With its silky, salt-and-pepper sand, pristine landscape, and cobalt-blue water, Hāmoa Beach (once known as Mokae) is what you imagine all Hawai‘i beaches to look like. Located beyond the Hāna town limits on Piʻilani (31) Highway, this stunning crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by cliffs and lined with native hala trees, palm trees and various flora. Hāmoa is not protected by outlying reefs, which means powerful surf can be present but also makes it popular with surfers, boogie boarders, and bodysurfers. It is recommended that snorkeling be done during the summer months when there are smaller swells, and the water is calmer. Facilities include public restrooms, showers, and a foot washing station, but there are no lifeguards on duty. Parking is available on Haneo‘o Road but it’s on-street, the road is narrow, and the path down to the beach is very steep.