Honomanu Bay
Keanae, HI
Honomanu Bay is the first big valley the Road to Hana opens onto, a dramatic black sand and boulder beach backed by sheer, waterfall streaked cliffs. Locals fish and surf here more than swim, since the current runs strong and the shorebreak drops off fast, but the view alone stops most cars driving past.
One of the most dramatic single views on the entire Road to Hana, but the strong current and rocky shorebreak mean it's a lookout more than a beach for most visitors.
How we score beachesThis isn't a swimming beach for most people. Come for the view and maybe a picnic on the rocks, and leave the actual ocean time to the surfers who know the currents.
A dirt pullout and rough access road off Hana Highway lead down to the bay, free and informal, with room for a modest number of cars.
A short but uneven dirt road and rocky shoreline make this a poor fit for strollers or wheelchairs. Sturdy shoes matter here.
Winter brings bigger, more dangerous surf and stronger currents, while summer is calmer though still not a reliable swimming spot.
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