Waialea Beach, universally known among locals and visitors as Beach 69 for the number on the utility pole near the parking area, offers one of the Kohala Coast's most beloved white sand beaches tucked into a quiet residential neighborhood south of the Mauna Kea and Hapuna resorts. Located within a designated Marine Life Conservation District, this crescent-shaped bay receives special protections ensuring relatively undisturbed ecosystems that support abundant tropical fish populations, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and healthy coral formations thriving in the clear waters. The beach combines excellent summer snorkeling with ample natural shade from mature trees lining the shoreline, creating ideal conditions for families seeking full-day beach experiences without the intense sun exposure characterizing many unshaded Big Island beaches. The official designation as Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area Waialea Bay Section reflects this beach's connection to the larger state park system, though most beachgoers continue using the Beach 69 nickname that has defined this spot for generations. The combination of protected marine environment, quality facilities, beautiful white sand, and local family atmosphere distinguishes Waialea from more tourist-oriented Kohala beaches, attracting those who appreciate authentic Hawaiian beach culture over manufactured resort experiences.
Swimming conditions reach their peak during summer months when calm ocean swells create safe, enjoyable water recreation for swimmers of all ages and abilities in the protected bay. Winter transforms conditions as rough surf makes swimming hazardous and creates challenging snorkeling environments requiring experienced ocean users who can handle dynamic conditions. The complete absence of lifeguard services means all visitors bear full responsibility for assessing current conditions and personal capabilities before entering the water. Snorkeling ranks as the primary attraction at Beach 69, where three distinct areas offer varying underwater experiences ranging from shallow near-shore zones perfect for beginners to deeper coral colonies around large underwater rocks that reward confident snorkelers willing to venture farther from shore. Marine life frequently encountered includes Hawaiian green sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water column, bluefin trevally hunting in schools, multiple butterflyfish species displaying brilliant colors against coral backgrounds, hawkfish perched on rocky outcrops, surgeonfish grazing on algae, goatfish probing sandy bottoms with whisker-like barbels, and moray eels lurking in rocky crevices. The Marine Life Conservation District protections ensure healthy fish populations and coral ecosystems that make every snorkeling session productive and memorable, distinguishing Beach 69 from non-protected areas where fishing pressure and visitor impact have degraded underwater environments.
Accessing Beach 69 requires turning off Highway 19 onto Puako Beach Road approximately 23 miles north of Kona past the Waikoloa resorts, taking the first right onto Old Puako Road, and proceeding roughly half a mile to the clearly marked parking lot entrance on the left featuring a sign reading Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area Waialea Bay Section. The gate operates from 7 AM to 7:30 PM daily, with a 5 dollar parking fee for non-residents payable at machines in the lot while Hawaii residents with proper identification park free. The large parking lot accommodates substantial crowds though afternoon periods can fill available spaces, making morning arrival advisable for securing prime spots near the beach access. The 400-foot walk west from parking to beach crosses easy terrain accessible to most visitors, with facilities including restrooms and outdoor showers positioned conveniently between the lot and the sand. The abundant natural shade from mature trees creates comfortable picnic and relaxation areas where families can escape direct sun while remaining at the beach, supporting extended visits without the discomfort common at exposed shorelines. Visitors should arrive with adequate food, beverages, sun protection, and snorkel equipment as the beach provides no concession facilities or equipment rentals, requiring self-sufficient planning for enjoyable all-day visits.
After enjoying Beach 69's excellent snorkeling and family atmosphere, visitors can explore South Kohala's outstanding dining scene including Browns Beach House at Fairmont Orchid offering American and modern Hawaiian cuisine with oceanfront views and incomparable island-inspired dishes. CanoeHouse serves Pacific Rim cuisine along the beach with nearly every ingredient sourced from local farms, ranches, and fishing companies, while Manta at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel features spectacular breakfast buffets alongside lunch and dinner service. Meridia at Westin Hapuna Beach Resort delivers excellent Mediterranean menu items with fantastic service and gorgeous ocean views, and Lava Lava Beach Club provides casual beachfront dining perfect for post-beach relaxation. Roys Waikoloa Bar and Grill serves delicious steaks, seafood, salads, and desserts with Pacific influences at Kings Shops in Waikoloa Village, while Queens Marketplace offers diverse options including Thai, Italian, sushi, pizza, and more. Kohala Burger and Taco features Hawaii grass-fed beef, local fresh fish, and fresh-baked bread, and Cafe Pesto in Kawaihae delivers long-standing Big Island Italian cuisine with local twists. The cultural and ecological significance of Waialea Bay extends beyond its recreational value, as the Marine Life Conservation District designation reflects commitments to protecting Hawaii's marine resources and maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems for future generations. Modern visitors honor these protections by observing all conservation district regulations, avoiding contact with coral or marine life, properly disposing of trash, respecting the residential neighborhood surrounding beach access, and teaching children that protecting special places requires responsible behavior from everyone who enjoys them. Those seeking a Kohala Coast beach that combines excellent summer snorkeling in a protected marine environment, beautiful white sand, abundant natural shade, quality facilities, and authentic local beach atmosphere will find Beach 69 delivers that complete experience in a setting that balances accessibility with the preserved natural character increasingly rare along Hawaii's developed shorelines.
