Halape
Halape, an oasis of sandy beaches, cool ocean water, and tropical coconut trees. NPS photo by Katja Chudoba Halape is located on the southern seacoast of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and is a favored destination of hearty wilderness hikers. The campsite is 7.7 miles from the closest trailhead. The hike to Halape is a grueling, hot hike through predominately non-native grasses to a small sandy beach where hikers may pitch their tents near the swaying coconut trees. The campsite may be accessed from several trailheads; 
Register Link to printable version of map and directions to VEOC (465KB) Hiking Tips (pdf-217KB) Campers may stay a maximum of 3 nights per site. A total of 16 hikers are allowed per night at Halape. Backpackers to Halape should be adequately equipped, experienced in wilderness trekking, and physically fit.
Leave No Trace Trailheads Trailheads include: 1.) Hilina Pali Overlook (Hilina Pali Trail) located at the end of Hilina Pali Road (2,280' elevation). 2.) Mau Loa o Mauna Ulu (Keauhou Trail) located on Chain of Craters Road (2,680' elevation). 3.) Pu`u Loa (Puna Coast Trail) located near sea level on Chain of Craters Road. Facilities Trail Conditions Extreme Weather During the day, temperatures can soar into the high 90s or higher. There are NO trees to provide relief from the sun. Carry and drink 3 to 4 quarts of water per person (per day). The elderly, infants, and those taking antihistamines and certain types of medication for high blood pressure or depression are especially at risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The Heat Equation: High Temperature + High Humidity + Physical Work = Heat Illness or Death.
Seismic and Volcanic Hazards See additional information about destructive earthquakes and tsunami:
Fire Hazards Unexploded Ordinance Pesky and Dangerous Animals Protect Precious Plants, Animals, and Archeological Sites Turtles - Endangered Hawksbill sea turtles nest and threatened Green sea turtles rest on park beaches. Do not camp in areas posted as turtle nesting areas at `Apua, Halape, and other beaches. Federal and state laws protect all sea turtles from harm. Fishing - Fishing along the coastline from the park's eastern boundary to a point midway between Keauhou and Halape is restricted to native Hawaiian residents of the Kalapana area. It is your responsibility to understand and obey all fishing regulations. Swimming - There are very few sheltered swimming sites along the coast. Rough seas, high surf and strong, unpredictable currents are typical of the park's coastline. Avoid entering the open ocean. Help protect the rare plants and animals that live in tidepools and brackish ponds - rinse off all soap and sunscreen before entering them. Pets and Stock Use - Dogs and other pets are not allowed on park trails or in wilderness areas. Horses, donkeys, and mules are allowed in the backcountry with a valid backcountry permit (limit of 6 animals per site). Tether livestock at least 100 feet from campsites in an area that presents no hazard or sanitation problems to other campers. Hikers encountering horse parties should quietly step off the trail and allow the animals to pass. Leave No Trace - Pack out everthing you pack in. Do not put rubbish in pit toilets. Keep wilderness areas beautiful and clean. Practice Leave No Trace ethics when hiking and camping. Post your trip journal on our webpage! Give us your feedback - Let us know about trail, cabin, or campsite conditions. Did you notice anything damaged or dangerous conditions that rangers should be aware of? File a Trip Report Return to: |
Did You Know?
Large volumes of lava move in lava tubes beneath the hardened surface of recent flows. Skylights form when the roof of a lava tube collapses, revealing the molten lava flowing like a river within the tube.