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Kaunaoa Bay in Mauna Kea (Big Island Hawaii)

Kaunaoa bay has one of the few white sand beaches on the kohala coast, which runs along the western side of the hawaiian big  of hawai'I. The mauna kea beach hotel is a historic hotel on the beautiful island of kauna'oa.

Kauna'oa bay, located on the kohala coast of the aloha-big state's island, is picture-perfect hawaii. The crescent-shaped beach, with its abundant white sand, palm trees, and clear, calm blue water, is a natural draw for sunbathers, water sport enthusiasts, and families looking for safe, sandy fun.

Kaunaoa Bay

Kauna'oa bay beach, also known as mauna kea beach, is one of hawaii's most beautiful white sand beaches. The beach is approximately half a mile long, with a gentle slope that makes it ideal for sunbathing. The waters are generally calm, and they are home to two coral reefs, so snorkelling and swimming are popular activities.

The mauna kea beach hotel is right on the beach, and when the sun sets, the hotel turns on floodlights over the water to attract hungry manta rays. Visitors can swim or dive with the manta rays or simply watch from above.

Kauna'oa is made comfortable by paved parking, restrooms, and showers. The beachside restaurant at mauna kea beach hotel serves delicious food, and a beach concession rents boogie boards and snorkelling equipment.

On Which Island is Kauna Oa Beach Located?

Known as one of the finest beaches on the big island, kaunaoa beach (also known as mauna kea beach) spans for a quarter of a mile and features sandy-bottomed coastlines that are less than 10 feet deep, making it ideal for long periods of playing in clear water.

Is There Good Snorkelling at Mauna Kea Beach?

The beach is located in front of the mauna kea beach hotel, has easy access to facilities, and is ideal for sunbathing. During the calm summer months, this beach is also ideal for snorkelling.

Is Mauna Kea Beach Free to Visit?

It is a public beach, so if you are not staying at the hotel, you will need to obtain a beach access pass or be waved through the resort entrance gate.

Is There a Shower on Mauna Kea Beach?

Showers and restrooms are located at the bottom of the path that leads from the parking lot to the beach.

When is the Best Time to Visit Mauna Kea Beach?

During the calm summer months, this beach is also ideal for snorkelling. During the winter months, waves can get higher, which can make entering the ocean dangerous due to a pounding shore break and strong rip currents.

Things to Do Near Mauna Kea Beach

  • Kauna'oa Bay
  • Pu'ukohola Heiau
  • Puako Bay
  • Mauna Kea Spa by Mandara
  • Hapuna Spa & Fitness Center
  • Spencer Beach Park
  • Puukohola National Historic Park
  • Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
  • Mauna Kea Oceanfront Luau
  • Waialea Beach
  • Mau'umae Beach