Ocean View

Ocean View is a large Ka'u subdivision on the southern slopes of Mauna Loa, known for lava fields, wide ocean views, rural roads and South Point access.

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Ocean View

Ocean View is located in the Big Island's Ka'u district near South Point. Living here means living a rugged life amidst lava fields and few modern conveniences. People here are self-sufficient and don't want to be bothered. They chose a life off the grid. Ocean View doesn't have much to offer for visitors in terms of amenities, but it is still worth a visit, if just for the rugged, off-the-beaten-path surroundings that make for a unique sight.

The town has two small shopping centers, a gas station and a few eateries. There is a scenic lookout point near mile marker 75 on Highway 11 (Mamalahoa Hwy). One interesting nearby attraction is the Kula Kai Caverns, a 13-mile (21 km) long underground tunnel system. A variety of guided walking tours through parts of these caverns is being offered.

Ocean View has several subdivisions: Hawaiian Ocean View Estates (HOVE), Hawaiian Ocean View Ranchos, Kula Kai View Estates, Kahuku County Gardens, Kona Gardens, Keone's Ranchos and Kona View Estates.

These subdivisions encompass an area of about 6 miles (10 km) up the mountain and 3 miles (5 km) along the coastline. Ocean View's highest elevation is at 5,000 feet (1,524 m) and this nice view that one can enjoy from up here is probably why the entire area is named Ocean View.

Key Features

Large rural community in the Ka'u District
Located along Mamalahoa Highway between Kailua-Kona and Na'alehu
Spread across lava slopes on the southern side of Mauna Loa
Known for wide ocean views and dry leeward scenery
Highway services include food stops, small businesses and gas station access
Common supply stop before South Point or Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Side roads may be steep, rough, unpaved or residential
Drier and more open than Hilo, Hamakua or windward Big Island towns
Long drives are needed to reach major beaches, parks and larger towns
Population: 4,806 at the 2020 Census
ZIP code: 96737

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Ocean View?

The name comes from the wide ocean views across the southern slopes of Mauna Loa. Many roads in the subdivision look over lava fields toward the open water and South Point area.

What is Hawaiian Ocean View Estates?

Hawaiian Ocean View Estates is the large subdivision most people mean when they talk about Ocean View. It covers many roads and lots across a dry lava landscape above Highway 11.

Why does Ocean View look so different from Hilo or Hamakua towns?

Ocean View is on a dry leeward slope with younger lava, fewer trees and long open views. Hilo and Hamakua are wetter, greener and more closely shaped by streams, gulches and plantation-era town centers.

How is Ocean View connected with South Point?

Ocean View is one of the main highway communities near the road network leading toward South Point and Papakolea Green Sand Beach. Many drivers stop here for basic supplies before continuing south.

What should visitors understand about the side roads?

Ocean View has a large grid of rural subdivision roads. Some are steep, rough or unpaved, and many pass homes and private lots rather than visitor attractions.