Hawai'i the Big Island - Hawaii - page 342

Due to its drive-up access and popularity, the restrooms and picnic area at this state
recreation area ( gate 7am-8pm; ) can be crowded and, at worst, grungy. Still, facil-
ities do include pay phones, drinking water, showers, restrooms and a picnic area. Life-
guards are on duty.
To get here, take Hapuna Beach Rd just south of mile marker 69. Arrive early to snag
a parking space and stake out a good spot. In 2011 the state was considering charging an
entry fee for nonresidents, but a decision was still pending during research for this topic.
Bring industrial-strength sunscreen because there's little shade.
Outdoorsy types could bunk in one of the six state-owned A-frame cabins (per night
residents/nonresidents $30/50) near the beach. The awesome location is perfect for sunset
and moonrise watching. While run-down and makeshift for the price, the cabins are de-
cently livable and each sleeps four people on wooden platforms (bring your own bed-
dings). There are restrooms, showers and a cooking pavilion with a stove and fridge.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Mauna Kea Resort Area
The Mauna Kea may not have the historical heritage of resorts to the south, but it does
have proximity to two of the Big Island's great beaches. Development here began when
the late Laurance Rockefeller obtained a 99-year lease on the land around Kaunaʻoa Bay.
'Every great beach deserves a great hotel,' Rockefeller apparently said. Not everyone
would agree, but he got his way here.
For dining options beyond hotel fare, head to Waimea, Kawaihae or the Waikoloa Re-
sort Area for more variety.
Beaches
Mauna Kea Beach BEACH
MAP
Laurance Rockefeller picked a winner in this picture-perfect beach, unofficially named
after the hotel flanking it. Crescent-shaped Kaunaʻoa Bay is blanketed in powdery white
sand, while the clear waters are calm and shallow (generally less than 10ft). Snorkeling is
only average near the shore; go to the north end along the rocky ledge.