Kualoa Regional Park
Kualoa Regional Park is a scenic oceanfront park on Oahu’s windward coast, offering grassy picnic areas, historic Hawaiian fishponds, and stunning views of Mokoli'i Island. With calm coastal breezes, shady trees, and a rich cultural history, it’s a popular spot for family gatherings, camping, kayaking, and photography.
Kualoa Regional Park, Oahu
Oahu may be Hawaii's party island, but it also got its share of calm, peaceful beaches. If you're looking to just sit back and relax, a trip to Kualoa Regional Park (view panorama) × may be just the break you need. It is located just off of Kamehameha Highway, but since the park has a large grassy area, one can't hear the noise from the highway at the beach.
Kualoa means "long ancestral background" in the Hawaiian language, a fitting tribute to the area's interesting history. In the old Hawaii, chiefs brought their children here to learn learn about their heritage and traditions. The park itself was once a sacred town. Today, the park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of Kualoa Park's main attractions is the view to nearby Mokoli'i Island. According to an ancient legend, the island is a fluke from the tail of a large dragon. Hi'iaka, sister of the goddess Pele, slew the creature and threw its tail into the bay. Mokoli'i, which means "little lizard," is said to be part of the tail. From the shore, the island looks a bit like a coolie's hat, which has earned it the nickname "Chinaman's Hat."
The island (located about 600 yards offshore) is a kayaking destination (others paddle here with a surfboard). Some people even try to swim to the island during low tide because this is when the water is very shallow. However, swimming here is not a good idea because the current can be unpredictable and high tide can come in sooner than you think. People have drowned here in the past while trying to swim back to shore from the island.
The beach at Kualoa Park (view panorama) × is narrow and the nearshore ocean bottom is shallow with some rocky patches. So the swimming isn't that great here. At the south end of the park is a stone barrier, so this is a nice area for a dip. This is also where two ancient Hawaiian fishponds are located - Moli'i and Apua Fishpond. Kualoa Park is open to campers and has around 30 small campsites. More info about how to get a camping permit.
Key Features of Kualoa Regional Park
- Large grassy park with oceanfront picnic areas and shaded trees
- Panoramic view of Mokoli'i Island (Chinaman’s Hat)
- Historic Hawaiian fishponds and cultural heritage site
- Popular for kayaking, fishing, and family camping (with permit)
- Designated area with calm water for safe wading or swimming
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chinaman’s Hat Island?
Chinaman’s Hat, also called Mokoli‘i, is a small offshore island visible from Kualoa Regional Park. It’s a popular spot for kayaking and photography.
Can I camp at Kualoa Regional Park?
Yes, camping is allowed with a permit. There are about 30 campsites available within the park.
Is the beach good for swimming?
The beach is narrow and rocky in places, but the south end has a protected area that’s better for wading or swimming.
What’s the significance of the nearby fishponds?
Moli‘i and Apua Fishponds are ancient Hawaiian fishponds once used for sustainable aquaculture and are now cultural landmarks near the south end of the park.
Where is the park located?
Kualoa Regional Park is on Oahu’s east side at 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy in Kaneohe. It’s easily accessed by car from the windward side or the North Shore.