Anaehoomalu Beach Waikoloa Hawaii
Anaehoomalu Beach ('A-Bay') offers calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, historic fishponds, and frequent sea turtle sightings. Perfect for familie...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sunset & turtle sightings
Anaehoomalu Beach Waikoloa Hawaii
Best Time
Best for sunset & turtle sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Anaehoomalu Beach ('A-Bay') offers calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, historic fishponds, and frequent sea turtle sightings. Perfect for families and sunset lovers.
"Incredibly exciting experience as we encountered more and more sea turtles—eventually seeing over nine of them!"
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Snorkel south of the main beach for more sea turtle sightings . Be patient and respectful of their space!
🌅 Sunset Reflection Magic
Walk behind the fishponds for incredible sunset views and reflections .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Encounters
South of the main beach area
Witness numerous sea turtles swimming, eating, and even approaching snorkelers. A truly thrilling experience!
Spectacular Sunsets
Path behind the fishponds
Capture breathtaking sunset reflections in the fishponds, framed by palm trees. Pure Hawaiian magic.
Calm Waters for All
Main beach area
Perfect for families with young children, offering safe swimming and snorkeling opportunities without big waves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Calm Waters
Sunset Serenity & Turtle Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Snorkel south of the main beach for more sea turtle sightings. Be patient and respectful of their space!
🌅 Sunset Reflection Magic
Walk behind the fishponds for incredible sunset views and reflections.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
Ideal for kids with calm waters, but not for boogie boarding or surfing.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Decent parking is available a short walk from the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Snorkel south of the main beach for more sea turtle sightings. Be patient and respectful of their space!
🌅 Sunset Reflection Magic
Walk behind the fishponds for incredible sunset views and reflections.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
Ideal for kids with calm waters, but not for boogie boarding or surfing.
🚗 Parking Convenience
Decent parking is available a short walk from the beach.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Rental
Rent beach equipment and supplies from the hut on-site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anaehoomalu Beach is praised for its calm waters, making it ideal for families and swimming. Visitors love the beautiful sunset views, especially the reflections in the fishponds, and the frequent sightings of sea turtles. Some find the water clarity to be inconsistent, and it's noted as a family-oriented beach rather than one for surfing or seclusion.
"Gorgeous beach on the west coast of Big Island, with crystal clear water and many sightings of turtles. It’s easy to see turtles swimming and floating calmly near the shore. The waves are low, there is a shower and changing rooms and it’s a perfect place for families."
Tommaso Bailo
"Not the biggest but still a very pretty and unique beach with calm waters & no big waves. Beautiful sunset scenery, especially if you walk on the path behind the fish pond & see the reflection in it, surrounded by palm trees. Toilets available and an easy walking path too."
Janina
"Always a great play to play in the sand and surf. Lots to see snorkeling, shady trees for resting, live music from the nearby bar. This beach and bay can't be beat! Even the locals turtles love it as much as we do :-)"
Eric Mann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anaehoomalu Beach, also known as 'A-Bay,' is conveniently located near Waikoloa Beach Drive on the Big Island's Kohala Coast. It's easily accessible by car, with decent parking available a short walk away. Many resorts in the Waikoloa area, like the Hilton Waikoloa Village and Marriott Beach Resort, are within close proximity, making it a popular destination for guests.
Yes, Anaehoomalu Beach is well-known and signposted, especially as it's adjacent to popular resorts and developments like Kolea. Look for signs for 'Anaehoomalu Bay' or 'A-Bay' when driving in the Waikoloa area.
There is decent parking available near Anaehoomalu Beach, though it can fill up during peak times. It's generally a short walk from the parking area to the beach itself.
Public transportation options directly to Anaehoomalu Beach might be limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car for exploring the Big Island, especially for accessing beaches like this.
Absolutely! Anaehoomalu Beach is a great day trip destination from Kona, offering a different coastal experience. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Anaehoomalu Beach is a public beach and does not typically have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the beach and its amenities free of charge.
As a public beach, Anaehoomalu Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no strict operating hours, but it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required for Anaehoomalu Beach as it is a public access beach. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions for Anaehoomalu Beach. However, it's important to be aware of local regulations and to respect the natural environment. An Amber alert was issued for a missing teen near the bay in the past, so always be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, Anaehoomalu Beach is a public beach and accessible to everyone, regardless of whether you are staying at a nearby resort like the Hilton Waikoloa Village or Marriott Beach Resort.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Anaehoomalu Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the calm waters. It's also popular with canoeists and paddlers, and you might spot spearfishers. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets and opportunities to see sea turtles.
Yes, Anaehoomalu Beach offers decent snorkeling, especially in the calmer waters near the shore. While the water can sometimes be murky, venturing further south can reveal clearer areas with more marine life, including numerous sea turtles.
Yes, Anaehoomalu Beach has restrooms available. There's also a hut where you can rent beach equipment and a store for beach supplies.
Anaehoomalu Beach is described as a 'family beach' with 'loads of families with little kids' and 'lots of activity'. While it can get busy, especially with families, it's typically not as crowded as some other popular Hawaiian beaches, and arriving before lunch can mean fewer crowds.
Anaehoomalu Beach has a crescent shape with primarily white sand, mixed with volcanic pebbles, giving it a 'salt-and-pepper' appearance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Lava Lava Beach Club is located right beside Anaehoomalu Beach and is highly recommended for its delicious food, particularly the Ono. Other dining options are available within the nearby Waikoloa Beach Resort.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted at public beaches like Anaehoomalu Beach. There are also shops nearby where you can purchase supplies.
Lava Lava Beach Club offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Visitors rave about their Ono (a type of fish).
While there may not be designated picnic tables, the beach offers plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic, especially under the shade of the palm trees.
Yes, there is a store on-site at Anaehoomalu Beach that sells beach supplies. For a wider selection of groceries and snacks, you can find markets within the Waikoloa Beach Resort area.
📸 📸 Photography
The path behind the fishponds offers stunning opportunities for sunset photos with reflections. The 'salt-and-pepper' sand and the surrounding palm trees also make for beautiful shots. Don't forget to capture any sea turtle sightings!
Absolutely! Anaehoomalu Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. The reflections in the fishponds create a particularly magical scene.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon leading up to sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local authorities or the relevant park service for current rules regarding drone operation in the area before flying.
Keep an eye out for the abundant sea turtles, the traditional Hawaiian fishponds, and the outrigger canoes that are sometimes present. The 'salt-and-pepper' sand is also a unique textural element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While snorkeling is possible, the water can sometimes be murky. However, the main draw for families is the guaranteed safe swimming. It's a popular spot, so arriving earlier in the day can help you secure a good spot, especially under the shade of the palm trees. It's a great place for a relaxed beach day where everyone can have fun.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond turtles, the beach offers opportunities for observing marine life while snorkeling in its calmer sections. The unique 'salt-and-pepper' sand and the historic fishponds also add to the natural appeal. The chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat makes Anaehoomalu Beach a truly special destination for wildlife lovers.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Lovers
Beyond sunsets, the beach itself provides varied photographic subjects, from the unique 'salt-and-pepper' sand to the occasional presence of outrigger canoes. If you're lucky, you might even capture a sea turtle in its element. The calm waters can also create beautiful reflections during the golden hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sea Turtles at A-Bay
Many travelers list seeing wild sea turtles as a bucket-list item for Hawaii. The calm waters of Anaehoomalu Beach provide a safe environment for these majestic creatures to feed and bask. Videos and photos often capture turtles swimming close to shore or grazing on seagrass, offering a unique glimpse into their daily lives. The thrill of a turtle swimming right past you, as described by one reviewer, is a highlight for many.
When planning your visit, consider that while the main beach area is family-friendly, the best turtle viewing might require a bit more exploration. Always be mindful of the ocean conditions and your own swimming abilities. The presence of these ancient mariners adds a profound layer of wonder to the Anaehoomalu Beach experience.
Sunset Spectacles and Fishpond Reflections
These ancient fishponds are not just beautiful; they are a testament to traditional Hawaiian aquaculture. Their presence adds a unique cultural and historical dimension to the beach experience. The contrast between the natural beauty of the sunset and the ingenuity of the fishponds makes for a memorable visual. Many visitors find this area to be a peaceful escape, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the natural splendor.
Beyond the visual appeal, the sunset at Anaehoomalu Beach provides a tranquil ambiance. It's a time when the beach transitions from a daytime family spot to a more serene setting. Whether you're capturing photos or simply enjoying the view, the sunset over the fishponds is an essential part of the Anaehoomalu Beach experience.
Family Fun and Calm Waters
The beach's layout, with its primarily white sand mixed with volcanic pebbles, provides ample space for building sandcastles and enjoying beach activities. While it's a popular spot for families, it generally doesn't feel overwhelmingly crowded, especially if you arrive before lunch. The presence of amenities like restrooms and a nearby rental hut for beach equipment further enhances its family-friendliness.
While it's perfect for swimming and splashing, it's important to note that Anaehoomalu Beach is not a destination for boogie boarding or surfing due to the lack of significant waves. However, for families seeking a relaxed beach day with safe swimming conditions and opportunities for gentle snorkeling, Anaehoomalu Beach is an excellent choice.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit