Mauna Kea Beach
Pristine golden sands meet calm, shallow turquoise waters at Mauna Kea Beach, a family-friendly paradise with frequent sea turtle sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Mauna Kea Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pristine golden sands meet calm, shallow turquoise waters at Mauna Kea Beach, a family-friendly paradise with frequent sea turtle sightings.
"This is a gem! The beach has beautiful soft sand and hardly any rocks for 50 ft out. Very shallow for quite a ways out."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for before 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure one of the limited public parking spots.
🤫 Be Discreet with Entry
Some visitors suggest not explicitly stating you're going to the beach to ensure access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Sandy Shores
Kaunaoa Bay
Enjoy miles of soft, golden sand with very few rocks, extending far into the shallow, calm waters.
Abundant Sea Turtle Sightings
Nearshore waters
Keep an eye out for sea turtles gracefully swimming close to shore, a magical wildlife encounter.
Snorkeling Paradise
Reef on the right side
Discover a spectacular reef teeming with marine life, perfect for an underwater adventure.
Historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Adjacent to the beach
Experience the timeless elegance of this iconic resort, the first on the Big Island, with stunning architecture and amenities.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Mauna Kea Beach
Best Time for Calm Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for before 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure one of the limited public parking spots.
🤫 Be Discreet with Entry
Some visitors suggest not explicitly stating you're going to the beach to ensure access.
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Look for sea turtles close to shore; they are frequently spotted here!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow, calm waters are perfect and safe for children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for before 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure one of the limited public parking spots.
🤫 Be Discreet with Entry
Some visitors suggest not explicitly stating you're going to the beach to ensure access.
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Look for sea turtles close to shore; they are frequently spotted here!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow, calm waters are perfect and safe for children.
🤿 Snorkel the Reef
Explore the vibrant reef on the right side of the beach for excellent snorkeling.
☂️ Bring Your Own Gear
Chairs and umbrellas are allowed, so pack your own for comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mauna Kea Beach is widely praised as a gem with beautiful soft sand and incredibly shallow, calm waters perfect for families. Visitors appreciate the frequent sea turtle sightings and the opportunity for snorkeling. While parking is limited and requires an early arrival, the overall experience is highly rewarding.
"This is a gem! We were lucky enough to snag a parking spot and surprisingly it was no charge to park! The beach has beautiful soft sand and hardly any rocks for 50 ft out. Very shallow for quite a ways out. We saw at least 4 turtles close to shore. Plenty of beach to have space to yourself."
Melissa Engel (Akgirl22)
"Arrived shortly before noon and was let in by a very polite hotel staff through the gate, who said 2 spots had just freed up. Would have walked here from Hapuna if I had to though, it is a beautiful spot. Not crowded at the end of July on a weekday. Came with a 5 yr old, it felt safe, and we had a great time."
O.M. Heinrichs
"Nice beach, went to it on a windy day. The resort has a restaurant. If there is no free parking, you can valet at the resort and pay half price on the fee if you eat lunch or dinner."
Henry Kernan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mauna Kea Beach is located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. Access is primarily through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel entrance. Public parking is limited, so arriving early is crucial. If the public lot is full, you can valet park at the hotel and potentially get a discount on dining if you plan to eat there.
Yes, there are approximately 40 public parking spots. These are often filled quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors report success by arriving before 10:30 AM on weekdays.
Yes, it's possible to walk from Hapuna Beach to Mauna Kea Beach. Some visitors have mentioned they would have walked if parking was unavailable, indicating it's a feasible option if you're prepared for the walk.
From Kona International Airport (KOA), take Highway 19 North towards Waimea. Turn right onto Kohala Coast Resort Road (Hwy 270). Follow signs for the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. You'll go through a security gate where you'll receive a parking permit.
Parking for the public beach is typically free, provided you can secure a spot. If you use the hotel's valet service, there is a fee, but it can be reduced if you dine at the resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a ticket to enter Mauna Kea Beach itself, but you do need a parking permit to access the public parking lot. These permits are issued at the security gate upon arrival.
While the beach is accessible during daylight hours, the parking lot and hotel facilities have specific operating times. It's best to arrive during daylight to ensure you can access parking and enjoy the beach safely.
Yes, Mauna Kea Beach is a public beach. While the hotel manages access to its parking lot, non-guests are welcome to visit as long as parking is available.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers with food and drinks. There are no restrictions mentioned regarding outside provisions.
The main restriction is the limited public parking. Once on the beach, access is generally open, but resort-designated chairs are reserved for hotel guests.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and relax on the soft sand. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for families. The reef on the right side offers good snorkeling opportunities.
Absolutely! The beach is known for its very shallow waters extending quite a distance, making it exceptionally safe and enjoyable for swimming, especially for children.
Yes, snorkeling is popular at Mauna Kea Beach, particularly near the rocky areas on the right side of the bay, where you can find a vibrant reef.
Many visitors report seeing sea turtles close to shore, adding to the magical experience of visiting this beach.
There are limited natural shade spots. It's recommended to bring your own umbrella or beach tent for sun protection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has restaurants available. If you use the hotel's valet parking, dining at one of their establishments can reduce the parking fee.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. This is a common practice for a day at the beach.
Besides the hotel's restaurants, there are other dining options along the Kohala Coast, though Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers convenient on-site choices.
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel likely has bar facilities, offering tropical drinks and refreshments for guests and visitors who dine at the resort.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, the beach itself is perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel itself is a picturesque backdrop. Look for shots with the calm turquoise water and golden sand.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the clear blue water is still photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around resort areas and protected natural sites. It's advisable to check with the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel management or local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Waterproof protection for your camera is also a good idea.
Capturing the sea turtles near the shore or the architectural details of the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel can provide unique photographic moments. The infinity pool at the resort also offers stunning perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While natural shade is limited, bringing your own umbrella is easy. The reef on the right side also offers a gentle introduction to snorkeling for older kids. Remember to arrive early for parking, as this is the main challenge for a family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to avoid resort prices. Bringing your own beach chairs and umbrellas also saves on rental fees. The natural beauty and activities like swimming and turtle spotting are all free!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing the sea turtles in their natural habitat or the vibrant underwater life while snorkeling. The resort's infinity pool also provides unique angles for creative shots. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive beauty of Kaunaoa Bay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Mauna Kea's Significance
When visiting the beach, remember that you are on the island of Hawai'i, and the mountain's cultural importance is a part of the local identity. Being mindful and respectful of the land and its history enhances the visitor experience and shows appreciation for the Hawaiian culture.
Navigating Parking and Access
Some travelers have shared a tip: when speaking to the security guard at the entrance, it's sometimes advised not to explicitly state you're going to the beach, but rather to the hotel or a general destination. This subtle approach has reportedly helped some visitors gain access when direct requests were denied. If parking is full, walking from the nearby Hapuna Beach is a viable alternative for the determined beachgoer.
For those who prefer not to risk the limited public parking, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers valet parking. While this comes with a fee, it can be partially offset if you plan to dine at one of the hotel's restaurants, making it a more palatable option for a luxurious beach day.
Family Fun at Mauna Kea Beach
Beyond the safe swimming conditions, the soft, sandy beach provides a comfortable play area. While natural shade is scarce, bringing your own umbrellas or beach tents is easy and recommended. The beach also offers opportunities for spotting marine life, with frequent sightings of sea turtles near the shore, adding an element of wonder for younger visitors.
The reef on the right side of the beach is also a highlight for families interested in snorkeling. It's accessible and provides a glimpse into the underwater world without requiring advanced swimming skills. Overall, Mauna Kea Beach combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities, making it a top choice for a relaxing day by the ocean.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit