The topic of nude bathing or nude swimming in Hawaii is a tricky one. Officially the state of Hawaii prohibits public nudity on state beaches. In reality however, there are many beaches in Hawaii that are considered “clothing optional” and frequented by those who choose to go topless or nude. It is unlikely that you will find a brochure listing nude beaches at a travel center, therefore visitors often have to rely on information from locals to find these locations. Considering the legal issues, most nude beaches in Hawaii are secluded and somewhat off the beaten path. Following is a partial list of well known nude beaches in Hawaii.
Big Island Beaches
Kehena Beach- Mostly used for lounging with friends or body-surfing, the black sand beach of Kehena is located in lower Puna. A local hangout for people that favor ‘counter-culture’ such as wiccans, new-age hippies and others who share the same views, Kehena Beach is known for strong riptides which have resulted in the occasional drowning. Although this beach is considered a local hangout, tourists have enjoyed this location too, when they can find it.
Honokohau Harbor Beach- Less secluded and more often patrolled by Park rangers than Kehena, Honokohau Harbor Beach is located off of Highway 19 north of Honokohau Harbor. Despite limited privacy this beach remains popular as a nudist destination, offering a warm climate and great snorkeling.
Green Sand Beach- Not considered a nude beach by locals, Green Sand Beach may still see its fair share of visitors in the buff. This is due to the very isolated location which can only be reached by four wheel drive or a walk of several miles.
Maui Beaches
Red Sand Beach- Another isolated location that requires a bit of walking to get to, this beach is considered by many to be one of the prettiest locations in Hawaii. Red Sand Beach is good for both swimming and snorkeling.
Little Beach- Little Beach has a big reputation for being the most popular beach where clothing is optional. Like most of the nude beaches in Hawaii, getting to Little Beach requires some legwork. Since you must park your car and walk some distance to reach the beach, it is recommended that no valuables be left in your vehicle. The knowledge that cars are left unattended has resulted in theft in areas where visitors park their cars.
Molokai
Some might say all of the beaches on Molokai are clothing optional, if you are alone. Since the majority of beaches are very long and practically empty- there really isn’t a big concern over whether you nude or covered. With that being said, technically none of the beaches on Molokai are considered “nude” beaches.
If you are visiting any of these locations or others considered clothing optional by the locals, keep in mind that you are still breaking the law. For the most part, beaches that are clothing optional are frequented by individuals who prefer that type of environment and feel comfortable in their own skin. Most nude beaches and their visitors are left alone by the police as long as there are no other reasons for police presence.
