If you’re looking for a peaceful and deserted beach to relax on your next vacation, look no further. We’ve found the quietest and least crowded beaches in Hawaii.
What are the least crowded beaches in Hawaii?
Hawaii has endless miles of coastline, full of beach opportunities. The most tranquil, relaxing, and generally people-free beaches in Hawaii are:
- Kealakekua Bay, Big Island
- Polihua Beach, Lanai
- Secret Beach, Oahu
- Waimea Beach, Kauai
- Makua Beach, Oahu
- Kawakiu Beach, Molokai
From spectacular sunsets to breathtaking views, these secluded beaches deliver the perfect escape away from bustling hotspots – allowing visitors to enjoy an experience free from crowds and chaos. So why not take a break from life and relax at one of Hawaii’s most undiscovered and uncrowded beaches?
Escape the Crowds at These Hawaiian Beaches
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of privacy and seclusion you get from visiting Hawaii’s lesser-known beaches.
If a peaceful atmosphere with intimate surroundings is what you’re looking for, there’s a secluded beach on the Hawaiian islands that may be just right for you.
Kealakekua Bay, Big Island
Location
Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii is actually part of a Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and is one of the most pristine beaches on the island.
It is located just south of Kailua-Kona, one of the bustling hotspots on the island (the other is Hilo). It also includes the infamous Captain Cook Monument.
his is where, as history has told it, Captain Cook first landed to discover the Hawaiian Islands.
Why You Should Visit
Kealakekua Bay is a pristine spot that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Visitors can partake in fun activities like snorkeling around the bay’s coral reef, swimming with spinner dolphins, kayaking or exploring nearby sea caves.
Nature lovers will be in awe here as they observe marine wildlife like the Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fish, and vibrant corals.
Kealakekua Bay offers a peaceful respite for travelers of all ages looking for a tranquil escape.
There is room to park here at the free public parking lot.
Polihua Beach, Lanai
Location
Only nine miles from Maui yet a world away, Polihua Beach on Lanai is easily accessible by boat on a day trip from Maui or if you stay at one of the island’s luxury resorts.
The beach is located about northwest of Lanai City by way of a four-wheel drive path. It is best to go with a guide if it’s your first time.
Why You Should Visit
Polihua Beach on Lanai is renowned for its beauty and tranquility. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax, this stunning beach will provide the ideal getaway.
From the crystal-clear waters to the white sand, it’s an idyllic spot for a relaxing stroll or an afternoon of sunbathing.
However, if you’re feeling more active, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming and snorkeling in the shallow reef waters or even taking a walk and exploring the nearby tide pools.
Secret Beach, Oahu
Location
No Oahu vacation is complete with a trip to Secret Beach. Summer months usually see quieter crowds in Hawaii.
Secret Beach is part of Kaneohe Bay and a great alternative to the bustling beaches of Honolulu.
As one of the most pristine and empty beaches on Oahu, it should be on your to do list. The best way to get to this slice of heaven is via Kualoa Ranch Tours take groups via a guide to the beach. Once there, you have the option to rent various water sports equipment and lounge in relative peace and quiet.
Why You Should Visit
More beaches should be like this one. It is a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil and uncrowded getaway.
Serene sandy beach, crystal clear blue waters, and dramatic mountainous landscapes make it the perfect paradise to relax and reset.
The unique flora and fauna is great for any ecologists in your group and provide plenty to explore and discover during a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Waimea Beach, Kauai
Location
Waimea Beach (not to be confused with the much more crowded Waimea Bay Beach on Oahu) on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is an idyllic paradise.
This black sand beach on the island’s western coast is easily accessible by way of Highway 50.
Why You Should Visit
The turquoise waters, powdery sands turned black from worn lava rock, and towering cliffs create a tranquil atmosphere for exploring and relaxation.
People often come to the beach to witness Hawaii’s renowned sunsets over the distant horizon.
It’s one of the few places in Hawaii that remains uncrowded and unspoiled by tourists. Vacationers can take advantage of all sorts of activities here, from surfing to snorkeling through crystal-clear waters to taking pictures as they wander along the white sand beach. Because this beach sees big waves and surf it’s a great spot to bring your board.
Makua Beach, Oahu
Location
Oahu beaches are notoriously crowded during high season. Makua Beach is a true hidden gem and one of the quietest beaches on Oahu. Located on Oahu’s breathtakingly wild west coast, it is easily accessible by Highway 93.
