The Secret Tropical Bay In Hawaii Where The Water Is A Mesmerizing Blue
By Megan Shute|Published August 11, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country — and perhaps even the world. With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible beaches, and while nearly every single one of those beaches could be classified as a tropical paradise, the destinations with mesmerizing blue waters are limited. With warm, vibrant blue waters that stand out in a crowd, Honolua Bay is easily one of the best beaches in the Aloha State.
Many beaches are known for either their tropical beauty, crystalline blue waters, rich historical significance, or hiking opportunities. Others are popular among either snorkeling enthusiasts or professional surfers. Not often will you find a beach that has all of this and more — except Honolua Bay, that is.
Located north of Kapalua on Maui’s wild and rugged northwestern coast is a bay so breathtaking it’s impossible to tear your gaze away. With vibrant blue waters surrounded on three sides by lava rock cliffs resulting in calm, protected waters, it doesn’t get much prettier than this.
While the crystalline waters are indeed mesmerizing, it pales in comparison to what you will find beneath the ocean’s surface. This Marine Life Conservation District is home to coral reefs and a variety of sea life, making it one of Maui’s best snorkeling destinations,
Because there is no fishing allowed here, sealife is plentiful. The best snorkeling is a half-mile from shore, and there are several companies offering boat tours in the area.
In addition to out of this world snorkeling and kayaking opportunities, Honolua Bay is home to a world-renowned surf break. In fact, Honolua Bay hosts the annual Billabong Pro Women’s Surf Competition each December.
It’s not often you come across a tropical beach this stunning that presents ideal conditions for both snorkeling during the summer and surfing in the winter months.
The bay features a mostly rocky shoreline with a small beach accessible via a small footpath from a parking lot adjacent to the Honoapiilani Highway above.
An overlook on the bluffs to the east side of the bay is the perfect spot to pull up and take in the scenery or watch experienced surfers take on Honolua’s waves in the winter.
Whether you are seeking adventure or respite, you will find it on Maui’s northern shore at Honolua Bay. If you haven’t visited this dreamy destination, you absolutely must add it to your Hawaii beach bucket list. Just don’t forget your snorkel gear and a camera!
