This beach is conveniently located on the west coast of the island where you can catch breathtaking sunset views. The water has a surf to it and the winter, in particular, tends to be rougher waters which the local surfers love, but you may want to be careful to dip your toes during that time of year.

When you hear about the mineral “olivine” are you thinking what we’re thinking? If that’s a “yes” then you know this is one of the few green sand beaches in the world. That’s right, thanks to this unique lava sand there is a greenish color to the beach which means it’s well worth the trip. The surf can get strong and there’s no lifeguard so play it safe.

Opposite side of Oahu from Waikiki is Waimea Beach where cliff jumping off of the picturesque rock is practically a requirement at this outing. The waters are quite calm as well, so bring snorkel gear with hopes to see some tropical fish and possibly a sea turtle.

Considered some of the best bodysurfing in all of Hawaii is Makapuu Beach. There are blowholes in the nearby rocks, which is always fun to play around (carefully). Most people stop just a few hundred yards down the road to see the nearby lighthouse, which we certainly recommend doing while having a beach day.

The word for “curved water” in the Hawaiian language is the name of this beach, and it’s bow-like trajectory makes it clear how it earned that name. This is a black sand beach which is a must-do while on the volcanic archipelago with its drastic contrast to Caribbean beaches that most of us lower-48ers are accustomed to.

The island of Molokai is rarely visited by travelers so you’re generally guaranteed to avoid the crowds anywhere you go here. Halawa Beach is actually made up of two coves and the riptide can get dicey when the surf is up, so be careful. Maybe the best area to explore is the adjacent cliffs that dramatically dive into the water; you probably shouldn’t do the same from up there.

Hapuna Beach is home to one of the largest white sand beaches in the state at a half-mile long. Thanks to the gorgeous sand, the westerly outlooks (sunsets), and the approachable water conditions, Hapuna is regularly considered one of the best beaches in the world.

You’ll think you’re in Jurassic Park at this beach because, well, you kind of are. The famous movie was filmed on the North Shore of Kauai where Ke’e Beach is located as well. The best part of hanging out in this other-world is that there generally is no cell coverage out here: goodbye social media, hello relaxation.

Taro fields, mountains, and forest surround this spectacular beach haven. The long pier begs to be ventured upon, while the quaint town of the same name offers some local flare. Remember, this is not just a paradise, but a home to the locals so always show respect and appreciation for crashing their private pocket of heaven.

You can’t land on Maui without a plan to head to Hana for some of the best beach life in Hawaii. The town is quaint and inviting and the water is perfect for swimming and canoeing. Beware, however, of every other traveler who put Hana high on the list as tourist buses arrive every afternoon delivering pasty mainlanders. But just look at that beach; you can’t resist.