Been here? Tap to stamp
Hapuna Beach State Park
The Kohala Coast is home to Hawaii's most luxurious resorts and stunning beaches. The exceptional Hapuna Beach State Park is widely regarded as one of the coast's best beaches.
Hapuna Beach — Quick Facts
- Admission and parking: $5 per non-resident visitor, with children age 3 and under free, plus $10 parking per non-commercial vehicle for non-residents. Credit card only. Hawaiʻi residents enter and park free with valid state ID.
- Location: On Highway 19, 2.3 miles south of Kawaihae — about 30 min north of Kona Airport
- Ocean conditions: Strong shorebreak and rip currents can make Hāpuna dangerous. Ask lifeguards about conditions before entering and obey posted warnings. Keep children under direct adult supervision; choose a shore-only visit if conditions or ability rule out water activities.
- Before leaving: Check DLNR for current park hours and notices; allow time to park and walk to the beach.
- Amenities: Lifeguard service. DLNR lists the food concession as temporarily closed; bring food and drinking water. Check with State Parks for current restroom and shower availability.
- Nearby: Westin Hapuna Beach Resort adjacent (food and drinks available)
Overview of Hapuna Beach
Located on the Big Island's picturesque Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is one of Hawaii’s most popular beaches. It is renowned for its wide, white-sand shoreline and crystal-clear waters. It consistently earns accolades from respected travel sources like Travel Channel and Condé Nast Traveler as one of America's top beaches. The beach's popularity draws many visitors, including organized tour groups.
Strong shorebreak and rip currents can make Hāpuna dangerous. Ask lifeguards about conditions before entering and obey posted warnings. Keep children under direct adult supervision; choose a shore-only visit if conditions or ability rule out water activities. Hawaiʻi Ocean Safety has family beach guidance to review before your visit.
Non-Resident Fees
DLNR lists these admission and parking fees: $5 per non-resident visitor, with children age 3 and under free, plus $10 parking per non-commercial vehicle for non-residents. Credit card only. Hawaiʻi residents enter and park free with valid state ID.
Getting There- Hapuna Beach
From Kona, travel north on Highway 19 and turn onto Hāpuna Beach Road. DLNR places the recreation area 2.3 miles south of Kawaihae. Follow the signed park road to the entrance and parking area.
Amenities at Hapuna Beach
Lifeguard service. DLNR lists the food concession as temporarily closed; bring food and drinking water. Check with State Parks for current restroom and shower availability.
Essential Tips for a Great Visit to Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach gets especially crowded on weekends, so arriving early to secure parking is highly recommended. Check DLNR for current hours before leaving. Be mindful that the sand, which can extend up to 200 feet wide during summer, becomes extremely hot midday—wear sandals or water shoes to avoid discomfort. Shaded pavilions provide relief from the sun and heat.
Hapuna Beach State Park - Aerial panorama
Get Your Free Big Island Guide
Instant access — opens immediately
- Beaches, activities & top spots
- Restaurant & dining recommendations
- Maps, itineraries & insider tips
Want the full offline version? Get the Complete Big Island Guidebook →
Hapuna has plenty of picnic and grilling areas for you to gather and have a meal.
Fun-Packed Experience at Hapuna Beach
Family Activities to Do at Hapuna Beach
Plan another activity away from the shoreline if water activities are unsuitable. A responsible adult should supervise children in or near the water at all times. Follow lifeguard instructions and keep children away from heavy shorebreak.
Fun Activities to Do at Hapuna Beach
Choose your activities around current conditions and your group's abilities. Choose another activity away from the shoreline when entering the water is unsuitable.
Hapuna Beach is an excellent destination offering various activities:
- Swimming: Ask lifeguards about conditions before deciding whether to swim. Obey posted warnings.
- Snorkeling: Ask lifeguards whether conditions suit your experience; skip the water if they do not.
- Hiking: Embark on a scenic hike along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, a 175-mile coastal trail highlighting cultural and archaeological sites. An accessible trail entry point is located at Hapuna Beach.
Nearby Attractions and Sights of Hapuna Beach
- Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site: Located a short drive north near Kawaihae, this historic temple built by King Kamehameha I in 1790–1791 is significant to Hawaiian history.
- Ahuena Heiau: Kamehameha I had this existing heiau restored after moving his court to Kamakahonu around 1812–1813. The sacred site is situated in Kailua-Kona near the King Kamehameha Hotel and provides insight into Hawaiʻi's royal history.
