Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park) Tours

With much of its coastline covered in jagged black lava rock, Kona is not well known for its beaches. However, a few locales offer the unspoiled white sand oases that typify Hawaii, including the palm-lined stretches at Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park. The best beachy parts are located more than a mile down a bumpy road through the remnants of a jumbled lava flow. Signs calling stretches “unimproved” are an understatement. Hualalai Volcano, looming behind the park, oozed these paths to the sea between the late 1700s and 1801. To truly appreciate the ocean dip awaiting you (and to satisfy many rental car agreements), hike the 1.6 miles in instead. When you arrive seaside, the small facilities—including limited parking, toilets, showers and an on-the-beach picnic area will be straight in front of you. But, to get to the larger stretches of white sand, you’ll need to continue on, turning right at the signs before the toilet blocks to reach Mahai’ula Bay. Here, it’s not uncommon to spot sea turtles, and the bay’s offshore rolling waves make this a fun spot for bodyboarding, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. For an even more secluded spot, follow the trail behind the old buildings at the north end of Mahaiula to the double-arched Makalawena Beach.
Kekaha Kai State Park’s 12-acre grounds also feature access to a 4.5-mile coastal jaunt to Kua Bay along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, including the Puu Kuili cindercone with sweeping shoreline views.
Practical Info
Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park) is located off Highway 19 north of the Kona Airport between mile markers 90 and 91. Visitors with smaller vehicles should park where the pavement ends shortly after the turn off and hike in— be sure you have adequate water and sun protection. 4WD vehicles can attempt the road and park closer to the beach. The park is free and open to the public between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Note that the nearest equipment rentals (snorkel, surf gear) are shops in Kailua-Kona.
Address: Hwy 19, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA 96740, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am-7pm
4 Tours and Activities to Experience Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park)
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Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour
Take a Kealakekua Bay snorkeling cruise, and depart from the waters of Keauhou Bay to scour the Kona coastline for dolphins, turtles or, even, whales in the winter months. Upon arrival in Kealakekua Bay, peer overboard at the crystal clear waters that teem with colorful reef fish. After receiving expert instruction and snorkeling equipment onboard, you'll jump in the water to experience some of the best snorkeling on the Big Island.
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From
$105.18
From
$105.18

Luxury Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel
Take the ultimate snorkeling and sailing trip along the Kona Coast during this 4-hour luxury yacht trip with a small group. Explore the stunning beaches and bays of the Big Island aboard a high-end boat, stopping at top snorkel sites and spotting marine life like dolphins, turtles, and whales. Unlimited refreshments, plus snorkel gear and a tasty picnic- or bento-style lunch are also included.
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From
$422.89
From
$422.89
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Hidden Craters Hike
Discover Hawaii's Big Island which is famous for volcanoes—on an off-road craters Tour. Hop aboard a 4 Wheel Drive van for a breathtaking ride up the side of the Hualalai volcano. You'll pass giant craters and among both rainforest and lunar landscapes climbing 6,000 feet to explore an incredible lava tube on foot. Afterward, spend some time at a local brewery where you'll have an opportunity to sample the local brews.
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From
$161.26
From
$161.26
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Kona Coast Snorkel Tour
Make your boat ride a luxurious experience on this snorkeling tour to the South Kona coast. Theater-style seating, arm and headrests, and both a breakfast buffet and barbecue lunch ensure a comfortable cruise, while high-quality snorkel gear for diving off the remote South Kona coast promise sightings of the tropical aquatic life you came to see.
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From
$175.16
From
$175.16
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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