Ten Best Off-The-Radar Hawaiian Beaches: Part Two

PHOTO: Makena Beach in Maui, Hawaii. (photo via Flickr/dronepicr)

Here are five additional Hawaii Off-The-Radar Beaches that are worth the effort for sheer scenery along. Missed the first list? Check it out here.

Lanai

Since the island of Lanai is often overlooked by most Hawaii visitors, it just makes sense that its beaches are free of frenzy.

6) Polihua Beach

On the island’s wild northwest coast, Polihua Beach is limited to four-wheel drive accessibility. Since the current is incredibly strong, it’s strongly recommended to avoid swimming. Yet, visitors find this remote area a primo place to sunbathe, beachcomb, spot seasonal migrating humpback whales and soak in the blissful solitude.

Tip: Here, it’s all about unplugging from day-to-day and switching into pure nature mode.

Maui

Fringed by some 80 beauties along 120 miles of coastline, Maui dials in with a beach every 1.5 miles. Best of all is how many of these jewels remain off the radar and off the beaten path.

7) Paako Cove

Tucked behind a lava rock wall in a quiet residential neighborhood just beyond Makena’s Big Beach, secluded Paako Cove – aka Secret Beach – features a small sandy area and lava outcroppings that make it a decent snorkeling spot in early morning and mid-day. The payoffs are colorful tropical fish, vibrant seabeds and stunning reef formations.

Because of its nice views of the islands of Molokini and Kahoolawe, Secret Beach is a favorite for intimate weddings.

Tip: Depending the time of day you visit the beach, consider heading to La Perouse Bay beyond Makena Resort. Located in the Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve, the bay is known for its snorkeling, small coves with small sand or coral-rubble beaches and tidal pools.

8) Honokalani Black Sand Beach

Off Highway 360 on Maui’s northeast coast in Hana, this sandy beach of jet-black tiny polished lava pebbles is enveloped by sparkling Pacific waters, lush vegetation and jungle-like foliage of Waianapanapa State Park.

To reach Pailoa Bay, you’ll have to hike down ocean rocks with steep declines. Since there’s no outer reef to protect the beach, swimming is better in the summer than other times of the year when strong currents come into play. Birdwatchers enjoy the bonus of the area’s large sea bird population.

Tip: Be sure to take time to explore caves and tubes that are etched into lava cliffs fringing the shoreline.

Molokai

With a coastline of roughly 88 miles, Molokai is home to beaches that are predominately deserted since the island sees so few tourists and has a population hovering around a modest 7,500. That said, you can typically count on a low-key experience regardless of where you are.  

9) Papohaku Beach

Also known as Three Mile Beach, this large white sand stretch also stacks up with its 100-yard width. So even on a “busy day,” you’ll spot few people. What you will see, however, is a gorgeous view of Oahu across the Kaiwi Channel.

On island’s west shore, this massive beach is tops for a stroll beautifully tucked between the Pacific and backshore of low sand dunes and thorny kiawe trees. While the offshore water may look inviting, it’s not.

Since there’s no protective reef, the full ocean exposure means powerful wave breaks that can wash up high. So simply stroll higher on the beach. Strong rip currents add to the swimming danger.

Tips: Be sure to pay attention to safety signs posted on the beach. And just enjoy the flow on what is considered one of the most mellow beaches on the most laid-back island in the Hawaiian chain.

The Island of Hawaii

With the most miles of coastline of any island in the Hawaiian chain, the Island of Hawaii ironically falls short on those postcard perfect white shimmering sands boasted by its neighboring islands.

Credit Madame Pele – the Fire Goddess in Hawaiian mythology – for that, as her lava flows have consumed former beaches and cliffs that now plunge directly into the Pacific. What you will find are stunning, secluded beaches that roll out in colors of golden, green, red and black.

10) Waipio Valley Beach

Requiring a rugged three-mile hike each way, this unspoiled crescent of black sand is one of the Big Island’s most remote. Home to tropical rainforests and ancient sacred temples, Waipio is considered one of the most spiritual, mystical places on the island. Sheltered by 2,000-foot cliffs, the beach’s fine, inky sand is fringed by turquoise water and views of cascading waterfalls in both directions.

It’s highly recommended that you consider taking a guided tour into Waipio Valley so you’ll see the top spots and won’t accidentally intrude on private or sacred areas. Although the beach is remarkable, avoid entering the ocean due to dangerous rip currents and high surf – especially during the winter.

Tip: Instead of venturing into the ocean, just take selfies to share the splendid isolation and scenery with those who will likely want to experience it themselves in the future.

Remember that 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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