Kualoa Regional Park

Kualoa Regional Park, at 49-479 Kamehameha Highway near Kaneohe, on Oahu, Hawaii, occupies a long grassy peninsula on the windward coast about 25 miles north of Waikiki. The setting is among the most dramatic on the island: the sheer green ridges of the Koolau range rise behind the park, and offshore sits Mokolii Island, known as Chinaman's Hat, a small cone-shaped islet in Kaneohe Bay. The park's beach is narrow, with light sand and some coral rubble, and the water is shallow, calm and murky-to-clear depending on wind and tide, protected by a reef and sandbar. Because the bay is shallow, the swimming is gentle, and at very low tide the water can be wadeable toward the islet, although visitors must watch the tide and currents. Kualoa is a place of cultural significance in Hawaiian history, long associated with chiefs and sacred sites, and the park is treated with respect by locals. The atmosphere is quiet and open, with expansive lawns, picnic groups, kite flyers, anglers and campers. Amenities include a campground that requires a permit, restrooms and showers, a picnic area with tables, and free parking. There are no lifeguards at the park's main beach, and no concessions on site, so visitors bring their own food. Nearby, Kualoa Ranch offers tours, and roadside stands and small eateries along Kamehameha Highway sell shrimp plates, fruit and shave ice. Access is by car along Route 83, about an hour's drive from Waikiki, and TheBus service is infrequent. The park is a favorite for photography because of the mountain and island views, particularly in early morning light, and for sunrise camping weekends.