South Kau Hawaii Region Sights, Tours, & Information
Things to Do & Visitor Tips for South Shore on Big Island Hawaii
Kaʻū is Hawaiʻi Island’s rural southern region, with coffee farms and macadamia orchards.
GoHawaii’s temporary Kaʻū advisory asks visitors to avoid nonessential travel into affected communities during hurricane recovery. Check that guidance before planning stops in Nāʻālehu, Pāhala or Waiʻōhinu. For travel between the west and east sides, it advises considering Highway 190 or Highway 200 instead of Highway 11 through Kaʻū. Check current road notices and the route from your accommodation before leaving.
Punaluʻu park and beach access: Hawaiʻi County’s October 13, 2026 announcement says the park remains closed until its tentative purchase is completed or a temporary lease is reached. Civil Beat separately reports that beach access remains open. That does not confirm that park parking, bathrooms, pavilions or campgrounds are operating. Confirm the current entrance and designated parking before driving.
Papakōlea access caution: The Island of Hawaiʻi Visitors Bureau discourages hiking and driving to Papakōlea because access crosses private property and raises erosion and safety concerns. Do not treat a walking route, vehicle track or offered ride as permission to enter. Choose another outing unless lawful access is confirmed.
South Point (Ka Lae) is the southernmost point in the 50 states. Kaʻū Desert lies on the southwest side of Kīlauea.
Plan fuel, supplies and offline navigation before any permitted outing. Confirm access and facilities for each stop instead of treating an attraction listing as an opening notice.
South Kau Top Attractions
Things to Do on Big Island's South Shore
South Kau Region Sights
Top South Kau Region Sights
Treat South Point as a separate detour: check current access notices and your rental terms before including it. Stay back from cliff edges and keep the visit on shore.
- South Point at Ka Lae - #9 Best in Sights on the Big Island
- Pali O Haukiuki 'Broken Road'
South Kau Beaches
Top South Kau Beaches
- Punaluu Black Sand Beach - #7 Best Beach on the Big Island
South Kau Hiking Trails
