Kolekole Beach Park
Kolekole Beach Park is a scenic streamside park located north of Hilo on the Big Island. Nestled under a towering highway bridge and surrounded by lush rainforest, this peaceful spot offers grassy picnic areas, waterfalls, and stream access for swimming. Though ocean swimming is unsafe due to strong surf and currents, the freshwater stream is a popular alternative. Its tropical scenery and local popularity make Kolekole a memorable stop on the Hamakua Coast.
Kolekole Beach Park, Big Island
Located about 10.5 miles (16.9 km) north of Hilo, Kolekole is a popular beach park among residents in the Hilo area, mainly because of its beautiful scenery, spacious grassy areas and facilities. On the weekends and on holidays, it is often times crowded with picnickers.
The ocean conditions are too rough and dangerous for swimming, but many people use the Kolekole Stream as a swimming pool. The stream is fed by Akaka Falls, a popular waterfall located about 4 miles (6.4 km) above Honomu, a nearby town. Another smaller waterfall flows into Kolekole Stream near the ocean, completing the tropical scenery of this beach park.
Kolekole Beach is made up of black sand and rocks and is located below a 100 feet (30 m) tall highway bridge. The beach is small and during rough ocean conditions, high surf often times washes over the beach and into the stream. It is best to avoid swimming at the mouth of the stream due to strong currents in this area.
The bridge was once used by the Hawaii Consolidated Railway. In 1946, a tsunami with waves of 37 feet (11 m) above sea level rushed onto the shoreline here and destroyed the girders from the middle part of the steel bridge, which destabilized it. Because many other parts of this part of the Big Island's shoreline were destroyed, the railroad went out of business. The county later purchased the bridge and rebuilt it.
Key Features of Kolekole Beach Park
- Stream-fed swimming: The Kolekole Stream, fed by Akaka Falls, provides a safe and refreshing place to swim.
- Picnic-friendly park: Spacious grassy areas, BBQ grills, and pavilions make this a local favorite for gatherings.
- Dramatic scenery: A 100-foot-high highway bridge spans the park, adding to the lush and dramatic setting near waterfalls and black sand.
- Historical context: The bridge was formerly part of the Hawaii Consolidated Railway, which was destroyed by a 1946 tsunami.
- Limited ocean access: The rocky beach and rough surf make ocean swimming dangerous; stick to the stream for safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kolekole Beach Park located?
Kolekole Beach Park is located about 10.5 miles north of Hilo along Hawaii Belt Road on the Big Island's Hamakua Coast.
Can you swim at Kolekole Beach?
Ocean swimming is not recommended due to rough conditions. However, visitors often swim in the Kolekole Stream, which is calmer and safer.
What is the large bridge over the park?
The 100-foot-tall bridge was once part of the Hawaii Consolidated Railway and now serves the Hawaii Belt Road. It was rebuilt after tsunami damage in 1946.
Are there picnic facilities available?
Yes. The park features pavilions, picnic tables, BBQ grills, drinking water, showers, and restrooms, making it ideal for picnics.
Is there a lifeguard on duty?
No. There are no lifeguards at Kolekole Beach Park. Always use caution near the ocean and supervise children near the stream.