Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Kawaihae & Around
Kawaihae marks the transition point from the dry, rocky resorty part of Kohala to its more
residential and rainy side (although Kawaihae itself is still in the dry zone). It's a drab
port, where fuel tanks and cargo containers give off an industrial vibe, but there's great
food, a family beach and historic heiau toward the south.
Beaches
Spencer Beach Park
BEACH
MAP
Shallow, sandy and gentle, this beach doesn't have the dramatic sweep of Mauna Kea or
Hapuna, but it is ideal for kids and popular with local families. Come to swim rather than
to snorkel; the waters are slightly silty due to Kawaihae Harbor to the north.
Located off the Akoni Pule Hwy (Hwy 270) just north of mile marker 2, the park has a
lifeguard, picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, showers, drinking water and campsites.
A footpath leads south to Mauʻumae Beach.
The campsites are exposed and crowded together, but it's still the best camping beach
north of Kona; a permit is required.
Sights & Activities
The waters of the Kohala Coast are pristine and teeming with marine life - and they're
much less crowded. The reef here drops off more gradually than along the Kona Coast, so
you'll probably see reef sharks, spinner dolphins, turtles and manta rays, but not large
schools of tuna and other deepwater fish. Kohala is the oldest area of the Big Island: see
lush coral growth and lots of lava tubes, arches and pinnacles. Contact Kohala Divers
(
Click here
)
in Kawaihae's main shopping center for more information.
Puʻukohola Heiau National Historic Site
HISTORIC SITE
MAP
1790 Kamehameha the Great had conquered Maui, Lanaʻi and Molokaʻi. But power over
his home island of Hawaiʻi proved to be a challenge. When told by a prophet that he'd
