This beach park is situated on a peninsula of lava that just out from the northern coastline of the Big Island, creating a very scenic area that is well worth the drive off the main thoroughfare. A large lawn provides a nice place to relax. A plaque at Laupahoehoe Point Park memorializes the 24 people killed in the April Fool’s Day 1946 tsunami. The giant waves rose to 56 feet above sea level sweeping away a schoolhouse on the point along with 21 school children. The name of the area comes from the word describing the type of lava (pahoehoe) that formed this peninsula which is shaped like a giant leaf, or lau.
Great For
Scenic views, picnics, fishing, camping (with a permit).
Highlights
The views of the surrounding coastline are spectacular.
Need to Know
Strong currents and potentially dangerous surf in this area make it unsafe for swimming during much of the year, particularly during winter when ocean swells come from the north.
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
Restrooms, showers, campsites, picnic tables, potable water.
Access
From the Mamalahoa Highway along the Hamakua Coast, it is just a short drive down a very scenic meandering road that leads to Laupahoehoe Point Park.