Mauna Kea Beach is widely considered one of the Big Island’s best beaches. Located just north of Hapuna, it shares the same postcard-perfect ingredients—bright sunny days, sparkling blue water, soft white sand, and lush greenery framing the shoreline. The beach slopes gently into the ocean, making it a great spot for swimming, and the two rocky points at either end often offer good snorkeling when conditions are calm.
Because parking is limited, it’s smart to arrive early. If the public parking area is full, some visitors choose to park at the nearby hotel (when permitted) or at nearby Mauʻumae Beach, then walk the trail over to Mauna Kea Beach for a more scenic approach. Before you go, always check ocean conditions and avoid snorkeling if surf is up or visibility is poor.
If you’d like to add more water time to your day, browse Big Island snorkeling options, or explore more ideas on our Big Island activities page.