Mokuleia Beach Coastal Hike

The coastal area southwest of Haleiwa, known as Mokuleia, is a rare undeveloped coastline. A 20-minute drive from Haleiwa to the Ka'ena Point State Park: Mokuleia section gets you into a great stretch of coastline for losing the crowds and indulging in a hike along the wind swept shoreline. The hike along the coastline is the perfect respite from the North Shore crowds, though you may see the occasional jeep passing by.

At a Glance:
Highlights: Lose the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of open undeveloped coastline. This windswept coast is pristine and wild with emerald green hills and cobalt blue ocean framing the bold landscape.
Location: near Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii
Activity Level: Easy to moderate. It is approximately 3 miles to reach Kaena Point.
Equipment: Sturdy shoes, rain gear, water and food.
Warnings!:  Not a recommended swimming beach, as no lifeguards are present and rip-currents can be strong here. Stick to the coastline and avoid the urge to climb up into the mountains, as the terrain is highly unstable in the hills. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle while out hiking.
Reservations: None needed
Cost: No fee

Where to start:
To find this area of the park, simply drive to the end of Hi-route 930, also known as the Farrington Highway, and pull of into the parking area on the right at the end of the paved roadway, as only 4-wheel drive vehicles can reach beyond the pavement.
There are many paths paralleling the coastline, as well as the jeep road about 100 yards inland. The area between the road and the beach is the safest to explore, as the terrain is close to sea level and has less hazards.

The raw and wind swept landscape at the Mokuleia section of the Ka'ena State Park is a reminder of what the island of Oahu looked like in the days before modern day developments. Mokuleia means "isle of abundance" in the Hawaiian language, the green hills and undeveloped slopes even harken one back to the days of pre-contact Hawaii when the landscape was open and unspoiled.

Local's Tip:
No restrooms at this remote location so look for some of the public roadside rest stops on the way to the park.

Directions:

• From Haleiwa:  Take Hi-route 82 out of town heading south, follow the signs for "Mokuleia" turning right onto HI-route 930 aka Farrington Highway and drive to end of roadway.
• From Wahiawa: Take Kamehameha Highway toward "Dillingham Field" turning on HI-route 801 West, merging onto HI-route 803. Follow Hi-route 803 until it turns into HI-route 930 and drive to end of roadway. Park oat the lot on the right at pavements end.