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Kekaha Kai State Park

Hawaii 96740 USA

Independent

Kekaha Kai State Park, formerly known as Kona Coast State Park, is a beach park located along the north Kona coast on the island of Hawaii. The main beach areas are Maniniowali Bay (Kua Bay), Makalawena beach at Puu Alii Bay, and Mahaiula Bay. The park's name originates from the Hawaiian language words ke kaha kai which translate to "the shore line" in English.

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Reviewed by
Lesli Peterson

Blogger
1,213 Reviews
63 Helpful

August 10, 2022

Rated 5.0

Whether you want to hike along a scenic coastal trail or relax on a sandy shoreline, Kekaha Kai State Park is the place to be. Multiple beaches make up this large park – the most popular are Mahai’ula Beach to the South, Makalawena Beach in the middle, and Manini’owali Beach / Kua Bay at the Northern end.

Mahai’ula Beach is spacious and typically great for swimming. Four-wheel drive is recommended to access the parking lot, but many standard cars make it fine along the unpaved road. It’s a bit of a walk from the parking lot to the beach, which helps keep the area quiet and pristine.

If you want to access a beach with even more beauty and seclusion, continue hiking north to Makalawena Beach, which features white sand and clear water. Since there’s no convenient parking, the beach stays unpopulated and totally serene.

Beachgoers wanting a more accessible walk to the shoreline should pass Mahai’ula Beach and continue driving North. Kua Bay (Manini’owali Beach) is a popular and family-friendly beach with excellent swimming conditions and lots of parking.

Access to Kekaha Kai State Park is between miles 88 and 91 on Highway 19.

We think a visit here is one of the best things to do in Kona!

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