When I travel to the Big Island of Hawaii, I love exploring different beaches to see what treasures I can find along the shore. Whether I’m looking for shells, driftwood, sea glass, or unique rocks, the Big Island has many spots for a relaxing day of beachcombing.
If I know which beaches are best for beachcombing, my visit becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. With its mix of white, black, and even green sand beaches, the Big Island offers many chances to discover something special along the coast.
Magic Sands Beach Park
When I visited Magic Sands Beach Park, I immediately noticed the bright white sand and the rocky edges along the shore. Lifeguards watched the waves, which made me feel safe while swimming.
Beachcombing here is always interesting. I found smooth stones and little shells tucked between the rocks.
The tides sometimes wash away the sand, leaving behind ocean treasures. Each visit feels like a new surprise.
The park has plenty of open space, making it easy to walk along the beach and look for unique finds. Surfing is popular here, and watching local surfers adds to the fun atmosphere.
Rating: 4.5 (4771 reviews)
Location: Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Website: Visit Website
Honokohau Beach
When I arrived at Honokohau Beach, I felt peaceful because it was not crowded. The beach is a bit out of the way, so I could take my time exploring.
I heard the waves and the sound of seabirds. The sand is a mix of coral, black lava, and shells.
I found many interesting pieces to pick up, especially tiny shells washed up on the shore. Cool lava rocks in some areas made the search for treasures even more fun.
The water was calm during my visit. I liked that the beach felt wild and natural, not busy or built up.
There aren’t many facilities, so I brought what I needed. Walking along the beach, I imagined ancient Hawaiians coming here to fish or gather shells.
Rating: 4.5 (58 reviews)
Location: Kaiminani, HI 96740
Ho‘okena Beach Park
When I walked down to Ho‘okena Beach Park, I noticed how peaceful and beautiful it felt. Trees provided shade, and clear blue water bordered the beach.
The beach mixes gray sand and coral. I saw the remains of an old pier, hinting at the beach’s past.
I watched local fishermen launch their canoes right from the shore. Some canoes sat on the beach, showing that fishing culture is still alive here.
The water was calm and clear, perfect for swimming or searching for shells and small pieces of coral. When the waves picked up, local kids brought out their boogie boards.
Sunsets painted the whole area in orange and pink. If you like camping, you can stay overnight.
I saw a few tents along the edge, and it seemed like the perfect spot to fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Rating: 4.6 (1311 reviews)
Location: Ho‘okena Beach Park
Contact: (808) 328-8450
Website: Visit Website
Kekaha Kai State Beach
When I got to Kekaha Kai State Beach, I noticed how wide and sandy the beach looked. The area felt open and peaceful.
Calm waves rolled in on one end, while stronger surf appeared on the other. Some parts of the beach had soft sand, and others had scattered lava rocks and shells, which made beachcombing great.
A long 4.5-mile trail called Ala Kahakai follows the coast. I walked part of it and enjoyed ocean views and nearby cinder cones.
I also hiked up Pu’u Ku’ili. The climb was a bit tough, but the 360-degree coastline views were worth it.
It gets hot and dry here, so I brought extra water since none is available at the park. There are no lifeguards, so I stayed careful, especially when the waves were big.
When the water was calm, I enjoyed swimming and relaxing on the sand. Picnic tables in a shady area let families have lunch nearby.
The Maniniʻōwali (Kua Bay) section is close by, and it’s another nice spot for swimming and searching for shells when the tide is low.
Rating: 4.6 (2140 reviews)
Location: HI-19, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Website: Visit Website
‘Alula Beach
When I visited ‘Alula Beach, I noticed how quiet and cozy it felt compared to other beaches nearby. The cove is tucked away, making it feel almost like a secret spot.
Soft white sand and calm water made it easy to walk and explore. I saw a few people snorkeling close to shore, but it wasn’t crowded.
I spent time beachcombing and found pieces of coral, shells, and smooth stones. The sand was clean and comfortable for walking barefoot.
