Hanalei Bay Named #1 Beach in America

Finally this fabulous two mile stretch gets the recognition it deserves. Dr. Beach, who chooses the top ten beaches in America every year, has given top honors to infamous Hanalei Bay.

Hanalei Bay Aerial Hanalei Bay Beach Hanalei Bay Beach

For those of us who know this beach we are happy that it has been recognized as the best beach in America, and hopeful along with that title paradise won’t be lost.

Hanalei Bay rarely gets more than a handful of people clustered together at any given time at any given location. On this two mile stretch of sand you can find areas where surfers hang, snorkelers explore the undersea world, kayakers kayak, kids frolic along the shoreline, and families gather together for picnics and BBQ’s. The bay really does cater to everyone’s needs.

Hanalei Bay Hanalei Bay Pier Hanalei Bay Sunset

Located on the famed, picturesque North shore of Kauai, Hanalei Bay is a deep crescent shaped bay which is surrounded by large precipitous mountains which usually have waterfalls cascading down them. A typical morning can find the valley awash in a myriad of rainbows. The magic of the scenery is mesmerizing and ever changing...

Hanalei Bay Windsurfing Hanalei Bay Beach

Once a beach has been honored as the Number One beach in America it is retired – below is a list of the Number One beaches in Hawaii which are now retired.


2009 – Hanalei Bay, Kauai
2006 – DT Fleming Beach, Maui
2004 – Hanauma Bay, Oahu
2003 – Kaanapali Beach, Maui
2001 – Poipu Beach Park, Kauai
2000 – Mana Kea Beach, Big Island Hawaii
1999 – Wailea Beach, Maui
1998 – Kailua Beach Park, Oahu
1997 – Hulopoe, Lanai
1996 – Lanikai Beach, Oahu
1993 – Hapuna Beach, Big Island Hawaii
1991 – Kapalua Bay, Maui