Bronze
Ka‘anapali Beach, Maui

For some reason, this beach has many different names (Keka‘a Beach, Canoe Beach, Dig me Beach – no, we didn’t just make up that last one). Maybe there’s a different name for all the different things you can do here. Obviously Ka‘anapali has the Freestyle concept down pat. Ka‘anapali Beach is also a watersport lover’s utopia. You can find just about any type of ocean recreation available here with the Scuba diving and snorkeling particularly outstanding. Of course, the windsurfing, jetskiing, kayaking and parasailing aren’t too shabby either. The beach is lifeguard-protected, almost three miles long and bordered by numerous elegant resort hotels. And when you’re through frolicking on the beach, there’s plenty left to do in the way of shopping, dining or going on one of their famous boat tours.

Silver
Hapuna Beach State Park, Big Island on Hawai‘i

Local families drive for hours to spend a day at Hapuna. And why not? We’re talking about a one-half mile long band of white sand that’s over 200 feet wide. And when you combine that with crystal clear water, you can understand why this the most popular beach on the island. Hapuna has something for all NCL cruisers. Your kids can splash in the small cove at the north end of the beach – often joined by friendly sea turtles. And thanks to abundant sea life and coral, the older kids (not to mention you) can snorkel, fish, sunbathe or even go body boarding. Hapuna is also great for picnics. With just 10 inches of rain a year and bordered by picnic pavilions, you’re just a delicious meal of spam musubi away from one unforgettable day.

The Gold
Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu

The seven beaches of Waikīkī make up what very well may be the most famous stretch of sand in the world. Sure, with over 4 million visitors a year it can be hard to find your own little slice of seclusion but, quite frankly, you can’t beat the people-watching. You also can’t beat the surfing. What’s that? You’ve never been surfing? Well then, NCL’s Waikīkī is the perfect place to learn. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, snorkels and boogie boards. A little too much activity for you? No problem. Feel free to lounge around with a frozen coconut drink in one hand and a good book in the other. That’s the Freestyle way to spend the day.