Have you been dreaming of a tropical paradise? Are you looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than Kiholo State Park Reserve on the Big Island of Hawaii. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and crystalline pools, Kiholo is the perfect getaway spot for nature lovers.
Kiholo State Park Quick Information
Planning a visit to Kiholo State Park? Activities and amenities available include:
- beach
- campsites and camping (with a permit and Friday-Sunday only)
- fishing
- hiking
- sightseeing
- snorkeling
- wildlife viewing
- bathrooms
Explore the Lava-Covered Coastlines of Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve is a stunning, lava-covered coastal park with small bays, sparsely vegetated coastline, historic lava flows, and wide open spaces. Visitors can explore the area’s unique landscape on foot or by car, taking in its majestic beauty from the many scenic points and views along Highway 19 (Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway). Along the way, they may even spot the wild goats who call this area home.
Camping is allowed on weekends only (Friday through Sunday), making it the perfect spot for an overnight getaway. With its stunning beauty and abundant wildlife, Kiholo State Park Reserve is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
Discover Wainanalii Lagoon and Kiholo Bay
From the milky white sea turtles to the turquoise waters of Wainanalii Lagoon and Kiholo Bay, explore the lava-covered coastlines of Kiholo State Park Reserve. The Kīholo State Park Reserve offers much to see and do, with Wainanalii Lagoon, Keanalele (the Queen’s Bath), and the black sand beaches being some of its most popular destinations.
Located on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, north of Kona, this reserve is reached by a 1-mile out-and-back trail near Waikoloa Village, generally considered an easy route taking an average of 1 hour to complete. West of the main Kiholo Bay access, you’ll find a black-sand beach and the reserve’s official campground set amid kiawe trees. This oceanfront camping is a great way to experience this hidden gem. Enjoy an incredible view of the aquamarine water and black sand lagoon that is sure to leave you in awe.
Camping in Kiholo State Park Reserve
At Kiholo State Park Reserve, camping is only allowed on weekends (Friday through Sunday nights). Campsites may be reserved up to 30 days in advance, and are located fronting an ‘ili’ili (pebble) beach. Set amidst a shaded kiawe (mesquite) grove in an unimproved gravel access road, these eight coveted sites offer a unique camping experience for Big Island adventurers.
Wildlife at Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve is home to some amazing wildlife, including wild goats, sea turtles, and native birds. Visitors can take a tour of Kīholo Bay and visit a black sand beach, a flooded lava tube, and a variety of other habitats. The park is also known for its pristine turquoise waters and shoreline fringed with coconut trees. There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to get up close and personal with the wildlife living in the area.
Hours and Entrance Fee for Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:45 PM and entrance is free. Camping is allowed by permit only Friday through Sunday nights. Gates are locked nightly at Kiholo State Park Reserve, so when the entrance gates are closed for the night, vehicles will not be able to enter or leave the park.
Parking at Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve offers two main recreation areas, Kīholo Bay to the north and the campgrounds and beach park to the south. The parking lot is a bit rough so those driving 2-wheel drive vehicles may want to park off the road and walk in. There is an access gate off highway 19-mile locked promptly at 6:45 PM daily, so visitors must plan accordingly. Overnight parking permits for campers must be displayed while in the park.
Learn About the Curatorship Agreement with Hawaii State Parks for Kīholo
Kiholo State Park Reserve is jointly managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks and Hui Aloha Kīholo as the greater Kīholo State Park Reserve. Hui has worked under a Curatorship Agreement with the Hawaiʻi State Parks for the past decade, ensuring that camping, permits, and other park activities are managed under strict regulations.
Permits are not transferable and no refunds will be given if requested within 15 days of your first scheduled camping or lodging day – all payments must be made directly to Hui Aloha Kīholo. Together, Hui Aloha Kīholo and Hawaii State Parks are committed to protecting the natural beauty of Kiholo State Park Reserve for future generations to enjoy.
Types of Camping at Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve offers two types of camping – reservable campsites and beach camping. Camping is allowed on weekends only (Friday-night through Sunday-night) and sites may be reserved up to 30 days in advance. Up to 10 persons are allowed per campsite. Enjoy a weekend under the stars in Kiholo State Park Reserve and explore its lava-covered coastlines, bays, mesquite groves, pebble beaches, and historic lava flows.
Scenic Points and Views from Highway 19-Mile
Kiholo State Park Reserve offers stunning views of its lava-covered coastlines and Wainanalii Lagoon and Kiholo Bay. To get a preview of the breathtaking views, pull over at the marked Scenic Overlook on Highway 19 north of Kekaha Kai State Park, between mile markers 82 and 83.
As you look down from the overlook, you’ll notice the rocky access road leading to the beach. From Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Hwy 19), turn into the Kiholo State Park Reserve road for an even more spectacular experience of Kiholo’s beauty.
Discover the Wild Goats of Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park Reserve is home to many wild goats, which can often be seen scampering around. These goats are an iconic part of the landscape and a delight to visitors. The goats are part of the protected wildlife in the park and it’s important to not approach them too closely. There is plenty of beautiful scenery to take in from a distance, and it’s a great opportunity to observe these animals in their natural environment.
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