Lanai Beach: Which Hawaiian Sands to Visit

Lanai Beaches – over 18 miles sandy shore and crystal blue water - are some of the most ideal places to soak up the sun, snorkel and marine watch. Below are details of some the best Hawaiian Beaches:

Hulopoe Beach
This sheltered Lanai beach is one of the safest areas on the island to swim and is outlined with beautiful palms, trailed with golden sand and enclosed by black lava columns. Hulopoe is the perfect Hawaiian summer paradise with the water temperatures reaching the mid 70s. This Lanai beach is located at the foot of the Manele Bay Hotel in a protected marine preserve that is home to fantastic coral formations, colorful schools of fish, spinner dolphins and even humpback whales frequent the waters in winter.

Sharks Bay
Sharks Bay is another Lanai beach that can be found to the left of Hulopoe. The two are separated by an expanse of red lava rock that extends out into the sea. This length of lava is a great feature to hike over and gives tremendous views of the east and west coastlines and of Pu'u Pehe Rock. Sandy sheltered and quite isolated this cove is a great place for an intimate picnic and some quiet sunbathing. With no life guard and strong currents it is advised that swimmers enter the water with caution.

Halepalaoa Beach
This Lanai beach is also known as Kahalepalaoa, the shorter name meaning “whale house.” The beach itself is surrounded by detritus from the rock formations of the area. An old wharf is also located on this Hawaiian beach which was established during the days of the Maunalei Sugar Plantation. The wharf is still present but is now only a mere shell of its former self, a ruin that intrigues and excites visitors. To the one side of the wharf is a white sandy area that is perfect for swimming. Unfortunately this is one of Hawaii 's beaches that are only accessible by land rover or other 4x4 vehicle.

Lopa Beach
This is another of Lanai 's beaches that requires the use of a 4x4 to access it – but the trek is worth the effort as often people who do find they have the whole of the beach to themselves. The trip to the Lopa Beach itself is an adventure in itself with a number of trails that can be chosen from. This is the perfect spot to relax and take in life or go for a swim in the crystal colored waters. However, it is ill-advised that swimming is undertaken in winter because of the dangerous surf that characterizes waters during that time of year. Other points of interest include the ancient Loko Lopa fishpond.

Polihua Beach
A Lanai beach that is located just on from the Garden of the Gods. The name Polihua means “egg nest” and came from the fact that the beach was a busy nesting area for the now endangered green sea turtle many years ago. This bit of Hawaiian coastal area is loved by surfers and sun-tanners alike, but visitors should be aware that there are no facilities available here other than a few local fishing huts. Therefore it is advised you pack water and sunscreen. Strong currents also characterize the waters of this area making swimming dangerous at times.