Kiowea Beach Park

Kiowea Beach Park is a quiet oceanfront park on Molokai's south shore, located next to the historic Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove. Though not ideal for swimming due to its shallow, rocky bottom and murky water, the beach offers picnic tables, barbecue grills, a pavilion, and views of offshore freshwater springs. The park is named after King Kamehameha V (Kapuaiwa), who is believed to have planted the original coconut grove in the 1860s. Today, it's a peaceful place for relaxing and enjoying a piece of Molokai's royal heritage.

Kiowea Beach Park, Molokai

Kiowea Beach Park (view panorama) × is located right next to a well-known coconut grove, known as Kapuaiwa or Kamehameha Coconut Grove, on Molokai's south shore. It is named in honor of the high chief Kapuaiwa, who in 1863 became King Kamehameha V. It is said that either he himself planted the coconuts in this grove, or that the trees were planted by his agent and ranch manager, Rudolph W. Meyer.

Kiowea Beach is narrow and composed of detrital sand. The ocean bottom is rocky, shallow and the water murky, so the swimming conditions are poor. The shoreline here is quite eroded. In the past, there had been several freshwater springs in the park, but because of erosion, they are now located in the ocean offshore. They can be seen bubbling up at low tide.

Key Features of Kiowea Beach Park

Historic location: Situated next to Kapuaiwa (Kamehameha) Coconut Grove, planted during King Kamehameha V's reign.
Scenic and shaded: Ideal for picnicking under the trees with ocean views and a peaceful setting.
Not ideal for swimming: Shallow reef and murky water make the ocean conditions poor for swimming or snorkeling.
Freshwater springs: Submerged springs visible offshore during low tide, once a source of freshwater.
Public amenities: Picnic tables, pavilion, grills, restrooms, and parking available.

Reviews and Comments:


The tall coconut trees drew our attention as we drove into Kaunakakai, so we decided to check out the area on the way back. The gate was locked, so we parked on the side of the road and walked in. There was a nice shaded picnic area right on the beach. The beach itself is not spectacular - the water was murky and dark, so I don't think it is a good swimming beach. But the park is definitely worth a stop. We took some great photos of coconut palms leaning over the ocean.
Gregory, April 1, 2012

Frequently Asked Questions

🌴What is Kapuaiwa Grove?

Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove is a royal coconut grove believed to have been planted in the 1860s during the reign of King Kamehameha V.

🏊‍♂️Can I swim at Kiowea Beach?

No, the ocean bottom is rocky and shallow, and the water is usually murky, making it unsuitable for swimming.

🪵Are there facilities at the beach park?

Yes, Kiowea Beach Park has picnic tables, a pavilion, barbecue grills, restrooms, and parking.

💧What's unique about the offshore springs?

Former freshwater springs now bubble up just offshore and can be seen at low tide - evidence of the area's once lush hydrology.

📍Where is Kiowea Beach Park located?

It's on Molokai's south shore in Kaunakakai, directly off Maunaloa Highway (Route 460).