Eight can’t-miss Hawaii beach destinations

Best for: an electric atmosphere

Having a bustling urban neighborhood as its backdrop doesn’t detract from the world-famous Waikiki’s beauty, one of the best beaches in Hawaii. Found in the Hawaiian capital, Honolulu, the beach buzzes with life and revelers can partake in any water sport imaginable. There are also countless bars and restaurants nearby, including local institution Duke’s Barefoot Bar, named after Honolulu’s Olympic swimmer and surfer Duke Paoa Kahanamoku. If you’re enticed by all of the above, you can spend a few hours at Waikiki as part of a relaxing Princess day trip.

Best for: family fun

With a lifeguard on duty seven days a week, a separate ‘swimming pool’ area that’s great for children to splash around in, public showers and toilets, picnic tables and plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby, it’s no wonder Poipu is a big hit with families and one of the best beaches in kauai. But it’s not just young ones that will love this beach: the arcing white sands and palm trees make it a gorgeous beach that everyone will enjoy spending time at. While there, be sure to look out for loveable Hawaiian monk seals as well, who like to make the occasional appearance onshore.

Best for: jaw-dropping views

If you’re searching for a beach that’s straight off a postcard, head for Lanikai. Endless stretches of dazzling, golden sand and sapphire-blue waters melting into the horizon, banks of luscious greenery… You’ll be hard-pushed to find a more picturesque beach in all of Hawaii – in fact, Lanikai often ranks among the most attractive beaches in the world. Despite its beauty, Lanikai is also surprisingly peaceful, thanks to a tucked-away (but easily accessible) location in a quiet corner of Oahu, just 30 minutes from Honolulu.

Best for: wall-to-wall water sports

Known for its vast offering of water sports, Kailua is the place to go if you want to do more than simply take a dip in the sea. Here you can try your hand at kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddle-boarding, to name just a few activities on offer. There are ample shops nearby from which you can rent equipment or hire an instructor. Of course, if you do just want to splash around in the waves for a while, there’s plenty of room for that as well.

Best for: wonderful wildlife

Hawaii is home to all kinds of exotic wildlife, and though you can admire it in numerous places, Kahaluu (also known as Kahaluu Beach Park) is one of Hawaii’s premium wildlife-spotting destinations. While it might not have the knockout views of Lanikai, Kahaluu more than makes up for it with its incredible inhabitants. Green sea turtles are the star of the show here, although they’re a protected species, so you can only view them from a distance. However, you can get up-close to underwater creatures by snorkeling, where you’ll see colorful specimens like the raccoon butterflyfish and the bullethead parrotfish. To learn more about the area’s ecosystem and how to help protect it, visit the Kahaluu Bay Education Center.

Best for: Expansive white sands and swimming

If you’re looking for that classic white-sand beach vibe, Hapuna Beach on the Big Island is pure paradise. Known for its sprawling stretch of soft sand and inviting turquoise waters, Hapuna is a favorite for those who want plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. The beach’s gentle waves make it ideal for swimming and floating, while snorkeling is perfect along the rocks at each end. It’s among the most family-friendly beaches in Hawaii with picnic tables, restrooms and food options, so you can enjoy a day here with everything you need close by.

Best for: Resort amenities and snorkeling

Kaanapali Beach on Maui’s western shore is where natural beauty meets top-notch amenities. Lined with beachfront resorts, shops and restaurants, Kaanapali is perfect if you love a lively beach scene. It’s also home to Black Rock, a snorkeling hotspot where you can see vibrant fish and, if you’re lucky, a sea turtle or two! Spend your day soaking in the sun, then walk along the paved beach path for snacks or a refreshing drink. At sunset, catch the cliff-diving ceremony at Black Rock—an amazing tradition that honors the rich Hawaiian beach history.

Best for: Snorkeling and marine conservation

A trip to Oahu isn’t complete without visiting Hanauma Bay, a renowned marine conservation area with some of Hawaii’s most stunning underwater scenes. Formed in a volcanic crater, the bay’s calm, clear waters are home to an incredible variety of marine life, making it one of the best places for snorkeling in Hawaii. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the bay’s fragile ecosystem at the education center, adding an enriching element to your day of adventure. Plus, since entry is regulated, you’ll have a more peaceful experience while knowing you’re helping to preserve this Hawaiian treasure.

Get ready to dip your toes in world-famous Hawaii beach destinations. Learn about Princess Hawaii cruises, where you’ll experience the best of these sun-soaked shores and much more. From the lively sands of Waikiki to the crystal waters of Hapuna Beach, every stop offers its own slice of paradise. Our Hawaii cruises are designed to bring you closer to the islands’ unique beach landscapes, culture and history—so you can soak in the sun, adventure, and aloha spirit every step of the way. Curious to see where your next Hawaii adventure can take you? Don’t wait, the sooner you plan your Hawaii escape the sooner you’ll find yourself kicking back and relaxing with your feet in the sand.