Kauna'oa - Mauna Kea Beach on Hawaii's Big Island

Renowned as one of the Big Island’s top beaches, Kaunaoa Beach, also known as Mauna Kea Beach, boasts a stretch of shoreline spanning over a quarter of a mile. With sandy-bottomed shores and shallow waters, less than 10 feet deep, it’s an ideal spot for leisurely and refreshing dips in the crystal-clear turquoise sea.

The beach was originally a royal retreat for Hawaiian royalty, and it still has a regal feel about it now. It’s more than just another beach; it’s a piece of Hawaiian history

The Beach's Natural Beauty

Imagine yourself stepping onto fine, powdery sand that glistens in the sunlight like spun sugar. It is framed by waving palm trees, which provide a natural shade canopy. The turquoise waters stretch as far as the eye can reach, enticing you to take a dip. This beach is a perfect spot to unwind, stroll along the shore, or build sandcastles. As the day comes to a close, make your way to one of the beach’s finest sunset-watching places. The sunsets from Kauna’oa – Mauna Kea Beach are spectacular. Feel the soft sand beneath your toes as the sun paints the sky with orange and pink hues.

Resort and Amenities

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

When you visit Kauna’oa Beach, you’ll be right next to the world-famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. This luxury resort provides a wide choice of amenities and rooms to meet the needs of every guest. From ocean-view rooms to suites, you’ll have plenty of options to make your stay remarkable. Your every need will be catered to with these other amenities:

Fine dining restaurant
Tennis courts
Beach bar and rentals
World-class spa
Championship golf courses
Concession stand

Kauna'oa-Mauna Kea Beach Amenities

The good thing is, you don’t have to stay at the hotel to enjoy the public beach access, which includes the following amenities:

Shower Facilities
Changing Rooms
Restrooms
Limited Parking (Non-resident parking fee: $21)
Access to Water
Shaded Areas

Water Activities

One of the attractions of Kauna’oa Beach is the variety of water activities available for everyone, whether you’re an experienced water enthusiast or a newbie. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing are just a few of the fun activities available. Mauna Kea Beach is noted for its peaceful and gentle waves, making it a great site for swimming and family-friendly water sports.

The beach has something for everyone, whether you’re floating on a paddleboard, exploring beneath the surface with snorkeling gear, or simply making sandcastles with the kids. Beach equipment, snorkeling equipment, kayaks, boogie boards, or paddle boards can be rented at the beach concession stand next to the restaurant.

Marine Life and Wildlife

The Hawaiian waters are home to a wide variety of marine life. A wonderful encounter with them will be something you remember for the rest of your life. The beach’s shallow, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling. You can explore the colorful coral reefs and swim with tropical fish, like swimming in an underwater rainbow as you snorkel or swim. You can rent some snorkeling gear in the area if you haven’t brought your own for a wonderful underwater experience.

Keep a watch out for the gentle giants of the sea, as dolphins and humpback whales pass through these waters throughout their migration season. If you’re a licensed diver, don’t skip the chance to explore the ocean’s depths and possibly encounter a manta ray on a night dive.

If you’re lucky, you might see graceful sea turtles during your underwater adventures. You might also come across Hawaiian green sea turtles, which are often seen near the shore lazing in the sun and are fascinating to watch.

Manta Ray Night Dive

Several boat outfitters sail to Mauna Kea’s coasts at night, where floodlights above the sea attract plankton, the manta ray’s food supply. These gentle giants can be seen from the “Manta Ray Point” observation deck of Mauna Kea Beach Resort, which is located on the ocean side, near the “Manta” Restaurant. It’s a fantastic vantage point for viewing the magnificent manta ray.

History and Culture

The Hawaiian Islands are not only a place of natural beauty but also of history and culture.

The beach of Kauna’oa – Mauna Kea, has its own fascinating history to share.

It used to be a royal retreat for Hawaiian royalty. As you tour around this area, you can sense its cultural and historical significance. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel organizes cultural events and activities in which you can participate, including hula lessons, lei-making workshops, and guided tours to learn more about the island’s history. If you enjoy art, have a look at the Mauna Kea Hotel Art Collection, which features museum-quality pieces curated by Laurance S. Rockefeller and displayed across the grounds. Engage with the local culture to have a deeper appreciation of this beautiful destination.

