Established in 2000 to preserve, protect and interpret traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile corridor encompassing a network of culturally and historically significant trails. This "trail by the sea" traverses wahi pana (storied landscapes), ancient
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursHours vary dependent on trail section.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact aric_arakaki@nps.gov
Open sections of the Ala Kahakai NHT can be accessed through the four Hawai'i Island National Parks: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes NP, Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau NHP, Kaloko-Honokōhau NHP and Pu'ukoholā Heiau NHS. The Nā Ala Hele State Trails and Access Programʻs "Ala Kahakai Trail" in South Kohala is also open to th
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you ride OHVs or ATVs here?
Yes — off-highway vehicle use is among the activities here. Stay on designated routes and check any permit or registration rules.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Depends What are the hours?
Hours vary dependent on trail section.
Nearby sites
NPS / Chisholm National Park Service Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $20 park entrance fee.
Courtesy of J. Frank National Park Service Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $30 park entrance fee.
