Spencer Beach Park

Spencer Beach Park at 'Ohai'ula Beach is a sheltered South Kohala beach with soft sand, shade trees, calm-water days and nearby Pu'ukohola Heiau.

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Spencer Beach Park, Big Island

Located south of Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island's northwestern coast, Spencer Beach Park offers excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, ample shade under large native trees and a calm, friendly atmosphere. The park is named after Samuel M. Spencer, former chairman of the Hawaii County Board of Supervisors who was responsible for developing the north Kohala Coast.

Spencer Beach is one of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island. The soft, smooth shore offers a comfortable change from the usually rocky beaches on the Big Island, making it a great picnicking spot. A long, shallow reef offshore keeps out high waves and strong currents. The water near the shore is shallow and an excellent playground for kids. Surfing is not very popular, as the water is usually calm.

The park is ideal for weekend picnics as there are lots of facilities, including a large picnic pavilion complete with tables and electrical outlets. Camping is allowed on the grounds, but you’ll need a permit to stay overnight. If you're up for a walk, consider going to the adjacent Pu'ukohola Heiau, which was built by King Kamehameha I in 1790-91. Another ancient temple site is situated a short walk to the north – Mailekini Heiau – located on Pelekane Beach, which is considered a sacred area.

Key Features

Sheltered South Kohala beach at 'Ohai'ula near Kawaihae
Soft sand and shade trees make the shoreline feel calmer than many exposed west-side beaches
Reef and coastal shape help protect the nearshore water when conditions are settled
Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is close by, adding cultural depth to the area
Camping is available by county permit, with evening gate rules for overnight stays
The park has a broad lawn-and-beach layout that draws families and campers
Morning visits often bring easier parking and more open shade
Kawaihae Harbor and the dry Kohala landscape shape the surrounding coastal views
The beach can still change with wind, swell and seasonal ocean conditions
Spencer Beach Park is one of the more established county beach parks on the Kohala Coast

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Spencer Beach Park often calmer than nearby exposed beaches?

The shoreline has protection from reef and coastal shape, so the nearshore water is often gentler than open stretches of the Kohala Coast.

Is Spencer Beach Park connected with Pu'ukohola Heiau?

The park sits near Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, making this part of the coast important for both beach time and Hawaiian history.

What should campers know before staying overnight?

Camping requires a county permit. The gate closes at night and reopens in the morning, so plan food, supplies and arrival time before dark.

When does Spencer Beach Park feel busiest?

Weekends, holidays and calm sunny days can bring more families and campers. Mornings usually give you more room to settle in.

What should I bring for a comfortable visit?

Bring sunscreen, drinking water, a towel or beach mat, and sandals or shoes for walking between the sand, grass and paved park areas.