Accessibility and Tips

Travel Options: You can travel to the nearest airports to reach Mauna Kea Beach, which includes Kona International Airport and Hilo International Airport. When you arrive, you can rent a car or avail of shuttle services to get to the beach.
Parking: The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel provides parking for guests. The resort charges a $21 parking fee for non-Hawaii residents as of March 2022. It’s a public beach, so if you’re not staying at the hotel, you’ll just need to get a beach access card or be waved through the resort entrance gate. There are only about 30 parking spaces available for non-hotel guests; it’s best to arrive early before 9 AM because once the places are full, you’ll have to wait for someone to depart. Check with the hotel about parking availability and any other associated fees.
Wheelchair Accessibility: While the beach itself may have restricted accessibility for persons with mobility issues, it’s best to inquire with the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel for specific accommodations. The hotel may provide accessible rooms and services to visitors with impairments.

For more information and inquiries, you may contact the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel through this number (808) 882-7222 or check their website.

Directions and Map

The beach is located on Queen Kaahumanu Highway (#119), about 30 miles north of Kailua Kona, just past the Waikoloa Resort Area and Hapuna Beach markers. The entrance to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is on the left at mile marker 68. Look for the “Mauna Kea Resort” walls along the highway – you won’t miss them. To get to the public parking, go to the security gate. The attendant will ask you for your reason for entering, and you should tell him you want to visit Mauna Kea Beach and request a public beach parking pass.

They will send you down if space is available, then just proceed towards the resort until it comes to an end on the left. You will need to slide your credit card into the machine to pay the $20 parking cost.Then park in the allocated beach parking and proceed through the gate and down to the beach.

If the public parking slots are full before you arrive and you don’t want to wait, you have a few options:

Check if the hotel’s valet parking is available and use it.
You can come back later. People don’t usually stay at the beach all day, so you could try swinging by around lunchtime to see if any free parking places have opened up.
You can head to one of the neighboring world-class beaches, like Hapuna Beach State Park or Waialea Bay Beach.
You may also park your car at Hapuna Beach and walk to Mauna Kea Beach via the 0.9 mile (15-20 minute walking) trail that follows the coast. A few small bathing ponds can also be found along the walk on a quiet day.

Local Dining

Manta Restaurant: The Manta Restaurant, located in the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, is a must-see for a very unique dining experience. Enjoy stunning seaside dining with breathtaking views, and if you’re lucky, you might even see manta rays swimming in the waters below. The menu is a delectable combination of Pacific Rim and Hawaii Regional Cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, locally produced ingredients.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel Dining: Located just a short distance from Mauna Kea Beach, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel offers a variety of dining alternatives. Coast Grille is ideal for relaxed poolside dining with a view of the ocean. Meridia, which serves contemporary Italian cuisine, is a more upmarket option.
Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill: Roy’s is noted for its combination of European skills and Asian food and is located in the Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort. The environment is exquisite, and the meal is outstanding, with a flavor combination that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Lava Lava Beach Club: This popular Waikoloa beachfront restaurant is a short drive from Mauna Kea Beach. Lava Lava Beach Club has a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, as well as great tropical beverages and a selection of Hawaiian-inspired meals. With your toes in the sand and the sound of the ocean in the background, enjoy your dinner.
‘Ulu Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge: This luxury beachside restaurant is located at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. The restaurant is proud to use locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, and the sushi selection is excellent. The sunset views from here are breathtaking.

Accommodation Options

When visiting Mauna Kea Beach on Hawaii’s Big Island, you’ll discover a variety of lodging options to fit your interests and budget. If you’re looking for luxury resorts, vacation rentals, or boutique hotels, the area has plenty of options to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Here are some of the best places to stay near Mauna Kea Beach:

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel: As one of the area’s most prominent resorts, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers exquisite accommodations with oceanfront views. This traditional, premium resort offers a variety of attractions such as golf, dining, a spa, and cultural activities.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel: Located next to Mauna Kea Beach, this hotel provides a more modern and family-friendly environment. It’s a wonderful choice for people looking for a blend of comfort and value, with big accommodations, seaside views, and several dining options.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: This upmarket resort is only a short drive away and offers a calm and picturesque environment. The Mauna Lani offers a choice of hotel and suite options, golf courses, a spa, and beach access.
Vacation Rentals: Consider vacation rentals in Mauna Kea Beach for a more private and flexible experience. There are a wide range of rental properties available, from beachfront villas to small condos. Websites such as Airbnb and Vrbo can assist you in finding the ideal property to meet your requirements.
Fairmont Orchid: The Fairmont Orchid, located close, offers luxury accommodations, gorgeous grounds, and seaside dining. The resort offers a sophisticated yet laid-back setting for your Hawaiian vacation.

Consider your budget, the type of experience you want, and your proximity to Mauna Kea Beach when booking your accommodations near the beach. Whether you choose a luxury resort or a quaint cottage, you’ll be able to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Big Island during your stay.