Ka Lae, Cape and National Historic Landmark at the southernmost point of Hawaii Island, US
The cliffs of Ka Lae extend into the Pacific Ocean, where strong currents meet and create a dynamic marine environment at Hawaii's southern edge point.
Archaeological evidence indicates Ka Lae served as the first landing site for Polynesian settlers arriving to Hawaii, establishing settlements around 1000 years ago.
Ancient Hawaiians constructed temples and fishing shrines along Ka Lae's coastline, drilling holes in rocks to secure their fishing canoes against ocean currents.
South Point Road leads visitors 12 miles from State Route 11 to Ka Lae, where fishing opportunities exist but swimming remains dangerous due to strong currents.
The convergence of ocean currents at Ka Lae creates the Halaea Current, named after a Hawaiian chief who disappeared in these waters long ago.
Location: Hawaii County
GPS coordinates: 18.91110,-155.68100
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:03
Mauna Loa
63.3 km
Kīlauea
70.3 km
Papakolea Beach
4.6 km
Punalu'u Beach
31.2 km
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
61.8 km
Halemaumau Crater
69.4 km
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
0 m
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
51.2 km
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
69 km
Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden
69 km
Kahikolu Church
66.9 km
Pauahi
70.1 km
Ainahou Ranch
67.7 km
Hawaii Volcanoes Wilderness
54.4 km
Kilauea Caldera
67.6 km
ʻĀinapō Trail
62.2 km
Hale o Keawe
61.8 km
Puna-Ka'u Historic District
62.9 km
Mokuʻāweoweo Caldera
62.9 km
Thomas A. Jaggar Museum
70.1 km
Punalu'u Bakery Shop
19.5 km
Nāmakanipaio Campground
70.1 km
Hilina Pali Trail
58.1 km
Halemaʻumaʻu Trail
69.6 km
Kaʻū Desert Trail
68.8 km
Hilina Pali Shelter
58.1 km
Wilkes Campsite
62.7 km
Kealakekua Bay Historical District
66.8 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes