Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post discussing my 8 best beaches in Hawaii for swimming this year. Hawaii is known for its world class surf beaches that attract wave riders from all over the world.
However, it is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world that are are perfect for swimming as well. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for a relaxing dip or somewhere for a lazy snorkel, Hawaii has it all.
Map Of Hawaii’s Best Beaches for Swimming
Use this map to identify the location of the Hawaii’s best beaches for swimming below:
Best Beaches in Hawaii for Swimming
Hawaii is known for its stunning beaches, which means there are more than enough that may be suitable for swimming meaning if you know of the good one, then go for a swim. If not, and you’re looking for the best beaches for swimming, here are some good options:
1.Waikiki Beach
situated on the south shore of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is renowned for its stunning scenery and favorable conditions for swimming. The beach stretches approximately two miles and is characterized by its generally calm waters thanks to offshore reefs that create a lagoon-like environment making it particularly suitable for swimmers of all skill levels.
Lifeguards stationed along the beach ensure the well-being of swimmers and there are clear signs indicating current swimming conditions. Facilities such as showers and restrooms are also readily available, making the beach easily accessible and comfortable for visitors.
Despite its appeal, Waikiki Beach can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and this is something to consider for those seeking a more tranquil swimming environment. In addition to swimming however, Waikiki Beach offers opportunities for other water activities like surfing, paddleboarding and snorkeling. Equipment for these activities is available for rent along the beach.
2. Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach, located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is widely recognized for its stunning white sand and clear, turquoise waters, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The beach is known for its generally calm and clear waters, particularly during the summer months, which makes it an excellent spot for swimming.
The gentle slope of the beach into the ocean creates a welcoming environment for swimmers of all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced swimmers and the clarity of the water also enhances visibility for those interested in snorkeling.
Safety at Hapuna Beach is well-regarded, with lifeguard services available to monitor swimming conditions and assist beachgoers. Additionally, Hapuna Beach is well-equipped with facilities such as restrooms, showers and picnic areas, making it convenient for day-long outings.
However, it’s important to note that during the winter months, the surf can be higher, and currents stronger, making swimming more challenging and potentially hazardous for less experienced swimmers.
3. Poipu Beach
Located on the south shore of Kauai in Hawaii, Poipu Beach is renowned for its exceptional conditions for swimming, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The beach is uniquely characterized by a natural sandbar and a series of small, crescent-shaped beaches, creating a variety of swimming environments suitable for different skill levels.
One of the key features of Poipu Beach is the relatively calm and shallow waters in certain areas, particularly in the lagoon-like sections created by the sandbar. This makes it an ideal spot for families with children or less confident swimmers. The clear, warm waters are inviting and provide excellent visibility for those interested in snorkeling, with an abundance of marine life to observe.
The presence of lifeguards offers an added sense of security, especially in areas where the water can be deeper or where currents are stronger. And despite its popularity, Poipu Beach typically does not feel overly crowded due to its layout, allowing visitors to find their own space to relax and swim.
The beach is also well-equipped with facilities including restrooms, showers and picnic areas, enhancing the convenience and comfort of all.
Check out these: 10 Best Beaches in Hawaii for Families
4. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach, situated on the windward coast of Oahu, is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and offers an exceptional swimming experience. One of the most striking features of Lanikai Beach is its calm and clear waters, thanks to the protective offshore coral reef which provides a sheltered swimming environment, making it particularly suitable for swimmers of all levels, including families with children and less confident swimmers.
The gentle waves at Lanikai Beach are ideal for leisurely swimming and wading, and the clarity of the water makes it a fantastic spot for snorkeling, with an opportunity to observe a variety of marine life in their natural habitat.
However, it’s important to note that Lanikai does not have lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should remain cautious and aware of their limits and surroundings. The beach can be less crowded than other tourist-heavy beaches on Oahu, offering a more serene and relaxing swimming experience.
However, visitors should be mindful of the limited parking and lack of public facilities like restrooms and showers.
5. Mauna Kea Beach
Also known as Kauna‘oa Beach, Mauna Kea Beach is located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island and highly regarded for its suitability for swimming. This crescent-shaped beach is famous for its fine, white sand and crystal-clear, azure waters, creating an idyllic setting for beachgoers.
One of the standout features of Mauna Kea Beach is the gentle slope of its ocean floor and the typically calm water conditions, especially during the summer months. These factors make the beach an excellent choice for swimmers of all skill levels, including families with children and the clear waters also offer good visibility for snorkeling enthusiasts, who can enjoy exploring the vibrant marine life close to the shore.
