White Sands Beach Park
White Sands Beach Park, also known as La'aloa Beach, Magic Sands, or Disappearing Sands, is one of the Big Island's most dynamic and popular beaches. Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this small but lively beach is known for its sudden sand shifts, excellent bodyboarding waves, and vibrant local energy.
White Sands Beach Park (La'aloa Beach Park), Big Island
Even though this beach is on the small side, it's got four names: White Sands Beach, La'aloa Beach Park, Magic Sands and Disappearing Sands (view panorama)×. During times of high surf (usually in the winter months), an interesting natural phenomenon occurs here. The shorebreak erodes the small pocket of white-sand beach very quickly, often times within 24 hours, washing away all sand and leaving only exposed lava rock.
That's why this beach is also called Disappearing Sands because it quite literally vanishes. When the wave action ceases, the regular ocean currents slowly move the sand back. However, this can take a few months. But this periodic and complete flushing of the sand keeps it very white.
Other than that, White Sands Beach is not particularly impressive. The Big Island is known for beaches with colors other than white, which makes a small white-sand beach like this one special. It is located next to a street in a busy area and surrounded by buildings. But it is easy to reach as it is located just south of Kailua-Kona. On the shore are a few coconut palms, and lava rocks frame both ends of the beach.
The bodyboarding and surfing conditions are often times great, so when the surf is up you’ll see many people in the water here. In fact, this beach is one of the most popular bodyboarding locations in the area. The nearshore ocean bottom is mainly sandy and slopes gradually. The swimming conditions are good when the waves are not too high, but during rough ocean conditions, the strong shorebreak is dangerous and a strong rip current can pull swimmers into the open ocean.
Key Features of White Sands Beach Park
- Multiple names: Also called La'aloa Beach, Magic Sands, and Disappearing Sands due to its shifting shoreline during high surf.
- Popular with locals and visitors: A favorite for bodyboarding, surfing, and casual beach lounging.
- Convenient location: Situated along Alii Drive, just south of downtown Kailua-Kona.
- Lifeguards on duty: Offers added safety for swimmers and boarders, especially during rough conditions.
- Facilities available: Includes restrooms, showers, volleyball net, and limited on-site parking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is White Sands Beach Park located?
White Sands Beach Park is located on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, just south of mile marker 4.
Why is it called Magic Sands or Disappearing Sands?
During strong surf, the ocean can wash away the entire sandy shoreline within hours, exposing lava rocks. The sand gradually returns over time.
Is the beach good for bodyboarding?
Yes, it is one of the most popular bodyboarding spots on the Big Island, especially when the surf is up.
Are there lifeguards on duty?
Yes, the beach is staffed with lifeguards, which makes it safer for swimming and board sports.
Is there parking at White Sands Beach Park?
There is limited parking directly next to the beach, so arriving early is recommended.