The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile long trail located in Hawaii, running along the western coastline of the Big Island. This trail is known for its historical significance as it showcases the rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions of the island.
The trail traces its roots back to the early Hawaiian people who used this coastal route for travel, trade, and religious purposes. It served as a vital link between communities and allowed for the exchange of goods, information, and cultural practices. Today, the trail provides visitors with an opportunity to explore and experience the remnants of Hawaii's past.
Along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, visitors can witness a variety of historical sites and landmarks. These include ancient fishponds which were used for farming fish, including the renowned Kalahuipua'a Fishponds. Additionally, numerous sacred heiau (temples) can be found along the trail, such as Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the ancient Hawaiians.
Aside from its historical significance, the trail is also renowned for its natural beauty. Along the route, visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views, pristine sandy beaches, and lava landscapes. The abundance of native Hawaiian plants and wildlife further enhances the scenic beauty of the trail.
Apart from hiking and exploring, the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail offers various recreational activities. Visitors can engage in snorkeling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters, go fishing, or simply relax on the picturesque beaches.
Nearby attractions to the trail include the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, which provides insight into the traditional Hawaiian way of life. The Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is another notable site, famous for its underwater marine sanctuary and Captain Cook Monument.
In summary, the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail in Hawaii offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the island's intriguing history and culture. With its ancient sites, scenic landscapes, and recreational activities, it appeals to visitors seeking both educational and recreational experiences.
The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is situated in the captivating state of Hawaii, specifically on the largest island known as the "Big Island." With a total length of 175 miles, this historic trail follows the mesmerizing coastline, meandering through pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, lush tropical forests, and ancient lava flows. The trail traverses various geographical features, from rugged volcanic terrain and sandy shorelines to picturesque bays and secluded coves. As visitors embark on this journey, they are immersed in the unique beauty of the island's diverse landscape, showcasing Hawaii's volcanic origins and the rich cultural history that has shaped its vibrant identity.
SuperintendentAla Kahakai National Historic TrailSuperintendentKailua-Kona, HI 96740Driving DirectionsPhone: NULLWeb: Link
The best time to visit Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is from January to May. During this period, the average maximum temperatures range from 81°F to 84°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 69°F to 73°F. The monthly precipitation levels during these months are relatively low, ranging from 0.4 inches to 0.88 inches. These comfortable temperatures and low precipitation make it ideal for outdoor activities at the national historic trail.
Some of the activities you can do in Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Motorized Boating Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Swimming Self-Guided Tours - Auto Mountain Biking Boat Tour Group Camping RV Camping Arts and Crafts Saltwater Fishing Cultural Demonstrations Sailing Stand Up Paddleboarding SCUBA Diving Snorkeling Saltwater Swimming Compass and GPS Geocaching Orienteering Surfing
Learn about these topics at Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: Animals Birds Architecture and Building Archeology Arts Transportation Fish Trails Explorers and Expeditions Religion and Spirituality Schools and Education Forests and Woodlands Scenic Views Waterfalls Roads, Routes and Highways Volcanoes Ruins Coasts, Islands and Atolls Sculpture Pacific Islander Heritage Oceans Coral Reefs The Tropics Rainforest Ancient Seas Heiau
Seawall Campground is located on the west side of Mount Desert Island about 4 miles (6 km) south of Southwest Harbor. The campground is approximately 18 miles from Bar Harbor. All sites at Seawall are within a short walking distance of the coastline.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Seawall Campground.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
Located in Kailua-Kona, Kona Seaside Hotel is connected to a shopping center, within a 5-minute walk of Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Kailua-Kona? This hotel has facilities measuring 400 square feet (37 square meters), including a meeting room. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 75-5646 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
Located in Kailua-Kona, Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is on the beach, within a 5-minute walk of Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Kailua-Kona? This hotel has facilities measuring 5,200 square feet (0 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
When you a stay at this vacation home in Kailua-Kona, you'll be on the beach, just steps from Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include ATM/banking services and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 75-6082 Alii Drive, Unit #332, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
When you a stay at this condo in Kailua-Kona, you'll be next to a golf course, just steps from Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 78-6842 Alii Drive, Unit #8204, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
When you a stay at this condo in Kailua-Kona, you'll be on the beach, just steps from Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include laundry facilities, ATM/banking services, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 75-6082 Alii Drive, Unit #204, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
When you a stay at this condo in Kailua-Kona, you'll be on the beach, just steps from Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include laundry facilities, ATM/banking services, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 75-6082 Alii Drive, Unit #211, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
When you a stay at this condo in Kailua-Kona, you'll be on the beach, just steps from Kailua-Kona Wharf and Kamakahonu Beach. Featured amenities include ATM/banking services and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 76-6268 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
Located in Kailua-Kona, this vacation home is within a 10-minute drive of Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Plantation and Kona Inn Shopping Village. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 74-4910 Hao Kuni Pl, Home C and D, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
With a stay at this vacation home in Kailua-Kona, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Plantation and Kona Inn Shopping Village. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 74-4910 Hao Kuni Pl, Home A and D, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
With a stay at this vacation home in Kailua-Kona, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Plantation and Kona Inn Shopping Village. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 74-4910 Hao Kuni Pl, Home D, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-01 | National Park Service Invites Community Input on the Future of Kauleolī The National Park Service is inviting the community to participate in a planning effort for the Kauleolī Unit of Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. More |