Hapuna Beach (South Kohala Coast, off Queen Kaahumanu Hwy)

Lifeguard on duty? Yes
For beginning/experienced bodysurfers? Both.

The Big Island’s most popular bodysurfing beach is also one of its most beautiful—a half-mile stretch of white sand dunes with the most crystalline surf on the South Kohala Coast. Surf here is almost always ideal for bodysurfing. Beginning bodysurfers, however, should stay out of the water during occasionally higher surf sets.


White Sands Beach (Kailua-Kona, off Alii Drive)

Lifeguard on duty? Yes
For beginning/experienced bodysurfers? Both

Also known as "Kona Disappearing Sands Beach" or "Kona Magic Sands Beach," its smallish expanse of sand often disappears during rough surf—typically during the winter. Experienced bodysurfers flock here when waves are up. Beginning bodysurfers should inquire with lifeguards about conditions before heading in.




Kalapaki Beach (Lihue, off Rice Road)

Lifeguard on duty? No

The generally mellow surf on this crescent-shaped white sand beach fronting the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club is great for beginning bodysurfers. More experienced bodysurfers take to the waves when the surf is a bit higher.




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