Contrary to its name, there is no actual beach in the Mahukona Beach Park. Instead, an abandoned harbor once used by a local sugar company, provides access to the ocean.
Located along the coastline of North Hohala in the Big Island, the clear waters of Mahukona Beach Park is an excellent site for snorkeling and diving. Apart from the abundant marine life in this protective cove, another attraction is a small shipwreck about 25 feet underwater. Picnics, swimming and fishing are also popular activities in this area.
The waters are generally calm most of the year but strong surf and currents may come in during winter season. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when venturing into the ocean as there are plenty of rock hazards and no lifeguards at this beach park.
Above the water are what remains of the abandoned sugar mills of the Kohala Sugar Company which date back to the early 1900s. The mill equipment and old railroad tracks add errie beauty to this place.
Facilities include picnic tables, pavilion, barbecue pit, showers and restrooms. There are trees providing shade and a slopping grassy area which is available for camping with permit from the Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation.
To get to Mahukona Beach Park, take Highway 270 north from Kawaihae. Take the road to the ocean between mile markers 14 and 15.
