Kualoa Regional Park at a Glance
Oahu may be Hawaii’s party island, but it also got its share
of calm, peaceful beaches. If you’re looking to just sit
back and relax, a trip to Kualoa Regional Park may be just
the break you need. Kualoa is one of Oahu’s “secret” beaches,
tucked into a small peninsula just off of Kamehameha Highway.
Kualoa literally means “long ancestral background,” a
fitting tribute to the area’s interesting history. The park
itself was once a sacred town and is listed in the National
Register of Historical Places.
One of the Kualoa Park’s biggest attractions is the view
of the nearby Mokolii Island. According to legend, the island
is a fluke from the tail of a large dragon. Hiiaka, sister
of the goddess Pele, slew the creature and threw its tail
into the bay. Mokolii, which means “little lizard,” is said
to be part of the tail.
From the shore, the island looks a bit like a coolie’s hat,
which has earned it the nickname “Chinaman’s
Hat.” During low tide, you can actually walk, swim,
surf, or paddle over to the island. It’s a popular spot
for picnics and picture-taking. Try looking out for the
wedge-tailed shearwater, a beautiful black and white bird
that nests on the native trees.
Kualoa Park is open to campers and has around 30 small campsites,
open all week except Wednesdays and Thursdays. The Kualoa
Mountains in the background shield out most of the noise
from the nearby highway. It’s generally safe to spend the
night here, as there is nighttime security and a comfort
station nearby.
Kualoa Regional Park in Bullet Points
- Located on a peninsula featuring great views of
Chinaman's Hat island, located offshore
- Camping is possible here
Kualoa Regional Park Facilities
(top)
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Picnic tables
- BBQ grills
- Phones
- Lifeguards only on weekends and during the summer
Kualoa Regional Park Water Activities
- Swimming
- Kayaking over to Chinaman's Hat island
- Fishing
Driving Directions to Kualoa Regional Park
Address: 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Kualoa Regional Park Map (top)
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Kualoa Regional Park Weather
(top)
Now
79°F
Windchill:
79°F
Fair
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Location: Kaneohe, HI, US
Wind: 9 mph E
Humidity: 74%
Visibility: 0.1 mi
Pressure: 29.96 in steady
Sunrise: 6:37 am
Sunset: 5:51 pm
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Sat
Hi: 80°F
Low: 76°F
Scattered Showers
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Sun
Hi: 80°F
Low: 75°F
Scattered Showers
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Kualoa Regional Park Photos (click to enlarge)
(top)
Kualoa Regional Park Reviews and Comments
(top)
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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