The natural setting is beautiful, with rocky spots at the edges of the beach. The water was clear, and I easily spotted small fish and crabs near the rocks.
It’s a quiet place where I could relax, watch the waves, and look for interesting items along the shore.
Rating: 4.3 (22 reviews)
Location: Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach
I visited ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach and enjoyed the soft white sand along the shore. As I walked, I found bits of coral and shells, perfect for beachcombing.
The beach is calm and not too crowded, so I could relax and explore at my own pace. Two old fishponds nearby caught my interest.
I watched small fish swimming in the clear water as I wandered past. A hiking trail near the fishponds offers another way to see more of the area.
The water is gentle and good for swimming and snorkeling. I took a dip after searching for treasures along the tide line.
Sea turtles rested on the rocks a short walk away, making the visit feel extra special. Parking was easy when I arrived early, and restrooms were close by.
The sunset view from the sand was beautiful, with palm trees framing the sky in the late afternoon.
Rating: 4.6 (742 reviews)
Location: 69-275 Waikōloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Website: Visit Website
Kahalu’u Beach Park
When I visited Kahalu’u Beach Park, I found it easy to spend the day here. The beach is small, but the calm water and shallow reef feel like nature’s playground.
I saw many people snorkeling and families having fun by the shore. As I walked along the sand, I found interesting shells and small rocks.
The tide pools were full of life, and every turn offered a new discovery. I liked beachcombing slowly while fish swam close to my feet.
The park felt friendly and safe, with plenty of people around but not too crowded. Lifeguards watched the area, so I felt at ease while exploring.
Helpful signs explained rules about the reef and marine life, reminding me to be careful while beachcombing. I appreciated how clean everything was and how easy it was to get to this spot along Ali‘i Drive.
Rating: 4.6 (3923 reviews)
Location: Kahalu’u Beach Park
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website)
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
I loved my visit to Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. The beach is wide and sandy with plenty of space to stretch out.
I spent time walking along the shore and searching for shells and driftwood. I found some interesting pieces that the waves washed up.
Swimming felt great when the water was calm. On some days, the surf got stronger.
Lifeguards watched the beach to keep everyone safe. I saw a few people bodysurfing in bigger waves, but I stayed near the edge because of signs warning about rip currents.
This park is a popular spot for picnics. I brought lunch and sat at a shaded picnic table.
Restrooms and outdoor showers made it easy to clean up after a day on the sand.
For people who like to explore, a trail runs along the coast and offers great ocean views. A few A-frame cabins are available for overnight stays, but they were closed during my visit.
Parking was easy, and non-residents pay a small fee.
Rating: 4.8 (5574 reviews)
Location: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Contact: (808) 961-9540
Website: Visit Website
Makalawena Beach
I found Makalawena Beach after walking over lava rocks and sandy paths. When I arrived, white sand beside dark lava stones really stood out.
It felt quiet and uncrowded. I searched for shells and interesting stones along the tideline.
Two small lava pools sit on the beach and are fun to explore. Clear water filled the pools, and sometimes I saw little fish swimming around.
It’s easy to spend a long time here searching for small treasures that washed up overnight.
Gentle waves rolled along the shore, making the cove peaceful. I spotted a few sea birds and watched crabs move between the rocks.
Rating: 4.7 (779 reviews)
Location: HI-19, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Kohanaiki Beach Park
I spent some time at Kohanaiki Beach Park and really liked how peaceful it felt. The beach is a mix of soft sand and rocky shoreline, which makes it a unique spot for beachcombing.
As I walked along the shore, I noticed tide pools with small sea creatures and shells.
The park offers basic amenities. Clean toilets, showers, and a good-sized parking lot made my visit easier.
Security guards work around the clock, so I felt safe leaving my car while I explored.
Camping is popular here. I saw a few tents set up near the beach.
If you want to camp overnight, you’ll need a permit and an overnight parking pass. You can get both at the guard shack.
