Things to Do in Kau and the South Point Coast
The island's quiet southern district, from black sand to the southernmost point in the nation.
See top-rated activities »About Kau
Kau is the large, lightly populated district that wraps around the southern flank of Mauna Loa between the national park and South Kona. Most visitors pass through it on the long drive between Kona and Hilo, but it rewards a slower pace: wide lava plains, macadamia orchards, coffee farms and a windswept coastline with few buildings in sight.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach is the best-known stop, a curve of jet-black sand made from lava that shattered when it met the sea, backed by coconut palms and a freshwater pond. Green sea turtles often haul out to rest on the sand. They are protected by law; stay at least 10 feet away, never touch them and keep your voice down. The water is cold in places where springs seep from the bottom, and currents can be strong, so swim only on calm days.
Ka Lae, or South Point, is the southernmost spot in the fifty states, a grassy, wind-blasted headland where ancient Hawaiians moored canoes to holes carved in the rocks. Fishermen and cliff jumpers gather at the edge, and the currents offshore are dangerous. From the end of the road, a long, exposed hike across open pasture leads to Papakolea, one of only a handful of green sand beaches in the world, colored by olivine crystals from an eroded cinder cone; bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes.
Naalehu, the southernmost town in the country, has a bakery famous for sweet bread and malasadas and a few places to eat. Kau coffee, grown on the slopes above Pahala and Naalehu, has won national awards and has its own festival, held in June in 2026. The Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, off the highway west of Naalehu, opens Thursday through Sunday for ranch-land hikes across old lava flows. Services are sparse across the district, so fill the tank and carry water and snacks before you set out.
Don’t Miss
Black lava sand, palms and resting green sea turtles. Keep at least 10 feet from turtles and swim only in calm conditions.
The southernmost point in the United States, a windy headland with strong currents offshore.
A rare olivine-tinted beach reached by a long, exposed hike from the South Point road. Bring water and sun protection.
Former ranch lands with trails over lava flows and cinder cones, open Thursday through Sunday.
A celebration of the district's award-winning coffee, with farm tours, tastings, music and hula; held in June in 2026.
Top-Rated Tours, Tickets & Activities in Kau
Viator
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Get free trip quotes »Kau — FAQ
Can you touch the turtles at Punaluu?
No. Green sea turtles are protected, and federal guidance asks people to stay at least 10 feet away and never touch, feed or chase them. Watch quietly from a distance.
How do you get to the green sand beach?
Papakolea is reached by a long walk across open, windy terrain from the end of South Point Road. Allow several hours round trip, bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest part of the day.
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