These 9 Itty Bitty Beaches Hiding In Hawaii Absolutely Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List
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Megan Shute
Author
From the black sand beaches on the Big Island and Maui’s magnificent red sand beaches to pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters on Oahu and Kauai, 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 we love the long stretches of sand you’ll find across the Aloha State, it is the itty bitty beaches we can’t get enough of right now.
Nestled at the base of Diamond Head Crater between Waikiki and Diamond Head Beaches is Makalei Beach Park, a small stretch of sand that is often overlooked for more popular beaches. Because Makalei can’t be seen from the road, it doesn’t attract much attention and depending on when you visit — weekdays, in particular — you might just find that you have the beach to yourself.
Located along the southern shore of Maui, just south of the wildly popular Makena Beach, is Pa’ako Cove, a small stretch of sand nestled between two homes. Also known as Secret Cove, this Maui beach is no secret at all. In fact, it just so happens to be a popular spot for wedding ceremonies. And really, who can blame them? With palm trees swaying in the breeze, this lava-strewn beach with fine white sand and crystalline turquoise waters is easily one of the island’s most gorgeous.
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Near the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, this small stretch of sand proves that good things can often come in small packages. This spot is popular among families visiting the island due to its gentle waves and shallow water and is great for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and picnicking.
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Carved into a valley on Kauai’s rugged Na Pali Coast, not only is the tiny Honopu Beach one of the island’s most remote beaches but it is also one of the best in America, according to Country Living. With striking blue waves crashing against a stretch of fine white sand, Honopu is surrounded on three sides by towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs.
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Nestled on Oahu’s leeward coast is a tiny stretch of fine, white sand that looks pretty ordinary upon first glance. Once you dip your toes in the water, however, you might notice that the water feels unusually warm. That’s because this beach is located across the street from the Hawaiian Electric Power Plant, and the power plant outflows clean, warm water through two large cooling pipes. The pipes run out into the ocean, and the water temperature at the opening is several degrees warmer than normal, attracting a variety of sea life.
Located almost in the heart of Hana town, on the eastern coast of Maui, is one of the few red sand beaches in the world. The breathtaking Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach is one of the most incredible wonders you’ll see in your lifetime, and an absolute must-visit, as long as you are accustomed to navigating cliff edges with less-than-perfect footing. The tiny, crescent-shaped beach is carved into the Ka’uiki cinder cone, whose rust red lava cinder cliffs give the beach its iconic red sand.
Also known as Mokuola, this small offshore island is connected to the mainland via a small footbridge and is home to a lovely little park. Mokuola translates as "healing island" or "island of life," and it was once the site of an ancient temple dedicated to healing. The small island is also home to a few tiny but gorgeous stretches of sand perfect for fishing or just splashing around.
Nestled on the northern coast of Kauai in Princeville is Pali Ke Kua Beach, a striking stretch of fine white sand we can’t get enough of. Also known as Hideaways Beach, it doesn’t get much more off the beaten path than this. To access this dreamy destination, you’ll have to utilize a rickety staircase and steps carved into the cliffside, but we think it’s worth it.
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Situated between Halona Point and the Halona Blowhole, this small rocky cove is perfectly picturesque and has been featured in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and 50 First Dates. Despite its Hollywood fame, the only way to reach the stunning cove is via a rocky and slightly steep walk. With crystalline turquoise waters and stunning lava rock formations, the views and the swimming at Halona Cove cannot be beat.
How many of these tiny beaches in Hawaii have you been to? What’s your favorite small stretch of sand in the Aloha State? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then click here to discover one of the largest, most secluded beaches in Hawaii!
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