Mauna Kea Beach

The Big Island isn't as well known for its beaches as some of the other Hawaiian islands, but it does have some nice ones, including black sand and even green sand beaches thanks to its more recent volcanic origins. Except for a few spots reserved for the federal government, all the beaches in Hawaii are open to the public. Even where resorts or other private developers have built their fancy edifices close to the ocean, they are required to provide parking and access to the public. Our favorite beach so far is at Mauna Kea Beach Resort. Here the parking for we lowly non-resort guests is limited to 40 spots so you have to show up early. We arrived at 9:15am and snagged spot number 35. Mauna Kea Beach is a gently sloped white sand crescent flanked by rocky promontories. Not enough wave action for surfers or probably even serious boogie boarders, but amateur boogie boarders, swimmers and snorkelers like it, and so did we. Even I, the non-swimmer, enjoyed splashing about in the clear water. Deborah absolutely loved it.

 Mauna Kea Beach

 A boogie boarder waits for a wave

 Deborah is happy

 There comes a point where you've had enough sun.