Safety at Mauna Kea Beach is well-managed, with lifeguard services available to monitor swimming conditions and assist visitors. And despite its popularity, Mauna Kea Beach often retains a sense of spaciousness, thanks to its expansive shoreline that allows visitors to enjoy their swimming experience without feeling overcrowded, even on busier days.
Check out these: Best Beaches in Hawaii for Snorkeling
6. Waimea Bay Beach Park
Although known for is mammoth waves in the winter months, Waimea Bay Beach Park, located on the North Shore of Oahu, becomes a calm haven for swimmers over summer.
During this time, Waimea Bay is known for its calm and crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. Lifeguard services are available and their advice and warnings should be heeded, especially if the waves do happen to rise.
The beach park is also well-equipped with facilities such as restrooms, showers and picnic areas making it convenient for visitors planning to spend a day at the beach. Despite its popularity, the expansive nature of the beach allows for finding spots that are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
7. Hulopoe Beach
Hulopoe Beach, located on the southern coast of Lanai in Hawaii, is widely acclaimed for its exceptional swimming conditions, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. This picturesque beach, with its fine, white sand and crystal-clear waters, offers a quintessential Hawaiian beach experience.
One of the most significant features of Hulopoe Beach is its typically calm and sheltered waters, particularly in the summer months. The bay is protected by a wide reef, which creates a natural barrier against strong currents and large waves, resulting in gentle and safe swimming conditions. This makes the beach ideal for swimmers of all levels, including families with children and those who are less confident in the water.
Safety is well-managed at Hulopoe Beach, with lifeguard services available to ensure the well-being of beachgoers. And as with the beach above, Hulopoe Beach often retains a sense of tranquility and does not feel overly crowded, thanks to its location on the less-visited island of Lanai.
And finally, the beach is also equipped with essential amenities including restrooms and picnic areas enhancing the comfort of a day-long stay.
8. Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay, on the southeast coast of Oahu, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is a highly popular destination for swimming and snorkeling. This sheltered bay, formed within a volcanic cone, offers a unique and relatively safe swimming environment, especially appealing to families and less experienced swimmers.
The most significant feature of Hanauma Bay is its calm and clear waters, protected from large waves and strong currents by the surrounding natural reef. This creates an ideal setting for swimming and snorkeling, with the bay’s waters often compared to a giant outdoor aquarium. The gentle conditions and shallow areas near the beach are perfect for beginners or those who are not strong swimmers.
Safety at Hanauma Bay is well-managed, with lifeguard services available to monitor swimming conditions and assist visitors. And despite its popularity, which can lead to crowded conditions at times, Hanauma Bay maintains a controlled visitor approach to protect its delicate marine ecosystem where visitors are required to watch an educational video about the bay and its environment before entering, emphasizing the importance of conservation and respectful behavior.
In terms of amenities, Hanauma Bay is well-equipped with facilities such as restrooms, showers and a snack bar, making it convenient for visitors planning to spend a day at the beach. There is also a rental shop for snorkeling gear too.
Beach Amenities and Facilities
When it comes to choosing the best beaches in Hawaii for swimming, it’s not just about the quality of the water and the sand. You’ll also want to consider the amenities and facilities available to make your beach day as comfortable as possible.
Most of the top beaches in Hawaii have amenities like lifeguards, parking, restrooms and showers, but the quality and availability of these facilities can vary from beach to beach. Some beaches may have more extensive facilities, such as picnic tables and shops, while others may be more basic.
Lifeguards are essential for ensuring your safety while swimming in the ocean, and most of the popular beaches in Hawaii have lifeguard towers. However, it’s important to remember that the ocean can be unpredictable, and you should always exercise caution and follow any posted warnings.
Parking can be a challenge at some of the more popular beaches, especially during peak tourist season. Some beaches have designated parking lots, while others require you to park on the street. Be sure to read any posted signs and pay attention to parking regulations to avoid getting a ticket or having your car towed.
Restrooms and showers are a must-have for any beach day, and most of the top beaches in Hawaii have these facilities available. However, the quality and cleanliness of these facilities can vary, so it’s always a good idea to bring your own hand sanitizer and other hygiene products.
FAQs
What are some of the calmest beaches in Hawaii for swimming?
Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, but not all of them are suitable for swimming. Some of the calmest beaches in Hawaii for swimming include Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, and Poipu Beach. These beaches have gentle waves and are protected by reefs, making them great for families and beginners.
Conclusion
There you have it, 8 best beaches in Hawaii for swimming. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anywhere you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
