One of the only sandy beaches in Kona town, Laaloa, ("very sacred") which is most often called Magics by locals, is situated amongst many popular surf spots along Alii Drive. Due to it’s location and the off shore repository the sand on the shore retreats during high surf. It disappears completely during the winter months when the surf is notoriously strong and leaves only lava rocks in its wake. The sand resettles in the repository and slowly drifts back when the surf subsides. The constant flushing movement of the sand keeps it clear and white. Although, even when the sand returns, the beach is very small, actual sand for laying down a blanket or beach chair is sparse and the ground is covered with large black lava rocks and coconut trees. Year-round Magics has great waves and its clear blue water is always inviting, but during the high surf season the swimming can be difficult for the average swimmer and watching the waves may be a safer option. While there is a lifeguard on duty it is still advised to proceed with caution. The winter months however makes for great body boarding and even in the summer when the waves are less powerful and frequent, Magics always has a handful or boarders, waiting and watching for a good set to roll in. There is also a small break slighting south of Magics that attracts surfers throughout the year.

Easy viewing of the waves and the boarders is one of the highlights that draw crowds to Magic Sands. Locals line their cars and trucks along the guardrail overlooking the sand and kick back after work, turn up the music, talk story, share drinks and watch the scene.

Due to its accessibility, the beach serves a multitude of purposes for residents and tourists alike. Since it is in walking distance to many hotels and condos and situated along the Alii Drive shuttle route, Magics is constantly cluttered with neighborhood children and families, island visitors as well as many residents and tourists who are without vehicles. Beach activities include family barbeques and picnics, beach volleyball, games of Frisbee as well as night fishing when the sun goes down. There is a good spot to snorkel out in front of Jameson’s restaurant, on the right or north end of the beach, in front for the stonewall.

Magics is also part of the Hawaii Archaeological Preservation Area and is home to a heiau (sacred temple) that sits on the southern end of the beach park. It is located on the seaside along the far end of the parking lot and while visitors are welcome to check out the heiau it is asked that touching or removing of rocks from the area be avoided. Located at the very end, the southern most part, of the parking lot, past the heiau is a set of stone steps that leads to a small trail guiding the way to a rocky cove. This portion of the park is hardly visited and is great place to scuba dive as there are many underwater caves.

So if you’re planning on hanging out at Magic Sands, particularly on the weekend, it is advised to show up early to grab a good spot on the much coveted and quickly occupied sand.

Written By: Hadley Catalano
Photo Credit: LT

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Bathrooms  |  Fresh Water  |  Lifeguard  |  Parking  |  Picnic Tables  |  Sandy Beach  |  Shady Areas  |  Snorkeling  |  Surfing  |  Swimming Areas  |  Kid Friendly  |  Phones  |  Restrooms

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