Waialea (Beach 69)

Waialea Beach, often lovingly called Beach 69 by locals and visitors alike, is one of the Kohala Coast’s most relaxing and naturally beautiful beach escapes. Known for its clear turquoise water, shaded shoreline, and excellent snorkeling, this beach offers a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere that many Hale Mele guests especially appreciate. Whether you spend the day swimming, snorkeling, reading beneath the trees, or simply listening to the ocean breeze through the palms, Beach 69 has a calm and welcoming island feel that’s easy to fall in love with.

About the Experience

Located just north of Puako and a short drive from Hale Mele, Waialea Beach sits within a protected Marine Life Conservation District along the sunny Kohala Coast. The beach is known for its soft white sand during the calmer summer months, beautiful shade trees, and vibrant underwater marine life.

The bay is especially popular for snorkeling and diving thanks to its healthy coral reefs and clear water. The southern side of the bay often offers some of the best snorkeling conditions, while rocky areas throughout the cove attract colorful fish and other marine life. During winter months, guests may also spot humpback whales offshore while relaxing along the beach.

One of the things guests often enjoy most about Beach 69 is the natural shade. Unlike many Big Island beaches that can feel exposed to the midday sun, Waialea’s tree-lined shoreline creates comfortable pockets of shade and privacy throughout the day.

The beach also connects to portions of the Ala Kahakai Trail, a scenic coastal trail that follows ancient Hawaiian pathways and offers access to lava coastline, anchialine ponds, and quiet shoreline views.

While the beach is family-friendly and peaceful, ocean conditions can vary seasonally, especially during winter surf.

Why Guests May Love It

• Excellent snorkeling and marine life viewing in clear Kohala Coast water
• Beautiful natural shade beneath large shoreline trees
• A peaceful beach atmosphere away from larger resort crowds
• Opportunities to spot humpback whales during winter months
• Access to scenic coastal hiking along the Ala Kahakai Trail

Helpful Tips

• Summer months often bring the calmest water and widest sandy beach conditions
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel gear, water, and beach shoes for exploring rocky shoreline areas
• Paid parking and entrance fees apply for non-residents, so it’s helpful to arrive prepared
• There is no lifeguard on duty, so guests should use caution and check ocean conditions before swimming or snorkeling
• Early morning visits are often quieter and cooler, with easier parking access

Hale Mele Note

Waialea Beach is one of those easygoing local favorites that many guests discover and return to throughout their stay at Hale Mele. With shaded shoreline, calm mornings, vibrant snorkeling, and peaceful ocean views, it’s a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the gentler rhythm of the Kohala Coast. After a relaxed day at Beach 69, returning home to Hale Mele feels wonderfully calm and restorative.