America’s Best beach
Hapuna and Your Gateway at Nānā Kai
When “Dr. Beach” named Hapuna Beach State Park the number one beach in America for 2021, the Big Island community wasn’t surprised—but the rest of the country took notice. When TripAdvisor crowned it the top beach in the United States in 2022, followed by consistent appearances in the top rankings ever since, the message became clear: Hapuna Beach represents the pinnacle of American coastal beauty. For residents of Nānā Kai, this world-class destination isn’t just a vacation fantasy—it’s a 15-minute drive from your new Hawaiian home.
A Beach Worthy of Its Accolades
Dr. Stephen Leatherman, the Florida International University professor who has evaluated American beaches for over three decades using 50 rigorous criteria, describes Hapuna as “an oasis” against the dramatic backdrop of black lava rock and turquoise water. The beach’s gleaming white coral sand appears almost luminous in contrast to the ancient volcanic flows that frame it, creating what visitors describe as an “unapologetically magical” setting.
Stretching nearly half a mile in length, Hapuna ranks as the largest white-sand beach on the Big Island. This expansive shoreline means there’s always room to spread out, even during peak season. The beach earned bonus points in Dr. Beach’s evaluation for Hawaii’s progressive smoking ban on all beaches and the exemplary safety record of its year-round professional lifeguards.
TripAdvisor reviewers echo the professional assessment. With over 7,200 reviews and 90% rating it at the highest five-bubble level, travelers praise everything from the “crystal clear water” to the “remarkably challenging to find large, white sandy beaches on the Big Island with water peaceful enough for swimming”. The consensus is clear: Hapuna delivers an experience that justifies its status among the world’s elite beaches.
Year-Round Paradise for Every Interest
What makes Hapuna exceptional is its versatility across seasons and activities. During calm summer months, the beach transforms into a swimmer’s paradise with gentle waves and exceptional visibility for snorkeling around the rocky points at each end of the bay. The warm ocean waters, ranging between 77-83°F year-round, invite extended aquatic exploration.
As winter approaches, Hapuna reveals another personality. Northwest ocean swells create **ideal conditions for bodyboarding and body surfing. The powerful shore break attracts experienced wave riders while remaining accessible to those who simply want to play in the shallows. From December through April, visitors gain the added bonus of whale watching opportunities as humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters.
The beach infrastructure supports full-day visits with shaded pavilions, picnic tables, barbecue facilities, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a snack shack. The $5 entry fee for non-residents ($10 parking) provides access to one of America’s premier natural attractions from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
The Nānā Kai Connection
For Nānā Kai residents, Hapuna’s world-class reputation translates into tangible daily lifestyle benefits. The 12-15 mile drive from Waikoloa Village to Hapuna Beach takes just 15 minutes by car, making spontaneous sunset visits, morning snorkel sessions, or weekend family outings effortlessly achievable.
This proximity extends beyond Hapuna. Nānā Kai’s location provides equally convenient access to neighboring beaches like Waialea Bay (Beach 69), renowned for its intimate, tree-shaded coves, and Mauna Kea Beach, consistently rated among Hawaii’s finest. The nearby Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers dining options and amenities accessible to beachgoers, including the poolside Naupaka Beach Grill with live music and craft cocktails.
Living at Nānā Kai means residing at an elevation of 440-900 feet, where cooler evening temperatures and gentle trade winds provide comfortable sleeping conditions. Yet America’s best beach remains less than 15 minutes away, delivering that perfect balance of tranquil village living with immediate access to world-renowned coastal recreation.
When you invest in Nānā Kai, you’re not just purchasing a home in paradise—you’re securing daily access to beaches that the world’s leading experts have deemed America’s finest. That’s not marketing hyperbole. That’s your new reality.