Destinations
Hawaiʻi Island
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Ala Kahakai means “trail by the sea.” This 175-mile corridor follows ancient shoreline routes around much of Hawaiʻi Island, from ʻUpolu Point in the north, down the Kona coast, to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You don’t hike it all at once. You walk pieces of it, through lava fields, past fishponds, petroglyphs, and quiet bays.
Ala Kahakai · Trail by the sea ·
Ala Kahakai · Trail by the sea ·
Favorite Segments
Kīholo Bay
A short walk over lava to a bay of turquoise water and freshwater springs where honu rest. Bring water and sturdy shoes.
Easy–moderate
Lapakahi
Wander a restored coastal fishing village in North Kohala, with a trail along the shoreline.
Easy
Ala Loa near Puʻukoholā
Walk sections of the old coastal trail near Kawaihae and Spencer Beach Park.
Easy
Trail Tips
Ranger Tip
- The lava is hot, sharp, and shadeless. Start early, carry more water than you think you need, and wear real shoes.
- Much of the trail crosses private and state land. Stay on the trail and respect signs and closures.
- Petroglyphs, house sites, and shrines are irreplaceable. Don’t touch, trace, or stack rocks.
