News Release

Kaloko-Honokōhau NHP continues to increase community access to the park

NPS Photo

News Release Date: July 10, 2020

Contact: Keola Awong, 808-763-9486

Kailua-Kona, HAWAI‘I – Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historic Park is increasing public access. The National Park Service (NPS) is working service wide with federal, state and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis. 

Beginning Friday, July 10, 2020 Kaloko-Honokōhau NHP will reopen access to the following areas on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays:

• Kaloko pond access road

• Visitor Center parking lot

• Visitor Center and restroom facilities

• Visitor sevices

Areas already open: 

• All hiking trails for day time exercise and outdoor recreational experience 

• Beach and shoreline areas for hiking. ocean recreation, and fishing (following state regulations) 

• Port-a-John facilities at Aiopiʻo

Closed areas and suspended services:

• Picnic Area Kaloko pond

• All ranger led programs remain suspended

• Commercial use suspended

“Services are limited, and visitors should bring everything they might need for a safe visit including water, meals and hand sanitizer. Above all, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes with very little warning should public health concerns require a reversal in our plans,” said Kaloko-Honokōhau NHP Acting Superintendent John Broward. 

Visitors are urged to recreate responsibly by planning their visit in advance and acting with care while at the Puʻuhonua:  

• Practice social distancing, maintain at least six feet of distance between you and others 

• Wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use your hand sanitizer 

• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth 

• If you feel sick, please visit another day

• Let wildlife be wild, please stay 20 ft. away from any honu (sea turtles) on the beach   

The health and safety of park users, employees, volunteers, and partners continue to be paramount. While these areas are accessible for the public to enjoy, a return to full operations will continue to be phased and services are limited. Park users should follow local area health orders from the Governor of Hawai‘i, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding and other high-risk outdoor activities. 

The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Park staff will continue to monitor all park functions to ensure that visitors adhere to CDC guidance for mitigating risks associated with the transmission of COVID-19 and will take any additional steps necessary to protect everyone’s health.  

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on the park website and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on NPS Coronavirus webpage.