MacKenzie State Park

MacKenzie State Park is a rugged Puna coast park with lava cliffs, sea arches, ironwood trees, picnic areas and powerful open-ocean views.

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MacKenzie State Park, Big Island

This sprawling state park has one of the most dramatic oceanfronts, but people don't come here for the swimming. MacKenzie State Park is mostly popular among sunbathers, picnickers and fishing enthusiasts. Strong currents make it unsafe for swimmers and snorkelers, and many drownings and near-drownings have happened in this area. Most of them were fishermen who were swept off the rocky ledges. Nevertheless, the views at this 13-acre (52,609 sq. m) park certainly merit a full day of exploring. The park is surrounded by many ironwood trees, so there is plenty of shade. Picnic tables and pavilions are available.

The park is located on the east rift zone of Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Because of this, the park's landscape consists mostly of rocks and dried lava, with some lush greenery on the far sides. Low sea cliffs are located along the water's edge. Here, you'll find caves, sea arches and lava tube openings, most of them a result of decades of volcanic activity.

Be sure to check out King's Highway, an ancient Hawaiian trail that takes you through the park on a winding path. It was built back in the days when King Kamehameha the Great ruled the Hawaiian Islands. Along the way, there are several lookout points where you can enjoy great views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The peak offers a bird's eye view of the coast, clearly defined against the water, making for a memorable picture.

MacKenzie State Park was named in 1939 after Albert J. W. MacKenzie, a forest ranger on the Big Island who passed away a year before. He was a dedicated forest ranger, replanting many burned areas in the Puna and Ka'u districts. He also planted the ironwood trees in this park.

Another interesting fact is that MacKenzie State Park is known as a spooky place, especially at night. It is the nightmarchers' territory and eerie sounds and sights have been witnessed (Nightmarchers are the spirits of deceased ancient Hawaiians. Their processions, which include torches and drumming, have been witnessed by quite a few people, especially on full moon nights).

Key Features

Rugged Puna coast state park above low lava cliffs
Ironwood trees shade the picnic areas and coastal grounds
Sea arches and open-ocean views shape the shoreline scenery
The park is not a sandy swimming beach
Strong waves and cliff edges make the water unsafe for casual ocean entry
Shore fishing is common when conditions allow
An old Hawaiian coastal trail crosses the park area
Daylight-hours park setting with no entrance fee
No lifeguards are stationed at the park
MacKenzie has a wild lower Puna feel with shade, cliffs and powerful surf below

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is MacKenzie State Park not a swimming beach?

The park sits above lava cliffs and rough open ocean, with rocky edges and strong water movement instead of a protected sandy swimming area.

What should visitors know near the cliff edges?

Visitors should stay back from wet lava, sea arches and open drops. Waves can hit the cliffs hard, and rock edges may be unstable or uneven.

Why are there so many ironwood trees at MacKenzie?

The park is known for its ironwood grove, which gives shade over the picnic areas and adds to the quiet, wind-swept feel of the Puna coast.

What is the old coastal trail through the park?

An old Hawaiian coastal trail crosses the park area, giving visitors a short walk through the ironwood grove and along the rugged shoreline setting.

When is MacKenzie State Park most comfortable?

Earlier daylight hours are often more comfortable for walking and picnicking, before the day feels hotter and before afternoon wind picks up along the coast.