Most of the islands have resorts in strategic places along some of the prettiest beaches, and these are also some of the most famous Hawaiian beaches, too. There are sugar-soft white sand beaches, and exotic black sand beaches. There are beaches known for their snorkeling, and others known for their ideal surfing conditions.   Each of the eight major islands in the Hawaiian archipelago - Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Hawaii, Niihau (a private island off of Kauai that is restricted to it's native Hawaiian residents), and Kahoolawe (an uninhabited island off of Maui) offers a collection of beaches reflective of their topography and age.  As the oldest islands in the chain, Kauai, Oahu, and Maui offer more sandy beaches than their youngest and largest sibling, Hawaii. However Hawaii, with its active volcanoes and extensive lava rock shorelines, possesses the some unique black sand beaches that originate with the lava shorelines and volcanic activity. Golden sand, swaying palms, calm waters. What more can you ask for? It’s just another day in paradise on this West Maui pocket beach. Situated between two lava points and bordered by a coconut tree grove, Kapalua is known for its tranquil surf, ideal for the less-than-adventurous swimmer and families with small children. hawaii hiking