Are you dreaming of your next beach vacation? Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. With soft white sand, warm waters, and plenty of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder why this beach is one of Hawaii’s most popular spots. Read on to find out more about what makes Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area so special!
Overview of Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area
Located on Hawaii’s Big Island, Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is a popular destination spot, consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches. It is a beautiful, spacious white sand beach about 25-30 minutes north of the core Kailua-Kona commercial area. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as swimming during calm seas, bodysurfing during periods of shore breaks, sunbathing, and more.
There is a $5 per person entrance fee for 1-7 passenger vehicles ($25), 8-25 passenger vehicles ($50), and 26 passenger vehicles ($90). The OuterSpatial app logo is available to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Hāpuna Beach offers the perfect setting for a well-rounded, family-friendly beach experience.
What to Do at Hāpuna Beach
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is known for its outdoor activities and is an ideal destination for the beach-loving family. Whether you are a sunbather, swimmer, or snorkeler, you will find plenty to do here. Swimming is great in the calm waters and bodysurfing can be enjoyed during periods of shore breaks.
If you’re looking for a spot to relax, there are several A-frame shelters with single screened rooms available for rent. Camping is also allowed in the area, making it perfect for a lengthy beach stay. Fishing is permitted off the shore and visitors can relax on the beach while taking in the stunning views of white sand, clear and teal water, and tropical caves.
Where is Hāpuna Beach Located?
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is situated on the Big Island, off Hwy 19 at mile marker 70, about 30 miles North of Kailua Kona. Look for the sign directing you to the beach, and you will find a spectacular oasis that has earned its place as one of the best beaches in the world.
The beach is half a mile long, almost always sunny, and has white sand. It is the perfect spot for families to enjoy some quality time and take part in activities such as bodysurfing during periods of shore breaks, sunbathing and other beach-related activities. Visitors are charged an entrance fee of $5 per person, so make sure you bring enough cash with you.
Amenities & Facilities
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area offers plenty of amenities and facilities for visitors to enjoy. There are several large, shaded gazebos with picnic tables and barbecues, perfect for a beach gathering. There is also plenty of parking available, with fees ranging from $10 for visitors to free for Hawaii residents with a valid ID. There are also a variety of vehicle fees, from $25 for 1-7 passenger vehicles, $50 for 8-25 passenger vehicles and $90 for 26 passenger vehicles. The OuterSpatial app logo is also present in the park, making it easy for visitors to find their way around the park.
Rules & Regulations
Visitors should also take note of the rules and regulations that are in place to ensure the safety of all visitors.
At Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, no dogs, motorized wheeled vehicles, and camping are allowed. In addition, the park has pay parking of $10 per vehicle for visitors and free parking for Hawaii residents. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, visitors should adhere to all posted rules and regulations.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is wheelchair accessible, with disabled parking down at beach level and a paved path to the beach. The park also offers bathrooms, beach showers, and a picnic pavilion. There is a concession stand located at the top of the beach. The park also has a map of wheelchair friendly trails in Hawaii, which can help visitors access more parts of the park. With these amenities, Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a great destination for visitors with mobility issues.
Families & Kids
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is an excellent destination for families and children. With white sand, a gentle slope down to the shore, and gentle surf on normal days, it’s the perfect spot to bring the kids. Parents will appreciate the entrance fee of only $5 per person for non-residents, while Hawaii residents can get in for free with a drivers license or ID. Plus, the end of the beach is an ideal place for little ones to play in the water.
Swimming & Snorkeling
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a great place for swimming and snorkeling. The beach features an easy entrance and slopes gently into deeper offshore waters, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced swimmers. You can explore the reefs at either end of the beach, which are filled with colorful fish, or take a longer swim to spot interesting sights along the way. Snorkeling is especially good at Hapuna if the water is calm. Be sure to wear fins and swim with caution when exploring the reef area, as it can be dangerous if the water is not calm.
Fishing
For those looking to try their hand at fishing, Hāpuna Beach is a great place to try. The area is good for both net and pole fishermen off the rocky points bordering the beach. If you are planning to fish in the water near Hāpuna Beach, we recommend following the local fishing regulations. Butterflyfish, Fourspot, Ornate, Raccoon, and Threadfin can all be caught in the area.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is a luxurious resort located adjacent to Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area. It is situated on the sunny Kohala Coast and has been defining Big Island luxury since its opening. The hotel offers a wide variety of services and amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s concierge service and enjoy the beach access that comes with the hotel’s location. For those who want to stay close to the beach, Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is an ideal place to stay.
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