Discover the beautiful and serene Kapa’au (sometimes spelled Kapaau) on the Big Island, a hidden gem waiting to be explored! As one of the less-known destinations on the island, Kapa’au offers visitors an authentic experience of Hawaii. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Kapa’au is a perfect escape for those seeking peace, tranquility and a break from the crowds. This small town located on the northernmost part of Big Island is known for its beautiful beaches, pristine waters, and breathtaking sceneries. If you’re planning a trip to Big Island anytime soon, don’t miss out on visiting this enchanting place. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through all that Kapa’au has to offer and why it should be on your bucket list. Let’s dive in!
Kapa’au Quick Information
Are you planning a trip to Kapa’au?
- sightseeing (King Kamehameha I statue, Kauhola Point Lighthouse, Lapakahi State Historical Park, Pololu Valley)
- hiking (Pololu Trail)
- beaches (Mahukona Beach Park, Kapa’a Beach Park)
Introduction to Kapa’au, Hawaii
Kapa’au, Hawaii is a charming little village located on the northern tip of the Big Island. With its stunning natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and laid-back atmosphere, Kapa’au offers a unique Hawaii experience that’s far off the beaten path. This small town is characterized by its lush greenery, warm climate, and friendly locals. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. Kapa’au is also known for its rich history, including its ties to the legendary King Kamehameha the Great. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Kapa’au is a popular spot for travelers looking to escape the crowds and explore the authentic side of Hawaii.
Location and Geography
Kapa’au is a picturesque village on the northern coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, known for its rich history and natural beauty. Located at the northern tip of the island, Kapa’au is a census-designated place in Hawaii County. The village is nestled in an area of geographic diversity, with rocky coastlines, majestic mountains, and breathtaking volcanos surrounding it. Its location offers visitors and locals alike breathtaking views and endless opportunities for exploration, making it the ideal base for those looking to discover the beauty of the Big Island’s northern coastline.
From the Pololu Trail and Valley to the King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park, Kapa’au is a wonderland of natural beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby beach parks and witness the wildlife conservation efforts in the area. With so much to offer, Kapa’au is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore all that the Big Island has to offer.
History of Kapa’au
Moving on to the history of Kapa’au, this small town in the North Kohala District of Hawaii County is steeped in rich cultural heritage. From ancient times, the land surrounding Kapa’au has been significant as the birthplace of King Kamehameha I and home to the Mo’okini Heiau, a sacred temple built around 480 AD. This area witnessed its share of historical conflicts, including battles between rival island chiefs, followed by a period of colonization when Europeans arrived in Hawaii.
Despite the external influences, Kapa’au has managed to retain its cultural roots, and visitors can immerse themselves in Hawaii’s fascinating history by exploring the many cultural sites in and around Kapa’au.
King Kamehameha the Great and His Birthplace
Kapa’au’s rich history is closely tied to the legendary King Kamehameha the Great, who is said to have been born in a nearby cave. The town’s close proximity to his birthplace makes it an essential stop for those interested in Hawaiian history and culture. Visitors can venture out to the nearby Akoni Pule Highway to see the statue of King Kamehameha I, which stands as a testament to his great unifying legacy. The statue is also a vital spiritual and cultural object for the local community. Kapa’au is a must-visit for those who want to learn more about the fascinating story of Hawaii’s greatest king and the rich history of the Big Island.
Top Attractions in Kapa’au and Surrounding Areas
When it comes to top attractions in Kapa’au and its surrounding areas, visitors are spoilt for choice. One of the must-see stops is the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, where visitors can explore the birthplace of King Kamehameha the Great and learn about the region’s Hawaiian culture and history. Another popular attraction is the picturesque Pololu Valley Lookout, which offers breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline and lush valleys.
For those who want a taste of Hawaii’s natural beauty, the Lapakahi State Historical Park is a must-visit, with its ancient Hawaiian fishing village and scenic coastal trails. Additionally, Kapa’au is surrounded by small, pristine beaches, such as Mahukona Beach Park and Kapa’a Beach Park, offering idyllic spots to soak up the sun and watch the waves. With so many attractions to explore, visitors can use Kapa’au as the perfect base for discovering the Big Island’s stunning northern coastline.
Pololu Trail and Valley
Located on the northernmost point of the Big Island of Hawaii, Kapa’au boasts of its breathtaking Pololu Trail and Valley. The valley is accessible by hiking down a steep trail that leads to a stunning black sand beach that is perfect for photography. The Pololu Valley is named after its beach, which is shaped like a long spear. It provides visitors with beautiful views of the valley, fun rope swings, and a great beach with sand.
The trail, which is about 0.9 miles, is considered moderately challenging, but the stunning vista that visitors are rewarded with at the end of the hike is worth every step. Its location on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano, makes it an ideal destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Hawaii. Plus, visitors can use Kapa’au as a base for exploring other top attractions in the area, such as the King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park, beach parks, and wildlife conservation areas.
King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park
In the center of Kapa’au, the King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park pay tribute to the legendary Hawaiian ruler who brought the islands together. The nine-foot-tall bronze statue stands with a regal pose on the North Kohala Civic Center lawn, with its golden helmet and spear in hand. Visitors can take a look at this original 1880 cast statue and learn more about King Kamehameha’s significance in Hawaiian history.
The park also features several historical markers and a replica of the original, thatched-roof courthouse. Surrounded by tropical plants and palm trees, visitors can take a peaceful stroll around the park while taking in the rich history of the area. The King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the Hawaiian history and culture.
Beach Parks in Kapa’au
Kapa’au is home to some fantastic beach parks that are perfect for family outings, swimming, and picnics. One of the most popular beach parks is Mahukona Beach Park, which offers stunning ocean views and excellent swimming opportunities.
Another great option is Lapakahi State Historical Park, which not only features a lovely beach but also provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s rich history. The beach at Lapakahi is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the tide pools. Visitors can also learn about Hawaiian culture and history through various exhibits and interactive displays.
At Kapa’au Park, guests can enjoy a picnic by the ocean, take a relaxing swim in the calm waters, or go fishing off the pier. The beach at Kapa’au Park is relatively secluded, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a bit of quiet time. With so many beach parks to choose from, there’s no excuse not to soak up some sun and enjoy the beautiful scenery in Kapa’au!
Wildlife Conservation in Kapa’au
Kapa’au is home to the Hawaii Wildlife Center, which focuses on providing emergency response, medical and rehabilitative care for native birds and bats statewide. The center is not only a hospital, but also a conservation center, working on programs that aim to create a better environment for the threatened wildlife. Visitors can explore the public area of the center, which features a science and discovery center and retail store, open from Tuesday to Saturday. It’s exciting to know that while you’re exploring the beauty of Kapa’au, you’re also supporting the conservation of these unique species.
Using Kapa’au as a Base for Exploring the Big Island’s Northern Coastline.
Kapa’au, Hawaii is an excellent base for exploring the rugged and varied landscapes of the northern coast of the Big Island. With its perfect location, visitors can easily venture out to popular destinations like the Pololu Trail and Valley, the King Kamehameha Statue and Memorial Park, and the nearby beach parks. Additionally, the area provides excellent whale watching opportunities, picnic facilities, and breathtaking views of the shoreline and ocean.
Wildlife conservation efforts are also prevalent in Kapa’au, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. Essential History Expeditions offers both private and group tours for those interested in learning about the rich history of the area. With its plethora of attractions and convenient location, Kapa’au is an ideal starting point for exploring the magnificent northern coast of the Big Island.
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