Hawaii's Top Ten Sun-In-The-Fun Beaches

# 10) Waikiki Beach - One of Hawaii's most popular beaches, Waikiki attracts over 4 million tourists a year. Two miles of sun-drenched beach on Oahu's coastline offers memorable vistas and great people watching. Explore Diamond Head Crater, or get your feet wet in the warm waters. The more adventurous can take surfing lessons from the "beachboys", a local surfing group.

# 9) Honaunau Bay - Honaunau Bay is a true diverse paradise. The "Place of Refuge" attracts scuba divers from around the world. They come to experience its colorful coral reefs, several species of exotic fish, and an underwater environment that is truly out of this world.

# 8) Kaanapali Beach - Located on the island of Maui, Kaanapali Beach is home to many of Hawaii's most exclusive resorts. Come and be spoiled with your own personal Beach Butler. Lay in the sun and sip daiquiris or mineral water while you work on your tan. Afterwards, indulge in a lomi lomi massage (noted for its spiritual and healing effects). This is the ideal beach getaway if you're looking for some constant pampering.

# 7) Kauna'oa Beach - Your best access to this very private beach is as a guest at the famed Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The swanky resort restricts public access to this clean and beautiful beach, so you may want to enjoy a delicious meal in one of its five restaurants, then casually mosie on over to enjoy the beach's pristine serenity.

# 6) Poipu Beach - Poipu Beach is a little slice of tranquil heaven located on the southern tip of Kauai. Famous for its calm waters, the water in the bay never gets deeper than 3 feet. Poipu is popular among families with small children, and boasts well-maintained picnic areas, covered pavilions and shower/bathroom facilities.

# 5) Lahaina Beach - Romance rules at this idyllic beach nestled in the quaint whaling village of Lahaina. Lahaina is one of the most romantic beaches in the world due to its tranquil old fishing village, lush tropical plant life, and majestic ocean view. Enjoy the Old Lahaina Luau, where locals dance the traditional hula, serve succulent imu-roasted pig, and hold lei ceremonies.

# 4) Hookipa Beach - Hookipa Beach is well-known for its notorious trade winds. This beach can be enjoyed if you love white windswept sands and towering palm trees. Windsurfers love it too, and this is where you'll catch them riding waves and competing in windsurfing competitions.

# 3) Punalu'u Beach - Who says a great beach has to be boring? For a change of pace, visit the rare and unusual black beach of Punalu'u. Created from spilled lava from both the Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes, the black sand is always warm and soothing to the touch. If you love to fish, join the locals and experience some of the best fishing in the world.

# 2) The North Shore - The North Shore is actually comprised of three beaches: Waimeia Bay (tranquil in the summer, awesome surfer waves in winter); the Pipeline (a die-hard surfer Mecca); and Sunset Beach (known for its beautiful and colorful sunsets). Three great ways to enjoy one of Hawaii's best beach getaways.

# 1) Lanikai Beach - Beautiful sparkling sands, swaying palm trees, lush tropical plants, endless sunshine, turquoise green waters, kayaking, nearby bird sanctuaries, and one of the best sunrises on Oahu can all be found at Lanikai. If you're lucky, you might even catch a few models in the middle of a photo shoot!
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