Kohala Coast

Welcome to the Kohala Coast, a region that fundamentally challenges standard expectations of a tropical Hawaiian paradise. As you stand here on the leeward, or western, side of the Big Island, you are immediately confronted by a…

Let us turn our analytical gaze outward to the expansive waters of Kawaihae Bay. While the land behind us is parched, the ocean before us is an incredibly vibrant, dynamic ecosystem, particularly renowned during the winter months. …

As we move slightly inland, we encounter a structure of monumental historical and political significance: Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historical Site. Dominating a strategic rise overlooking the coast, this massive, imposing stone…

Descending from the solemn heights of the Heiau, we arrive at a remarkably welcoming coastal enclave: Spencer Beach Park. In stark contrast to the unforgiving, jagged lava shelves that characterize much of the Kohala shoreline,…

Continuing our exploration along the rocky shoreline, we encounter subtle, shallow depressions in the basalt, mere feet from the crashing waves. To the untrained eye, these appear to be unremarkable tide pools. …

As we navigate further down the rugged coastline, the terrain becomes increasingly unstable and treacherous. Yet, hidden amongst the dense brush and the chaotic jumble of loose lava rock, we find unmistakable evidence of…

For our final section on the Kohala Coast, let us examine the immediate interface between the land and the Pacific Ocean. The terrain here is intensely unstable. …

As the sun begins to lower toward the western horizon, casting long, dramatic shadows across the chaotic lava fields, let us reflect on our journey along the Kohala Coast. We began by acknowledging the extreme, arid nature of…