You will catch several glimpses of Chinaman's Hat from the road prior to reaching the beach entrance. Malaekahana State Recreation Area Be on the lookout or you will drive right by the entrance to this wonderfully secluded spot . In addition to being hard to find, Maleakahana's dirt roadway can be a bit on the muddy side and there are no lifeguards available, but these are small complaints in comparison to the beach's charms. From the parking lot, you will pass through an attractive wooded picnic area to sets of steps that lead to the sandy beach below. Maleakahana is situated in a large cove, with gentle waves that allow for some body-surfing while still keeping the water calm enough for floating around on a rubber raft or inner tube.
Restrooms are available.
Sunset Beach Located in another gentle cove, Sunset Beach's long, wide stretch of sand makes it one of our favorites. Lifeguards are on hand to watch the twenty-somethings who frequent the area. The houses that line much of the edge of the beach ensure a local crowd , so if going to the beach with the other tourists from Minnesota is not your cup of tea, this is a good place to come. Note that there are no restrooms, showers, or public phones nearby. If you have always wanted to see what the famous Bonzai Pipeline is like, head beyond Sunset Beach on Kamehameha Highway to Ehukai Beach .