Kiholo State Park Reserve
Hawaii State Park

Kiholo State Park Reserve

Kīholo, Hawaii
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Stargazing
  • Snorkeling
  • Surfing
  • Whale Watching
  • Kayaking

🌤 Weather at Kiholo State Park Reserve by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
70–84 °F74–87 °F72–87 °F68–82 °F

Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Kailua Kona Ke-Ahole Airport, 11 mi away, elevation 43 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated March 2026

Kiholo State Park Reserve is a public state park in Hawaii near Waimea. The park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StateHawaii
Nearest CityWaimea
Google Rating⭐ 4.6/5 (550 reviews)

Location & Getting There

Kiholo State Park Reserve is located near Waimea, Hawaii. The park’s coordinates are 19.8500, -155.9333.

Things to Do

Hawaii state parks protect some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth — from active volcanic calderas and tropical rainforests to pristine coral reef bays and dramatic sea cliffs. Activities include hiking through lush valleys and along volcanic crater rims, snorkeling in crystal-clear protected bays, swimming at world-class tropical beaches, surfing legendary breaks, camping in beachfront and forest settings, kayaking along Na Pali-style coastlines, stargazing at high-altitude sites, and exploring ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) and petroglyph fields.

Best Time to Visit

Hawaii parks are a year-round destination with consistently warm temperatures (75-85°F). The dry season (April–October) offers the best beach and hiking conditions. The wet season (November–March) brings bigger surf on north shores, whale watching (humpbacks arrive December–April), and lusher waterfalls, though trail conditions can be muddy. Windward (east) sides of each island receive significantly more rain than leeward (west). High altitude parks like Haleakalā can be cold (below 40°F) — bring layers regardless of season.

Visitor Tips

Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter, though some popular sites require advance reservations and parking fees. Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require mandatory advance reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance. Respect Hawaiian cultural sites — never remove rocks, sand, or artifacts. Many trails close after heavy rain for safety. Reef-safe sunscreen is required by law in Hawaii. Always check current conditions before hiking, as flash floods are a real danger in valley trails.

Explore More Hawaii State Parks

Kiholo State Park Reserve is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Wildlife & Nature

Kiholo SPR — features a stunning turquoise bay with lava rock shoreline. The park’s anchialine ponds, bay, and lava fields support green sea turtles (often dozens basking on the black sand), Hawaiian monk seals, and hawksbill turtles. Queen’s Bath — a natural lava rock pool — is a hidden treasure.

Nearby Attractions

Kohala Coast — surrounding. Kona — 20 miles south. Waikoloa — 10 miles north.

Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Kona Coast State Park (a short drive away) or Kekaha Kai State Park (a short drive away).

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Kiholo State Park Reserve

Pets allowed? statewide rule
Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them.
Leash rule statewide rule
Where permitted, pets must be crated, caged, on a 6-foot or shorter leash, or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times
Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
Pets are not permitted on beaches or in swimming areas statewide
Cabins & lodging statewide rule
Pets are not permitted in lodges or campgrounds, so overnight accommodations are effectively pet-free
Statewide exceptions statewide rule
Rules vary by park and posting; effectively day-use only in the limited unposted areas where pets are tolerated

Are dogs allowed at Kiholo State Park Reserve?
Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.

Rules verified July 2026 via dlnr.hawaii.gov. More: Hawaii state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared

Last updated: May 14, 2026

Park Location

Kīholo, Hawaii

Plan your gear for Kiholo State Park Reserve

From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities: