Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
HI
About Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Along the western coastline of the Island of Hawaiʻi lies the hot, rugged lava of Kaloko-Honokōhau. This seemingly barren and harsh landscape does not appear to be suitable for human existence, and yet, long before written history, the Hawaiian people built a thriving settlement upon this ʻaʻā lava.
Things To Do
Take a Lava Hike!
Many trails in the park were created in ancient times and others are from the historical era. These were trails for pack animals. The main park trail is a loop that circles the park and is 4.5 miles long or 7.2 kilometers. It is highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes, have sun protection and bring plenty of water. Many sections of the trail are rough and uneven and the ocean section can be effected by high tides and large surf.
Petroglyphs in the Park!
The petroglyphs of Honokōhau are unique. A master craftsman laboring with stone tools and human hands in the hot sun made these into distinctive works of art that have become reservoirs of information. This area is a boardwalk that is along the mauka-makai trail a half mile from the visitor center or it can be accessed from the beach area (follow the signs to the visitor center).
Birdwatching at Kaloko-Honokōhau
Grab your binoculars and set out on a birdwatching adventure along the Kona coastline. See the vibrant yellow saffron finch, hear the boisterous calls of the common Myna, and watch as the ʻAukuʻu (black crowned night heron) slightly stalks its prey.
Become a Junior Ranger at Kaloko-Honokōhau NHP
Explore! Learn! Protect! Become a Junior Ranger at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Opportunities for all ages (even adults, see our Kupuna (elder) book! makes becoming a Junior Ranger an experience for the whole 'ohana (family).
Ocean Explorations
Imagine how the ancient Hawaiian people who lived here and used the ocean and its abundant resources. This is was a beautiful but difficult place to live hundreds of years ago. While you are here take a tidal pool walk (but be careful the rocks can be slippery!), or watch a beautiful sunset along the seashore. Fishing and gathering of some ocean resources are allowed and are managed by State of Hawaii regulations.
Picnicking at Kaloko Fishpond
Kaloko Fishpond
Available Activities
Weather
The weather in the park is typically hot and sunny, with temperatures in the upper 80's.
Getting There
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is located on the west coast of the island of Hawai'i, approximately 3 miles south of the Keahole International Airport (Kailua-Kona Airport) and 3 miles north of the town of Kailua-Kona, on the ocean side of Highway 19. The visitor center, Hale Ho'okipa, is located half a mile north of the entrance to Honokōhau Harbor. The Kaloko Road gate is located across the highway from the Kaloko New Industrial Park (across from the big yellow "Kona Trade Center" building).
Plan Your Visit
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