Lanai Beaches
Hulopoe Beach
- Critic's rating
- LAT
In 1997 Dr. Stephen Leatherman of the University of Maryland (a professional beach surveyor who's also known as "Dr. Beach") ranked Hulopoe the best beach in the United States. It's easy to see why. This palm-fringed, gold-sand beach is bordered by black-lava fingers, protecting swimmers from the serious ocean currents that sweep around Lanai. In summer Hulopoe is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lolling about; the water temperature is usually in the mid-70s (20s Celsius). Swimming is usually safe, except when swells kick up in winter. The bay at the foot of the Manele Bay Hotel is a protected marine preserve, and the schools of colorful fish know it. So do the spinner dolphins that come here to play, as well as the humpback whales that cruise by in winter. Hulopoe is also Lanai's premier beach park. You can camp here.
wherever it appears.