Episode Details
Back to EpisodesWhere to Go in Hawaii: Best Beaches for Snorkeling, Sunset & Actually Finding Parking— Ep 83
Description
Ultimate Guide to Hawaii's Best Beaches: Snorkeling, Sunsets, and Secluded Spots
Planning a trip to Hawaii can be overwhelming with its plethora of beaches. This guide breaks down the top beaches across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island based on your interests—whether it's snorkeling, sunset watching, easy parking, or finding secluded spots away from the crowds. Recommendations are tailored to suit different needs, from family-friendly locations to adventurous hikes and mobility-friendly beach options. The video also offers practical tips on parking, timing, and safety, ensuring you pick the perfect beach for your visit. For personalized advice, consultation services are available.
00:00 Introduction: Planning Your Perfect Hawaii Beach Trip
01:25 Oahu: Top Beaches for Snorkeling and Sunsets
06:36 Maui: Best Beaches for Snorkeling and Sunsets
10:35 Kauai: Snorkeling, Sunsets, and Secluded Spots
14:07 Big Island: Snorkeling and Unique Beaches
18:01 Conclusion: Tips for Choosing the Best Beach
Who this episode is for: Anyone trying to choose the right beach across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island based on specific priorities — snorkeling, sunsets, easy parking, or seclusion.
What you'll learn: Top beach picks by island and by purpose (snorkeling, sunset watching, family-friendly, secluded, mobility-friendly), plus practical tips on parking, timing, and safety.
Places discussed:
- Oahu
- Maui
- Kauai
- Big Island
Activities discussed:
- Snorkeling
- Sunset watching
- Finding beach parking
- Choosing family-friendly beaches
- Choosing secluded/less-crowded beaches
- Choosing mobility-friendly beach options
Marcie's recommendations:
- Match your beach choice to your specific priority — snorkeling, sunset, parking ease, or seclusion — rather than picking the most famous option by default
- Each island has distinct standout beaches for different purposes; see linked resources for specifics
- Consider mobility-friendly beach options if accessibility is a factor for your group
- Plan parking and timing strategically, since beach access has become more complex in recent years (see also: Ep 82)
- Prioritize safety awareness specific to each beach's conditions
Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:
Related articles:
- 105 Expert Travel Tips to Enjoy Hawaii on a Budget
- 10 Hawaii Travel Hacks for Families on a Budget
- Get Your FREE Hawaii Family Budget Planner!
- FREE 5 Day Email Course: How to Save Money in Hawaii
Additional resources:
About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories.
Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com
Connect: @hawaiitravelwithki