Outlook on a cove surrounded by green trees

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Established

January 24, 2000

Nonprofit Partners

Ala Kahakai Trail Association (AKTA), E Mau Na Ala Hele

Administering Agency

National Park Service

Ocean waves crashing over black rocks
Grassy hill with a tree in the center surrounded by rocks. Partly cloudy skies in the background.

About The Trail

Map of Ala Kahakai National Trail

The name “Ala Kahakai” means “trail by the sea” in Hawaiian and this is no misnomer. The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail follows the southern and western coasts of the “Big Island” of Hawaii for 175 miles, tracing ancient, culturally significant and historic trails that connect wahi pana (storied landscapes) and over 200 ahupua’a (traditional land divisions) across the island.

Northwestern Terminus: ‘Upolu Point

Southeastern Terminus: Puna / Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The trail crosses lava flows, sandy beaches, rocky shore lines and modern roads.