Ala Kahakai

Encircling Hawaiʻi Island is an ancient coastal trail system that once connected all communities, known traditionally as the alaloa or alanui (long or large trail). In 2000, Congress established the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail to preserve, protect, and where necessary, re-establish a 175-mile long corridor of the original trail’s footprint. The Ala Kahakai links four National Park Service units and numerous wahi pana (sacred or storied places) significant to Hawaiʻi’s history and the preservation of Native Hawaiian culture.

Trust for Public Land has helped local communities, nonprofits, and government agencies to protect numerous cultural landscapes, including Kauhola Point, Lapakahi State Historical Park, Pāo‘o, Kuamo‘o battlefield, Kauleolī, Kāwala, Waikapuna, Honu‘apo, Kāwā and the ancient fishing villages of Kiʻilae, all of which host portions of the trail. We are currently working to preserve additional trail sections in partnership with Native Hawaiian lineal descendants, the National Park Service, Ala Kahakai Trail Association, the County and State, and communities from around the island.

Kauhola Point
Lapakahi State Park
Pao’o Shoreline Near Kohala Protected
Kuamo’o Battlefield and Burial Grounds
Kauleoli Fishing Village
Kawala
Waikapuna
Honuapo Fishpond
Kawa Bay
Kaunamano
Kiolakaa
Manaka’a Village