Hawaii Beach Names: A Guide to the Islands' Stunning Shores

Discover the beauty and allure of Hawaii's beaches, each with a unique name reflecting its history, culture, and natural wonders. From the golden sands of Waikiki to the secluded coves of Kauai, this list will transport you to the heart of the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you're seeking a relaxing escape, adventurous exploration, or a glimpse into the island's rich heritage, these captivating beach names hold stories waiting to be unveiled.
1. **Waikiki Beach:** Meaning "spouting water," Waikiki is known for its iconic surfing, vibrant nightlife, and stunning views of Diamond Head.
2. **Lanikai Beach:** Translating to "heavenly sea," Lanikai is a pristine beach on Oahu's windward coast, famous for its calm waters and breathtaking views of the Mokulua Islands.
3. **Poipu Beach:** Located on Kauai's sunny south shore, Poipu Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the occasional spouting blowhole. The name "Poipu" is believed to mean "a gathering place" in Hawaiian.
4. **Hanauma Bay:** Known for its vibrant coral reef and abundant marine life, Hanauma Bay is a popular snorkeling destination on Oahu's southeast coast. The name "Hanauma" means "curved bay" in Hawaiian.
5. **Kailua Beach:** Situated on Oahu's windward coast, Kailua Beach is a long stretch of white sand with calm, shallow waters, perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts. The name "Kailua" translates to "two seas" in Hawaiian.
6. **Maile Beach:** Located on the north shore of Kauai, Maile Beach is a secluded beach known for its lush vegetation, including the fragrant Maile flower. The name "Maile" is the Hawaiian word for "maile," a fragrant vine used for leis and traditional ceremonies.
7. **Punalu'u Black Sand Beach:** Found on the Big Island, Punalu'u Beach is a unique sight with its black sand, formed from volcanic activity. The name "Punalu'u" translates to "place of the leaping fish" in Hawaiian.
8. **Kaanapali Beach:** Situated on Maui's west coast, Kaanapali Beach is known for its pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and luxury resorts. The name "Kaanapali" means "to jump into the sea" in Hawaiian.
9. **Paia Beach:** Located on Maui's north shore, Paia Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding due to its strong trade winds. The name "Paia" means "to cut" in Hawaiian, referring to the nearby Paia Bay, which is separated from the main body of water by a narrow landmass.
10. **Makena Beach:** Located on Maui's south shore, Makena Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, volcanic cliffs, and secluded coves. The name "Makena" means "sacred place" in Hawaiian.
11. **Hapuna Beach:** Located on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is a long stretch of white sand with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The name "Hapuna" means "to be rough or coarse" in Hawaiian, likely referring to the surrounding volcanic terrain.
12. **Waimea Bay:** Known for its giant waves, Waimea Bay is a world-renowned surfing destination on Oahu's north shore. The name "Waimea" means "red water" in Hawaiian, referring to the reddish-brown color of the water during periods of high rainfall.
13. **Kahana Bay:** Located on Oahu's north shore, Kahana Bay is a secluded beach with calm waters and a picturesque lagoon. The name "Kahana" means "calm" in Hawaiian.
14. **Kahalu'u Beach Park:** Situated on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Kahalu'u Beach Park is a popular snorkeling destination with a shallow reef and diverse marine life. The name "Kahalu'u" is believed to mean "to come together" or "to gather" in Hawaiian, reflecting its status as a community gathering place.
15. **Pohoiki Beach:** Located on the Big Island's Puna District, Pohoiki Beach is a black sand beach formed by lava flows. The name "Pohoiki" means "to be rough or uneven" in Hawaiian, likely referring to the volcanic terrain surrounding the beach.
16. **Kealakekua Bay:** Situated on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Kealakekua Bay is a historical bay where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii. The name "Kealakekua" means "the bay of the gods" in Hawaiian.
17. **Keauhou Bay:** Located on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Keauhou Bay is a sheltered bay with a rich history and cultural significance. The name "Keauhou" means "the place of the gods" in Hawaiian.
18. **Honaunau Bay:** Situated on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Honaunau Bay is a historical bay with a well-preserved Hawaiian temple complex. The name "Honaunau" means "to be hidden" in Hawaiian, referring to the bay's secluded location.
19. **Anaeho'omalu Bay:** Located on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Anaeho'omalu Bay is a crescent-shaped bay with calm waters and stunning views of the coastline. The name "Anaeho'omalu" is a combination of "anae" (fish) and "ho'omalu" (to protect), suggesting a place where fish are protected.
