Shipman Beach Haena
A secluded Big Island paradise accessed by a scenic, albeit muddy, rainforest hike, famous for its abundant sea turtles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More beach space, ideal for turtles
Shipman Beach Haena
Best Time
More beach space, ideal for turtles
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Big Island paradise accessed by a scenic, albeit muddy, rainforest hike, famous for its abundant sea turtles.
"This place is magical. I hiked by myself and felt like I was carried away on a magical journey."
🥾 Wear Mud-Proof Shoes
The trail is notoriously muddy. Waterproof hiking boots or old sneakers are a must!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Keep a safe distance from sea turtles. They are protected and need their space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Haven
Shipman Beach
Witness dozens of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore or swimming in the clear waters. A truly magical wildlife encounter.
Pristine White Sand Beach
Shipman Beach
A secluded paradise with soft white sand, offering a peaceful escape and stunning ocean views.
Snorkeling Opportunities
Shipman Beach
Explore the clear, cool waters, which offer a unique mix of temperatures due to natural springs, perfect for snorkeling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Muddy Trails
Respect Wildlife and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Mud-Proof Shoes
The trail is notoriously muddy. Waterproof hiking boots or old sneakers are a must!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Keep a safe distance from sea turtles. They are protected and need their space.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities. Bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for spotting marine life.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Mud-Proof Shoes
The trail is notoriously muddy. Waterproof hiking boots or old sneakers are a must!
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Keep a safe distance from sea turtles. They are protected and need their space.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities. Bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for spotting marine life.
☀️ Avoid Rainy Days
Mud becomes significantly worse after rain, making the hike very challenging.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shipman Beach is a highly rewarding destination, praised for its stunning white sand, abundant sea turtles, and clear snorkeling waters. While the 2-mile hike can be muddy and challenging, most visitors find it well worth the effort for the magical experience and secluded paradise it offers. Some note the beach can be small at high tide.
"It's an easy hike in, but plan for 1.5-2 hours to get there. The trail can get very muddy but there is usually ample room around the mud puddles to do a little off trail avoidance. The beach is truly amazing. The water is crystal clear, with cold springs in some places giving the water a fun mix of warm and cool. Turtles galore, just keep your distance but you are bound to see a dozen or so. Lots of shade also."
Brian Wright
"So this is def worth a review… this place is magical. I hiked by myself and felt like I was carried away on a magical journey. Don’t go when it’s raining. I went after 2 days no rain. It’s a simple trail to follow, that leads out to a magical white sand beach covered in sea turtles. It’s worth the trip. Not a hard hike. Do it. Bring a lunch and sit by the beach and eat . 5 stars, highlight of my trip"
Jessica Davies
"This is an amazing paradise beach. Now, to get there, you have to walk around 2 mile trail hiking.
The view is beautiful a long the way, and the path can be muddy depending on the weather.
Perfect for snorkeling and swimming, very safe, now there are some few very important things I want to mention:
Please be respectful with the flora and the creatures around the area.
Second, don't leave trash ( plastics, glass and other type of trash on the trail, beach or water, let work together for a better nature!!"
Melvin Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shipman Beach, also known as Haena Beach, is accessed via a hike along the Puna Historic Trail. The trailhead is located in the Puna district of Hawaii's Big Island. The hike is approximately 2 miles each way.
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate, but the main challenge is the mud. It can be very muddy, especially after rain, requiring careful footing.
Expect the hike to take about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how much you stop to enjoy the scenery. Some reviews mention up to 1 hour 20 minutes per way.
While The Bus is available on the Big Island, reaching the specific trailhead for Shipman Beach might require additional transportation or a significant walk from a bus stop. Renting a car is often the most convenient option.
Information on dedicated parking at the trailhead can be limited. It's advisable to research local parking regulations or arrive early, especially if you're visiting during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Shipman Beach or hike the Puna Historic Trail. It is a public access area.
Shipman Beach and the Puna Historic Trail are generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted, but it's best to hike during daylight for safety.
Yes, Shipman Beach is generally considered safe for swimming and snorkeling. The water is clear and often calm, though always be aware of ocean conditions.
There are no facilities such as restrooms, showers, or picnic tables at Shipman Beach. Visitors should come prepared with everything they need.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally recommended to check local regulations regarding pets on trails and beaches in Hawaii. Respecting wildlife sanctuaries often means keeping pets leashed or leaving them at your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach itself, with its white sand and abundant sea turtles, is a prime subject. The lush, tropical trail leading to the beach also offers beautiful nature shots.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and potentially more active wildlife. However, the beach is beautiful throughout the day.
Drone usage in Hawaii is subject to strict regulations, especially in protected areas and near wildlife. Always check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the beach landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography (sea turtles, nene). A waterproof camera or protective case is advisable due to potential mud and ocean spray.
The entire beach offers stunning views. Look for compositions that include the turtles in the foreground with the ocean and lush greenery in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities, and make it a memorable picnic day by the ocean. 🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
The hike through the rainforest can feel like a personal exploration, and reaching the secluded beach provides a sense of accomplishment. It's a great opportunity for reflection and connecting with nature. 🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
The clear waters also make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, allowing you to observe marine life up close. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Puna Historic Trail Hike
Timing is key for this hike. Visiting during low tide can significantly increase the amount of usable beach space, making it more comfortable to relax and explore.
Encountering Shipman Beach Wildlife
The crystal-clear waters of Shipman Beach are not only beautiful but also offer a unique swimming experience. Some areas feature cold springs that create a fascinating mix of warm and cool temperatures, making it refreshing for a dip or for snorkeling.
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