruising in a 13-foot Boston Whaler or Livingston for do-it-yourself boaters.

BIG ISLAND

There are 266 miles of coastline and 47 beaches here with diverse sand colors from white to green to rich volcanic black.

Oceanfront resorts and tour companies offer all sorts adventurous water activities. Try parasailing, surfing, or windsurfing. Paddle a kayak, or canoe along the shores in Hilo Bay or the numerous coves that dot the Kohala Coast. You can rent your equipment and head out on your own, take lessons, or embark on a guided tour.

The waters of Hawaii’s Big Island are teaming with brightly colored tropical fish and make it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. To observe them close-up, snorkel from shore or board an excursion boat for a dive cruise. There are a variety of choices ranging from leisurely paced catamarans to zippy zodiacs. Scuba diving equipment is available for rent from the nearest dive shop, so you can explore the sea caves and coral belt that surrounds the Island. If you aren’t certified, “resort courses” will have you qualified for an introductory course in just hours.

From mid November through May, the great humpback whales make their annual visit to Hawaii’s Big Island. Keep your camera handy if you’re on a whale watching tour; these gentle giants can take to the air at any moment. Sport fishing is also hugely popular on Hawaii’s Big Island. Marlin, mahi-mahi, ono, and ahi are often the catch of the day.

OAHU

Oahu has over 125 miles of  shoreline. It is known for world-famous Waikiki Beach, and  the big-wave North Shore surf beaches, Pipeline and Sunset. But there are several other sandy wonderlands in between.

They’re ideal for all kinds of water sports including swimming, surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, snorkeling and fishing. Whether you’re looking for high adventure on the waves, a romantic spot to watch the sunset, or a protected swimming for the kids, it’s sure to be nearby. With water temperatures at the island’s 139 beaches ranging from 75ºF to 80ºF year-round, it’s easy to understand why locals and visitors alike are regularly drawn to the blue waters off Oahu.

The South Shore coastline is known for its many sheltered beaches ideal for families. (However, in the summer the surf can get unusually high.) Snorkeling, tide pooling and swimming make great activities for families picnicking along these beaches. The West Shore (Leeward side) also has many fine swimming beaches. This coast is known for offshore fishing spots. Winter months see the largest waves, which reach heights of more than 15 feet.

The North Shore is best known for its world-class surfing and huge winter swells. During the winter months, waves reach heights of 25 feet. The East Shore (Windward side) beaches tend to be more lush and tropical. Northeast trade winds keep the coast cool 90 percent of the year, making it a favorite location for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.

MOLOKAI

Papohaku Beach, located on the west end is three miles in length and as wide as 100 yards.  As it’s the second largest in the entire state, you’re sure to find plenty of room to spread out your towel and soak in the serenity. You’ll find no end to the ways you can enjoy the Island’s varied coastline. Spend your days sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, or boogie boarding your way around the Island’s many coves, inlets, and wide-open shores.

LANAI

It offers popular water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. One of the island’s most prized attractions is glorious Hulopoe Bay, a marine conservation area prized by divers and snorkelers for its vivid tropical reef fish. Here you can spend days splashing in the warm waters, where spinner dolphins are just as likely to frolic. Another unforgettable activity is charting a sailboat to go on a snorkeling or sightseeing adventure to the island’s remote and beautiful West coast.

MAUI

Some beaches are so small and tucked away you’ll need an experienced guide to help you find them, while others – like famous Kaanapali or Wailea – are ranked among the best beaches in the country. And when you’ve had enough fun in the sand, a world of water activities awaits you. You can enjoy just about any ocean activity imaginable here, including snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, skim boarding, jet-skiing, catamaran cruises, deep sea fishing and charters of every kind.

Courtesy of  gohawaii.com