Planning a family getaway to Hawaii’s Big Island? One of the most unique and memorable experiences you can enjoy is exploring its stunning variety of beach sands. The Big Island is unlike any other Hawaiian island when it comes to its diverse coastline—offering not just white sand beaches, but also black, green, and even salt-and-pepper sands. Whether your family is looking to build sandcastles, snorkel in calm waters, or marvel at rare geological wonders, there’s a perfect beach here for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best beach sand experiences on the Big Island.

White Sand Beaches

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Perhaps the most famous white sand beach on the Big Island, Hapuna Beach is ideal for families. Its wide shorelines and gently sloping ocean entry make it excellent for swimming, boogie boarding, or simply basking in the sun. Lifeguards are present, facilities are well-maintained, and there’s ample shaded spots for a seaside picnic. Arrive early—parking fills up quickly on sunny days!

Mauna Kea Beach (Kauna‘oa Beach)

This postcard-perfect beach is located in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and features ultra-fine white sand and calm, kid-friendly waters. Access is limited due to parking constraints, so get there early or make a reservation through the hotel. The beach is excellent for snorkeling along the rocky edges and is a great place to catch a family-friendly Hawaiian sunset.

Black Sand Beaches

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

If your kids are curious about volcanoes or geology, Punaluʻu Beach is a can’t-miss. Formed by lava fragments, this black sand beach is a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters. It’s also a favored resting place for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). While the waters can be a little rough for swimming, tidepools and turtle watching offer plenty of fun. Wear reef-safe sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to help protect these sensitive marine ecosystems—our mineral-based formula is ocean-friendly, safe for kids, and kind to your skin.

Richardson Ocean Park

This Hilo-side beach features salt-and-pepper sand—a beautiful mix of black and white grains. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, and its protected tidepools teem with marine life, making it ideal for young explorers. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

Green Sand Beach

Papakōlea Beach

Green sand? Yes, it’s real—and incredibly rare. One of only four green sand beaches in the world, Papakōlea gets its color from olivine crystals found in the surrounding volcanic cone. The journey here is an adventure in itself—it requires a steep, 2.5-mile hike each way over rugged terrain. While not ideal for very young children, older kids and teens interested in geology or off-the-beaten-path adventures will love it. Swimming here can be risky due to strong currents, so enjoy the beach from the safety of the shore.

Keiki-Approved Bonus Beaches

Kikaua Point Beach Park

This little gem near Kailua-Kona is one of the most family-friendly spots on the island. It’s manmade cove has powdery white sand and is shielded by lava rocks, creating ultra-calm waters perfect for toddlers and small children. The setting is serene, parking is limited, and you’ll need to check in at the gate—so plan accordingly.

Anaeho‘omalu Bay

Located near the Waikoloa resort area, this beach is loved for its mix of activities. Kids can splash in the shallow water, explore tidepools, or try out stand-up paddleboarding. Palm-tree dotted shores and lava rock fishponds make it visually striking for photos and relaxing for parents.

Tips for Enjoying the Beach Responsibly

• Always wear reef-safe sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to help preserve coral reefs and protect your skin naturally.
• Pick up after yourself—bring reusable containers and bags to minimize trash.
• Observe marine animals, like turtles and monk seals, from a respectful distance.
• Keep to marked paths to avoid damaging sensitive coastal vegetation.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island’s coastline is a fascinating mosaic of color and texture—with each beach offering a different experience and type of sand. Whether you’re lounging on white shores, marveling at black or green sands, or introducing your keiki (kids) to tidepools brimming with life, there’s a beach here to suit every member of the family. Pair your beach adventures with eco-conscious habits and skin-loving sun protection from Coco Botanicals, and you’ll enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty in a way that’s safe, fun, and sustainable for generations to come.