Keʻei Beach
A secluded Big Island gem with pristine white sand and incredible snorkeling, accessible only by 4WD.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Keʻei Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Big Island gem with pristine white sand and incredible snorkeling, accessible only by 4WD.
"Want a place out of time, the same now as it was 40 years ago. Ke'ei beach yall."
🚗 4WD Essential
A 4WD vehicle is a must for the rough, single-lane dirt road. Don't attempt without it!
⚠️ Watch for Sea Urchins
Be cautious of sea urchins (wana) in the water, especially near rocks. Wear water shoes if unsure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded White Sand Beach
Main beach area
Discover a tranquil, less-crowded beach with soft white sand, perfect for relaxation and escaping the usual tourist bustle.
Exceptional Snorkeling
Calm waters
Explore vibrant underwater life with calm, clear waters teeming with yellow fish, pufferfish, and colorful coral.
Cliff Jumping Opportunities
Rocky coastline
For the adventurous, test your bravery with exhilarating cliff jumps into the ocean along the rugged coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Ke'ei Beach: A 4WD Adventure
Respecting the 'Aina and Local Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD Essential
A 4WD vehicle is a must for the rough, single-lane dirt road. Don't attempt without it!
⚠️ Watch for Sea Urchins
Be cautious of sea urchins (wana) in the water, especially near rocks. Wear water shoes if unsure.
🥽 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the abundant marine life.
🎒 Pack It In, Pack It Out
No trash cans or restrooms. Leave no trace and respect the pristine environment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD Essential
A 4WD vehicle is a must for the rough, single-lane dirt road. Don't attempt without it!
⚠️ Watch for Sea Urchins
Be cautious of sea urchins (wana) in the water, especially near rocks. Wear water shoes if unsure.
🥽 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the abundant marine life.
🎒 Pack It In, Pack It Out
No trash cans or restrooms. Leave no trace and respect the pristine environment.
📍 GPS Can Be Tricky
Follow 'Ke'ei Rd' after Keawikiki Rd. The GPS might be unreliable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ke'ei Beach is a unique, secluded destination praised for its excellent snorkeling and tranquil white sand. Visitors highlight the adventurous 4WD access and the feeling of stepping back in time. However, the challenging road and lack of facilities are noted drawbacks, requiring preparedness and respect for the local environment.
"I loved it! But everyone in your group might not depending on their definition of an ideal beach. Loved the snorkeling! 🤿 saw tons of yellow fish, a puffer fish, and some coral. The ocean is calm enough to be safe to swim.
Driving TIP: make sure to turn down the road (dirt road easy to miss) “Ke’Ei rd” right after the Keawikiki Rd.
We drove down the dirt path until we parked here at the black rocks.
You could drive a bit further down, park, then walk along the path/ beach to the sandy beach. BUT, there are lots of spikes sea urchins along the beach. They’re easier to avoid if you chose to jump into the water along the rocky part where we chose to park. You just have to be careful.
Someone in another persons group immediately stepped on one when they got there and they just left dissapointed.
Worth it for me. :)
Secluded and not too many people come here."
Laurel Morris
"Not a 'traditional' Beach. Sand stops at the waterline. Local families know the safe spots. Lots of sea urchins (wana) so dont walk on the reefs. Very special place. There are a lot of beaches with much easier access. There arent public restrooms or trash cans. Parking is very limited. Single lane dirt and lava road. Respect the ocean and the Aina. Aloha"
Ian Stark
"Do not attempt coming here unless you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle and you're comfortable driving one lane rough terrain.
The GPS is a tough follow, but will get you there. You'll be tempted to turn around because of all the private property signs, but follow the road to where it opens to a parking area. Park and follow the road around to the back and white sand beach, beautiful water, great snorkeling and seclusion.
Speaking of seclusion, DO NOT TRESPASS ON OTHER'S PROPERTY!"
