Hapuna Beach is one of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island’s west coast. The state park covers 61.8 acres (25 hectares) of the island and is a great destination to hike, swim and snorkel. The park is also home to the popular Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, sister hotel to the famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Hapuna Beach is long and expansive, and there is more than enough room even on a crowded day. Stretch out your towel and enjoy the best of Hawaii’s sun, sand and surf. The water here is shallow and often quite warm in summer. The protected section at the northern end of the beach is perfect for swimming with children. While lifeguards patrol the beach, large swells are known to reach the beach and riptides may form, with waves of 3 feet (1 meter) or higher, especially during winter. Familiarize yourself with the conditions before venturing into the water. Jump from the cliffs at the south end of the beach into the ocean, an activity popular among the locals. In ancient Hawaii this act was a popular sport called lelekawa, with the aim being to make the smallest splash upon entry.Hike part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail that runs through the state park. This trail follows the coast of Hawaii’s Big Island for 175 miles (281 kilometers) linking a number of ancient Hawaii’s significant cultural and historical sites.The Hapuna Beach State Park is a particularly popular location for its wide range of amenities. There are restaurants, bars, small food vendors, equipment rental companies, restrooms and picnic tables. The area also has six shelters for overnight lodging available for rent via the Hawaii State Park website. Hapuna Beach State Park is located on the Kohola Coast, approximately 32 miles (51 kilometers) north of Kailua-Kona. The park is best reached by car, with ample parking available. Some charter buses serve the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel however, they are not always available for day visitors. The beach is open daily and a small entrance fee applies.
Hapuna Beach State Park Tours and Activities
Visit Hapuna Beach State Park
Plan a trip to see Hapuna Beach State Park
Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort
Reviewed on May 7, 2024
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort and Spa
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Aston Kona by the Sea
Reviewed on May 3, 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabMauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars - Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up
Air, helicopter & balloon tours
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabKohala Valleys & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour
Cruises & boat tours
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabWaikoloa Catamaran Snorkelling & Sailing
Private & custom tours
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabBig Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours
Reviews of Hapuna Beach State Park
5/5 - Excellent
Best beach we visited! Mike long sand beach and amazing swimming
2/5 - Disappointing
So busy, the south portion has a bit more rocky area but far less crowded
Popular places to visit
Waialea Beach
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Waialea Beach during your travels in Puako? Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
Mauna Kea Beach
Visit what was once the most expensive hotel ever built, one of the first resorts in the region.
Hāpuna Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Hāpuna Beach during your trip to Kamuela? Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Hapuna Golf Course
Play a round of golf at Hapuna Golf Course and enjoy other activities in Kamuela such as snorkeling. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Manta Ray Point
Enjoy an outing to Manta Ray Point during your stay in Kamuela. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.
Puako Bay
Explore the great outdoors at Puako Bay and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to Puako. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the golf courses.
Best Lodging Options Near Hapuna Beach State Park
Check availability on hotels close to Hapuna Beach State Park
- Vacations and getaways similar to Hapuna Beach State Park
- Other Hotels near Hapuna Beach State Park, Kamuela
- Hotels near popular Kamuela Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Ground-Floor Bliss with Expansive Ocean Views, Private BBQ, Access to Resort Amenities*
- Luxurious Oceanview Mauna Kea Villas #13 w/AC: Serene Lanai & Coastal Views
- Ocean Views! Mauna Kea Resort. Beach Gear Include. Kumulani J3
- Ocean Views! Newly Remodeled in 2023! Kumulani D2.
- Oceanview Mauna Kea Luxury Villa - Private Pool & Spa - In-home Chefs Available
- Exclusive Paradise: Luxurious Villa with Private Beach Access!
- Largest Wai'ula'ula Family Residence with Heated Pool & Guest House
- Fairmont Orchid