Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Stretching across 175 miles of the coastline of Hawaiʻi Island, the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is far more than a simple hiking path. It is a "trail by the sea" that serves as a living connection to the traditional Native Hawaiian culture and the natural resources that sustained it for centuries. Established by Congress in 2000, the trail corridor encompasses a network of culturally and historically significant trails, traversing through wahi pana (storied landscapes), ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites, and over 200 ahupuaʻa (traditional land divisions).

The trail offers a unique perspective on the island's geography, from the jagged, desolate beauty of ancient ʻaʻā lava fields to the serene reaches of white sand beaches and lush coastal forests. For the people of Hawaiʻi, the Ala Kahakai is a vital link to their ancestral past, representing the routes taken by their forebears for trade, communication, and spiritual practices. The trail’s mission is to preserve and protect these resources while providing a space for the community to engage with their heritage.

Visitors to the Ala Kahakai will experience the incredible diversity of Hawaiʻi's coastal environments. Whether you are walking a segment that passes by a heiau (temple), a loko iʻa (fishpond), or a cluster of petroglyphs, you are walking in the footsteps of history. The trail is managed through a unique partnership between the National Park Service, state and county agencies, and local community groups, ensuring that the management reflects the values of the land and its people.

Key Highlights

• Traditional Ahupuaʻa: Traverse through hundreds of ancient land divisions that stretch from the mountains to the sea, showcasing the traditional Hawaiian system of resource management.
• Ancient Heiau and Sacred Sites: Encounter various heiau (temples) and shrines that reflect the deep spiritual connection Native Hawaiians have with the coastal landscape.
• Lava Landscapes: Walk across different types of volcanic terrain, including the sharp, clinkery ʻaʻā lava and the smooth, ropey pahoehoe lava.
• Petroglyphs and Archeology: Discover ancient rock carvings and archaeological remains that provide a glimpse into the daily lives and beliefs of early Hawaiians.
• Coastal Wildlife: Spot various native birds, Hawaiian monk seals, and green sea turtles (honu) along the pristine shoreline.
• Community-Managed Segments: Experience parts of the trail that are maintained by local families and organizations dedicated to mālama ʻāina (caring for the land).
• Panoramic Ocean Views: Enjoy unparalleled vistas of the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities for whale watching during the winter months.

Getting There

Because the Ala Kahakai is a 175-mile corridor rather than a single continuous path, access points are scattered along the western and southern coasts of Hawaiʻi Island.

Access through National Parks: The most common way to experience sections of the trail is through the four National Park sites on the island. Each of these parks manages and interprets a segment of the Ala Kahakai:

• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Access southern segments along the rugged coast.
• Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: Explore trails near the historic Place of Refuge.
• Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park: Walk the coastal paths near ancient fishponds and settlements.
• Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site: Visit the northern segments near the great temple of Kamehameha I.

Nā Ala Hele State Trails: The "Ala Kahakai Trail" in South Kohala is a popular and well-maintained section managed by the state's Nā Ala Hele program. This segment offers some of the most accessible coastal hiking on the island.

Nearest Airports: Kona International Airport (KOA) is the primary gateway for the western side of the island, where much of the trail is located. Hilo International Airport (ITO) serves the eastern side and is closer to segments in the south and Puna districts.

By Car: A rental vehicle is highly recommended for reaching the various trailheads. Most access points are located off Highway 11 (the Belt Road) or Highway 19 (the Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway). While some trailheads are easily reached by paved roads, others may require a 4WD vehicle for access through more remote coastal areas.

Public Transit: While the Hele-On bus service provides some transportation between major towns, it is not practical for reaching most trailheads. Visitors should rely on personal or rental vehicles for the most flexibility.

For current maps and trail status updates, check the official trail directions page.

Best Time to Visit

Hawaiʻi Island’s coast is generally sunny and warm year-round, but there are subtle differences in the seasons that can affect your hike.

Spring: Spring is a beautiful time to visit as the coastal vegetation is often at its lushest following the winter rains. Temperatures are moderate (70s and 80s), and the ocean is often calmer for those looking to combine a hike with a swim or snorkel.

Summer: Summer brings the most consistent sun and the highest temperatures, often reaching into the 90s. The coastal heat can be intense, especially when walking over dark lava rock that absorbs the sun's energy. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are essential to avoid heat exhaustion. This is the best time for underwater activities along the trail's many coves.

Fall: Autumn continues the warm weather of summer, though the trade winds can sometimes bring more variable conditions. It is a quiet time on the island with fewer tourists, offering a more solitary experience on the more remote sections of the trail.

Winter: Winter is the "rainy" season, though the Kona and Kohala coasts remain relatively dry compared to the rest of the island. The biggest draw in winter is the arrival of humpback whales, which can often be seen breaching just offshore from the trail. Be aware that winter can also bring larger swells to the coast, making some segments near the water's edge more hazardous.

Activities and Adventures

The Ala Kahakai provides a platform for a wide range of recreational and cultural activities.

