Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Dramatic black lava coastline meets the powerful Pacific, offering raw beauty and a poignant historical reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful views, fewer crowds
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Best Time
Peaceful views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic black lava coastline meets the powerful Pacific, offering raw beauty and a poignant historical reflection.
"Loved the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Pacific ocean with no crowds to deal with."
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,348 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Lava Coastline
Jagged black lava rocks meet the powerful Pacific, creating a stark and beautiful contrast. Perfect for photography.
+1
Crashing Waves Spectacle
Witness the raw power of the ocean as waves relentlessly crash against the shore. Mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.
Tsunami Memorial
Reflect at the poignant plaques commemorating the devastating 1946 tsunami that impacted the former village.
Tidal Pools
Explore fascinating tidal pools teeming with marine life during low tide. A hidden world to discover.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Raw Beauty
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring snacks or a meal to enjoy at the covered picnic tables with scenic ocean views.
🚶♂️ Explore Tidal Pools
Discover the small marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 No Swimming Zone
The ocean here is powerful and dangerous. Admire the waves, but do not attempt to swim.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The black lava rocks against the blue ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring snacks or a meal to enjoy at the covered picnic tables with scenic ocean views.
🚶♂️ Explore Tidal Pools
Discover the small marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide.
🏕️ Camping Nearby
Laupahoehoe campground is the closest option, but be mindful of fishermen at night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely gorgeous and dramatic views of jagged cliffs and black rock shores meeting the powerful Pacific. Many appreciate the raw, unfiltered beauty and the lack of crowds, making it a peaceful spot for reflection and enjoying nature's spectacle. However, some note that the restrooms could use a tidy-up.
"Absolutely gorgeous views. Jagged cliffs, black rock shore. We went early and there was not a crowd. Picnic tables available and lots of places to view nature at its finest. Bathrooms need a tidy up."
Linda James
"Loved the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Pacific ocean with no crowds to deal with. Strong waves continually crashing into the rocks made absorbing viewing. There are a couple plaques in remembrance of the 1946 Tsunami devastation on a public school previously located here."
S R
"The views were absolutely gorgeous! We came over to this park to see the waves crashing against the shore and it was awesome."
Jenna Vaughn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park is located on the Hamakua Coast, north of Hilo. It's a scenic drive along Highway 19. Keep an eye out for the signs, as it can be a bit hidden amidst the wilderness.
It can be a bit tricky to find as it's nestled between wilderness areas along the northeastern shore. Look for signs for the park.
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the Big Island, including reaching Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park. It offers the most flexibility.
Some local tours, like Makalapa Tours and Transportation, may include stops at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park as part of their Big Island itineraries.
The drive from Hilo to Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park is a county park and generally does not have an entrance fee. It's free to visit and enjoy the scenery.
As a public park, it is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and safety.
No advance booking is necessary for general park access. It's a public space, so you can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, always check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions due to weather or maintenance.
It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully experience the park's beauty. Camping is available nearby, but the park itself is best enjoyed before sunset.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely not. The ocean here is extremely rough with strong currents and large waves, making it very dangerous for swimming. It's strictly for viewing the power of the Pacific.
The park offers pavilions, restrooms, and a sprawling lawn area. Picnic tables are also available for visitors.
It's a great spot for families to enjoy the scenery and have a picnic. However, direct ocean play is not possible due to rough waters.
Laupahoehoe means 'leaf of lava' and refers to the angular lava tip formed by ancient pahoehoe lava flows.
You might spot marine life in the tidal pools, especially during low tide. The dramatic coastal environment is the main draw.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic contrast between the black lava rocks and the blue ocean is a photographer's dream. Capture the powerful waves crashing against the shore and the unique geological formations.
Early morning light can offer soft, beautiful illumination, while late afternoon can provide dramatic shadows and golden hues. The raw power of the waves is impressive at any time.
The jagged lava coastline itself is the main attraction. The tsunami memorial plaques also offer a poignant subject for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and rocks.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Social
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