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Wawaloli Beach

Address

Queen Kaahumanu Highway
Kalaoa , HI

Hours

Every day 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Review

Another one on the list of the select few West Hawaii sandy beaches is Wawaloli Beach Park, located at the Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii (NELHA) on Keahole Point. Not a particularly swimable beach, the cove of the shoreline has been slowly built by exploding waves depositing sand and coral debris inland. There is a large tide pool surrounded by a lava rock break wall forming a shallow wading area perfect for keikis to swim. Local parents bring their keikis here to play in the water, as it is a protected swimming hole, particularly when the surf is high elsewhere on the island. The water is clear and clean and the underwater terrain features a smooth rock bed. No rocks to worried about stumbling over when wading in. However, swimmers should be careful as the rock bed is interrupted at points and can be slippery. At high tide the pool is completely full and makes trips to Wawaloli pleasurable as a nice spot to cool off. However at low tide, the pool empties out over the break wall can still be waded into but far less refreshing. Since NELHA and the Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology Park (HOST) operate the beach the beach’s condition is well maintained and it is asked of visitors to be mindful of their trash. There are plenty of picnic tables placed conveniently under the sparse shade of the few trees located on the sand.

Accompanied by a handful of BBQ pits as well as fresh water showers and public facilities. These amenities make the beach a popular spot for family picnics and cookouts. Many local families frequent the beach as it not as crowded as some of the other parks located in Kailua-Kona and there is plenty of space to spread out, lounge on the beach, BBQ, walk and enjoy the water without being congested by other beach-goers.

Off the southern shore, along the cliffs, many local fisherman set up post for on-shore pole fishing. Along the northern end of the beach is a small coastal dirt trail that leads up the shoreline, as well as many small tide pools perfect for exploring the sea life.

Shade is minimal at Wawaloli as picnickers usually occupy the tree space. The sand is soft and white with a mixture of coral debris. It is not advised to swim beyond the break wall, as there is typically high surf, a strong current and dangerous shore break.

The wide, clear beach, relatively unobstructed by vegetation, offers a beautiful view of the Kona Coast and a panoramic view of Hualalai Mountain.
Written By: Hadley Catalano
On: 9/5/2006

Directions

North of Kailua-Kona, turn left at the NELHA entrance off Queen Kaahumanu Highway, follow Shoreline Public Access signs.

Features

Bathrooms | BBQ Grills | Fishing | Fresh Water | Parking | Paved Parking | Picnic Tables | Sandy Beach | Shady Areas | Swimming Areas | Kid Friendly

Map

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