Spencer Beach Park
Spencer Beach Park is a family-friendly white-sand beach on the Big Island’s northwestern coast, known for calm waters, great snorkeling, and shaded picnic areas. Protected by a reef and breakwater, it's one of the island’s safest beaches for children, with ample facilities and easy access to nearby historic sites.
Spencer Beach Park, Big Island
Located south of Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island's northwestern coast, Spencer Beach Park (view panorama) × offers excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, ample shade under large native trees and a calm, friendly atmosphere. The park is named after Samuel M. Spencer, former chairman of the Hawaii County Board of Supervisors who was responsible for developing the north Kohala Coast.
Spencer Beach (view panorama) × is one of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island. The soft, smooth shore offers a comfortable change from the usually rocky beaches on the Big Island, making it a great picnicking spot. A long, shallow reef offshore keeps out high waves and strong currents. The water near the shore is shallow and an excellent playground for kids. Surfing is not very popular, as the water is usually calm.
The park is ideal for weekend picnics as there are lots of facilities, including a large picnic pavilion complete with tables and electrical outlets. Camping is allowed on the grounds, but you’ll need a permit to stay overnight (see Big Island camping for info on how to get a permit). If you're up for a walk, consider going to the adjacent Pu'ukohola Heiau, which was built by King Kamehameha I in 1790-91. Another ancient temple site is situated a short walk to the north – Mailekini Heiau – located on Pelekane Beach, which is considered a sacred area.
Key Features of Spencer Beach Park
- Safe family-friendly beach: Calm, shallow water with a gently sloping sandy bottom makes it ideal for children and non-swimmers.
- Excellent facilities: Includes restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, BBQ grills, lifeguards, and recreational courts for volleyball, basketball, and tennis.
- Camping permitted with permit: Spencer Beach Park allows overnight camping for permit holders—perfect for weekend getaways.
- White sand and shade: One of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island with ample shade from large native trees.
- Access to cultural sites: A short walk leads to Pu'ukohola Heiau and Mailekini Heiau, sacred Hawaiian temple sites.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Spencer Beach Park located?
It is located on the Big Island’s northwestern coast, south of Kawaihae Harbor, accessible via Highway 270 between mile markers 2 and 3.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, the beach is protected by a reef and breakwater, resulting in calm waters ideal for kids and non-swimmers.
Can I camp at Spencer Beach Park?
Yes, overnight camping is allowed with a permit, and the beach offers designated camping areas with basic amenities.
Are there any cultural sites nearby?
Yes, Pu'ukohola Heiau and Mailekini Heiau are nearby and can be reached via short walks from the beach.
What facilities are available?
The park offers showers, restrooms, barbecue grills, picnic tables, a pavilion, lifeguards, and sports courts.