Posted in Hawaii
July 26, 2016
These 13 Incredible Hawaiian Bays Will Give You An Unforgettable Summer Experience
With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to incredible beaches, beautiful inlets, jaw-dropping peninsulas and breathtaking bays. From marine life conservation districts and protected bays perfect for snorkeling, to historic bays and those used in film productions, the bays you will find throughout the state are truly second to none and will give you an unforgettable summer experience – whether you are kayaking to historic monuments or swimming with tropical fish.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
While Waimea Bay is a popular spot for boogie boarding and a nice family beach day in the summer, it is a haven for surfers during the winter months - it is even the site of the infamous Quicksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, perhaps the most famous surf event in the world.
Hawaii Island’s beautiful reef-filled Kealakekua Bay is one of the state’s most historic bays, and a known dolphin hangout. The bay is also home to the famous Captain Cook monument, and crystalline waters.
This near-perfect semi-circle of white sand is located on Kauai’s north shore and is two miles long, 125 feet wide, and surrounded by majestic mountains. The bay is perfect for water sports of all kinds, and the stunning 300 foot long Hanalei Pier is perfect for fishing – or jumping off for a nice swim.
This picturesque beach, located on Lanai’s southern coast, is the most famous stretch of sand on this small island. This protected beach offers ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions, and, during low tide, the eastern side of the bay is home to several large volcanic rock tide pools full of sea life.
Dr. Beach, a professor from Florida who releases an annual list of the country’s best beaches, has named Oahu’s Hanauma Bay the greatest beach in America for 2016. Located on Oahu’s southeastern shore, this marine life conservation district was formed from a tuff ring, and is perhaps the island’s most popular snorkeling destination for tourists and locals alike.
This historic bay on Hawaii Island’s Kona Coast is full of tropical sea life, sea cliffs, underwater lava tubes, and sea caves – making it one of the greatest kayaking or snorkeling destinations on the island.
With swaying palm trees, golden sand and calm waters, Kapalua Bay is what immediately comes to mind when you imagine the quintessential Hawaiian beach. Situated between two lava points, the bay is known for its tranquil surf, perfect for young children and cautious swimmers.
Located on Oahu's windward coast is this magnificently picturesque bay, perhaps one of Hawaii's best-kept secrets.
While Honolua Bay is one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling destinations, the turquoise water in this Marine Life Conservation District also makes for an out of this world kayaking excursion.
Manini’owali, or Kua Bay as it is often called by the locals, is a secluded and small white sand beach located near the Kona airport. The beach is a popular spot for bodysurfing, or just catching a signature Hawaiian sunset.
Located along Molokai's eastern shore is this striking bay, once home to one of Hawaii's first settlements.
nsub1/Flickr
This sheltered and shallow bay on Oahu’s windward coast was formed when a portion of the Koolau volcano collapsed into the sea. The bay is home to one of Hawaii’s two barrier reefs, a picturesque sandbar, and two small offshore islands – Chinaman’s Hat, and Coconut Island.
What is a better kayaking destination than an untouched area with gorgeous beaches, vibrant reefs, clear water, and a popular green sea turtle hangout? If you answered absolutely nothing, then south Maui’s Makena Bay is the ultimate summer destination for you.
Aren’t these Hawaiian bays simply stunning? For more Hawaiian summer fun, check out these 22 epic beaches to put on your Hawaii bucket list.
