About
Established in the early 19th century, the Kiholo Bay was initially an artificial fishing pond for King Kamehameha the Great. Under the monarch's watchful eye in 1820, the bay became vital to the local ecosystem and culture. It served as one of the largest fishponds in Kona, known as Wainanali'i Pond.
The bay's strategic location along the Kohala Coastline made it a coveted area for Hawaiian chiefs like King Kamehameha. It was a thriving fishing village, integral for its fish supply and protective geography. The Hawaiian archaeological features found in and around the bay further highlight the region's significance.
However, the bay's original form was drastically altered in 1859. A massive lava flow from Mauna Loa volcano, located nearly 30 miles away, swept through the area, destroying much of the pond.
Today, Kiholo Bay is part of the larger Kiholo State Park Reserve, established in 2002. The park reserve covers 4,362 acres along an 8-mile stretch of coastline, preserving the bay's natural beauty and rich historical significance.
The bay is close to area landmarks and attractions, adding to its allure. For example, start your day by hiking at Makahi St Trailhead, then cool off at the bay. Or head south and explore other scenic beaches like Kikaua Point Park.
With so much to see and do, it is no wonder that Kiholo Bay is a popular destination.
Kiholo Bay: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A prominent feature of the bay was the original Queen's Bath. This large tide pool was a serene retreat for ancient Hawaiian royalty, known as Ali'i. This exclusive spot, formed by a collapsed lava tube filled with fresh water from a natural spring, symbolized Hawaii's regal heritage. Although a volcanic eruption in 1987 destroyed the original pool, its legacy continues to add a sense of historical significance to Kiholo Bay.
Another remarkable aspect is the Wainanali'i Pond, often called Hawaii's Blue Lagoon. Located at the bay's northern end, this unique body of water lies between the hardened lava from the Mauna Loa eruption and a coconut grove. It's a sanctuary for green sea turtles, who visit daily to feed and relax on the rocks.
Recently, Kiholo Bay has been the focus of significant conservation efforts. In 2011, Angus Mitchell donated a large part of the privately owned property in the bay to the Nature Conservancy. This gesture underscored the ecological importance of the bay, where up to five million gallons of submarine groundwater flow daily into coastal waters, supporting a rich array of marine wildlife and coral reef habitats.
After exploring the bay, refuel and rehydrate at nearby eateries. Savor Mexican food at Big Island Birria Bossor, and visit Herbivores for vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
Visiting Kiholo Bay on a Kona vacation will be an immersive adventure in nature, sealife, and Hawaiian history.
Getting There
Here's how you can get to Kiholo Bay from Kailua-Kona:
- Head north on HI 19, also known as the Queen Kaahumanu Highway.
- After 17 miles, look out for mile marker 82.
- Adjacent to this marker, turn left onto an unmarked gravel road.
- Continue for about a mile towards the ocean, keeping straight where the road forks.
- You've arrived! Park near the beach and prepare for a short walk (a little over a mile) to reach Kiholo Bay.
Local Tips
- Pack plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, and snacks, as there are no facilities at Kiholo Bay.
- Avoid swimming in the freshwater pools to protect the delicate ecosystem, and refrain from using chemical sunscreens, soaps, and bug sprays near these pools.
- Stick to the shoreline and avoid venturing into private properties or conservation zones.
- Black sand beach camping is available on weekends with a reservation and permit.
- Around 1.5 hours is a typical duration for a visit, considering the hike and time to explore the bay and its surroundings.
