Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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J. Lambus Photography
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Kona Bay Books
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Na Makana
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The following are either pros or cons depending on your attitude: Kailua has the most
hotels and condos, the most tourists, the most souvenirs per square foot and is the most
likely place on the island to find businesses open on Sunday.
Anyways, we like Kailua. It's a convenient base from which to enjoy the Kona Coast's
beaches, snorkeling, watersports, and ancient Hawaiian sites, and seriously, that water-
front is wonderful when you're taking it in with a sweaty beer and some fresh fish.
Beaches
White (Magic) Sands Beach Park
BEACH
MAP
( ) This small but gorgeous beach (also called LaŹ»aloa Beach) has crystal-clear tur-
quoise waters, tall palms, little shade and possibly the best bodysurfing on the Big Island.
The waves are consistent and just powerful enough to shoot you across the water without
breaking your body; the sandy bay bottom helps in this regard. During high-winter surf
the beach can lose its sand literally overnight, earning it the nickname 'Magic Sands.'
When the rocks and coral located past the dissapearing sands are exposed, the beach
becomes too treacherous for most swimmers. Gradually the sand returns, transforming
the shore back into its former beachy self.
White Sands is almost always packed, but there's little-to-no proprietary attitude from
locals. Facilities include rest rooms, showers, picnic tables and a volleyball court; a life-
guard is on duty. The park is about 4 miles south of the center. Sunsets here are mind-
blowing.
Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area
BEACH
