Keomuku Beach
Lanai City, HI
Keomuku Beach runs six miles down Lanai's east shore, a mix of black sand and cobblestone fronting one of the longest fringing reefs in the state. The restored 1903 church, Ka Lanakila O Ka Malamalama, marks the site of a plantation town that failed within three years, and it's still the only structure standing along this stretch.
The church and the fishpond ruins give it real historic weight that fishermen and history minded locals return for, but the rough road and unswimmable water keep it from being anyone's regular beach day.
How we score beachesStop at the church even if the beach isn't the main plan. Visitors leave small offerings, a shell or a lei, and it's worth a few quiet minutes regardless of your reason for being out there.
Keomuku Road turns to dirt past the highway's end and reaches the village after several miles. Four wheel drive is recommended, especially after rain, and there's no formal lot, just pull offs along the road.
No paved path from the road to the water. The shoreline itself is uneven cobblestone and sand, better suited to boots than bare feet.
Stick to dry months for the drive out, since the dirt road washes out fast in rain. Trade winds keep the water choppy and murky most of the year regardless of season, so this isn't a swimming beach at any time of year.
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