Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

The Basics

More than just the beaches and hiking trails, the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is as an outdoor museum of Hawaiian archaeology. You can visit on your own to see sacred temples, petroglyphs, and the historic fishponds that sustained previous generations, or join a guided tour. Many tours include stops at the park alongside other Kona attractions, such as coffee plantations, breweries, and even a bee farm.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The historical park is a great stop for history buffs and nature lovers.

• Be respectful of the park’s cultural and religious significance.

• Park amenities are limited, so bring your own food and water.

• The park is free to enter, and camping is not allowed.

How to Get There

Located off Highway 19 between Kona International Airport and downtown Kona, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is an easy drive, bus ride, or bicycle trip for those arriving on the island or basing out of Kona. If you are staying outside Kona, consider visiting the park on a group tour.

When to Get There

The Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park visitor center is open from 8:30am to 4pm daily, and vehicle access to the park is open from 8am to 5pm. If you want to have the park to yourself, visit outside of the normal park hours. When the vehicle gate is closed, follow the road past the Honokohau Marina and to the Kona Sailing Club where you can take a short trail into the park.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Visitors to the park frequently spot green sea turtles (honu) sleeping on Honokohau Beach, basking in the lava flats, and swimming offshore. The turtles come to the shoreline to feed on the seaweed and the algae that grows on the lava flats. Low tide is the best time to observe the turtles. Just remember, these sea turtles are federally protected and must be enjoyed from a distance of at least 15 feet (4.5 meters).

Ways to explore

Meander through an ancient settlement where thatched-hut houses (hale) sit on the shore, explore the area’s trails, and admire coastal views at the white sand Honokohau Beach—access is free. Visit to learn about native Hawaiian engineering while looking for wildlife, including migratory birds and green sea turtles (honu). If you hike, lace up your boots and follow centuries-old footpaths, passing by ancient temple ruins, house platforms, and petroglyphs along the way. Make a day trip out of your visit with guided tours that combine a trip to Kaloko-Honokohau with other attractions such as coffee farms and markets.

Accessibility

The Visitors Center and restrooms are accessible to wheelchair users, but most of the park is not due to uneven surfaces. Service animals are allowed.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reef-safe sunscreen, binoculars, and plenty of water—there’s no water inside the park.

What to wear

Sturdy hiking shoes, sunglasses, hat

Not allowed

Camping, sunbathing, and beach accessories such as towels, chairs, and umbrellas

Amenities

Amenities are limited. There is no Wi-Fi, water, or food within the park.

Address

Located just 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Kailua-Kona, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is easy to reach by car, bus, or bicycle. If you’re staying outside of Kona, consider visiting the park on a group tour that includes transportation.

Driving

From downtown Kona, drive north on Highway 19 (toward the airport) for about 8 minutes. The park turnoff will be on your left.

Public transportation

Skip the crowded parking lot by taking the Kona Airport (202) bus line to Honokohau Street at Kaiser Permanente. From there, it’s roughly a 15-minute walk to the park.

Best times to visit

For fewer crowds, visit in off-peak hours—either before 10am or after 2pm. If you drive, you must leave the parking lot by 4pm.

Best days to visit

Because the park is especially popular on the weekends, consider visiting midweek for fewer crowds.

Best months to visit

The park is packed June–August. If you don’t mind a chance of rain, visit in winter for the chance to spot rare migratory birds flocking to the fishponds.

Special events

Ranger-led interpretive talks are held roughly twice a week and help you learn more about the park’s wildlife and protected ecosystems.