Kahaluʻu Beach Park

Keauhou, Kona Coast — Big Island

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Kahaluʻu Beach Park is on Aliʻi Drive on the Kona coast. Check in with a ReefTeacher when you arrive. The Kohala Center’s volunteers offer guidance on caring for the bay.

Large waves, strong currents and sharp rocks can make Kahaluʻu hazardous. Check with the lifeguards before entering; stay ashore if conditions are unsuitable or you are unsure. Snorkeling requires ocean-swimming experience.

Beach day tools

Before you choose this beach, check what matters today.

A good beach plan depends on surf, timing, access, and what your group wants from the water.

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Decide whether to enter the water

Choose a shore visit if you lack ocean-swimming experience. Check your equipment, swim with a buddy and follow lifeguard advice. A reef or lifeguard tower does not guarantee safe water. Hawaiʻi Ocean Safety snorkeling guidance

The Kohala Center directs visitors to the channel in front of the lifeguard tower, left of the pavilion, for entry and exit. Ask the lifeguards about conditions and the appropriate entry point that day; avoid walking across slippery, sharp rocks.

Care for the reef and wildlife

Float above the reef; do not stand on coral or walk across the rocks. Never chase or touch wildlife. The Kohala Center asks visitors to give honu (green sea turtles) at least 10 feet of space.

Cover up for sun protection or use mineral sunscreen. Check the active ingredients for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; a “reef safe” label alone does not establish that the product is suitable. The Kohala Center’s visit and reef-care guidance

Getting there and parking

Address: 78-6702 Aliʻi Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740. County park information

The Kohala Center lists nonresident parking at $12 for four hours. Hawaiʻi residents with valid ID park free after checking in at the Parking and Bay Information tent. Confirm current terms before parking.

Hours, facilities and what to bring

The Kohala Center lists park hours of 7 a.m.–7 p.m., subject to change. Weather, ocean conditions, coral spawning, coral bleaching or extreme low tides can prompt closures. Check current notices and obey posted controls.

County-listed facilities include restrooms, a pavilion and barbecue grills. Confirm availability and posted lifeguard coverage when you arrive.

Kahaluʻu is listed as a lifeguarded beach. Check posted staffing before planning water time; park hours and lifeguard hours are different. State lifeguarded-beach list

Bring your own drinking water, sun protection, towel and suitable equipment. Check services before relying on rentals or loaner gear.

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Related reading: Two-Step (Honaunau) · Kealakekua Bay · Best Snorkeling on the Big Island · Hawaii Snorkel Finder Quiz