Old Puako Rd
Kamuela, HI 96743
(888) 977-4623
Located on Hawaii’s Big Island, the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a popular destination spot, counted as among the best beaches in the world. Hapuna Beach was named the Best Beach in America by the Florida International University in 1993.
The breath-taking natural landscape with its white sands extends to 200′ during the summer months when the waves recede and the sea is calm. Often, the beach divides into two, exposing lava rocks that remain hidden in the cliffs.
What is there to do in Hapuna Beach?
You will never run out of activities at Hapuna Beach. The beach has something for everyone, whether you want to spend a day lazing or are looking forward to a day of activities with your family.
The beach has a paved parking area for visiting families and tourist vehicles. Several facilities dot the beach, including picnic tables, showers, barbeque stations, and comfortably spacious restrooms. If you are part of a larger group, there are several pavilions you can choose to relax in and spend your day.
Can I Camp at Hapuna Beach?
Camping is one of the most popular activities at Hapuna Beach. The beach has several 4-person A-frame shelters with a single screened room. The room has a picnic table and platforms that you can use for sleeping, though you have to get your sleeping equipment.
The camps at the beach surround a centrally located pavilion that has refrigerators and tables. Other amenities at the camp, known as Comfort Stations, include cold showers and restrooms.
Hawaii residents wanting to camp at Hapuna Beach will have to pay $30 per night per shelter. For out-of-state residents, the prices of the camp are $50 per night per shelter. To camp at Hapuna Beach, you’ll need to purchase a permit beforehand (and have a printed copy).
You can check-in to the camp between 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The latest check-out time is 10:00 am.
Can I Surf at Hapuna Beach?
Hapuna Beach is known for its water sports, especially surfing. The calm waves during the warmer months of the year will invite you to join the waters and indulge in water activities. If you are lucky, you may even spot a few whales while on your surfing adventure.
Surfing becomes riskier during the colder months of October to April. The beach is constantly hit with high waves, creating powerful rip currents. Out-of-state surfers often attempt to surf in these conditions but are driven back by perilous waves.
Though the colder months are not optimal for surfing, you can still find enough activities to fill your day with all that Hapuna Beach has to offer.
Hapuna Beach Snorkeling
The underwater life of Hapuna Beach is beautiful. Visibility tends to be low due to the sandy shore, but it does not take away from the mesmerizing wildlife you will encounter. The soft sand makes the experience of snorkeling so much better- just walk into the waters, and prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime.
If you are a beginner, you should snorkel from one end to another.
The swim is long, and you are bound to see some very interesting sites throughout the way. However, be careful when you see the reefs on either end. They are situated right on top of the rocks. During times of heavy currents and rough waves, try to snorkel near the shore and stay away from the rocky edges.
Hapuna Beach Weather
If you visit the Hapuna Beach during the warmer months, you will be met with pleasant waves and lots of sand. The winter months are rough on the beach. If you love to witness the harsh waves and the turbulent sea, visiting the beach during the colder months is certainly leave you with cherished memories.
The best time to visit the Napali Coast is during the drier months of May through October. The first part of the Kalalau Trail leads up to the beach, offering a spectacular bird’s eye view of the coast. You need a permit to hike up this trail, which is why you will meet fewer people along the way, allowing you to enjoy the view better.
What is the admission fee for Hapuna Park?
Residents of Hawaii can visit the beach for free, while out-of-state visitors have to pay $5 per person. Vehicle parking costs extra.
Commercial PUC Tour vehicles with 1-7 passengers have to pay $10. Vehicles with 8-25 will be charged $20 as admission fee. Tour vehicles with 26 or more passengers have to pay an admission fee of $40.
How Do I Get to Hapuna Beach?
To reach Hapuna Beach, you have to travel north of Kailua-Kona till you reach mile marker 70. Once you reach the marker located on Highway 19, you will find a sign signaling the entrance to the beach. Travel for 1/4 mile towards the ocean till you reach the parking lot.
What Time Does Hapuna Beach Open?
Hapuna Beach is open every day from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.