Big Island’s landscapes; bountiful flora and crystal foam rolling against black, green or golden sands create staggering coastal walks. The wildly rugged scenery, multi-colored sunsets and height of mountains surrounding the beach areas provide a draw for explorers, hikers and happy couples.
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Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park
Whether you strive for an almost five mile hike or a leisurely stroll, Kona Coast is a natural pick for a coastal walk. You can start with a hike on the Ala Kahakai historic trail and later, picnic and swim. The trail leads to Kua Bay and Pu’u Ku’ili, a remarkable cinder cone (almost 350 foot tall) and idyllic views of the coastline.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
A dynamic trail loop, the Ala Kahakai Trail (Kawaihae-Anaehoomalu) is accessible from Hapuna Beach. It’s 15 miles, so plan accordingly to hike as little or as much of the trail as you wish. The coastline is a heritage one, with paths once walked by ancient fishermen and traversed by royalty. You can also venture to the petroglyph field via the Malama Trail. The Ala Kahakai Trail treats you to some of Big Island’s precious coastline areas, an ecotourism adventure, with ponds, crashing waves sea cliffs and areas with limited access except on foot.
Lapakahi State Historical Park
The Lapakahi Village Interpretive Trail is a short but picturesque-packed trail that celebrates the restored remains of an ancient coastal settlement. Treat yourself to a gorgeous coastline, with the occasional whale providing a show in the distance. If you get tired or you’re traveling as a family and need to get back to the parking lot sooner than expected, the center of the trail is a shortcut. The full length of the trail is a mile.
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Kehena Beach
Make a trip to Puna for the black sands of Kehena Beach. It’s a remarkable terrain, with black sand packed solid on the land and foamy waves crashing against a group of black rocks. Walk along this unique beach area and though initially, it’s hard to look away from the coastline and black sand, you can look just beyond for some dancing dolphins.
Other notable coastal walks
Papakolea Beach is known for its eye-catching light mossy green sands. Leleiwi and Kaunaoa (Mauna Kea) Beaches are known for gentler, romantic coastal walks, with good picnic and sunset stroll options. White Sands Beach rounds out the trip to the black and green sands. Big Island’s varied sights, including the sea turtles and whales, contrasts of sand and distinct features such as craggy rocks and cove areas rank high for nature walks. The ancient sites, heiau, fishponds and lava rock are among the facets of scenic coastal walks on Big Island.