20. **Koloa Landing:** Situated on Kauai's south shore, Koloa Landing is a historic landing site and a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The name "Koloa" means "a small white cloud" in Hawaiian.
21. **Ke'e Beach:** Located on Kauai's north shore, Ke'e Beach is a picturesque beach at the beginning of the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. The name "Ke'e" means "the end" in Hawaiian, referring to the end of the road and the beginning of the Na Pali Coast Trail.
22. **Tunnels Beach:** Situated on Kauai's north shore, Tunnels Beach is a renowned snorkeling spot with underwater lava formations resembling tunnels. The name "Tunnels" is a descriptive name referring to the distinctive underwater features.
23. **Hanakapi'ai Beach:** Located on Kauai's Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi'ai Beach is a secluded beach accessible by a challenging hike. The name "Hanakapi'ai" is believed to mean "the place where the sea is calm" in Hawaiian.
24. **Nā Pali Coast:** Translating to "cliffs," the Nā Pali Coast is a rugged and stunning stretch of coastline on Kauai's northwest side. The name "Nā Pali" is a descriptive name referring to the dramatic cliffs that line the coast.
25. **Polihale State Park:** Located on Kauai's west side, Polihale State Park is a vast stretch of pristine beach with camping facilities. The name "Polihale" means "long sandy shore" in Hawaiian.
26. **Spouting Horn:** Situated on Kauai's south shore, the Spouting Horn is a natural blowhole that erupts with water when the waves are high. The name "Spouting Horn" is a descriptive name referring to the water that shoots out of the blowhole.
27. **Ho'okipa Beach Park:** Located on Maui's north shore, Ho'okipa Beach Park is a world-renowned windsurfing and kiteboarding destination. The name "Ho'okipa" means "to welcome" in Hawaiian, referring to the beach's reputation as a welcoming spot for water sports enthusiasts.
28. **Baldwin Beach Park:** Situated on Maui's south shore, Baldwin Beach Park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The name "Baldwin" honors D.D. Baldwin, a prominent missionary who arrived in Hawaii in the early 19th century.
29. **Kamaole Beach Parks:** Located on Maui's south shore, Kamaole Beach Parks are a trio of beaches known for their calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. The name "Kamaole" means "a place of great peace" in Hawaiian.
30. **Napili Bay:** Situated on Maui's west coast, Napili Bay is a picturesque bay with calm waters and white sand beaches. The name "Napili" is believed to mean "the small hill" in Hawaiian.
31. **Honolua Bay:** Located on Maui's northwest coast, Honolua Bay is a popular spot for surfing and snorkeling. The name "Honolua" means "to be calm" in Hawaiian.
32. **Maalea Harbor:** Located on Maui's west coast, Maalea Harbor is a working harbor with a variety of shops and restaurants. The name "Maalea" means "to be close" in Hawaiian, referring to the harbor's proximity to the town of Lahaina.
33. **Wailea Beach:** Situated on Maui's south coast, Wailea Beach is a luxurious beach resort area with stunning beaches and world-class amenities. The name "Wailea" means "long water" in Hawaiian.
34. **Makena State Park:** Located on Maui's south shore, Makena State Park is a beautiful park with a variety of beaches and hiking trails. The name "Makena" means "sacred place" in Hawaiian.
35. **Ka'anapali:** Situated on Maui's west coast, Ka'anapali is a resort town with a beautiful beach known for its white sand and clear waters. The name "Ka'anapali" means "to jump into the sea" in Hawaiian.
36. **Paia Town:** Located on Maui's north shore, Paia Town is a charming town with a colorful history and a vibrant arts scene. The name "Paia" means "to cut" in Hawaiian, referring to the nearby Paia Bay, which is separated from the main body of water by a narrow landmass.
37. **Hana:** Situated on Maui's east coast, Hana is a small town known for its lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and scenic drives. The name "Hana" means "flower" in Hawaiian.
38. **Keahole Point:** Located on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Keahole Point is a popular spot for whale watching and snorkeling. The name "Keahole" means "the place of the fish god" in Hawaiian.
39. **Kealakekua:** Situated on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Kealakekua is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. The name "Kealakekua" means "the bay of the gods" in Hawaiian.
40. **Kailua-Kona:** Located on the Big Island's Kona Coast, Kailua-Kona is a bustling town with a vibrant harbor and a variety of shops and restaurants. The name "Kailua" means "two seas" in Hawaiian, referring to the town's location between two bays.