Kekaha Kai State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kekaha Kai State Park |
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Kua Bay in Kekaha Kai State Park
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 Kekaha Kai State Park
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Hawaii, U.S. |
| Nearest city | Kailua-Kona |
| Governing body | Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources |
| Hawaii State Parks | |
Kekaha Kai State Park is a beautiful beach park in Hawaiʻi. It is located along the north Kona coast of the island. This park was once known as Kona Coast State Park.
The park has three main beach areas. These are Maniniʻowali Bay (also called Kua Bay), Makalawena beach, and Mahaiʻula Bay. The name Kekaha Kai comes from the Hawaiian language. It means "the shore line" in English.
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Exploring Kekaha Kai State Park
This amazing park offers different areas to explore. Each section has its own special features. You can find sandy beaches, clear water, and even important wildlife habitats here.
Kua Bay: A Popular Spot
The northern part of the park is Maniniʻowali Bay. Most people call it Kua Bay because it is easier to say. This beach is very popular for swimming and enjoying the sun.
You can reach Kua Bay by a paved road. This road is about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) north of the Kona International Airport.
Mahaiʻula Bay: Relax and Picnic
Mahaiʻula Bay is another lovely part of the park. It has a nice sandy beach and a picnic area. It is a great place to relax with family and friends.
To get to Mahaiʻula Bay, you take an unpaved road. This road goes west from the main highway, just a short distance north of the airport.
Makalawena Beach and ʻŌpaeʻula Pond
Makalawena beach is a beautiful and more secluded area. Behind this beach, there is a special wetland called ʻŌpaeʻula Pond. This pond's name means "red shrimp" in Hawaiian.
This wetland is very important for nature. In 1972, it was named a National Natural Landmark. This means it is a very special natural place in the United States.
Wildlife at ʻŌpaeʻula Pond
ʻŌpaeʻula Pond is a safe home for many rare birds. It is one of the last places where the āeʻo (Hawaiian stilt) builds its nests.
Other special birds that live here include the ʻalae keʻokeʻo (Hawaiian coot). It is also the only known place where the ʻaukuʻu (black-crowned night heron) breeds in Hawaii. This 12-acre (4.9 ha) wetland is a vital spot for these amazing birds.
History of the Pond
Long ago, a small fishing village was located near ʻŌpaeʻula Pond. However, a huge tsunami in 1946 destroyed the village.
Hiking the Ala Kahakai Trail
A historic coastal trail, called the Ala Kahakai, connects Mahaiʻula and Kua Bay. This trail is about 4.5 miles (7.2 km) long.
You can also hike up Puʻu Kuʻili. This is a 342-foot (104 m) high cinder cone. From the top, you get an amazing view of the coastline.
Park Hours
Kekaha Kai State Park is open every day. You can visit from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
