The overlook above Hoʻokipa Beach Park, just east of Pāʻia, looks down on surf breaks favored by advanced surfers and windsurfers. Below, green sea turtles come ashore to rest, with good odds of seeing them shortly before sunset.
Why we love it
You can watch expert windsurfers flying off waves and dozens of honu napping on the beach in the same visit.
What to expect
The upper parking area along the highway has the lookout view; a lower lot near the pavilion and restrooms gives beach access. Parking is free but fills up, especially near sunset. Waves are good all year, and in winter they can reach 30 feet, so this is a place to watch, not swim. Turtles come ashore to rest in the afternoon and evening; volunteers may rope off areas, and you should stay at least 10 feet away. A stop takes 20–30 minutes and makes a good start or end to a Road to Hāna day.
Know before you go
- Honu
- NOAA recommends staying at least 10 feet from sea turtles on land or in water. Harassing them is illegal. Never touch them or block their path to the ocean.
- Surf
- An expert spot: good waves all year and winter waves up to 30 feet. Sharp rock and strong currents make it a poor place for visitors to swim.
- Water rules
- State rules set Hoʻokipa zones for swimming and surfing that keep sailboards out of certain breaks (HAR 13-256-127).
- Facilities
- The park has parking, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and a lifeguard; it closes at 7 p.m.