Why You Should Visit
Undiscovered by tourists, Makua Beach remains remarkably uncrowded and tranquil. With its white sand beaches, crystalline waters, and unobstructed views of the surrounding islands, it is a favorite spot for locals who come here to take in the serenity of this private paradise.
On a clear day, you can even see the world-famous Waianae mountain range in the distance – adding to Makua’s already breathtaking beauty.
Kawakiu Beach, Molokai
Location
If an empty shore is what you’re looking for, then head to Kawakiu Beach on the island of Molokai’s western shores. This pristine beach is one of the least crowded beach in Hawaii for a reason – it takes an adventurous sort of visitor to get there.
Go to Make Horse Beach and north along the coastline for around 45 minutes, and you’ll enjoy real paradisiacal seclusion at the very end of the trail.
Why You Should Visit
Lying quietly on Molokai’s coastline, this is one of the best beaches on the island. It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Plus, with plenty of activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming, and exploring the nearby attractions like underwater caves and fish ponds all located nearby the ocean, it is easy to keep occupied.
Other Hawaii Beaches That Aren’t So Crowded
Makapu’u Beach Park
Located at the most Eastern end of Oahu, Makapu’u beach park is famous for bodysurfing. Additionally, this beach is a favorite for tourists and locals because they can hike up to Makapu’u lighthouse.
This beach at Oahu is perfect for body surfing and playing with waves during the summer months. Another thing that makes this beach an ideal chill spot is its accessibility. It is under the highway, so you drive by it from Honolulu to Waikiki.
Waimanalo Beach Park
If you are looking for a secret beach with wide and long trails of sandy beaches, this is the place to go. Waimanalo beach park sits on a 38-acre park on the windward side of Oahu, not far from Waikiki.
You will find turquoise blue waters, large grassy areas, and ironwood trees covering the shore.
Kauapea Beach
While the locals know it as Secret Beach, it sits between the Kalihiwai Bay and Kilauea lighthouse on Kauai Island. Kaupea beach has lava rocks bordering its sides and red cliffs with cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Although public nudity is an offense in Hawaii and primarily on Oahu Island, clothing is optional on the far east side of Kauapea Beach. Although accessing this beach is hindered by the lack of free public parking, visitors staying at Ko Olina resorts are lucky since they are located a short walk away. The rest of the visitors should find street parking at Oahu before accessing the beach.
Mokuleia Beach
Mokuleia Beach is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful, quiet, secluded beaches. This beach is worth visiting if you crave to relax and listen to the crashing waves. It is located past Haleiwa on the remote northwest shore of Oahu.
This beach is perfect for a tropical island because it is secluded from remote areas. Therefore, it offers paradise in pure seclusion.
Makalawena Beach
A string of white sand backed up by Brilliant blue water is what defines this Makalawena beach. It sits on the North Kona coast on the Big Island. You must hike over lava rock for half an hour to access this beach.
Although Makalawena beach seems deserted, there are a lot of trees where you can relax and a beautiful coral reef that is a perfect snorkeling point. Additionally, you will always find Hawaiian green sea turtles at Makalawena Beach in Oahu.
Kailua Beach
Kailua beach is nesting on Oahu’s windward side, famous for water sports and scenic strolls. This beach is about 30 minutes from the Honolulu airport or Waikiki. Kailua white sand beach offers beach volleyball courts, restrooms, free public parking, lifeguard stands, and a calm swimming area.
If you want to walk for a short time but need a nice break from all the people in Waikiki and Honolulu, take a trip to Kailua Beach. Like most beaches in Hawaii, the ocean at this beach has breathtaking scenery and soft white sand.
Diamond Head Beach
The Diamond Head beach offers excellent relaxation away from the busy crowds. This beach is on Oahu Island, at the very end of Waikiki. Therefore, it’s a walking distance from Waikiki. Diamond Head Beach has ample spots for picnics, sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing.
You’ll also find parking at Diamond Head Beach.
Key Takeaways
- Not all of Hawaii’s beaches are crowded, there are many exceptions.
- Some of the least crowded beaches in Hawaii require a guide or hike to get there.
- Hawaii’s most uncrowded beaches are often the most pristine and fun to explore.