Beaches Near Waikoloa Resort

About Waikoloa Beach Resort

The Waikoloa Beach Resort complex sits on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, a sun-baked lava landscape where luxury resorts line a coastline that was barren volcanic rock just decades ago. The resort anchors around ancient Hawaiian fishponds and petroglyphs, with Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) providing a sandy beach directly at the property.

The Kohala Coast is the driest region on the Big Island, averaging under 10 inches of rainfall per year, which translates to reliably sunny beach days and consistently excellent water quality. Beaches here are carved into gaps between lava flows, creating isolated coves with clear water and minimal runoff. Several of the best beaches require resort parking passes or early arrival to secure limited public access.

From the Waikoloa Beach Resort, A-Bay is right at the property. Hapuna Beach is about 15 minutes north on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway (Hwy 19). Mauna Lani Beach requires driving north and obtaining a parking pass from the resort gate — arrive before 8 AM on weekends. Spencer Beach is near Kawaihae Harbor, about 25 minutes north. All driving on the Kohala Coast is straightforward, as Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway connects every resort and beach access point.

Best overall: Hapuna Beach (wide sand, lifeguards, excellent water quality). Most convenient: A-Bay (on property, fishponds, rentals). Most scenic: Mauna Lani Beach (turquoise water, lava contrast — get parking pass early). Best for families: Spencer Beach (calm, shaded, campground).

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Waikoloa Beach Resort, 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: A-Bay (Anaehoomalu) (At the resort) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
• Check the Big Island live advisories page for current conditions