Mauna Kea Beach, Hawaii
D Pos - Kauna’oa Beach is also known as Mauna Kea Beach because it fronts the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, and is one of the prettiest white sand beaches in Hawaii.
It is a family beach with good access to facilities, and is both great for sunbathing and activities that do not require high surf, such as snorkeling. However, during the winter months waves are commonly higher and pounding shore break and strong rip currents can make entering the ocean hazardous.
The beach stretches for about half a mile and has two coral reefs and generally calm waters. Kauna’oa beach is great for sunbathing with its white soft sand that slopes gently into the water and the palm trees along the fringe to provide shade. If you are into more adventurous activities, try snorkeling along the rocky, southern side of the beach.
If you get hungry or thirsty and didn’t pack good snacks for the beach, you can walk over to the hotel restaurant right on the beach. They serve decent (yet on the pricey side) lunches and great tropical drinks here (think ice cold piña colada). You can also rent gear such as snorkel equipment and boogie boards from the beach concession by the restaurant.
Kauna’oa Beach is a public beach, but to get to the beach you have to pass over the Mauna Kea hotel grounds. You can get a free pass and map from the security office at the entrance of the hotel.
