Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, in Kailua-Kona on the Kona Coast, protects an ancient Hawaiian settlement built on hot, rugged lava. It spans parts of several ahupuaʻa, the traditional land divisions that ran from the mountains to the sea, and holds fishponds, house platforms, petroglyphs, ancient trails and heiau. Historic fishponds such as ʻAimakapā and Kaloko, with its historic fishpond wall, sustained life along this coast. Honokōhau Beach has white coral sand against black lava, an ancient heiau at the end of the beach, and the ʻAiʻōpio Fishtrap in the water just off it. Much of the park lies underwater, with nearshore coral reefs and many anchialine pools. Green sea turtles, or honu, often rest on the lava flats or swim offshore near the beach. They are protected by federal law, so keep well back and do not disturb them. Petroglyphs can be seen from the Petroglyph Boardwalk on the trail to the beach, and early morning or just before sunset is the time to look. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sturdy shoes and sun protection, use reef-safe sunscreen, and visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to miss the crowds. Do not dig in the sand, bring beach umbrellas, or climb on cultural sites, and keep chairs, towels and coolers off Maliu Point, a sacred area.
When to go
Early morning or later afternoon; petroglyphs early morning or just before sunset.
Visitor center on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, a walk from the beach; a shorter walk from the Honokōhau Harbor entrance near the Kona Sailing Club. No camping; dogs on leash.
