Ooma Beach represents a significant conservation victory on the Big Island's increasingly developed Kona Coast, with Hawaii County purchasing 217 acres including over half a mile of pristine shoreline in late 2013 to create a public beach park just north of Kohanaiki Beach Park. Located conveniently near Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport off Highway 19, this linear coastal park offers visitors a more tranquil and authentic beach experience compared to the crowded tourist destinations that dominate this popular region. The beach's rugged lava rock formations create dramatic contrasts against the azure Pacific waters, while mature trees provide natural shade along most of the shoreline, making Ooma an ideal destination for beachgoers seeking respite from both the intense tropical sun and the bustling atmosphere of nearby commercial beaches. The relatively recent addition of this property to Hawaii County's public land inventory means many visitors remain unaware of this gem, allowing those who discover it to enjoy a peaceful coastal experience that feels more like a locals' beach than a tourist attraction.
The shoreline at Ooma consists primarily of rocky lava formations with a central section offering the best beach and water access, where calmer conditions allow for decent snorkeling among the shallow nearshore reefs. Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently inhabit these waters, providing excellent opportunities for respectful wildlife observation as these gentle creatures feed on algae and rest in the protected coves. The shallow, rocky bottom requires water shoes for comfortable exploration, and snorkelers should time their visits for calm ocean conditions as rough surf can make water entry hazardous and visibility poor. While Ooma may not rival the Big Island's premier snorkeling destinations, the combination of accessibility, uncrowded conditions, and regular turtle sightings creates a rewarding experience for visitors who appreciate natural beauty over developed amenities. The beach's linear configuration means different sections offer varying conditions and character, rewarding those who take time to explore rather than settling at the first accessible spot.
Accessing Ooma requires turning oceanward off Highway 19 onto Hulikoa Drive, proceeding right at the roundabout, and following signs marked "Beach Park" and "Beach Access" to reach the shared entrance serving both Ooma and Kohanaiki Beach Parks. Visitors can choose between parking in the paved lot and walking to the beach, or continuing along a dirt road that leads directly to the shoreline where many locals park under shade trees immediately behind the beach. The park gate opens at 5:30 AM and closes at 9 PM, though the dirt road section may close earlier at 7:30 PM, so visitors should note posted times upon arrival to avoid being locked in. Free parking, portable toilets, and the natural shade provided by established trees comprise the available amenities, reflecting Ooma's character as a relatively undeveloped coastal park focused on preserving natural conditions rather than providing tourist-oriented facilities. The sunset views from Ooma rank among the Kona Coast's finest, with the westward ocean orientation creating spectacular evening light shows that draw photographers and couples seeking romantic settings.
After spending time at Ooma Beach, visitors can find diverse dining options in nearby Kailua-Kona, with Broke da Mouth Grindz located just blocks from Old Airport Beach serving hearty portions of Hawaiian and Filipino staples perfect for takeout beach picnics. Magics Beach Grill across from Magic Sands Beach offers Pan-Asian American cuisine inspired by local island ingredients, with seating both in the sand facing the waves and on a back deck ideal for sunset viewing. Pine Tree Cafe provides local plate lunches and island comfort foods in a family-friendly atmosphere, while Umeke's Fish Market Bar and Grill specializes in fresh seafood dishes showcasing the day's catch. The cultural significance of this coastline extends back to ancient Hawaiian communities who recognized the value of these shores for fishing, gathering, and travel, leaving behind archaeological evidence of their presence in the surrounding lava fields. Modern visitors honor this heritage by treating the area with respect, maintaining proper distance from wildlife, staying on established paths to protect coastal vegetation, and removing all trash to preserve the natural beauty that makes Ooma special. Those seeking an authentic Big Island beach experience away from resort developments and tourist crowds will find Ooma Beach delivers exactly that uncrowded, natural coastal environment that becomes increasingly rare along Hawaii's developed shorelines, proving that thoughtful conservation efforts can still preserve special places for public enjoyment and ecological protection.
