Ho‘okena Beach Park
A stunning dark sand beach known for dolphin sightings, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets. A true Hawaiian gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Ho‘okena Beach Park
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning dark sand beach known for dolphin sightings, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets. A true Hawaiian gem.
"This is a 5-star beach but giving it 4 just because the drive to get there is nerve-wracking."
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! 🚗
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. 🐢 🐬
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 1,374 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dolphin and Turtle Sightings
Ocean waters
Witness playful dolphins and graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly magical experience!
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Snorkeling and Swimming
Coral reef and ocean waters
Explore the underwater world with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Great for all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Scenic Drive
Embrace the Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! 🚗
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. 🐢 🐬
Pack for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. 🎭
Permit for Camping
Need a permit for beach camping? Arrange it online in advance. ⛺
Tips
from all over the internet
Drive Carefully Down
The road to Ho'okena is narrow & winding. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route! 🚗
Look for Turtles & Dolphins
Keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins, especially in the morning. 🐢 🐬
Pack for Snorkeling
Bring your snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. 🎭
Permit for Camping
Need a permit for beach camping? Arrange it online in advance. ⛺
Rinse Off After
Public showers and hoses are available to rinse off sand and saltwater. 🚿
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ho'okena Beach Park is a highly-rated destination praised for its beautiful dark sand, abundant marine life, and stunning sunset views. While the drive can be a bit challenging, visitors find the beach to be a rewarding experience. Some note the lack of lifeguards and potential for strong currents, advising caution in the water.
"We were told by a local this is one of the less crowded beaches to snorkel at, and that proved to be true on our visit.
While the drive down (and back up) was nerve-wracking even as a passenger, if you’ve driven to Haleakala on Maui or Waimea on Kauai, this isn’t worse than those drives.
I was surprised to see some homes at the bottom, that’s a tough commute on a daily basis. But the view and access to the bay can’t be beat - and did I mention you might see dolphins? We didn’t on our visit, but there were a couple of signs instructing visitors on what to do if they were present in the bay.
I am an OK swimmer, but I was a little worried about the currents and how strong they seem to be, so I stuck mainly close to shore. I did see some of the biggest convict tangs I’ve ever seen snorkeling, and we did catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian reef trigger fish with the long name: Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa.
I appreciated the availability of warm water at the outdoor shower and the cleanliness of the restroom - not always the case at public beaches. Would love to come back on a sunnier day when the water is calmer."
Therese Howe
"This is a 5-star beach but giving it 4 just because the drive to get there is nerve-wracking — very narrow and winding road, but once you are there oh my goodness it is beautiful, the waves were not too overwhelming, lots of black soft sand, great cliffs in the background for stunning photos. No lifeguard though and the current can be a bit strong but you can easily stay close to shore and wade in the water. Good sandcastle sand and lots of space for sunbathing."
Marg Smith
"Beautiful beach with dark sand. Seen a few dolphins there. Very popular among local people. Simple Toilets and a public shower available."
Thomas Frehner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ho'okena Beach Park is located south of Kona. The drive involves a narrow, winding road that requires careful navigation. Many visitors recommend taking your time to enjoy the scenery.
The road is described as narrow and winding, which some find nerve-wracking. However, it's generally manageable with cautious driving.
There is secure parking available, especially for campers if you have a permit.
Public transport options to Ho'okena Beach Park are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the park.
Yes, Ho'okena Beach Park offers secure parking for campers and RVs, provided you have obtained the necessary permit in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit Ho'okena Beach Park. It is a public park.
Ho'okena Beach Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. For camping, specific permit times apply.
Yes, a permit is required for beach camping at Ho'okena Beach Park. This can be arranged online in advance.
While generally open, always check for any local advisories or temporary closures. Be mindful of ocean conditions.
While the description mentions kayak and snorkel rentals, it's best to confirm availability locally or bring your own gear.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, beach camping, and watching for dolphins and turtles. The lava rock tide pools are also a fascinating feature.
Yes, Ho'okena Beach Park is known for its snorkeling opportunities around the coral reef. Be aware of currents and stay close to shore if needed.
No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Ho'okena Beach Park. Visitors should exercise caution, especially in the water.
Ho'okena Beach Park features dark, soft sand, often described as black sand. It's great for relaxing and building sandcastles.
Yes, there are restrooms and public showers available at Ho'okena Beach Park, which are noted as being clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The cliffs in the background offer stunning photo opportunities. The beach itself, especially during sunset, provides beautiful backdrops.
Absolutely! Many visitors highlight the beautiful sunsets and rainbows seen from Ho'okena Beach Park, making it ideal for photography.
With clear waters and marine life, Ho'okena Beach Park is a great location for underwater photography if you have the right equipment.
You can photograph the dark sand, coral reefs, lava rock tide pools, and the diverse marine life like turtles and dolphins.
The combination of the dark sand, the rugged coastline, and the potential for marine life encounters makes for unique photographic opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit