Hawaii Kaunaoa Beach Guide
The Big Island is a very unique island: It has an active volcano, a green sand beach, 11 of the 13 different world climates, the world's tallest mountain and the world's biggest mountain. Most visitor's stay on the Kona side of the island, which is the dryest and has the nicest beaches, but the Hilo side has its own wild beauty for the adventurous.
The Big Island is actually named Hawaii, and the entire island chain is named for it, but in order not to get to confusing, the island is practically always referred to as the Big Island by resident and visitor alike. It has this name because of how large it is - large enough to fit every other major island inside of it
Swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding are just some of the recreations that can be enjoyed at this exceptional beach.
DIRECTIONS:
Take Highway 19 north from Kona. Turn left at Mile Marker #68. Follow the road to the end of the road for public access and limited parking.
Kaunaoa Beach is backed by the Mauna Kea Resort. There are bathrooms and the parking lot does get filled up, so you might want to go early on weekends. Kaunaoa Beach spans about a quarter mile and the snorkeling is great. No lifeguard stationed here.
A beach that most Big Island visitors are familiar with is Laaloa Beach – also known as Magic Sands or White Sands beach. It's called Magic Sands because when rough surf hits, all of the sand is emptied off the beach and temporarily moved out to sea. No need to worry, it all comes back eventually. You can get to Laaloa from Alii Drive, and, because of its proximity to Kona hotels, it is often well-populated. There is always a lifeguard on duty here; facilities include: showers, bathrooms and a volleyball net.
The west side of the Big Island isn't alone when considering beautiful beaches on the Orchid Isle. At the end of Kalanianaole Street in Hilo, there's a beach park that offers not only fun swimming and snorkeling (it's not unusual to see turtles or dolphins), but there are also staff members from the Division of Aquatic Safety. They provide information for beachgoers about the beach and its marine life. If you want to set up a presentaton for the keiki (children), call County Aquatics at 961-8694. There is always a lifeguard on duty.
As for the beaches with sands of different colors, Green Sand beach is located at South Point. It's difficult to get to, so skip it.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach is located in Punaluu. Swimming is cold due to many freshwater pools and it's a favorite spot for sea turtles. There's also gray sand at Kona's Kahaluu Beach Park where snorkeling is at a premium.
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