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BIG ISLAND · WATER QUALITY GUIDE · 2026

Beaches Along Kohala Coast Drive

Queen Kaʻahumanu Hwy, Big Island — ranked by water quality and bacteria risk

Drive times and water quality risk levels for beaches near Queen Kaʻahumanu Hwy, Big Island. Risk ratings are based on long-term DOH bacteria testing data and geography. Always check current Big Island advisories before swimming — conditions change after rain.
Nearby Beaches — Ranked by Proximity
Honokohau Beach Low ●
Sea turtles at harbor beach
Mile 97
South end, near Kona
White sand, turquoise water, gate hours
Mile 88
Heading north
Shaded, uncrowded, local name
Mile 71
Mid-Kohala
Hapuna Beach Low ●
Best public beach on the island
Mile 69
Mid-Kohala
Mauna Kea Beach Low ●
Limited parking passes
Mile 68
North Kohala
Spencer Beach Low ●
Calm, protected, family-friendly
Mile 60
North end
If Brown Water Is Active

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Queen Kaʻahumanu Hwy, Big Island:

  • Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
  • Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
  • Best rain-resistant option: Honokohau Beach (South end, near Kona) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
  • Check the Big Island live advisories page for current conditions
Book Tours & Activities

Top-rated experiences near Queen Kaʻahumanu Hwy, Big Island. Check water quality above, then plan your trip.

Tours Near Queen Kaʻahumanu Hwy, Big Island
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.

Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.

When in doubt, don’t go out. 🤙

© 2026 Safe to Swim Hawaii · Independent passion project · safetoswimhawaii@gmail.com