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Kohanaiki Beach Park

Introduction

Kohanaiki Beach Park, also called Pine Trees Beach, is a popular spot on the Kona coast of Hawaii Island. The park has sandy beaches, a rocky shoreline, tidepools, and a camping area close to the ocean. It feels rustic but still has basic amenities and round-the-clock security. People come here to surf, fish, snorkel, camp, and watch the sunset.

We’re always updating this guide with new details and booking links. As of September 2025, this is the best info you’ll find on about Kohanaiki Beach Park.

Kohanaiki Beach Park - Big Island

History of Kohanaiki

Native Hawaiians lived in Kohanaiki for centuries. The area still has anchialine ponds, old fishponds, and cultural sites that show how people once farmed and fished along the coast.

In the 1980s and 1990s, developers tried to limit public access. Local residents stood up to protect the beach, the ponds, and the cultural sites. Their efforts kept Kohanaiki open as a public park where everyone can enjoy the land and ocean.

Kohanaiki Beach Park Amenities

The park has:

  • Restrooms
  • Outdoor showers
  • Camping area with marked spots
  • Drinking water
  • Trash bins
  • ADA-accessible restrooms and areas
  • Security guards day and night
  • Locked gates at night

What’s missing:

  • No lifeguards
  • No pets allowed
  • No open fires (propane and hibachi stoves only)

How to Get to Kohanaiki Beach Park

The entrance is at Hulikoa Drive and Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway (near mile marker 95).

  • From Kailua-Kona heading north: turn left on Hulikoa Drive.
  • From Kawaihae heading south: turn right on Hulikoa Drive.

Drive past the Kohanaiki Golf and Ocean Club entrance. The road curves around the club and leads to the beach and campgrounds. At the gate, a guard shack controls access. Campers need to show a permit to get an overnight parking pass.

Best Time to Visit Kohanaiki Beach Park

Hours:

  • Opens: 5:30 a.m.
  • Closes: 9:00 p.m.
  • Camping permits cover overnight stays between 9:00 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

Tips:

  • Summer: calmer water for swimming and snorkeling
  • Winter: bigger waves for surfing
  • Weekdays: fewer people, more quiet
  • Weekends: busier, so arrive early for a good spot

Kohanaiki Beach Park Fees and Reservations

Camping permits are required and must be reserved online. Once approved, pick up your overnight parking pass at the guard shack.

  • Non-residents: $21 per night (ages 18+)
  • Hawaiʻi residents: $6 per night (ages 18+)
  • Children under 18: free

Refunds:

  • Request online at least 15 days before your camping date.
  • If less than 15 days, submit a written request at the Parks & Recreation office.
  • Refunds subtract processing fees and must be at least $5.

Important: Always check and reserve here at the official Hawaii County Parks & Recreation page for Kohanaiki Beach Park before your trip.

Kohanaiki Beach Park Conditions and Rules

  • No pets (except service animals)
  • No open fires—use propane or hibachi stoves only
  • No smoking
  • No littering or dumping
  • No commercial activity
  • No removing sand, rocks, or plants
  • Respect anchialine ponds and cultural sites
  • Overnight camping only with a valid permit

Is Kohanaiki Beach Park camper van or roof top tent friendly?

Yes. Camper vans and rooftop tents are welcome if you have a camping permit and an overnight parking pass. You must enter before 9:00 p.m. since the gates stay locked until morning.

Kohanaiki Beach Park Alternatives

If Kohanaiki is full or you want a change, try:

Conclusion

Kohanaiki Beach Park is one of the best camping and surfing spots on the Kona coast. It offers simple facilities, ocean access, and cultural history. With a permit, you can camp by the water, enjoy the surf, or spend the day fishing and snorkeling.

This park is more than just a beach. It is part of Hawaii’s story and a reminder of how the community worked to keep it open. Bring your gear, respect the rules, and enjoy the beauty of Kohanaiki.

Pro-tip: Don’t visit Kohanaiki 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.