Introduction
Whittington Beach Park sits along the Kaʻū coast on the Big Island. This small county park has a rugged shoreline, tide pools, and grassy spaces shaded by trees. The coastline is made of sharp black lava rock, so you won’t find a sandy beach for swimming. Instead, people come here for camping, fishing, picnics, and quiet ocean views.
Whittington also carries history. The park lies beside Honuʻapo, once a busy port town in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The remains of the old pier still stand as a reminder of Kaʻū’s past.
If you want a place that feels off the beaten path, Whittington offers peace, dramatic ocean scenery, and simple camping close to nature.
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 Whittington Beach Park.
Whittington Beach Park Amenities
Whittington is a county park, so the facilities are simple but enough for a short stay. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Restrooms and portable toilets – basic but available.
- Outdoor showers – located near the beach area.
- No drinking water – the county clearly states there is no potable water. Bring your own supply for drinking and cooking.
- Picnic tables and pavilions – nice for meals and shade. Pavilion permits are for day use only; no camping inside.
- Grassy camping areas – open lawn areas where you can set up your tent.
- BBQ grills – available for use.
Important: The shoreline is rocky, with no lifeguards and no sandy entry. This is not a swimming beach. Instead, enjoy fishing, exploring tide pools, or just relaxing by the ocean.
Whittington Beach Park Park Rules and Conditions
- Camping permits are required between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
- No drinking water – always bring your own.
- No animals or pets allowed.
- No open fires, no smoking, and no littering/dumping.
- No removal of rocks, sand, or plants.
- No commercial activities.
- Alcohol is permitted between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM only.
- The park has no lifeguards and no security guards on duty.
How to Get to Whittington Beach Park
Whittington Beach Park is right off Highway 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) in Kaʻū, just past the 60-mile marker. It sits about halfway between the towns of Pāhala and Nā‘ālehu.
- From Hilo: about 65 miles, or 1.5–2 hours by car.
- From Kona: about 60 miles, also around 1.5–2 hours.
- From Volcano Village: about 30 miles, roughly a 40-minute drive.
Signs along Highway 11 will guide you to the entrance, with parking close to the shoreline and picnic areas.
Best Time to Visit Whittington Beach Park
The Kaʻū coast is drier than Hilo but still gets its fair share of rain, especially in the afternoons. The best time to camp here is during the summer months (May–September) when the weather is generally drier, skies clearer, and evenings more comfortable.
Because Whittington is an oceanfront park, it can get windy. Bring sturdy tent stakes, and be prepared for salt spray and strong gusts. For tide pool exploring and fishing, mornings tend to be calmer and cooler.
Whittington Beach Park Fees and Reservations
Whittington Beach Park is managed by the County of Hawaii, and you need a county camping permit to stay overnight.
- Reservations: Book online through the County of Hawaiʻi Camping Reservation System.
- Refunds: You can request a refund online up to 15 days before your reservation. Processing fees apply.
Note: The county does not publish set prices for Whittington Beach Park on the general information page. Always check the official camping system for the latest rates before your trip.
Is Whittington Beach Park camper van or roof top tent friendly?
Whittington is mainly set up for tent camping. The county website does not mention camper vans or rooftop tents. To avoid issues, plan to bring a regular tent. If you have special camping needs, call the Parks & Recreation office ahead of time to ask what’s currently allowed.
Whittington Beach Park Alternatives
If Whittington feels too rugged or you want more swimming options, try these nearby parks:
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach Park – a famous black sand beach where you might see sea turtles. Camping is available with a county permit.
- Mackenzie State Recreation Area – on the Puna coast, with ironwood trees, ocean cliffs, and permitted tent camping.
- Ho‘okena Beach Park – on the west side of the island, with gray sand, good swimming, and snorkeling.
Conclusion
Whittington Beach Park is not about sandy shores or calm waves. It’s about rugged beauty, camping by the ocean, fishing, and exploring tide pools in a quiet setting. With its history at Honuʻapo, grassy campgrounds, and fewer crowds than other parks, Whittington offers a peaceful spot to slow down and enjoy the Kaʻū coastline—just come prepared with water, permits, and respect for the land.