Elijah Kinser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Ke'ei Beach involves driving down a single-lane dirt and lava road. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended, and drivers should be comfortable with rough terrain. Look for 'Ke'ei Rd' after Keawikiki Rd. GPS can be unreliable, so pay attention to the road signs and the landscape. Parking is limited at the designated areas.
No, the road to Ke'ei Beach is a single-lane dirt and lava road. It can be rough and challenging, making a 4WD vehicle essential for a safe journey.
It is strongly advised against using a regular car. The rough, unpaved, and single-lane nature of the road makes it unsuitable for most standard vehicles and could lead to damage.
Park in the designated parking areas along the dirt road. From there, you'll typically walk a short distance to reach the beach. Be aware of private property signs and do not trespass.
Finding Ke'ei Beach can be a bit challenging due to the unpaved road and potentially unreliable GPS. Keep an eye out for 'Ke'ei Rd' and follow the path to the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee for Ke'ei Beach. It is a natural, public beach accessible to all.
Ke'ei Beach does not have official opening or closing hours as it is a natural beach. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is necessary for Ke'ei Beach, as it is a natural beach with no formal entry system.
The primary restriction is the need for a 4WD vehicle to access the beach. Visitors are also expected to respect the local residents and avoid trespassing on private property.
Ke'ei Beach is known for its seclusion and is generally not crowded, especially on weekdays. It's a great spot if you're looking for a peaceful escape.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ke'ei Beach offers excellent snorkeling in its calm waters, swimming, and relaxing on the white sand. Adventurous visitors can also enjoy cliff jumping along the rocky coastline.
Yes, the ocean at Ke'ei Beach is generally calm and safe for swimming, making it suitable for families and casual swimmers. However, always swim at your own risk as there are no lifeguards.
Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including numerous yellow fish, pufferfish, and vibrant coral formations.
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Ke'ei Beach. Visitors should exercise caution and swim at their own risk.
Comfortable beachwear is recommended. Water shoes can be beneficial due to the presence of sea urchins near the rocky entry points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Ke'ei Beach is a natural, undeveloped beach. There are no restaurants, food vendors, or facilities available on-site. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, picnicking is a great option for Ke'ei Beach. Just be sure to bring all your supplies and pack out all trash afterward, as there are no bins.
The nearest dining options will be in Kailua-Kona, which is a drive away. It's best to plan your meals before heading to Ke'ei Beach.
Absolutely. It's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time swimming or exploring.
No, there are no facilities for food preparation. Visitors should bring pre-prepared food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Ke'ei Beach offers stunning natural beauty, from its white sand and clear waters to the rugged coastline. Capture the serene beach scenes, vibrant underwater life while snorkeling, and dramatic cliffside views.
While drone photography can capture unique aerial views, be mindful of local regulations and respect the privacy of residents. Always fly responsibly.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The midday sun can be intense but may offer good visibility for underwater shots.
Yes, the clear waters make it ideal for photographing the abundant marine life. Ensure you have waterproof camera gear or a good underwater camera.
The unique black rocks, the white sand beach itself, and the dramatic coastline offer distinct photographic subjects. The calm, clear water is also a key feature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Road to Ke'ei Beach
Once parked, a short walk will lead you to the beautiful white sand beach. Some visitors opt to drive further down the path, but this increases the risk of encountering rougher terrain and sea urchins. The key is to follow the road to where it opens up, park, and then proceed on foot to the beach itself. This approach ensures you reach the pristine shores while minimizing unnecessary risks.
Snorkeling and Ocean Safety at Ke'ei
A word of caution: the rocky areas, especially near the shore, can be home to sea urchins, known locally as 'wana'. It's advisable to wear water shoes if you're unsure about navigating these areas. By taking these precautions, you can fully enjoy the underwater wonders Ke'ei Beach has to offer.
Preserving the Pristine Environment
Respect for the 'Aina (land) and the local community is paramount. Many residents consider Ke'ei Beach their home, and it's essential to be mindful of their privacy and property. Avoid trespassing and be courteous to anyone you encounter. By being a responsible visitor, you contribute to maintaining the unique, untouched charm of Ke'ei Beach.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit