Big Island Pictures - Beaches

Big Island Pictures - Beaches - Unfortunately, The Big Island of Hawaii, being so much newer than all the other islands doesn't have a lot of really good stretches of beach. Beaches and their sand are made by hundreds of thousands of years of ocean surf pounding against shells and rock. Many coastal areas of Big Island are less than 1000 years old, so what you mostly see are only rocks, no sand. The Big Island has many other incredible attributes that make up for this lack of beaches, still there are a few really nice beaches such as:
Hapuna Beach - This beach is one of America's best beaches and is located about 30 miles north of Kona on Highway 19. Hapuna beach is a great beach for sunbathing and hanging out, for surfing, boogie boarding, snorkeling, swimming, and there are grassy areas available with restrooms.
Kauna'oa Beach - Located near Mauna Kea Beach hotel, about 31 miles north of Kona on Highway 19. This beach was voted twice 'Best Beach in the World' by Conde-Nash! But - only 30 visitors are allowed to get passes, although its free. The beach is pristine, clean, full of corrals and tropical fish. Be there before 9am and you have a chance to 'get in'.
Black Sand Beach (Punalu'u)- Punalu'u is located south of Kona near the 63 mile marker of Highway 11. Here you can find white sand, its all black and its populated by lots of sea turtles. Beach is a bit rocky but great for snorkeling and enjoying sea turtles!
Anaeho'omalu Beach - Is located about 20 miles north of Kona at Waikoloa Beach drive, from there take a left across from Kings shops at the sign that says beach. This long white sandy beach is part of the Waikoloa Beach resort, although there is a public access. Beach and surroundings are nicely maintained.