Hiking and Trekking: With 175 miles of trail corridor, the options for hiking range from short, half-hour strolls to multi-day coastal treks. The terrain varies from soft sand to incredibly sharp, uneven lava rock. Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is a must for all hikers.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Many segments of the trail pass by some of the best snorkeling spots on the island. Places like Kaloko-Honokōhau and various bays in the Kohala district offer clear water and vibrant coral reefs. Always use "reef-safe" mineral-based sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.

Cultural Demonstrations: During certain times of the year, particularly at the National Park sites, visitors can witness or participate in cultural demonstrations such as lei-making, traditional navigation talks, or hula performances. These events provide deeper context for the "storied landscapes" you are traversing.

Wildlife Watching: The coastal trail is an excellent place for observing Hawaiʻi's unique wildlife. Green sea turtles often bask on the rocks near the trail. Birdwatchers should look for the ʻakekeʻe (ruddy turnstone), kōlea (Pacific golden plover), and the various sea birds that nest along the cliffs.

Photography: The contrast of the deep blue ocean against the black lava and white sand provides endless opportunities for photography. The "golden hour" in Hawaiʻi is particularly spectacular, as the setting sun illuminates the coast and the volcanic peaks in the distance.

Scenic Driving: For those with limited mobility or time, certain sections of the trail corridor can be experienced via scenic drives that parallel the coast. Highway 19 offers many pull-offs with interpretive signs and views of the trail's path.

History & Culture

The Ala Kahakai is a testament to the sophistication and resilience of Native Hawaiian society.

The Ahupuaʻa System: The trail crosses through over 200 ahupuaʻa. These were traditional land divisions that typically ran from the mountain peaks (uka) down to the sea (kai). This system ensured that each community had access to a full range of resources, from forest products and agricultural land to coastal fishponds and ocean fishing grounds. The Ala Kahakai was the vital lateral link that connected these vertical divisions.

Wahi Pana (Storied Landscapes): Every segment of the trail has a story. These wahi pana are places associated with gods, chiefs (aliʻi), or significant historical events. For example, the trail near Puʻukoholā Heiau is inextricably linked to the rise of King Kamehameha the Great and the unification of the islands.

Heiau and Loko Iʻa: Along the trail, you will see the remains of heiau (temples) and loko iʻa (fishponds). The fishponds are a marvel of ancient engineering, designed to allow small fish to enter through sluice gates (mākāhā) while keeping larger, fattened fish inside. Many of these ponds are being actively restored by community groups today.

The King's Trail: Parts of the Ala Kahakai are also known as the "King's Trail" or the Alanui Aupuni. These were improved paths created during the Hawaiian Kingdom era (19th century) to accommodate travel by horse and cart, often characterized by straight lines and curb stones that contrast with the more winding, ancient footpaths.

Lodging and Camping

Staying near the Ala Kahakai requires a mix of camping permits and hotel bookings, depending on which segment you are visiting.

In-Park Camping: Some sections of the trail near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offer backcountry camping with the appropriate permits. Front-country camping is also available at certain National Park sites.

State and County Parks: Many of the best places to camp along the trail are at state and county beach parks, such as Spencer Beach Park or Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. These require advance reservations and permits, which often sell out months in advance.

Hotels and Resorts: The Kohala Coast is home to world-class resorts that are situated directly on segments of the Ala Kahakai. For more moderate hotel options, the town of Kailua-Kona offers many choices and serves as a central hub for exploring the western coast.

Vacation Rentals: There are many short-term vacation rentals available in the coastal communities, providing a more residential way to experience the trail and the local culture.

Essential Information

Park Fees and Passes

• Entrance Fee: There is no fee specifically for the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. However, if you access the trail through one of the National Parks (like Volcanoes or Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau), you will be subject to that park's entrance fees.
• Permits: Backcountry camping and certain group activities require permits from the managing agency (NPS, State, or County).

Safety Considerations

• Lava Rock: Lava rock is extremely sharp and can be brittle. Falls can result in serious cuts. Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes.
• Heat and Sun: The coastal environment is hot and shade is often non-existent. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, wear a hat, and use long sleeves for sun protection.
• Ocean Safety: Be extremely cautious of rogue waves and strong currents. Do not turn your back on the ocean when near the shoreline.
• Respect Sacred Sites: Many sites along the trail are culturally sensitive. Do not climb on rock walls, do not enter heiau unless invited, and do not remove any rocks or artifacts.
• Mineral Sunscreen: Please use only mineral-based (non-chemical) sunscreen to protect the coral reefs.

Services and Facilities

Facilities vary greatly along the 175-mile corridor. National Park segments typically have visitor centers, restrooms, and water. More remote segments managed by the state or community may have no facilities at all. Always plan ahead and carry what you need.

Contact

• Email: [email protected]
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/alka/index.htm

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a profound journey into the heart of Hawaiʻi. It is a place where the past is not just remembered but is physically present in the stones, the sea, and the stories of the land. By walking this trail with respect and an open heart, visitors can gain a deep appreciation for the enduring spirit of the Hawaiian people and their magnificent island home.