Halape Beach lies along the remote Puna Coast within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, accessible only to backpackers willing to undertake one of the Big Island's most challenging coastal hikes. Located just miles from Ka Lae, the southernmost point in the United States, this white sand beach occupies a serene cove surrounded by ancient lava fields that extend from Kilauea Volcano to the sea. The beach gained tragic notoriety on November 29, 1975, when a magnitude 7.7 earthquake triggered a devastating tsunami that struck 32 campers from Boy Scout Troop 77 who were sleeping on the beach. Two lives were lost and 28 people were injured as waves up to 20 feet high swept across the subsiding coastline, causing the land to drop nearly 10 feet and submerging a large coconut grove that once shaded the camping area. Today, Halape remains a destination for experienced wilderness backpackers seeking solitude and a profound connection to both Hawaiian geology and history.
Swimming conditions at Halape Beach vary considerably with ocean swells and currents. The protected cove offers shallow tidal pools perfect for observing brightly colored tropical fish and occasional coral formations, providing safer swimming areas when waves are calm. However, strong currents outside the protected areas require caution and solid ocean swimming skills. Snorkeling can be rewarding in the tidal pools and near the lava rock formations, where oddly shaped fish species thrive in the volcanic substrate. The powdery white sand is ideal for leisurely strolls and quiet reflection along this isolated shoreline. No lifeguards patrol this remote location, and no emergency services are readily available - visitors must be completely self-sufficient and capable of assessing ocean conditions independently. The dramatic 1975 subsidence permanently altered the beach geography, serving as a constant reminder that this coastline remains geologically active, with earthquakes still common along Kilauea's south flank.
Access to Halape Beach requires serious physical preparation and wilderness skills. The shortest route covers 14.6 to 16 miles round-trip from the Hilina Pali Overlook Trailhead off Chain of Craters Road within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, descending approximately 2,903 feet through exposed lava fields to reach sea level. Alternative routes via Keauhou Trail stretch 8.5 miles one-way or via Puna Coast Trail extend 11.3 miles one-way. The hike typically takes 7 to 8 hours minimum and is not feasible as a day hike for most people due to the extreme elevation gain on the return journey. Backpackers must obtain a backcountry camping permit from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with stays limited to three consecutive nights maximum. The primitive backcountry campsites string along behind the beach, protected by natural lava rock walls that serve as valuable windbreaks. A three-walled wooden shelter provides emergency haven during storms, and untreated water is sometimes available from roof runoff collected in catchment tanks, though hikers should not rely on this and must carry sufficient water. Temperatures along the trail and at the coast can be extreme, with little shade and intense sun exposure.
Dining options do not exist at or near Halape Beach due to its extreme remoteness - all backpackers must carry every meal and snack for their entire stay. The nearest restaurants are in Volcano Village, approximately 25 miles away by road and trail, where Kilauea Lodge Restaurant serves Hawaiian regional cuisine with local ingredients in a historic 1938 fireplace lodge, Cafe Ono offers organic breakfast and lunch with fresh Kona coffee, and Thai Thai Bistro and Bar provides authentic Thai dishes with vegetarian options. The cultural and geological significance of Halape cannot be overstated - this beach represents both the creative and destructive forces of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, where new black sand beaches form from lava while older white sand beaches like Halape face periodic destruction from earthquakes and tsunamis. The 1975 disaster stands as Hawaii's most destructive local tsunami of the 20th century, and park rangers emphasize that campers feeling earthquake tremors must immediately head for higher ground to avoid potential tsunami waves. Ancient Hawaiian coastal villages once thrived along this shoreline before being abandoned 150 years ago following devastating tsunami series, making Halape a profound location for understanding both traditional Hawaiian relationships with this dynamic coast and the ongoing volcanic processes that continue shaping the Big Island.
