Things To Know Before You Come

A beach wheel chair provides visitors greater accessibility of the Royal Grounds.

ACCESSIBILITY
Several beach wheelchairs are provided for visitors to comfortably access the Royal Grounds. The landscape of the Pu'uhonua is rocky and has a challenging grade therefore it is recommended that the beach wheelchairs are not used past the Hale o Keawe.

The wheelchairs are available at the visitor center during the operating hours of the visitor center (8:30 AM to 4:30 PM) and are free of charge. The chairs have large tires for easy maneuverability through the sand but require the assistance of another person to guide and push the chair.

 

For Your Safety
Because it can be very hot and sunny, bring drinking water (or purchase it at the visitor center), sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.

Walking along the rocky coastline or accessing the tidepools can be physically challenging. The lava rocks are uneven, loose and are sometimes wet and slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and use common sense.

The ocean can be unpredictable. Please obey any warnings that may be posted due to high surf, winds, or other dangers. Eels, which may bite and sea urchins that sting, live in the ocean and are sometimes found in the tidepools. Know these animals and respect their habitats.

The nearest hospital is located in Kealakekua, approximately 8 miles north of the park on Hwy 11.

 

PETS
Pets are not permitted in the Royal Grounds or in the Pu'uhonua areas. Pets are permitted in the picnic area, on the 1871 and along coastal trails. Pets must be under their owner's control and restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length at all times. Please pick up after your pets and properly dispose of any waste.

 

WEATHER
The weather in the park is typically hot and sunny with daytime temperatures in the upper 80's. An excellent time to experience the park is in the morning and in the late afternoon when the temperatures are a bit cooler. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset. However the park does occasionally close because of high winds or dangerous storm conditions. Please check with the visitor center or your hotel for any weather advisories or hazardous conditions on the day of your visit.

 

LODGING
There is no lodging available in the park and camping is not permitted. Several Bed & Breakfasts are located within Honaunau and neighboring towns. Hotels may be found in Kailua-Kona, approximately 1/2 hour from the park. For near-by camping facilities contact the County of Hawai'i Camping Reservation Site.

 

WHERE TO EAT
Food is not available in the park. Visitors may pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic area. Drinking fountains are available near the visitor center or bottled water may be purchased at the bookstore. The nearest restaurants and convenience stores are located along Highway 11 on the way to Kailua-Kona.

PICNIC AREA
Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available for everyone and may not be reserved. Large groups of 20 persons or more must obtain a permit in advance to use the area. Permit inquiries can be made by calling [phone] ext 1220. In order to preserve the natural landscape, umbrellas, tarps and other such equipment as well as recreational activities are not permitted.

 

NEW FEDERAL LAW ON FIREARMS
As of February 22, 2010, a new federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws to legally possess firearms in this park.

“For nearly 100 years, the mission of the National Park Service has been to protect and preserve the parks and to help all visitors enjoy them,” National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis said. “We will administer this law as we do all others – fairly and consistently.”

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park.

As a starting point, visit the State of Hawai‘i's website: Hawaii Revised Statutes Title 10 Chapter 134 - Firearms, Ammunition and Dangerous Weapons

Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.