The gate closes at 9 pm and opens at 5:30 am, so plan your visit around those hours.
Rating: 4.7 (780 reviews)
Location: PX23+72, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Essential Beachcombing Tips for the Big Island
I want every beachcombing trip to be fun, safe, and respectful. Good planning, the right gear, and care for Hawaii’s nature make all the difference.
Timing Your Visit for the Best Finds
I’ve learned that early morning is usually the best time to explore. The beaches are quieter, and tides have just shifted, leaving new treasures on the shore.
I check tide charts before heading out. Low tide lets me reach areas that are underwater later in the day.
After a storm or high surf, I often find more interesting items. Shells, driftwood, and sea glass can all wash up overnight.
Sundays and holidays can be busy, so I prefer visiting during weekdays for peaceful searching. Avoiding midday sun also keeps me cool and safe from sunburn.
Recommended Tools and Gear
I keep my beachcombing kit simple. My basics include a small mesh bag for collecting treasures, sturdy sandals or water shoes, and a sun hat.
I always bring a filled water bottle and wear reef-safe sunscreen. Hawaiian sun can be intense even on cloudy days.
A lightweight scoop or small shovel helps me check sand and pebbles. Sometimes I use a magnifying glass to look at tiny marine life or shells.
I never bring large buckets or sharp tools that could damage delicate habitats. For extra comfort, I wear polarized sunglasses to see underwater objects more clearly.
How to Respect Local Ecosystems
I follow local laws and customs when collecting along Hawaii’s beaches. It is illegal to take artifacts of precontact Native Hawaiians.
Local advice encourages me to leave shells, rocks, coral, and sand on the beach. Removing them can harm the ecosystem and spoil it for others.
For more details, see tips on respecting wildlife and leaving natural items in place.
I always take only photos and leave no trash behind. I avoid stepping on coral or disturbing tide pools.
Respecting nature helps keep Hawaii’s beaches beautiful for everyone.
Wildlife and Treasures: What You Might Discover
When I walk along Big Island beaches, I notice more than just the sand and surf. There are tiny treasures, like unusual shells, sparkling sea glass, and even interesting plants and animals.
Shells and Unique Coral Pieces
On some Big Island beaches, I find small shells washed up after high tide. Large, perfect shells are rare here, but there are many small varieties like cowries and cone shells.
Most shells blend in with the rocks and coral, so I look closely and go slowly. Broken coral branches and twisted coral pieces catch my eye, especially after storms.
I never collect live coral or shells with animals in them because this harms the ecosystem. Instead, I search for empty or weathered finds on top of the sand.
Some beaches are better for shell hunting—A-Bay (Anaehoʻomalu Bay), Hapuna Beach, and Mauna Kea Beach all offer chances to spot small shell treasures if I search carefully.
Sea Glass and Lava Stones
One of my favorite finds on the Big Island is sea glass. This smooth, frosted glass forms when old bottles and jars tumble for years in salty waves and break down into small, colorful pieces.
I often find clear, green, and brown glass. Rare colors like blue and red show up sometimes if I’m lucky.
Sometimes, I even spot black glass among the stones, which is very unique.
Lava stones cover certain stretches of coast, especially near old lava flows. These black and gray rocks have different shapes and textures, sometimes with holes or rough edges.
They remind me of the island’s volcanic history. Some people use them for decoration or in small gardens.
Local Flora and Fauna Sightings
While I look for treasures, I stay alert for local wildlife and plants.
Small crabs often scuttle between the rocks in shoreline areas. Birds like the Hawaiian stilt feed along the water’s edge.
Sometimes, I spot sea turtles resting quietly on the sand. I always keep my distance and avoid disturbing them.
Native plants grow close to the high tide line. Beach morning glory shows its purple flowers, and naupaka, a shrub with half-flowers, is common in coastal spots.
Animal bones and shells from older times sometimes appear along the beach, especially after storms. Each beach visit feels like a chance to discover something new and unexpected.
