Resort on Great Beach

Question

We are considering a trip to the island of Hawaii in July and would really like to stay at a resort on the beach. We have previously loved Waikiki (clear water and soft sand) and Grace Bay Turks and Caicos (clear water and calm). Is there a beachfront resort in Hawaii on a beautiful beach with clear water and relatively calm conditions? How is the beach at the Hilton Waikoloa? Where else should we consider? We are not concerned about price point at this stage. Thank you.

Answer

The Island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) offers a variety of beachfront resorts, though it’s a bit different from places like Waikiki or Grace Bay in terms of calm waters and clear sand. Many of the beaches on the Big Island have more natural, rugged beauty, and the ocean conditions can vary depending on the time of year and location. However, there are still several fantastic beachfront options with clear water and relatively calm conditions, especially if you're willing to explore different parts of the island.

First, regarding the Hilton Waikoloa Village, it's located on the Kohala Coast and offers an expansive property with beautiful views of the ocean. While the beach here, called Anaehoomalu Bay, is relatively calm and suitable for lounging, the sand can sometimes be a bit coarser than the soft sand you're used to in places like Grace Bay. The waters can be clear and pleasant for swimming, but it does experience occasional waves and currents. The bay is also great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even spotting sea turtles. It's a lovely resort with plenty of activities and a variety of dining options, though if you’re specifically looking for ultra-clear, calm water, it might not be as ideal as other spots on the island.

If you're seeking more calm, crystal-clear water similar to Grace Bay, I would recommend considering the following options:

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel – Located on the Kohala Coast, Mauna Kea Beach has one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The water here is clear and calm, making it great for swimming and snorkeling. The resort itself is set on a lovely beach, with soft white sand and excellent amenities. It’s one of the most popular resorts for guests looking for a high-end experience with beachfront access and calm waters.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – Another excellent option on the Kona Coast, the Four Seasons offers a beautiful beach with calm, clear water perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The property is luxurious, with excellent service and plenty of options for both adventure and relaxation. The water here is usually calm, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a peaceful beach experience.
Fairmont Orchid – Also located on the Kohala Coast, the Fairmont Orchid offers a great beach for swimming with clear, calm water. The beach itself is perfect for relaxing, and the resort’s location gives guests easy access to nearby hiking and other adventures. The lagoon-style beach area is ideal for families and couples alike, with plenty of space to enjoy the surroundings.
Kona Coast – Kailua-Kona Area – For more options, the Kailua-Kona area has several resorts with beach access, including the Royal Kona Resort and King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. While the beaches here tend to be more rocky and less calm than the Kohala Coast, they do offer great snorkeling and a lively atmosphere. Some areas, like Kahaluu Beach, have clear water and relatively calm conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

Beyond these resorts, the Big Island is known for its more rugged, volcanic beaches. Some beaches, like Green Sand Beach or Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, offer unique landscapes, but the waters can sometimes be more turbulent due to the volcanic formations, so they may not be ideal for swimming, especially with younger children or if you're looking for calm waters.

In summary, for the clearest water and calmest conditions similar to what you’re looking for, I would highly recommend the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Four Seasons Hualalai, and Fairmont Orchid. All three offer beautiful beaches with calm, clear water and excellent resort amenities. The Hilton Waikoloa Village is also a solid option, especially if you want a larger resort with plenty of activities, though the beach here can be a bit more variable in terms of sand and water conditions.

Enjoy planning your trip, and I’m sure you’ll find the perfect spot for your beachfront getaway!