A complete guide
Pohoiki Beach
Big Island

Pohoiki Beach is a black sand beach located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. It is also known as Isaac Hale Beach Park and is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and picnicking. However, in 2018, the nearby Kilauea volcano eruption caused significant damage to the park and surrounding areas, altering the landscape and affecting access to the beach. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the park was closed for repairs, and visitors were advised to check the current status before planning a visit.

Pohoiki Beach is located in the Puna district on the eastern side of Hawaii's Big Island, about a 45-minute drive south of Hilo. The beach is known for its unique black sand, which is made of tiny fragments of lava rock that have been broken down by the ocean's waves. The beach also has a boat ramp and small harbor, making it a popular spot for fishing, diving, and other water activities.

However, in 2018, the nearby Kilauea volcano erupted, causing significant damage to the park and surrounding areas. The eruption caused lava to flow over the park's boat ramp and parking area, burying them under up to 80 feet of lava. The eruption also caused the beach to shrink in size, with some parts of the shoreline disappearing entirely.

In the aftermath of the eruption, Pohoiki Beach was closed to the public, and the park underwent extensive repairs and reconstruction. The park was expected to reopen in phases, with the boat ramp and harbor reopening first, followed by the park facilities and the beach area. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the park was still closed to the public, and it was unclear when it would reopen. Visitors were advised to check the Hawaii County Parks and Recreation website for updates on the park's status.

Weather - best time to visit?

Kauai's climate is tropical, and the water temperature is consistently warm, making it possible to swim all year round. More information about the temperature and beach conditions in Kauai

Where to park

There is a parking lot next to the boat ramp and harbor area. The parking lot is free of charge and can accommodate several dozen vehicles.

Popular activities

Pohoiki Beach is a popular destination for a variety of recreational activities. Here are some of the most popular activities enjoyed by visitors:

1. Swimming: The clear waters and mild surf conditions at Pohoiki Beach made it a great spot for swimming, especially for families with young children.
2. Snorkeling and scuba diving: The beach had a small, protected cove that was home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
3. Surfing: The beach's unique black sand and strong waves created by the ocean's currents made it a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels.
4. Fishing: The park had a small harbor and boat ramp, making it a popular spot for fishing trips.
5. Picnicking and relaxation: Pohoiki Beach had several picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as plenty of open space for lounging and relaxation.

Wildlife

There is a variety of wildlife at Pohoiki Beach, both in and out of the water. Visitors may spot sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and various types of fish while snorkeling or diving in the area. On land, there are birds such as Pacific golden plovers and Hawaiian coots, as well as mongoose and feral pigs. It's important to remember that these animals are protected, and visitors should not disturb or approach them. Additionally, visitors should also take care to dispose of their trash properly and not feed any animals, as this can harm their natural behaviors and habitats.

What to eat

There are several options for food near Pohoiki Beach, though the exact choices may vary depending on the status of the park and local businesses. There are a few food trucks and stands that set up in the area, offering a variety of local Hawaiian cuisine, such as poke bowls, plate lunches, and shaved ice. There are also several small markets and grocery stores in the nearby town of Pahoa, which is about a 15-minute drive from the beach. These markets may have snacks, drinks, and other picnic items that visitors can bring to the park. It's a good idea to check for current options and hours before planning your visit.

Nearby landmarks

Here are the distances from Pohoiki Beach to a few landmarks on Hawaii's Big Island:

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: approximately 30 miles (48 km) to the southwest
• Hilo: approximately 25 miles (40 km) to the north
• Kona International Airport: approximately 100 miles (161 km) to the west
• Mauna Kea Summit: approximately 80 miles (129 km) to the northwest
• Akaka Falls State Park: approximately 30 miles (48 km) to the north

It's worth noting that travel times may vary depending on the specific route and current road conditions. Additionally, access to some of these landmarks may be affected by the status of the park and any ongoing closures or construction.

Who visits

Prior to the 2018 Kilauea volcano eruption and the subsequent closure of Pohoiki Beach for repairs, the beach was a popular destination for a variety of visitors. The unique black sand and clear waters made it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Surfers also frequented the beach, taking advantage of the waves created by the ocean's currents. Additionally, the park had picnic areas, a boat ramp, and a small harbor, making it a popular spot for family outings and fishing trips. Visitors to the beach came from both the local area and from other parts of the world to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It's worth noting that access to the beach and park may have changed since the eruption, and visitors should check for the most up-to-date information before planning a visit.

How to get there

To get to Pohoiki Beach, you'll need to travel to the Puna district on Hawaii's Big Island. Here are some general directions:

• From Hilo: take Highway 130 south towards Pahoa, then turn right on Highway 132 (Kapoho Road). Follow the road until it ends at the beach parking lot.
• From Kona or the west side of the island: take Highway 190 east towards Hilo, then continue onto Highway 11. Turn left onto Highway 130 towards Pahoa, then turn left on Highway 132 (Kapoho Road). Follow the road until it ends at the beach parking lot.

Additionally, it's recommended to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach the beach, as the roads leading to the park may be unpaved or rough in some areas.

Safety considerations

Visitors to Pohoiki Beach should be aware of potential safety hazards and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Be aware of the ocean conditions and only enter the water if you are a strong swimmer and comfortable with the current and waves. There are no lifeguards on duty at Pohoiki Beach, so visitors should take extra caution when swimming or surfing.

Be mindful of the black sand, as it can become very hot during the day and may cause burns or blisters. Wearing shoes or sandals is recommended.

Stay on marked trails and be aware of any hazards, such as uneven terrain or potential rockfall.

Be respectful of wildlife in the area and avoid disturbing or approaching any animals. This includes sea turtles, which are protected under state and federal law.

Use caution when parking and do not leave any valuables in your vehicle. It's recommended to keep your vehicle locked and park in well-lit areas.

By following these guidelines and using common sense, visitors can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Pohoiki Beach.

History

Pohoiki Beach has a rich history that dates back to ancient Hawaiian times. The beach, which is also known as Isaac Hale Beach Park, is named after Isaac Hale, a local fisherman who lived in the area during the early 20th century. Hale was known for his expertise in fishing and for his kindness and generosity toward others.

In ancient times, the area surrounding Pohoiki Beach was home to several fishing villages, where Hawaiian natives used the ocean's resources to sustain their livelihoods. The area was also an important center of trade and commerce, as canoes and boats could easily travel along the coast and between the various islands.

Over time, the area was developed into a commercial fishing harbor, which served as a hub for local fishermen and a center of activity for the surrounding community. In the 1960s, the area was converted into a public park, which is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

More recently, Pohoiki Beach and the surrounding area have been affected by the 2018 Kilauea eruption, which caused significant damage to the park and surrounding community. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to restore and revitalize the area, and visitors can still experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Pohoiki Beach.

More beaches on Big Island

• Pohoiki Beach
• Leleiwi Beach Park
• Carlsmith Beach Park
• Richardson Ocean Park
• Onekahakaha Beach Park
• Honoliʻi Beach Park
• Spencer Beach Park
• Hapuna Beach Park
• Kahaluʻu Beach Park
• Magic Sands (White Sands) Beach Park