This park, which seems to be in a perpetual state of work-in-progress, encompasses 1.4 acres of beach by the Kawaihae breakwater and is the most accessible surfing spot in the area. Historical tidbit: Kawaihae was once a seat of royal Hawaiian power, and one of Kamehameha's wives, Ka‘ahumanu, was an avid surfer. The park speaks to this legacy and heritage of the royal Hawaiian sport, and park management advocates for increased surfing infrastructure in the area.
Pua Ka ʻIlima ʻO Kawaihae
South Kohala
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
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Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
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Puʻukohola Heiau National Historic Site
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The water is usually too cloudy for snorkeling at this beautiful hook-shaped beach with a mix of black lava, white coral and wave-tossed shells, but just…
3.52 MILES
This lovely powdering of white sand is a local favorite but remains somewhat off the tourist radar. Both family-friendly and gay-friendly, its calm,…
2 MILES
Crescent-shaped Kaunaʻoa Bay (nicknamed 'Mauna Kea Beach' after Rockefeller built his landmark hotel on it) is blanketed in powdery white sand, with clear…
Nearby South Kohala attractions
1. Puʻukohola Heiau National Historic Site
0.24 MILES
By 1790 Kamehameha the Great had conquered Maui, Lanaʻi and Molokaʻi. But power over his home island of Hawaiʻi was a challenge. When told by a prophet…
0.54 MILES
This sunny harbor is a good spot for a picnic or a place to just chill and watch the boats roll in. Beware of flies that swarm by the rubbish bins.
0.7 MILES
Shallow, sandy and gentle, this beach lacks the dramatic sweep of Mauna Kea or Hapuna, but it's ideal for kids and popular with local families. Come to…
1.17 MILES
What’s not to love about Mauʻumae (pronounced Mao-oo-my)? It has white sand, teal water, shady trees and protected waters – and is even more private than…
5. Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company
1.27 MILES
It's a tourist stop, but a darned good one, featuring a spanking-clean factory, gift shop and generous free samples. This eco-conscious company generates…
2 MILES
Crescent-shaped Kaunaʻoa Bay (nicknamed 'Mauna Kea Beach' after Rockefeller built his landmark hotel on it) is blanketed in powdery white sand, with clear…
7. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
2.76 MILES
Hapuna Beach is world famous for its magnificent half-mile sweep of white powder sand and fabulously clear waters. In summer, waves are calm and allow…
8. Pua Mau Place Botanic & Sculpture Garden
2.86 MILES
In a region that receives only 3in to 10in of annual rainfall, this 13-acre botanic and sculpture garden is a questionable endeavor, but is of interest to…