Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Dramatic black lava coastline meets the powerful Pacific, offering raw beauty and a poignant historical reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful views, fewer crowds
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Best Time
Peaceful views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic black lava coastline meets the powerful Pacific, offering raw beauty and a poignant historical reflection.
"Loved the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Pacific ocean with no crowds to deal with."
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Lava Coastline
Jagged black lava rocks meet the powerful Pacific, creating a stark and beautiful contrast. Perfect for photography.
+1
Crashing Waves Spectacle
Witness the raw power of the ocean as waves relentlessly crash against the shore. Mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.
Tsunami Memorial
Reflect at the poignant plaques commemorating the devastating 1946 tsunami that impacted the former village.
Tidal Pools
Explore fascinating tidal pools teeming with marine life during low tide. A hidden world to discover.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Raw Beauty
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring snacks or a meal to enjoy at the covered picnic tables with scenic ocean views.
🚶♂️ Explore Tidal Pools
Discover the small marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring snacks or a meal to enjoy at the covered picnic tables with scenic ocean views.
🚶♂️ Explore Tidal Pools
Discover the small marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide.
🏕️ Camping Nearby
Laupahoehoe campground is the closest option, but be mindful of fishermen at night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely gorgeous and dramatic views of jagged cliffs and black rock shores meeting the powerful Pacific. Many appreciate the raw, unfiltered beauty and the lack of crowds, making it a peaceful spot for reflection and enjoying nature's spectacle. However, some note that the restrooms could use a tidy-up.
"Absolutely gorgeous views. Jagged cliffs, black rock shore. We went early and there was not a crowd. Picnic tables available and lots of places to view nature at its finest. Bathrooms need a tidy up."
Linda James
"Loved the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Pacific ocean with no crowds to deal with. Strong waves continually crashing into the rocks made absorbing viewing. There are a couple plaques in remembrance of the 1946 Tsunami devastation on a public school previously located here."
S R
"The views were absolutely gorgeous! We came over to this park to see the waves crashing against the shore and it was awesome."
Jenna Vaughn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park is located on the Hamakua Coast, north of Hilo. It's a scenic drive along Highway 19. Keep an eye out for the signs, as it can be a bit hidden amidst the wilderness.
It can be a bit tricky to find as it's nestled between wilderness areas along the northeastern shore. Look for signs for the park.
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the Big Island, including reaching Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park. It offers the most flexibility.
Some local tours, like Makalapa Tours and Transportation, may include stops at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park as part of their Big Island itineraries.
The drive from Hilo to Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park is a county park and generally does not have an entrance fee. It's free to visit and enjoy the scenery.
As a public park, it is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and safety.
No advance booking is necessary for general park access. It's a public space, so you can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, always check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions due to weather or maintenance.
It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully experience the park's beauty. Camping is available nearby, but the park itself is best enjoyed before sunset.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely not. The ocean here is extremely rough with strong currents and large waves, making it very dangerous for swimming. It's strictly for viewing the power of the Pacific.
The park offers pavilions, restrooms, and a sprawling lawn area. Picnic tables are also available for visitors.
It's a great spot for families to enjoy the scenery and have a picnic. However, direct ocean play is not possible due to rough waters.
Laupahoehoe means 'leaf of lava' and refers to the angular lava tip formed by ancient pahoehoe lava flows.
You might spot marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide. The dramatic coastal environment is the main draw.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic contrast between the black lava rocks and the blue ocean is a photographer's dream. Capture the powerful waves crashing against the shore and the unique geological formations.
Early morning light can offer soft, beautiful illumination, while late afternoon can provide dramatic shadows and golden hues. The raw power of the waves is impressive at any time.
The jagged lava coastline itself is the main attraction. The tsunami memorial plaques also offer a poignant subject for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and rocks.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Kids can be fascinated by the dramatic lava rocks and the power of the crashing waves, offering a different kind of beach experience. Exploring the tidal pools during low tide can also be an engaging activity for curious young minds. It's important to emphasize to children that the ocean is not safe for swimming here and to supervise them closely, especially near the water's edge. The park's historical significance, with its tsunami memorial, can also be a somber but educational point of discussion for older children.
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the raw power of the waves as they crash against the shore, creating dynamic and awe-inspiring shots. The unique geological formations and the rugged coastline offer endless possibilities for landscape photography. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
A wide-angle lens will be invaluable for capturing the expansive views, and a polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance the colors of the ocean and sky. Don't forget to also capture the poignant tsunami memorial for a more reflective series of images. 🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Contemplatives
The dramatic scenery and the historical context of the tsunami memorial offer a profound backdrop for introspection. This park provides an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level, away from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy locations.
It's a place to contemplate the forces of nature, the resilience of life, and the history of the land. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Pacific: Understanding the Ocean Conditions
Visitors are strongly advised against entering the water for swimming or any water sports. The beauty lies in observing this raw, untamed force of nature from a safe distance. The constant surge of the waves creates a mesmerizing spectacle, and the sound of the surf is a dominant feature of the park's atmosphere. This dramatic interaction between land and sea is what draws many visitors, offering a stark contrast to the calmer beaches found elsewhere on the island.
+1For those interested in marine life, the rocky shoreline does feature tidal pools that can be explored during low tide. These miniature ecosystems offer a glimpse into the resilient life that thrives in this challenging environment.
Always exercise caution when exploring the rocks, as they can be slippery. A Place of Remembrance: The 1946 Tsunami
Today, visitors can find plaques and memorials within the park that serve as a solemn reminder of this event. These markers offer a space for reflection and honor the memory of those who were affected.
Understanding this history adds another layer to the visit, transforming it from just a scenic viewpoint into a place of contemplation and respect for the island's past.
Geological Marvel: The Lava Formations
These angular lava tips create a dramatic and rugged landscape that is visually captivating. The contrast between the dark, textured lava rocks and the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean is a photographer's delight.
Exploring the shoreline allows you to appreciate the unique patterns and formations sculpted by volcanic activity and the relentless power of the sea. These geological features are not just visually appealing; they are a fundamental part of the park's identity, telling a story of the island's fiery origins and its ongoing transformation by natural forces.
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