Ke'ei Beach

Ke'ei Beach, Big Island

Just beside the well-known Kealakekua Bay is a small beach unknown to most visitors. Ke'ei Beach is one of the best-kept secrets on the Big Island's Kona Coast, visited mostly by local fishermen, surfers and the occasional sightseer.

Ke'ei Beach has white sand speckled with black lava fragments and is a good spot for a picnic. When it come to swimming though, the conditions aren't that good because the nearshore ocean bottom is very shallow and rocky.

There is a narrow sandy channel at the northern end of the beach that's suitable for swimming. Other water activities that are possible here are snorkeling, surfing and fishing. The reef stretches offshore for almost 300 yards. On some days the surfing conditions are quite good here, with some of the biggest waves and longest rides in the area.

Besides the attractive scenery at Ke'ei Beach, it is also an important historical location. It was here where the Battle of Moku'ohai took place, King Kamehameha the Great's first battle in his effort to gain control of the Big Island of Hawaii.

He achieved rule over half of the island, which he interpreted that the gods favored him and wanted him to rule not just the Big Island of Hawaii, but all of the Hawaiian islands (which he achieved in 1810 and then established the Kingdom of Hawaii).

Key Features of Ke'ei Beach

• Hidden local gem: A peaceful and uncrowded beach, frequented mostly by fishermen and surfers.
• Surf and snorkel potential: While swimming is limited, snorkeling and surfing are popular thanks to the offshore reef.
• White sand and lava mix: The shoreline features white sand dotted with black lava rock, creating a unique and rugged coastal landscape.
• Historic site: The Battle of Moku'ohai, King Kamehameha's first major victory, took place here.
• Near Kealakekua Bay: Located just south of one of the Big Island's most famous snorkeling and kayaking destinations.

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Reviews and Comments:   Great discovery, kayak from Captain Cook monument to Ke’ei (approx 2.5 miles). The surf was 6 foot at reef, so hugged coast 200 ft off shore. You will spot narrow 20 ft channel, look for the nice shade tree at north end of beach. Only 1 guy and his dog playing on beach, very historic place, you can feel the mana. Cris Corley, Sat Sep 02, 2023

Location: Ke'ei Rd Ke'ei, HI 96750

Directions: Located just south of Kealakekua Bay. Coming from State Highway 160, make a turn into Ke'ei Road and follow the road to the ocean.

• No facilities
• No lifeguards

• Surfing
• Snorkeling
• Fishing
• Limited swimming

Ke'ei Beach