Hapuna Beach Planning Guide

Planning Your Perfect Day at Hapuna Beach State Park

Getting There & Parking Logistics

Hapuna Beach State Park sits at 62-100 Kaunaoa Dr, Waimea, HI 96743, along the scenic Kohala Coast. The well-marked entrance lies about 30 minutes north of Kailua-Kona and 20 minutes south of Waimea town.

Budget for entrance and parking fees when planning your visit. Non-residents pay $5 per person for park entry plus $10 per vehicle for parking. This daily fee supports park maintenance and facilities. Hawaii residents with valid ID enter free but still pay the parking fee.

Parking strategy can make or break your beach day. The main paved lot holds about 120 vehicles and fills quickly on weekends. A smaller gravel lot near the A-frame cabins on the south end offers overflow parking with a shorter walk to that section of beach.

Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to guarantee a parking spot. Weekdays offer more flexibility, but popular spots still fill during peak vacation seasons. The lot empties significantly after 4 PM as day visitors leave for dinner.

Hapuna Beach Facilities: What to Expect

Hapuna Beach State Park provides some of the best beach facilities you'll find anywhere in Hawaii. Lifeguards monitor the beach daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Always check with them about current conditions before entering the water. Their local knowledge of currents and surf conditions can keep you safe.

The amenity checklist includes everything needed for a comfortable beach day. Clean restrooms with outdoor showers help you rinse off salt and sand. Drinking water fountains keep you hydrated in the tropical sun. Large covered picnic pavilions operate on a first-come, first-served basis—perfect for escaping midday heat.

Multiple BBQ grills scattered throughout the park let you cook lunch while enjoying ocean views. Bring your own charcoal and lighter fluid, as these aren't sold on-site.

Three Frogs Cafe operates the main concession stand near the parking area. They serve burgers, hot dogs, local plate lunches, and refreshing shaved ice. Hours vary seasonally, but they're typically open during peak beach times. Prices reflect the remote location, so packing your own snacks saves money.

Local food trucks often park along the highway near the entrance. These mobile kitchens offer more authentic local flavors at better prices than resort restaurants. Look for trucks serving fresh poke, spam musubi, or local-style mixed plates.

Accessibility at Hapuna: A Guide for All Visitors

Hapuna Beach State Park makes genuine efforts to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. Designated disabled parking spots sit closest to the main pathway, minimizing the distance to beach access.

The main pathway from the parking lot uses paved surfaces with gentle slopes. This makes it generally wheelchair and stroller-friendly down to the sand line. The path remains stable and well-maintained throughout the year.

Beach access onto the sand itself presents more challenges. The park doesn't currently offer beach wheelchair rentals or Mobi-Mat systems that provide hard surfaces over sand. Visitors requiring these accommodations should plan accordingly or contact local medical supply companies about rental options.

The restroom facilities include ADA-compliant stalls and accessible sinks. Outdoor showers also accommodate wheelchair users with appropriate shower seats and grab bars.