Alula Beach (Kona Dog Beach)

Alula Beach (Kona Dog Beach) is a small hidden beach just south of the Honokohau Marina and Small Boat Harbor near Kailua-Kona. Since there are not a lot of dog-friendly beaches in the area, this one is popular with dog owners.

If you don’t have a dog to bring to this beach, we recommend visiting the beaches in Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park which can be accessed from the northwest corner of the harbor parking lot. Aiopio Fishtrap Beach is a great alternative and you can walk north a bit from there to a sandy shore.

If you do have a dog that’s longing for social interaction and saltwater to play in, Alula Beach is your spot. The shape of the small cove at this beach provides protection from the waves so it’s pretty safe for pooches and people who get into the water. Shade from trees at the back of the beach make it easy to rest during the hottest part of the day. The beach surface is a mix of sand and pebbles. There’s a lot of black lava around this cove but there’s one great sandy water entrance.

Alula Beach is also called Crescent Beach and the waters just offshore are called “Honokohau Dive Site” in scuba diving circles. It’s possible to do a shore dive here and avoid taking a boat out beyond the harbor.

The closest parking for Alula Beach can be found at the end of Kealakehe Parkway inside the harbor entrance (see our map). Park along the Parkway as far as the gates allow and then walk down the road toward the ocean and away from the harbor. When the road bends right (towards a parking lot at the harbor entrance) stay straight and find a short-but-rugged trail that goes left (south) to the beach. You’ll see the beach on approach and just watch your step as you descend the route across the lava. Restrooms can be found at the north side of the harbor.

Address

429 Kealakehe Pkwy
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Phone

808 329-6881

Park Name

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park

Other Names

Crescent Beach, Manta Ray Bay, Honokohau Dive Site, Noio Point

Owner

State, National

Pet Details

Dogs allowed off leash

Fees

Free parking

Activities

Swimming, Sunbathing, Dog Walking, Scuba Diving

Amenities

Off-Leash Dog Beach, Anchialine Ponds