Waialea Beach, also called Waialea Bay or Beach 69, is a small beach on Old Puako Road on the Big Island. Trees shade its sandy shoreline, and the bay’s protected waters make it a good place to swim and snorkel when conditions are calm. Look for reef fish around the rocks and coral, and sea turtles may be resting in the bay. Restrooms, showers and changing facilities are available. Arrive early for a parking spot, then choose a shaded stretch of sand or explore the snorkeling areas.
Shade, sand and smaller coves
Waialea Beach lies on Old Puako Road and is also known as Waialea Bay or Beach 69. The shoreline is made up of several smaller sandy areas, with trees extending over parts of the water and providing shade on shore. This makes it possible to settle in away from the sun, then move along the beach to find a different stretch of sand.
The bay has sheltered areas suited to gentle swimming when ocean conditions are calm. Families can play in the sand and look in the tide pools. There are restrooms and showers, and the facilities can also be useful for changing after a swim. No lifeguards are on duty, so check conditions before entering the water.
Snorkeling and choosing a spot
Snorkeling is a main reason to visit. Reef fish gather around coral and large rocks, and some snorkeling areas are accessible without swimming far from shore. The right side of the beach is a good place to look for snorkeling spots. Water clarity can drop when waves and currents pick up, so check the sea before heading in and avoid snorkeling if conditions are unsuitable. Water shoes help with the rocky, lava-covered areas.
For a quieter place to sit, walk toward the left side and explore the smaller beach areas beneath the trees. The north end is also known as a snorkeling area, but it is popular with nudists, so choose another part of the beach if that would make you uncomfortable. Sea turtles are sometimes seen in the bay. Give wildlife space and leave the beach clean.
Parking and a comfortable beach day
The parking area is small and can fill up, particularly later in the day. Come in the morning if you want a better chance of finding a spot. Fees apply to parking and entry, but the amounts and payment arrangements are not consistent in the available information, so check the posted details at the beach.
Bring what you need for a longer stay, such as a chair and lunch, and use mineral sunscreen to help protect the reef. The trees offer shade, but conditions in the water can change. Take care around rocks, and be considerate of local families using the beach.
FAQ
Is there parking at Waialea Beach?
Yes. There is a parking area, but it can fill up, especially later in the day. Fees apply to parking and entry; check the posted details when you arrive.
Are there restrooms and showers at Waialea Beach?
Yes. Restrooms and showers are available, and the facilities can be used for changing.
Is Waialea Beach good for snorkeling?
Yes, when conditions are calm. Look around the rocks and coral for reef fish, and wear water shoes near lava rocks. Visibility can worsen when waves and currents pick up.
Are there lifeguards at Waialea Beach?
No lifeguards are on duty. Check ocean conditions before swimming or snorkeling.
