This is a great place to stop on your return trip, especially if you can time things right to be there at sunset.
Continuing on Highway 270, the next worthwhile stop is Lapakahi State Historical Park, near mile marker 14. When we last visited well over half of the park was closed due to twenty-foot high waves that had struck this coastal area damaging several of the archeological sites.
This park marks the site of an old Hawaiian fishing village. While several of the sites are well preserved, it is clear that this park, like many Hawaii state parks, could benefit from some additional funding for upkeep.
There is a rough mile-long looped trail that runs through the village with markers noting interesting spots. Allow yourself about an hour to explore the park.
About a mile north of the park, is the entrance to Mahukona Beach Park. This park offers water activities such as swimming, snorkeling and boating, as well as camping (by permit only).
You won't find a beach here. The area was originally a harbor used by the now defunct Kohala Sugar Company.
Barbeque pits are spread over the park and there are also bathrooms with showers available. If the weather is clear, be sure to catch the views of the neighboring island of Maui, thirty miles in the distance.
