Mauna Kea Beach Tours and Activities

Mauna Kea Beach
Mauna Kea which includes rides, a beach bar and outdoor eating
Mauna Kea Beach
Mauna Kea Beach
Mauna Kea Beach


Visit what was once the most expensive hotel ever built, one of the first resorts in the region.

This resort beach on the Big Island’s northwest coast is a hot spot for swimmers and snorkelers and considered by many as one of Hawaii’s best beaches. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel was opened in 1965. At a cost of U.S. $15 million, it was the most expensive ever built at the time. Decades later the beach and the hotel remain a popular destination.

Mauna Kea Beach is one of the most comfortable on the island. The sand is particularly soft, and it slopes upward toward the vegetation above it. Even when lying down visitors to the beach can look across the clear blue ocean water. Enjoy the lack of rocks on the beach, a rarity in Hawaii.

Snorkel at each end of the bay where small reefs have formed. Mauna Kea is not renowned for its snorkeling, but there is much underwater activity to see, without the crowds a reputation brings.

The hotel overlooking the beach is as iconic as the beach itself. The building has received many architecture awards, and in 2007 was ranked 55th on the American Institute of Architects’ favorite architecture list. You can reserve a room online. The hotel features a 36-hole golf course that offers spectacular views across the ocean.

Dine at one of the hotel’s many bars and restaurants to sample the exquisitely prepared produce of the region. Both hotel guests and the public are welcome to visit the dining and bar facilities, which all offer ocean views.

Mauna Kea Beach is located on the Kohala Coast in the northwest part of Hawaii’s Big Island. The beach is 33 miles (53 kilometers) from Kailua-Kona and is best reached by car, although some charter buses do frequent the hotel. Parking at the beach is extremely limited, and once full, parking attendants will turn you away.

Mauna Kea Beach is open daily and there is no admission fee.

Plan a trip to see Mauna Kea Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Kona Islander Vacation Club
Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort
Hawaii Island Retreat

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Mauna Kea Beach

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

4 out of 5
62-100 Kauna'oa Drive, Kohala Coast, Kamuela, HI
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

4.5 out of 5
62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
Mauna Kea Villas #13 w/AC: Luxurious Oceanview, Serene Lanai & Coastal Views

Mauna Kea Villas #13 w/AC: Luxurious Oceanview, Serene Lanai & Coastal Views

Kamuela
Mauna Kea Villas #13 w/AC: Luxurious Oceanview, Serene Lanai & Coastal Views
Mauna Kea Villa, Walking Distance to the Beach and Hotel - Beyond Perfection!

Mauna Kea Villa, Walking Distance to the Beach and Hotel - Beyond Perfection!

Kamuela
Mauna Kea Villa, Walking Distance to the Beach and Hotel - Beyond Perfection!
❤️20% Off Sept-Oct EPIC Location,  SPECTACULAR Sunset, Ocean Views-Infinity Pool

❤️20% Off Sept-Oct EPIC Location, SPECTACULAR Sunset, Ocean Views-Infinity Pool

Waimea, HI
❤️20% Off Sept-Oct EPIC Location, SPECTACULAR Sunset, Ocean Views-Infinity Pool
Incredible Oceanfront Family Suite on Hapuna Beach!

Incredible Oceanfront Family Suite on Hapuna Beach!

Kamuela
Incredible Oceanfront Family Suite on Hapuna Beach!
Hapuna Beach Paradise 2 BD Penthouse Oceanfront Views + Mauna Kea Beach Resort

Hapuna Beach Paradise 2 BD Penthouse Oceanfront Views + Mauna Kea Beach Resort

Hawaii County
Hapuna Beach Paradise 2 BD Penthouse Oceanfront Views + Mauna Kea Beach Resort
Mauna Kea Residences

Mauna Kea Residences

4 out of 5
62-100 Kauna’oa Dr, Kamuela, HI
Mauna Kea Residences
Oceanview Mauna Kea Luxury Villa - Private Pool & Spa - In-home Chefs Available

Oceanview Mauna Kea Luxury Villa - Private Pool & Spa - In-home Chefs Available

Waimea
Oceanview Mauna Kea Luxury Villa - Private Pool & Spa - In-home Chefs Available
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mauna Kea Beach

At Mauna Kea Beach, immerse yourself in a variety of island activities, including exploring vibrant coral reefs with snorkel gear. Enjoy a round of golf at the nearby course, and don't miss the captivating Mauna Kea Luau for an authentic Hawaiian cultural experience. Engage with the rich traditions and flavours of Hawaii, making your visit truly unforgettable.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Mauna Kea Beach, visit Kings Shops and Queens' Marketplace, both located 11.3km away, offering family-friendly vibes and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Kona Farmers Market, situated 45.1km away, featuring local goods in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the serene Mauna Lani Resort Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst lush landscapes just 8.0km from Mauna Kea Beach. For more outdoor fun, try the Francis H.I'i Brown North Golf Course, also 8.0km away, or the Waikola Village Golf Club, located 9.7km away.

Adventure

Explore the Waipio Na'alapa Trail, located 16.1km from Mauna Kea Beach, where you can immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and outdoor vibes. For a unique experience, visit The Vanillerie, 37.0km away, to indulge in delightful activities that celebrate local flavours.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Mauna Kea Beach offers a blend of fun and family-friendly activities. Enjoy a captivating film at the Great 4-D Movie Ride, or explore the stars at the WM Keck Observatory Office and Mauna Kea Observatory, both promising engaging experiences for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Mauna Kea Beach

Mauna Kea Beach offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore the picturesque Mauna Kea, relax on the pristine sands of Mauna Kea Beach, or enjoy the tranquil waters of Kauna'oa Bay. These attractions cater to those seeking beach relaxation, nature exploration, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to enjoy the beauty of Hawaii.

  • Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area: Located merely 1.6km from Mauna Kea Beach, this stunning State Park offers adventure and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and picnicking while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful beach.
  • Mauna Lani Beach: Situated 8.0km away, Mauna Lani Beach is the perfect spot for those looking to relax and unwind. With its serene beach vibes, it’s an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.
  • Hāpuna Beach: Just 1.6km from Mauna Kea Beach, this family-friendly beach is perfect for making memories with loved ones. Its gentle waves and soft sands create a welcoming environment for families to enjoy a day of fun in the sun.

Best time to go to Mauna Kea Beach

Visitor numbers around Mauna Kea Beach is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Mauna Kea Beach is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June59.0°F (15.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
July60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mauna Kea Beach

To save money on your trip to Mauna Kea Beach, visit during the off-peak months of May, September, and November when prices are lower. Enjoy free entry to the beach and nearby spots like Puako Beach and Spencer Beach Park. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly accommodations and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mauna Kea Beach are May, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mauna Kea Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mauna Kea Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mauna Kea Beach is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your Mauna Kea Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.