Old Kona Airport Beach Park

Sizzle and Chill: The Ultimate BBQ Retreat by the Sea!

Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Gates close at 8:00 p.m.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oJKd5M8gp21wDqaa6
Weather: https://www.windy.com/19.643/-156.000?19.060,-156.003,8

Beach Amenities:

• Restrooms
• Showers
• Pavilions
• Picnic Tables
• Parking
• No Lifeguard on duty

Activities:

• Beach Going
• Surfing (advanced)
• Scuba Diving (advanced)
• BBQ
• Gatherings
• Sunset Watching

Beach Wedding:

• Permitted with County Permit

Built in the 1940s and closed in 1970 when a larger airport opened, the original runway now serves as parking, and the former terminal functions as a public pavilion. After Kona International Airport opened, the old runway briefly hosted drag racing before the area became Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area in 1976.

This in-town park is popular with locals and offers easy beach access, ample parking, picnic tables, and sunset viewsalong a mostly rocky shoreline. The southern section includes sports fields, tennis courts, the Kona Community Aquatic Center, the Makaeo County Pavilion, gardens, and walking trails. As with many urban parks, you’ll encounter a mix of users—keep valuables secured and be aware of your surroundings.

Ocean conditions: The beach often sees high surf and a lava-rock entry, with sandy channels near the calmer southern end. Conditions can be rough and there are sharp coral, so use caution. It’s a great spot for sunset picnics close to Kona town.

Diving: Scuba here is recommended for advanced divers only due to challenging entries. Access points include the south end near the hockey rink and the north end via a short trail. Underwater terrain features healthy coral, arches, caves, and abundant marine life.

For calmer water, look for the additional sandy pockets along the southern section that are better suited to wading and casual swimming.