Aerial photograph of trail through lava along the Hawaiian Coast

National Historic Trail

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

visit on nps.gov

Info

Established in 2000 to preserve, protect and interpret traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile corridor encompassing a network of culturally and historically significant trails. This "trail by the sea" traverses wahi pana (storied landscapes), ancient Hawaiian sites and over 200 ahupuaʻa (traditional land divisions).

Park Photos

Aerial photograph of trail through lava along the Hawaiian Coast
1 of 5

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail traverses through many types of terrain, including ʻaʻā lava.

Credit: NPS Photo

Aerial photograph of trail through lava along the Hawaiian Coast
sandy beach
Aerial photograph of trail along the Hawaiian Coast
Photograph of woman walking along a segment of trail underneath a shaded tree canopy
Aerial photograph of hikers along straight rocky segment of Ala Kahakai

Activities

Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Biking
Mountain Biking
Road Biking
Camping
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Car or Front Country Camping
Group Camping
RV Camping
Compass and GPS
Geocaching
Orienteering
Picnicking
Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Boating
Motorized Boating
Sailing
Boat Tour
Fishing
Saltwater Fishing
Paddling
Canoeing
Kayaking
Stand Up Paddleboarding
SCUBA Diving
Snorkeling
Surfing
Swimming
Saltwater Swimming
Arts and Culture
Cultural Demonstrations
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hands-On
Arts and Crafts
Junior Ranger Program
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Food

Operating Hours

Hours vary dependent on trail section.

DayHours
Friday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Sunday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Saturday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day

Weather info

Hawaiʻiʻs coast is generally sunny and hot. Be prepared with sun protection (hat, mineral-based sunscreen, sunglasses and long sleeves) and water (minimum 2 liters of water per person per day for short hikes). Before visiting the Trail, check weather forecasts and follow all warnings and advisories: - https://www.weather.gov/hfo/ - www.hawaiicounty.gov/active-alerts