Mermaid Pools & Goddess Pond

The Mermaid Pools and Goddess Pond are located on a remote part of the Big Island’s eastern shore along Government Beach Road. Signs say No Trespassing and Keep Out on the gate at the trail entrance, but locals have been ignoring these for years. The unofficial rules for access can always change so be good land stewards. If you decide to visit the shore for accessing these pools be sure to leave no trace.

The trailhead for Mermaid Ponds is on Government Beach Road about 2.1 miles southeast of the Hawaiian Beaches development (and just east of Pakaka Road) in the Puna District. To find the start of this narrow road, drive to the intersection of Papio Street and Kuna Street in Pahoa. Government Beach Road is just one-lane wide in places and can be slippery so take your time and don’t speed. Park where you can find space and make sure your vehicle is completely off the paved road and not blocking any gates. Don’t leave any valuables in the car. The only legal parking is at Papio Park about two miles west (toward Hilo).

The hike begins at a gate with lava rock walls on both sides. It’s is about a quarter mile through dense foliage and ends on a lava rock shelf above the ocean. Look around for the various Mermaid Ponds in this area.

The Goddess Pond is located at Makaukiu Point about a quarter mile to the right (east). Just follow the lava shelf and you’ll find a large pool at the point that is just above the ocean. When waves hit the point they splash into the pool and refresh it. This is a great place to soak and relax in the sun. If the surf is high enough to create a flow in the pool, stay away as these pools and this shoreline can be very dangerous during those conditions.

Address

Government Beach Rd & Pakaka Rd
Pahoa, HI 96778

Other Names

Makaukiu Point, Kokoolau

Fees

Free parking

Activities

Swimming, Soaking, Hiking

Amenities

Trails, Ponds, Tide Pools