Lanikai
Beach (Oahu): Too gorgeous to be real, this stretch along the
Windward Coast is one of Hawaii's postcard-perfect beaches -- a mile
of golden sand as soft as powdered sugar bordering translucent
turquoise waters. The year-round calm waters are excellent for
swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. To complete the picture are two
tiny offshore islands that function not only as scenic backdrops but
also as bird sanctuaries.
Hapuna Beach (Big Island): This 1/2-mile-long crescent
regularly wins kudos in the world's top travel magazines as the most
beautiful beach in Hawaii -- some consider it one of the most
beautiful beaches in the world. One look and you'll see why: Perfect
cream-colored sand slopes down to crystal-clear waters that are
great for swimming, snorkeling, and bodysurfing in summer; come
winter, waves thunder in like stampeding wild horses. The facilities
for picnicking and camping are top-notch, and there's plenty of
parking.
Kapalua Beach (Maui): On an
island with many great beaches, Kapalua takes the prize. This golden
crescent with swaying palms is protected from strong winds and
currents by two outstretched lava-rock promontories. Its calm waters
are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. The beach
borders the Kapalua Bay Hotel, but it's long enough for everyone to
enjoy. Facilities include showers, restrooms, and lifeguards.
Papohaku Beach (Molokai):
One of Hawaii's longest beaches, these gold sands stretch on for
some 3 miles and are about as wide as a football field. Offshore,
the ocean churns mightily in winter, but the waves die down in
summer, making the calm waters inviting for swimming, picnics, beach
walks, and sunset watching.
Hulopoe Beach (Lanai): This
golden, palm-fringed beach off the south coast of Lanai gently
slopes down to the azure waters of a Marine Life Conservation
District, where clouds of tropical fish flourish and spinner
dolphins come to play. A tide pool in the lava rocks defines one
side of the bay, while the other is lorded over by the Manele Bay
Hotel, which sits prominently on the hill above. Offshore, you'll
find good swimming, snorkeling, and diving; onshore, there's a full
complement of beach facilities, from restrooms to camping areas.
Haena Beach (Kauai): Backed
by verdant cliffs, this curvaceous North Shore beach has starred as
Paradise in many a movie. It's easy to see why Hollywood loves Haena
Beach, with its grainy golden sand and translucent turquoise waters.
Summer months bring calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, while
winter brings mighty waves for surfers. There are plenty of
facilities on hand, including picnic tables, restrooms, and showers.