Remote and Uncrowded
Makalawena Beach (15 min hike), Kiholo Bay (short hike), Green Sand Beach (Papakolea, long hike), Pololu Valley Beach (steep hike), and Waipio Valley Beach are among the most secluded options.
Makalawena is often called the best beach on the Big Island. The 15-minute hike over lava rock keeps crowds away. The white sand is pristine with low bacteria risk and the Kohala Coast location means consistently clean water.
Remote beaches on the Big Island often have no lifeguards, limited or no cell service, and can have strong currents. Always check conditions, bring water and sun protection, tell someone your plans, and never swim alone.
The Hawaii Department of Health recommends staying out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain, even if the water looks clear. Bacteria and pollutants from runoff can linger in the water longer than the brown color does.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — it is not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health, Big Island beaches, or any government agency or hotel brand. Water quality ratings on this site are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions. “No DOH Alerts” means no advisory is currently posted — it does not mean the water was tested and found safe. DOH only monitors a fraction of Hawaii’s beaches, and some areas have no regular testing at all.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be the sole basis for any swimming decisions.
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When in doubt, don’t go out. 🤙