Ho‘okena Beach Park
A stunning dark sand beach known for dolphin sightings, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets. A true Hawaiian gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Ho‘okena Beach Park
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning dark sand beach known for dolphin sightings, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets. A true Hawaiian gem.
"This is a 5-star beach but giving it 4 just because the drive to get there is nerve-wracking."
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! :car:
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. :turtle: :dolphin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dolphin and Turtle Sightings
Ocean waters
Witness playful dolphins and graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly magical experience!
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Snorkeling and Swimming
Coral reef and ocean waters
Explore the underwater world with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Great for all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Scenic Drive
Embrace the Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! :car:
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. :turtle: :dolphin:
Pack for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. :mask:
Permit for Camping
Need a permit for beach camping? Arrange it online in advance. :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! :car:
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. :turtle: :dolphin:
Pack for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. :mask:
Permit for Camping
Need a permit for beach camping? Arrange it online in advance. :tent:
Rinse Off After
Public showers and hoses are available to rinse off sand and saltwater. :shower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ho'okena Beach Park is a highly-rated destination praised for its beautiful dark sand, abundant marine life, and stunning sunset views. While the drive can be a bit challenging, visitors find the beach to be a rewarding experience. Some note the lack of lifeguards and potential for strong currents, advising caution in the water.
"This is a 5-star beach but giving it 4 just because the drive to get there is nerve-wracking — very narrow and winding road, but once you are there oh my goodness it is beautiful, the waves were not too overwhelming, lots of black soft sand, great cliffs in the background for stunning photos. No lifeguard though and the current can be a bit strong but you can easily stay close to shore and wade in the water. Good sandcastle sand and lots of space for sunbathing."
Marg Smith
"Beautiful beach with dark sand. Seen a few dolphins there. Very popular among local people. Simple Toilets and a public shower available."
Thomas Frehner
"Hidden gem south of Kona. Beach camping with a permit in advance that can be arranged online. Restrooms and public showers, secure parking for campers. Great location to snorkel and swim easy beach access"
Edward Gordon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ho'okena Beach Park is located south of Kona. The drive involves a narrow, winding road that requires careful navigation. Many visitors recommend taking your time to enjoy the scenery.
The road is described as narrow and winding, which some find nerve-wracking. However, it's generally manageable with cautious driving.
There is secure parking available, especially for campers if you have a permit.
Public transport options to Ho'okena Beach Park are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the park.
Yes, Ho'okena Beach Park offers secure parking for campers and RVs, provided you have obtained the necessary permit in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit Ho'okena Beach Park. It is a public park.
Ho'okena Beach Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. For camping, specific permit times apply.
Yes, a permit is required for beach camping at Ho'okena Beach Park. This can be arranged online in advance.
While generally open, always check for any local advisories or temporary closures. Be mindful of ocean conditions.
While the description mentions kayak and snorkel rentals, it's best to confirm availability locally or bring your own gear.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, beach camping, and watching for dolphins and turtles. The lava rock tide pools are also a fascinating feature.
Yes, Ho'okena Beach Park is known for its snorkeling opportunities around the coral reef. Be aware of currents and stay close to shore if needed.
No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Ho'okena Beach Park. Visitors should exercise caution, especially in the water.
Ho'okena Beach Park features dark, soft sand, often described as black sand. It's great for relaxing and building sandcastles.
Yes, there are restrooms and public showers available at Ho'okena Beach Park, which are noted as being clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The cliffs in the background offer stunning photo opportunities. The beach itself, especially during sunset, provides beautiful backdrops.
Absolutely! Many visitors highlight the beautiful sunsets and rainbows seen from Ho'okena Beach Park, making it ideal for photography.
With clear waters and marine life, Ho'okena Beach Park is a great location for underwater photography if you have the right equipment.
You can photograph the dark sand, coral reefs, lava rock tide pools, and the diverse marine life like turtles and dolphins.
The combination of the dark sand, the rugged coastline, and the potential for marine life encounters makes for unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be thrilled by the possibility of spotting sea turtles and dolphins, adding an educational and exciting element to their beach day. Exploring the lava rock tide pools can also be a fun and engaging activity for younger visitors, offering a chance to discover small marine creatures.
🐠 Snorkelers and Divers
While the snorkeling is excellent, it's important to be aware of ocean conditions. Experienced snorkelers can explore further, but beginners should stay closer to shore and be mindful of potential currents. Bringing your own snorkel gear is recommended, though rentals might be available.
🏕️ Campers and Vanlifers
Waking up to the sound of the ocean and enjoying a peaceful morning coffee while watching for dolphins is a highlight for many who camp here. It's an opportunity to truly disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of the Big Island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life Encounters
When snorkeling or swimming, keep a respectful distance from all wildlife. The coral reef system here supports a variety of fish, making it an engaging underwater experience. Remember that while the marine life is abundant, it's crucial to observe them responsibly and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
For the best chances of seeing dolphins, early mornings are often recommended when the waters are calmer and the animals are more active. While sightings are not guaranteed, the possibility adds an extra layer of excitement to a visit to Ho'okena.
The Ho'okena Experience: Beyond the Beach
The park provides essential amenities, including restrooms and public showers, which are noted for their cleanliness. There are also picnic tables with shade, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or an extended stay. For those looking to extend their visit, beach camping is permitted with a permit arranged in advance, offering a unique opportunity to wake up to the sounds of the ocean.
Visitors often praise the lava rock tide pools as a fascinating area to explore, revealing a different facet of the park's natural beauty. The combination of these elements—natural beauty, historical significance, and practical amenities—contributes to Ho'okena's reputation as a beloved local spot.
Photography at Ho'okena
The sunsets at Ho'okena are legendary, often accompanied by vibrant colors and even rainbows, making it a prime location for evening photography.
Beyond the typical beach scenes, the lava rock tide pools offer unique macro photography subjects, showcasing the intricate details of marine life trapped during low tide. The overall natural beauty and the potential for wildlife sightings make Ho'okena a versatile and rewarding location for photographers of all levels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit