Kapa'a Beach Park

Kapa'a Beach Park is a quiet North Kohala shoreline with rocky coast, clear calm-season water, camping by permit and historic remains nearby.

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Kapa'a Beach Park

Kapa'a Beach Park, Big Island

If you like your beaches small and private, you'll love this quiet rocky beach on the Big Island's northwestern shore. However, the shoreline here is rocky and the beach is not good for swimming. Kapa'a is mainly visited by picnickers, fishermen and divers.

In the summer, the nearshore fishing conditions are good, but in the winter, heavy surf and strong currents make entering the ocean dangerous. The water is exceptionally clear here when the ocean is calm, and even though there is no coral reef to marvel at, the many colorful fish make up for it.

In the old Hawaii, this remote area was well-populated and up until today, many habitation ruins surround the beach, such as yard walls, platforms and enclosures. Many of them are hidden under thick vegetation. Related pages include Hawaiian history and Big Island scuba diving for visitors interested in the area’s shoreline and underwater setting.

Camping is allowed on the beach (but a permit is required) and is popular among backpackers. The park has fairly good facilities, including restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecue grills and a pavilion. Nearby Mahukona Beach Park and Big Island snorkeling pages may also be useful when planning North Kohala coast stops.

Key Features

Rocky North Kohala shoreline off Highway 270
Small, quiet beach park north of Mahukona Beach Park
Clear water may be seen during calm summer conditions
Winter surf and strong currents can make the shoreline dangerous
Rocky entry makes the beach poor for casual swimming
Ancient habitation remains are found around the area
Yard walls, platforms and enclosures may be hidden by vegetation
Camping requires a county permit
Remote coast gives the park a quieter North Kohala feel
Visitors should wear shoes near the rocks and judge ocean conditions carefully

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much time should visitors allow?

Many visitors allow 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether they are stopping for shoreline views, fishing, a picnic or a longer calm-weather visit.

What is the shoreline like?

The shoreline is rocky rather than sandy, so the beach feels rugged and quiet, with rougher footing than many classic beach parks.

When is the water usually clearest?

Summer and other calm ocean periods usually bring the clearest water, while winter surf can make the shoreline rough and unsafe.

What historic features are nearby?

The area has old habitation remains, including yard walls, platforms and enclosures, some of which are hidden by thick vegetation.

What should visitors bring?

Bring water, sun protection and shoes for the rocky shoreline. Campers should also arrange the required permit before planning an overnight stay.