visiting Hawaii over Christmas
Kehena beach, in Puna on the Big Island. Relaxed, tiny, local, countercultural, Sunday drum circle. Heavy ocean swells much of the time - confident swimmers only. I much prefer it to Beach 67 on the Kona side, also tiny, occasional enforcement, no social scene - but easier access into the ocean.
Little Beach on Maui. Haven't been there, but by reputation one of the best anywhere.
Great advice in the above reply re beaches. I do enjoy the snorkeling at 67 beach though. If you are on Hilo side on Sat Dec 23, check with the Isle of You website to see if the naked volleyball game is going on, it is fun. I have done a fair amount of naked hiking on remote trails in the Volcanoes National Park. Please check with rangers whenever you are in the park vicinity.
Aloha!