Introduction
Laupāhoehoe Beach Park sits along the scenic Hāmākua Coast of the Big Island, about halfway between Hilo and Honoka‘a. Known for its dramatic lava rock shoreline and powerful waves, the park is a place of both beauty and history. It’s not a sandy beach for swimming, but rather a coastal spot where you can picnic, relax, and take in the ocean views.
The park offers open grassy areas shaded by trees, picnic pavilions, and oceanfront views where you can hear the waves crash against the rugged coastline. It’s a peaceful stop for travelers exploring the Hāmākua Coast, and with a camping permit, you can even spend the night.
We’re always updating this guide with new details and booking links. As of September 2025, this is the best info you’ll find about Laupāhoehoe Beach Park.
Laupahoehoe Beach Park Amenities
The park is simple but provides all the basics for a comfortable visit or overnight stay:
- Restrooms & Showers: Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available.
- Drinking Water: Potable water is on site.
- Picnic Tables & Pavilions: Covered pavilions with tables are available for gatherings. You cannot camp inside pavilions. If you want to reserve one, you need a separate day-use permit. Call 808-961-8311 for details.
- Camping: Tent camping is allowed in designated areas with a county camping permit.
- Play Area: Open grassy lawns make it kid-friendly, but please use caution near the rocky shoreline.
Note: The park does not have lifeguards or security guards.
How to Get to Laupahoehoe Beach Park
The park is located just off Highway 19, near the small community of Laupāhoehoe.
- From Hilo: About 25 miles north along Highway 19, roughly a 40-minute drive.
- From Honoka‘a: About 20 miles south along Highway 19, roughly a 30-minute drive.
Once you reach the Laupāhoehoe town area, follow the signs downhill toward the ocean. The road winds through the village and ends at the park entrance.
Best Time to Visit Laupahoehoe Beach Park
The Hāmākua Coast is lush and green, with frequent rain showers that keep the area cool and tropical.
- Daytime: Great for picnics, sightseeing, and photography. Expect sunny breaks mixed with passing showers.
- Overnight: If camping, bring rain gear and sturdy tents. Nights are cool, and the sound of the ocean can be both calming and powerful.
Because of the rocky coastline and unpredictable waves, always keep a safe distance from the water’s edge.
Laupahoehoe Beach Park Fees and Reservations
If you plan to camp overnight at Laupāhoehoe, you need a county-issued camping permit.
- Tent Camping: Tent camping is allowed in designated areas by permit through the Hawaii County Parks reservation system. Fees vary depending on residency and age — check the official County camping page for current rates.
- Pavilions: Day-use only. Camping inside pavilions is not allowed. You need a separate pavilion permit if you want to reserve one. Call 808-961-8311 for more details.
- Alcohol: Allowed between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
- Permits: Required for camping between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM. You can reserve online through Hawaii County’s camping system.
Note: Check-in and check-out times are shown in your reservation confirmation, so review those when booking.
History of Laupahoehoe
Laupāhoehoe holds deep historical significance. On April 1, 1946, a powerful tsunami struck the Hāmākua Coast after an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands. The wave devastated Laupāhoehoe, and the memorial in the park lists 24 people who lost their lives there.
Today, the memorial stands in the park honoring those who passed away. Visitors often stop to pay respects, making the park not only a place for recreation but also remembrance.
Is Laupahoehoe Beach Park camper van or roof top tent friendly?
Hawaii County Parks limit camping to tents in designated areas with a valid permit. Overnight stays in vehicles, camper vans, or rooftop tents are not allowed.
Rules/Restrictions of Laupahoehoe Beach Park
When you visit, please respect the park’s rules:
- No animals or pets.
- No open fires.
- No smoking.
- No littering or dumping.
- No removal of sand, rocks, or plants.
- No commercial activities.
- ADA accessible.
- Rocky shoreline (not safe for swimming).
Laupahoehoe Beach Park Alternatives
If Laupāhoehoe isn’t available or you prefer other camping experiences, nearby options include:
- Spencer Beach Park (South Kohala): Sandy beach, family-friendly, with calm swimming waters.
- Honoka‘a Town: No camping, but accommodations like inns and small rentals are available.
- Kalōpā State Recreation Area: Just inland from Honoka‘a, offering cooler forest camping and cabins.
Conclusion
Laupāhoehoe Beach Park is more than a picnic spot on the Hāmākua Coast — it’s a place of history and remembrance. With picnic areas, pavilions, restrooms, and tent camping available by permit, it offers a quiet stop for travelers exploring the Big Island’s rugged coastline. While not suitable for swimming, the park’s powerful scenery, tsunami memorial, and proximity to nearby attractions make it a meaningful and worthwhile destination.
Pro-tip: Don’t visit Laupahoehoe Beach Park or anywhere around Big Island without renting a campervan far in advance, and when you rent with Lemon Drop Campers you can get 10% off your rental by using the code 7F97KR8Y at checkout.