Kahalu'u Park is a fantastic beach for casual snorkeling. Protected by a breakwater, the calm waters provide an excellent opportunity for you to swim amongst sea turtles, chocolate polka-dotted Trunkfish, and brilliant Parrotfish without any fear of a strong current.

If the tide is right, surfers will be riding the easy surf outside the breakwater. The park has showers, restrooms, and a lifeguard on duty. If you go, be sure to bring a pair of water shoes and a towel - the black sand really heats up during the day.

Ho'okena is a black sands beach and is located at the point south of Kealekua Bay.

A 45 minute drive south of the homes, past Kealekua Bay, this beach is remote and is somewhat of a journey to get to. The roads are long and winding but the views are breathtaking. Imagine descending the mountain cliffs onto the pepper-sand beach with deep blue water. I've enjoyed my long walks on this sandy beach with the dolphins playing in the background.

If you go, remember to pack a picnic as this beach has no restaurants, just little shacks. The locals don't seem to serve food between lunch and dinner times, so always have a snack nearby. I was caught off-guard several times. Don't forget the Dramamine and towels for the post swim showers. There are an unusual amount of wasps gathering around the showers.