Kona Coast State Park
Stretching across 1,600 acres of raw lava coastline on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, Kekaha Kai State Park (formerly Kona Coast State Park) shelters three of Hawaii’s most stunning beaches — each with a completely different character. From the easy-access turquoise waters of Kua Bay to the secluded paradise of Makalawena, this park delivers the kind of Hawaiian beach experience that most tourists only see on postcards.
Why Kekaha Kai Stands Out
While resort beaches line the Kohala Coast, Kekaha Kai offers something radically different: undeveloped, wild Hawaiian shoreline backed by ancient lava flows rather than hotel towers. The name “Kekaha Kai” means “the shore line” in Hawaiian, and the park preserves a stretch of coast where sea turtles bask on white sand, native birds nest in coastal wetlands, and the only sounds are waves and wind. The park also protects the historic Ala Kahakai National Historical Trail, an ancient coastal path once walked by Hawaiian royalty.
The Three Beaches
| Beach | Access | Facilities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manini’owali (Kua Bay) | Paved road, easy | Restrooms, showers, sometimes lifeguards | Swimming, bodysurfing, families |
| Mahai’ula Beach | Unpaved road (4WD recommended) | Restrooms, picnic tables | Snorkeling, solitude, picnicking |
| Makalawena Beach | 1.5-mile hike from Mahai’ula | None — bring everything | Seclusion, photography, swimming |
Insider Tip: Makalawena is widely considered one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, but you have to earn it. The 1.5-mile hike from Mahai’ula crosses rough lava — wear sturdy shoes and bring all water, food, and sun protection. There are absolutely no facilities or shade at Makalawena. The reward is a crescent of pristine white sand that you may have almost entirely to yourself.
Hiking: Ala Kahakai Trail
The Ala Kahakai National Historical Trail runs 4.5 miles through the park, connecting Mahai’ula to Kua Bay along the coast. This ancient trail crosses lava fields, passes secluded coves, and offers access to the summit of Pu’u Ku’ili, a 342-foot cinder cone with panoramic views of the coastline and Mauna Kea. The terrain is rough and rocky — bring sturdy footwear, sunscreen, and at least 2 liters of water per person.
Wildlife & Conservation
The wetland behind Makalawena Beach — ‘Opae’ula Pond — is designated a National Natural Landmark and serves as critical habitat for native Hawaiian waterbirds, including the endangered Hawaiian stilt and Hawaiian coot. Green sea turtles (honu) frequently rest on the beaches. Maintain a respectful distance of at least 10 feet from all sea turtles — touching or disturbing them is a federal offense.
Visitor Essentials
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM daily |
| Entrance Fee | Non-residents: $5 (credit card only at Kua Bay). Hawaii residents: Free with ID |
| Camping | Permitted with advance reservation through explore.ehawaii.gov |
| Drinking Water | Not available — bring your own |
| Access Warning | Mahai’ula access road is unpaved — 4WD recommended (check rental car agreement) |
| Dogs | Not allowed on beaches |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Warm weather, whale watching offshore, bigger surf at Kua Bay | Best bodysurfing; be cautious of shore break |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Calm seas, excellent snorkeling at Mahai’ula | Fewer crowds than summer |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Calmest ocean conditions, ideal for swimming and snorkeling | Busiest at Kua Bay — arrive early |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Warm water, uncrowded beaches, good visibility | Shoulder season — excellent value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kona Coast State Park the same as Kekaha Kai?
Yes — the park was officially renamed from Kona Coast State Park to Kekaha Kai State Park. You’ll see both names used interchangeably in guides and on maps.
Do you need a 4WD to get to Makalawena Beach?
Not exactly — Makalawena requires a 1.5-mile hike from Mahai’ula Beach (which does benefit from 4WD access), or you can hike in from near Kua Bay. There is no road to Makalawena itself. The hike crosses rough lava, so sturdy shoes are essential.
Can you camp at Kekaha Kai State Park?
Yes — camping is permitted with an advance reservation made through the Hawaii state parks reservation system at explore.ehawaii.gov. Bring all supplies including water, as there are no developed facilities at the campsite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Diamond Head?
Yes, Diamond Head State Monument now requires mandatory advance reservations for all visitors. Reservations can be made online through the Hawaii DLNR website. Walk-ups are not permitted without a reservation.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii law requires the use of reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned. Look for sunscreens labeled “reef-safe” or “mineral-based.”
Are Hawaii state parks free?
Most Hawaii state parks are free to enter. Some popular sites like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay require paid reservations. Camping permits must be obtained through the DLNR website in advance.
Can I camp at Hawaii state parks?
Yes, several Hawaii state parks offer camping including Polihale and Koke’e on Kauai, and Hapuna Beach and Kalopa on the Big Island. Permits must be obtained in advance through the Hawaii DLNR.
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Kona Coast State Park 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.
