Kapa'a Beach Park
Kapa'a Beach Park is a secluded, rocky shoreline on the Big Island's northwest coast, favored by fishermen, divers, and campers. Known for its ancient Hawaiian habitation ruins and scenic ocean views, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for picnicking, snorkeling in calm seas, and sunset watching.
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.
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.
Key Features of Kapa'a Beach Park
- Remote and peaceful location: Situated on the Big Island's northwestern shore, it offers solitude and scenic beauty.
- Historic Hawaiian ruins: Yard walls, platforms, and ancient enclosures hidden beneath vegetation reflect the area's rich past.
- Popular with campers and fishermen: Summer months offer good fishing, and camping is allowed with a permit.
- Snorkeling and diving: When the ocean is calm, the clear waters are ideal for spotting colorful fish despite the lack of coral reef.
- Basic amenities: Includes restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecue grills, a pavilion, and parking, but no lifeguards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Kapa'a Beach Park?
Yes, camping is allowed with a permit. The beach is popular with backpackers seeking a quiet coastal experience.
Is it safe to swim at Kapa'a Beach?
Swimming is not recommended due to the rocky shoreline and strong currents, especially in winter.
Is Kapa'a Beach good for snorkeling or diving?
Yes, when the ocean is calm, the clear waters allow for snorkeling and diving, with colorful fish in the area.
Are there ancient ruins at Kapa'a Beach Park?
Yes, there are remnants of ancient Hawaiian habitation sites, such as yard walls and platforms, hidden under the vegetation.
What facilities are available?
The park offers showers, restrooms, picnic tables, BBQ grills, a pavilion, and parking, but no lifeguards on duty.