Where Turtles Rest and Petroglyphs Whisper: Exploring Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
A compact coastal park where honu, fishponds, and petroglyphs meet the Kona coast—perfect for a thoughtful half-day outing.
A morning wind off the Pacific slides across black lava and salt pans, cooling the skin that the Kona sun has already warmed. You step from the narrow parking area and onto a low boardwalk that threads through a landscape where time keeps several calendars at once: recent lava flows, centuries-old fishpond walls, and petroglyph fields that stare back like a mapped memory. Somewhere beyond the low shrubs a sea turtle surfaces and exhales—an ancient, indifferent greeting—while the ocean, as if daring you, pushes a line of white foam toward the shore and then draws it away again. Here, at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, the coastline is a stitched tapestry of geology, culture, and wildlife; each trail reads like a short, exacting lesson in how people and nature shaped one another.
Trail Wisdom
Respect the honu
Observe sea turtles from a distance—stay at least 10 feet away and never touch or feed them; fines can apply.
Beat the heat
Visit early morning for cooler temperatures and higher wildlife activity; carry extra water and a wide-brim hat.
Mind your footing
Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction—trails alternate between boardwalk, sand, and jagged lava.
Stay on marked paths
Archaeological sites are fragile—keep to trails to avoid damaging petroglyphs and fishpond walls.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Reconstructed loko i‘a fishponds tucked up from the main trail
- •A quiet petroglyph panel found along the northern lava bench—look for shallow cupmarks at eye level
Wildlife
Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu), Hawaiian stilt (ae‘o) and other shorebirds
Conservation Note
The NPS works with Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners to restore fishponds and protect shoreline habitat; visitors are asked to follow leave-no-trace practices and use reef-safe products.
The park preserves wahi kūpuna—ancestral places—where ancient fishponds, temples, and petroglyphs document centuries of Hawaiian coastal stewardship.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild temperatures, birdwatching, turtle sightings
Challenges: intermittent trade winds, strong midday sun
Spring brings pleasant temperatures and active shorebirds; mornings are best for wildlife viewing before winds pick up.
summer
Best for: calmer seas, longer daylight, pairing with snorkeling trips
Challenges: high sun exposure, crowds at peak times
Summer offers long, sunny days and often calmer seas, but bring sun protection and hydrate frequently.
fall
Best for: photography, fewer crowds, comfortable hiking conditions
Challenges: occasional storms from Pacific swells, variable winds
Fall balances warm days with fewer visitors—late afternoons produce dramatic light for photos.
winter
Best for: dramatic surf viewing, migratory birdwatching, storm watching
Challenges: larger winter swells offshore, cooler, windy conditions
Winter brings bigger surf and migratory birds; stay off exposed lava benches during high surf and dress windproof.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on jagged lava, sandy flats, and boardwalk sections.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated in Kona’s strong sun; refill at the visitor contact station if available.
Wide-brim hat and UV-protective clothingEssential
Provides sun protection where shade is scarce along the trails.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the surrounding marine environment when visiting shoreline areas.
Common Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park?
No—the park is free to enter as it is managed by the National Park Service.
When is the best time to see sea turtles?
Early morning and late afternoon are prime times; turtles often haul out to bask at quieter, lower‑tide hours.
Are drones allowed in the park?
No—drones are generally prohibited in most National Park Service areas; check with the park for specific rules and permits.
How long are the main trails and how difficult are they?
Expect 2–3 miles of flat to gently uneven walking on a mix of boardwalk, sand, and lava; difficulty is easy but wear good shoes.
Can I swim or snorkel here?
There are places to access the water, but currents can be strong and there are no lifeguards—exercise caution and check local conditions.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
Pets are restricted in many areas to protect wildlife and cultural sites; confirm current pet rules with park staff before bringing animals.
What to Pack
Water bottle (stay hydrated), reef-safe sunscreen (protect marine life), sturdy shoes (lava and sand), wide-brim hat (sun protection)
Did You Know
Kaloko means "pond" in Hawaiian and the park preserves ancient loko iʻa (fishponds) and petroglyphs that reflect traditional Hawaiian aquaculture and coastal life.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early for cooler weather and better wildlife viewing; bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat; parking is limited—carpool or use a tour; cell coverage may be spotty, download maps beforehand.
Local Flavor
Pair a morning at the park with a visit to a Kona coffee farm and a stop at a local farmers’ market for tropical fruit and shave ice; many tour operators combine cultural sites with small-batch coffee tastings.
Logistics Snapshot
Know before you go: free entry, limited parking, visitor contact station onsite, minimal shade, emergency services in Kailua‑Kona; nearest airport: KOA (~15–25 minutes).
Sustainability Note
Stay on trails, use reef-safe sunscreen, keep distance from wildlife, and support local cultural programs when possible to help preserve sensitive sites.