Photo courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

With its coastlines graced by some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, the Hawaiian Islands offer it all – colorful stretches of sand where recreation lovers flock for a day of action to mellow hideaways were seclusion sets a laid-back tone.

Here are five of 10 of the radar beaches that may pose challenging access, limited facilities or unsavory swimming conditions due to offshore ocean conditions – plus a few that overwhelm with perks. What they all have in common, however, is Hawaii’s signature beauty and a scene of solace for those wanting to soak in tranquility.

Oahu

Some 112 miles of shoreline dotted with 125-plus beaches means that Oahu is never short on sand. Since the island welcomes more guests annually than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, these off the beaten path options are coveted.

1) Mokuleia Beach

Just beyond Haleiwa Town on the island’s northwest coast, Mokuleia Beach is such a long stretch that it’s not difficult to find an area that’s empty. That seclusion is what made it a perfect fit for the ABC hit series Lost, which filmed its first season and multiple flashback scenes here during its 2004-2010 run.

You’ll find summer’s calmer water ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing, and winter’s stronger swells luring experienced surfers and windsurfers. The 38.5-acre Mokuleia Beach Park is the only area along this stretch that offers facilities.

Tip: Consider picking up a plate lunch in Haleiwa to savor while hanging out on the beach.

2) Makua Beach

While its beautiful white sand can be hot and dry in the summer, this Leeward Oahu beach finds a small following of expert surfers and body boarders who visit year-round for its wave action.

Most Oahu visitors, however, never see Makua Beach since tour buses typically explore only as far as the winter surfers’ magnet of Makaha Beach. Since there is no offshore reef and the bottom drops off quickly at Makua, “rough days” skew toward high waves, strong currents and challenging swimming conditions. When you couple that with the fact that no lifeguards are present, Makua often becomes more of a wave watching haven than a beach where you’ll cut loose and go for it.

Tip: Count on the sunset sky being nothing short of breathtaking.

Kauai

Known for its dramatic canyons, impressive cliffs and lush rainforests, Kauai is home to some 50 miles of white sand – with many of its beaches hidden in intimate places away from any buzz.

3) Polihale Beach

Spanning 17-plus miles along Kauai’s west coast, Polihale sizes up as the longest stretch of beach in the Hawaiian Islands. The isolated strand is best accessed in a four-wheel drive vehicle since the five-mile road leading off the main highway is considered rough.

The Kauai State Park stretch of Polihale wows in its splendid setting framed by the Napali Cliffs, dazzling white Nohilili Dunes and Pacific Ocean. Note that due to strong currents and rip currents, the safest swimming is reserved for Queens Pond.

Especially noteworthy is that the park is located to the north of the Pacific Missile Range Facility, the world's largest instrumented, multi-dimensional testing and training missile range.

Tip: The mountains are so close that visitors lingering into the night can hear goats bleating on the ridge. Enjoy that magic.

4) Kauapea Beach

Between Kalihiwai Valley and Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse, 3,000-foot “Secret Beach” is far from a secret. Yet, the fact that reaching it requires a 10-15 minute walk down a red sea cliff trail means that it is less frequented by visitors.

In a dramatic setting where white sand is offset by black lava rocks, this mellow getaway is all about scenery – the lighthouse, lush vegetation, a panorama of Mokuaeae Island bird sanctuary and 15-foot waterfall spilling into the ocean. Since it’s free of lifeguards and strong currents may be present even when the ocean appears calm, swimming is considered risky at best. And never consider it in the winter.

Tip: Afterwards, take time to visit the lighthouse that’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-4pm. 

5) Hanakapiai Beach

The grueling 11-mile Kalalau Trail rewards intrepid hikers with nirvana at Hanakapiai Beach that’s two miles into the rigorous hike. Switcharoo of topography is off the charts – everything from a narrow path weaving through several valleys with steep inclines and declines to trail conditions that vary from muddy puddles to dry, crumbly rock.

Once you reach the beach, swimming is basically taboo. Even when it looks calm, there may be powerful rip currents and long shore currents sparked by tidal changes and trade winds. 

If you’re not committing to the entire Kalalau Trail experience, you may ask yourself, “Why go?” During the summer, the sand is beautiful, thick and perfect for lounging while sharing a picnic. And the view along the route and at the beach are noting short of spectacular. Other rewards are several accessible sea caves that can be explored at either end of the beach.  

Tip: This is a pure taste of the adventure and beauty that defines Kauai.

It’s always a good idea to ask a hotel or resort concierge if it’s best to visit these areas on a guided tour just to be on the safe side. Hawaii is home to numerous guides and hikers who know the ins and outs of when it’s best to explore, what gear to take and how long to allow.

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