Kaʻena Point State Park

Kaʻena Point State Park

Kaʻena Point State Park is a remote coastal landscape on Oʻahu, Hawaii, known for its rugged terrain, scenic beaches, and as a sanctuary for native seabirds.

853
Acres Protected
3
Miles of Trails
500,000
Annual Visitors
1983
Year Established

About Kaʻena Point State Park

Kaʻena Point State Park
 

Kaʻena Point State Park is situated on the westernmost tip of Oʻahu, Hawaii. The park is renowned for its dramatic coastline, where waves crash against limestone cliffs and unique rock formations. Covering approximately 853 acres, Kaʻena Point is a natural preserve with a unique ecosystem that houses native Hawaiian plants and offers a crucial habitat for seabirds, including the Laysan albatross and wedge-tailed shearwater. In addition to its ecological importance, the park is steeped in Hawaiian lore and is believed to be a sacred area where souls depart for the afterlife. Visitors to Kaʻena Point can enjoy hiking the scenic trails that lead to breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, as well as engage in wildlife viewing along the protected shoreline. The remoteness of the park adds to its appeal, attracting those seeking solitude and the opportunity to experience Hawaii's natural beauty away from the island's more developed areas.

Highlights

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Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve

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Albatross and monk seal habitats

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Panoramic ocean views

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Cultural significance and Hawaiian legends

Notable Natural Features

Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve

A protected area within the park, home to native seabirds and unique coastal vegetation.

Limestone Formations

Distinctive rock formations along the coast shaped by volcanic activity and marine erosion.

Sacred Kulana Hoa

Culturally significant site thought to be a leina, or jumping-off point for souls.