Honaunau beach
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Honaunau Bay, a gem with a history spanning a thousand years, nestled on the Big Island of Hawaii. Renowned for its unparalleled underwater wonders, this destination is a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike. Step into the past at the Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, one of Hawaii's most captivating cultural landmarks, where an ancient religious sanctuary has been meticulously reconstructed. Just a stone's throw away, you can tread in the historic footsteps of Captain Cook, who made his first and final steps in the New World not far from these shimmering shores.
Photos
Beach description
Pure satin sand beneath the canopy of classic palm trees beckons beachgoers to the coast. The always warm and calm turquoise waters are a haven for a diverse array of marine life, eagerly explored by divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. Some species of rare fish reside exclusively in the coral reefs near Honaunau Bay. Monk seals frequent the area, and in the rocky crevices not far from the shore, large green turtles find sanctuary. In the northern part of the beach, where the seabed deepens, dolphins are known to visit.
The beach's tranquil waters make it a safe haven for children. Indeed, while swimming is the main attraction for the young ones, organized children's activities are notably absent.
Adults can embark on fascinating excursions along the coast. A trail to the north leads to a succession of bays and arches sculpted by ancient lava flows. The ocean waves crash against the blackened coast with thunderous noise and dramatic splashes, urging tourists to tread with caution.
Not far from the lava-strewn beach, naturally formed steps provide convenient access to the water. However, divers should exercise caution to avoid disturbing the sea urchins at rest. During times of rough seas, swimming near the reefs can become perilous.
Honaunau Bay Beach offers amenities for vacationers:
- Toilets and showers.
- Shops nestled a short distance away.
- Picnic areas adjacent to the parking lot.
- A Canoe Club.
- Lifeguards are on duty, albeit not continuously.
Tourists planning to swim near the rocky lava shores should come prepared with beach gear and suitable footwear. The black volcanic rock, heated by the sun, can be scorching and potentially injurious to bare feet.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit the Hawaii Islands for a beach vacation largely depends on the traveler's preferences for weather, crowds, and prices. However, there are generally two periods considered ideal:
- Late April to Early June: Spring offers a sweet spot with less rainfall and milder temperatures. The islands are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience on the beaches and at other attractions.
- September to Mid-December: Fall is another optimal time, as the summer crowds have dissipated and the weather remains warm and pleasant. This period also avoids the winter rainy season, ensuring more sunny days on the beach.
Both time frames offer the opportunity to enjoy Hawaii's stunning beaches, warm ocean waters, and outdoor activities under ideal conditions. Whether you're looking to surf, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun, these periods provide the perfect balance of good weather and fewer tourists, making for an unforgettable beach vacation in Hawaii.
Video: Beach Honaunau
Infrastructure
From the Dragonfly Ranch Bed & Breakfast & Eco-Spa, a 3-star establishment, the beach is just a short walk away. This haven boasts a truly unique and tranquil ambiance. Guests can enjoy an outdoor shower and toilet, with rooms that offer views of the patio. The accommodation caters to a variety of stays, from a romantic honeymoon to a family vacation, pets included. Amenities include spa services, breakfast, and a communal kitchen. Additionally, the host generously provides snorkeling equipment for guests.
Visitors flock to Hawaii not only for its eternal summer but also to savor the distinctive local cuisine, which largely reflects the culinary traditions of Eastern Asian countries. The climate is conducive to cultivating a wide array of fruits. While the names of some dishes may sound unusual to newcomers, this bears no reflection on their delightful flavors.
In Hawaiian cooking, taro leaves and tubers are staples, along with specific herbs and spices. Local fare is best experienced in small eateries, although there are also restaurants offering familiar European, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines. A gastronomic must-try for every traveler is the traditional roast pig. Other local specialties include purple tubers, puddings, and coconut donuts, which are rich in starch and thus highly caloric. Seafood dishes, despite their unfamiliar names, are safe and enjoyable to consume.
The Big Island caters to tourists with a range of conveniences, including postal services, banking, and hair salons. Just a block from the bay, visitors will find specialized shops and shopping centers. The Keauhou Farmers Market is a highlight, open every Saturday. Most stores offer unique items. At local trade shows, one can find historical frescoes, decorative art pieces, cookies, original cakes, and pastries.
Weather in Honaunau
Best hotels of Honaunau
All hotels of HonaunauUseful information
- Climate contributes to the prosperity of tropical vegetation in the vicinity of Honaunau Bay. Greens and dark lava rocks, the blue of the ocean – the perfect sight in the sun. Rains are quite plentiful, but they fall mainly at night. Showers during the day are usually short-lived.
- You can drive to the beach by the village of Pu’uhonua o Honaunau on Highway 11, south of Kona. The road runs along the sea, it is difficult to get lost.
What to visit, what to see, what to do:
- Puuhonua O Honaunau Historical Park.
- Church of St. Benedict.
- A bee farm with island bees.
- Helicopter tour to volcanoes and waterfalls.
- Walking and cycling tours.
- Take a trip to Kona Pearl Harbor.
- Take the walking route to the Captain Cook Monument.