Beaches & Coast

A Visitor's Guide to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Area

Discover the iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel area on the Kohala Coast. This guide details how to visit stunning Kaunaʻoa Beach, where to snorkel, and how to see manta rays from shore.

July 28, 2026 • 9 min read • by Big Island Tours Editorial

Kaunaʻoa Bay, home to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches, and for good reason. Its gracefully curving white sand and impossibly turquoise water are the stuff of postcards. Established in 1965 by Laurance S. Rockefeller, this was the first major resort on the Kohala Coast, a benchmark for thoughtful luxury that remains influential today. While the hotel is exclusive, the magnificent beach is public, though access is thoughtfully managed to preserve its tranquil atmosphere.

This guide focuses on how you, as a non-guest, can respectfully enjoy the beach and its surroundings. From securing a coveted parking pass to snorkeling with sea turtles and watching majestic manta rays feed after dark, a day spent in the Mauna Kea area is a quintessential Big Island experience.

The Story of Kaunaʻoa Bay & The Mauna Kea Hotel

To appreciate the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel area, you have to understand its origin. In the early 1960s, venture capitalist and conservationist Laurance S. Rockefeller flew over the barren, black lava fields of the South Kohala coast. Where others saw desolation, he spotted a perfect crescent of white sand at Kaunaʻoa Bay and envisioned a new kind of hotel—one that worked in harmony with its environment rather than dominating it.

The resulting Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, opened in 1965, was an architectural marvel. Its open-air design allowed trade winds to cool the building naturally, and its low profile blended into the landscape. Rockefeller also curated an incredible collection of over 1,600 pieces of Asian and Pacific art, displaying them throughout the hotel's public spaces as if in a museum. This ethos of quiet elegance and reverence for place continues to define the resort and the entire area.

Visiting Kaunaʻoa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach)

The main attraction here is, without a doubt, the beach itself. Officially named Kaunaʻoa Beach, it's more commonly known as Mauna Kea Beach. It's a public beach, meaning all are welcome. However, access is controlled by the resort to prevent overcrowding, which is ultimately a good thing.

The Public Access Parking Pass System

To visit, you must get a public access pass from the security gate at the entrance to the Mauna Kea Resort. Here’s what you need to know:

Limited Availability: There are only about 30 public parking spots available at any given time.
Arrive Early: Your best bet is to arrive before 9:00 AM, especially on weekends and during peak season. The passes go quickly.
How it Works: Drive to the resort entrance off Highway 19. Tell the attendant at the guard shack you'd like a beach access pass. If one is available, they will give you a pass to display on your dashboard and direct you to the public parking area.
If Passes Are Gone: The attendant may suggest you come back after lunch, as spots often open up in the early afternoon. Your alternative is to visit the adjacent and equally stunning Hāpuna Beach, which has a large state park parking lot (fees apply).

Once parked, a short, beautiful path winds down to the northern end of the beach. Here you'll find public restrooms and showers.

Activities at Kaunaʻoa Beach

The typically calm and protected waters of Kaunaʻoa Bay make it ideal for a variety of ocean activities.

Swimming

The sandy bottom slopes gently into the sea, creating a perfect environment for swimming and wading. The water is usually very clear and placid, especially during the summer months. During winter swells, a shorebreak can develop, so always check conditions. The beach is protected, but there are no public lifeguards; swim with caution.

Snorkeling

Kaunaʻoa offers excellent snorkeling, particularly at its two rocky ends.

South End (Left side facing the ocean): This is generally the best area. Swim out along the rocks and you're likely to encounter schools of reef fish like butterflyfish and parrotfish. Green sea turtles (honu) are also frequent visitors here, grazing on algae.
North End (Right side facing the ocean): The rocky point separating Kaunaʻoa from its smaller neighbor, Kaunaʻoa Iki, is also a great place to explore. The water is shallow and clear, making it good for beginners.

Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or harass marine life, especially the protected honu.

A Local Secret: The Manta Ray Viewpoint

One of the most magical experiences on the Big Island can be had here for free. For decades, the hotel has shone a bright light into the water off a scenic overlook known as "Manta Point." This light attracts plankton, which in turn attracts giant, graceful manta rays that come to feed.

After sunset, simply walk to the overlook (ask a hotel employee for directions if needed; it's near the Manta restaurant). You can stand at the railing and watch as these gentle giants, with wingspans of up to 15 feet, glide, swoop, and somersault in the illuminated water below. It's a mesmerizing spectacle. While boat tours offer an in-water experience, this free, on-shore viewing is breathtaking and accessible to everyone.

Exploring the Mauna Kea Resort Grounds

Even as a day visitor, you can respectfully wander parts of the hotel's stunning grounds. The open-air walkways are lined with museum-quality art from Rockefeller's collection. Strolling through the central promenade, you can admire the architecture, the flowering gardens, and the iconic orange plumeria trees.

Dining options are available for non-guests, though they come at resort prices. The Hau Tree restaurant offers a relaxed, feet-in-the-sand lunch experience, while Manta provides an elegant dinner with views of the bay. For a taste of this level of luxury across the island, consider exploring options at High End Hawaiʻi.

Nearby Beaches & Sights

The Mauna Kea area is a great base for exploring the wider Kohala Coast.

Hāpuna Beach: Located just south of Kaunaʻoa and connected by a coastal trail, Hāpuna is a half-mile-long beach that is consistently voted one of America’s best. It's larger and generally has more wave action than Kaunaʻoa. It's a State Recreation Area with paid parking, lifeguards, and full facilities.
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site: A 10-minute drive north, this is one of Hawaiʻi's most important cultural sites. The massive stone temple was built by King Kamehameha I in the late 18th century and played a crucial role in his unification of the Hawaiian Islands. The National Park Service visitor center offers excellent context and overlooks the heiau (temple).

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit Mauna Kea Beach if I'm not a guest at the hotel?

Yes, Kaunaʻoa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach) is public. However, you must obtain one of the limited free parking passes issued at the resort's security gate. It's best to arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.

How much does it cost to park at Mauna Kea Beach?

The parking pass for public beach access is free. There is no charge to park in the designated public lot once you have the pass. This is different from nearby Hāpuna Beach, which is a state park and has a per-vehicle or per-person entrance fee.

Is Mauna Kea Beach good for kids and families?

Absolutely. The beach typically has very calm water, a gentle slope, and soft sand, making it ideal for families with children. As always, check ocean conditions, especially during winter months when swells can create a shorebreak.

How do I see the manta rays at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel?

You can view the manta rays for free from a public overlook on the hotel property known as Manta Point. After sunset, a spotlight attracts the mantas. It's a short walk from the main hotel building and offers a spectacular view without needing to get in the water.

What is the best time of day to go to Kaunaʻoa Beach?

Early morning (before 9 AM) is the best time to ensure you get a parking pass. The mornings also tend to have the calmest ocean conditions and fewer crowds, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Are there restaurants for non-guests in the Mauna Kea area?

Yes, the restaurants at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and the neighboring Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort are open to the public. Be aware that they operate on resort pricing. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

What should I bring for a day at Mauna Kea Beach?

Bring everything you need for a beach day: towels, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own gear. Note that beach chairs and umbrellas are reserved for hotel guests, so plan accordingly.