Halawa Beach
Halawa Beach, located at the far eastern end of Molokai in Halawa Bay, features two adjacent beaches - Kama'alaea and Kawili - backed by sand dunes and surrounded by scenic valley cliffs. The beaches are ideal for sunbathing, fishing, and surfing during the winter months, while swimming is possible on calmer days. Known for its cultural significance and natural beauty, Halawa Beach offers a remote getaway with restrooms and picnic facilities but no concessions or lifeguards.
Halawa Beach, Molokai
Comprised of two equally beautiful beaches, Kama'alaea Beach to the west and Kawili Beach to the east, Halawa Beach Park is located in gorgeous Halawa Bay on Molokai's east shore. Both beaches are detrital sand beaches and are backed by low sand dunes. The remote bay is a good spot for sunbathing, fishing and picnicking.
The inshore waters of Kama'alaea Beach are shallow and mostly safe for swimming, except when there's a strong rip current that occurs during times of heavy surf. There's a small reef patch in the middle of the beach, however, the water is usually murky, which limits snorkeling. Mountain rainwater is carried by Halawa Stream to meet the ocean at the east end of the beach.
Kawili Beach is not as protected from the open ocean and therefore, very strong currents occur when the surf is up. On calm days, swimming is usually safe. There are some rocks on the ocean bottom here.
Legend has it that in the old Hawaii, the Molokai chiefs enjoyed surfing at Halawa Beach. Today, the beach remains a popular surf spot during the winter when the waves are big.
If you're planning on taking a trip to Halawa Beach Park, take Highway 450 (Kamehameha Highway) all the way to its east end. After you cross the bridge, follow the rough road trail until you reach the gravel parking area. Up ahead is the beach park.
Bring drinking water because there is no water available at the beach park. There are no concession areas either, but restrooms and picnic pavilions are available.
Key Features of Halawa Beach
- Two beaches in one: Kama'alaea Beach (west) and Kawili Beach (east) share the crescent-shaped Halawa Bay.
- Scenic and remote: Located at the end of Highway 450 on Molokai's lush east coast.
- Good for sunbathing and picnicking: Backed by low sand dunes and surrounded by tropical greenery.
- Surfing in winter: Waves can be large and powerful, making it a favorite surf spot during winter swells.
- Swimming possible when calm: Shallow nearshore waters at Kama'alaea Beach are safer during low surf conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Halawa Beach located?
Halawa Beach is located at the end of Highway 450 on Molokai's east shore, within Halawa Bay.
Can I surf at Halawa Beach?
Yes, Halawa Bay can produce large waves in the winter, attracting surfers to the area.
Is it safe to swim at Halawa Beach?
Swimming is possible on calm days, especially at Kama'alaea Beach. However, strong currents may occur during high surf.
Are there facilities at Halawa Beach?
Yes, the beach has restrooms, picnic pavilions, barbecue grills, and parking, but no concessions or lifeguards.
Why is the water sometimes murky?
Rain runoff from Halawa Stream meets the ocean here, making the water murky and reducing visibility for snorkeling.