The two nice swimming beaches called Kawili (on the right) and Kamalaea (on the left) are located in Halawa Bay along Molokai’s eastern shore. While Kawili is a bit rocky and more exposed, Kamaalaea is a pleasant curving beach with fine white sand (Halawa means “Curve”) that gently slopes into the sea. Halawa Beach Park is typically very uncrowded with plenty of open space to enjoy a Hawaiian day.
Great For
Picnics, fishing, sunbathing. Swimming and snorkeling should only be done when water is calm. Bodyboarding and surfing are also good at times.
Highlights
During the winter months experienced surfers and bodyboarders like to ride the well-shaped waves that break along this shoreline which also provides a great view of Maui. This is also a good fishing area as the Halawa Stream flows out at Kawili Beach.
Need to Know
During summer the water is usually very nice here though the beach should be avoided during times of high surf or rough water, particularly during the winter months. Kawili Beach is less protected from the open ocean and sometimes subject to rip currents.
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic pavilions, barbecue grills. No potable water.
Access
Located in Kaunakakai, Molokai. To get to Halawa Beach park follow Kamehameha V Hwy. (Hwy. 450) to the end where you will cross a bridge onto a rough road that leads to the gravel parking area near the beach park.