Kaunaoa Bay

Kaunaoa Bay, situated on Hawaii’s Big Island, is a breathtaking getaway that combines pristine natural beauty with exciting recreational opportunities. In this travel guide, you’ll discover all the essentials for visiting Kaunaoa Bay, from its top attractions to the best times to go and expert tips for enhancing your experience.

• Kaunaoa Bay is known for its soft, white sand and unique crescent shape, offering picture-perfect views and an idyllic beach experience.
• The calm, clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, ideal for both beginners and experienced water lovers.
• Kaunaoa Bay is one of the best places in Hawaii to view manta rays at night, offering a rare opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close.
• Enjoy access to amenities like restaurants, golf courses, and beachfront services provided by the prestigious Mauna Kea Resort.
• Kaunaoa Bay boasts some of the most breathtaking sunset views on the Big Island, perfect for a romantic evening or capturing stunning photos.

Kaunaoa Bay held deep spiritual and cultural importance to ancient Hawaiians. It was a place where rituals and ceremonies were performed. The name “Kaunaoa” is thought to originate from the Hawaiian words “kauna” (to gather) and “oa” (medicine), implying that the area was used for gathering medicinal plants essential to traditional practices.

In the 19th century, the land above Kaunaoa Bay became part of the sprawling Parker Ranch, one of the largest cattle ranches in Hawaii. Despite its prominence in ranching, the bay itself remained largely untouched and undeveloped during this era.

A pivotal moment in the bay’s history occurred in the 1960s when Laurance Rockefeller, a visionary businessman and philanthropist, discovered Kaunaoa Bay. Enchanted by its natural beauty, Rockefeller partnered with the State of Hawaii to create a world-class resort. His dream came to life with the opening of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in 1965, quickly becoming a sought-after destination for luxury travelers.

Today, Kaunaoa Bay continues to attract visitors from around the world. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel remains an iconic feature of the area, offering luxury accommodations, fine dining, and high-end amenities. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the shore. While Kaunaoa Bay has seen development over the years, its natural beauty and historical roots remain preserved. The bay serves as a perfect example of how thoughtful human development can coexist with the preservation of Hawaii’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Kaunaoa Bay is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque beach experience. Known for its scenic beauty and iconic Hawaiian sunsets, this bay offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in a serene, less crowded setting. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and fun.

Kaunaoa Bay’s gentle waves and pristine white sand make it a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy the water. The calm conditions create an ideal environment for both swimming and soaking up the sun in a peaceful, scenic setting.

For snorkelers, the rocky edges of Kaunaoa Bay offer an underwater world teeming with rich marine life. It’s a great spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, with clear waters providing excellent visibility for fish and coral viewing.

The calm, crystal-clear waters of Kaunaoa Bay make it a fantastic location for kayaking and paddleboarding. Adventurers can enjoy the gentle waves while exploring the bay’s stunning coastline from the water.

A walk along Kaunaoa Bay’s crescent-shaped shoreline offers a tranquil escape, where visitors can soak in the beauty of the beach and enjoy the soft sand beneath their feet. It’s a great way to relax and appreciate the serene atmosphere.

With minimal light pollution, Kaunaoa Bay is an excellent spot for nighttime stargazing. As the day winds down, the open skies provide a clear view of the stars, offering a magical experience for visitors seeking a peaceful end to their evening.

Kaunaoa Bay offers essential facilities for a comfortable beach visit, including public restrooms and showers. However, the availability of these amenities can vary based on the season and visitor traffic. While parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, beach chairs and umbrellas are provided for resort guests, with fewer options for the public. Visitors can also enjoy nearby dining options at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s restaurants and bars, enhancing the overall experience.

• Arrive early to secure a parking spot, as spaces are limited.
• Bring your beach gear (chairs, umbrellas) if you’re not staying at the resort.
• The best snorkeling is near the rocky edges of the bay—don’t forget your snorkel gear!
• Check the weather and tide conditions for the safest and most enjoyable swimming experience.
• Stay for sunset to witness the stunning views Kaunaoa Bay is known for.
• Be mindful of local wildlife, especially sea turtles—observe from a distance.
• Respect the public access trail rules when entering from outside the resort.

Kaunaoa Bay is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is ideal for beach activities. To avoid crowds and capture the bay’s beauty, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon, which also offers the best light for photography.

For those looking to stay near Kaunaoa Bay, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a luxurious beachfront resort that offers direct access to the bay’s pristine shoreline. Other excellent accommodations can be found along the Kohala Coast, including the nearby Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, providing additional options for a comfortable and convenient stay.

To reach Kaunaoa Bay by car, begin your journey by taking the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway (Route 19) if you’re coming from Kona. Continue north for approximately 30 miles until you reach the entrance to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. From there, follow the signs leading to Kaunaoa Bay, where you will find designated parking areas available for visitors. It is recommended to arrive early as parking spots are limited and tend to fill up quickly, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Traveling to Kaunaoa Bay by bus is a viable option for those looking for public transportation. The Hele-On Bus service operates on the Big Island and offers a convenient route from Kona. Board the bus heading towards Kohala Coast and alight at the stop nearest to Kaunaoa Bay or the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. It’s advisable to check the bus schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly, as services may be less frequent compared to urban areas. Once you depart the bus, a short walk will take you directly to the bay’s inviting sands and scenic beauty.

Kaunaoa Bay stands out as a peaceful, beautiful destination that offers a family-friendly atmosphere along with stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for the pristine beach, clear waters, or breathtaking sunsets, it’s a spot not to be missed. Before you go, remember to check the access rules for non-resort guests to ensure a smooth visit, and get ready to experience one of the Big Island’s hidden gems.