Kahaluu Beach Park

Kahalu’u Beach Park is the most popular snorkeling location on the Big Island as is it shallow, protected, lifeguarded, and perfect for beginning snorkelers. It has become “over-snorkeled” so unless you are a novice, we recommend going to a different beach to snorkel. This is one of the safest beaches in Kona for keikis (kiddos) so it will always be popular with families.

The county and local gear rental shops are steering visitors to other beaches because the coral in this cove is dying from too many people (and bad sunscreen). We agree that this one should be avoided going forward as it needs to recover and there are so many places to snorkel on the western side of the island (Magic Sands and Keauhou Bay are good options). We also recommend that everyone use “reef safe” sunscreens (mineral-based) no matter where they will be getting into the ocean.

Surfing is the other big activity at Kahaluu Beach Park, but the surfers usually enter the water at a different spot. From October through April when the waves on this side of the island are larger, local surfers will get into the cove at the north end near the St. Peters By The Sea Church. From there they can paddle out to the end of the reef at the mouth of the cove. Parking for this surfing entrance is along Alii Drive. The tiny church was built in 1880 and moved to this location in 1912.

For everyone else entering the park, there is a parking lot near the restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and lifeguard tower. Even though it’s a large lot, it can fill up on sunny days. The gates are open 7am to 7pm daily, but hours can fluctuate so pay attention to what’s on the gate when you arrive. Note that Kahaluu Beach Park can be closed when the west side of the Big Island has a high surf warning. When it’s open there is usually a bus parked inside the gates with shaved ice and refreshments.

Address

78-6702 Ali‘i Dr
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Phone

808-961-8311

Park Name

Kahalu'u Beach Park

Other Names

Kahalu'u Beach

Owner

County

Pet Details

No dogs allowed at county beach parks

Fees

Free parking in lot and along the street

Activities

Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming, Scuba Diving, Sunbathing

Amenities

Lifeguards Every Day, Restrooms, Picnic Tables, Showers, Covered Pavilion, Drinking Water, ADA Access, Snack Bus, Heiau