Hukilau Beach Park is located in the little town of La‘ie on Oahu’s
northeastern coast. It is a section of the long sand beach that runs
between Laie and Kalani Points. Swimming is good here during the
summer. In the winter time when the surf is high, watch out for
strong currents.
A “hukilau” in Hawaiian is a traditional method of fishing, in which
a whole group of people participate. “Hukilau” literally means “pull
a lau,” which is a rope with ti leaves attached to it.
In 1947, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints organized a
hukilau in La‘ie to fundraise money to replace their wooden chapel,
which had burned down. Because the hukilau was so popular, the
visitor industry asked the La‘ie community to continue this fishing
method as a visitor attraction. So for years, it was held on this
beach.
Only when in 1970, the state determined that it was a commercial
endeavor that needed to be taxes, the community found the hukilau to
be unprofitable and discontinued this popular event. But up until
today, the beach here is known as Hukilau Beach.
Hukilau Beach Park in Bullet Points
Located in La‘ie on Oahu’s northeastern coast
Sandy beach that is good for swimming when the surf is calm
Watch out for currents that usually occur in the winter
months or when the surf is up
Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
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