Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area is a coastal park spanning approximately 87 hectares on the western side of Hawaii Island, encompassing both land areas and water zones. The grounds display black lava rock formations that run along the coastline and shape the landscape.

The site served as a regional airport from 1948 until 1970 with a 3,800-foot (1,160-meter) runway that handled inter-island flights. After closure, the area was transformed into a public recreation space for community use.

The bay beside this space carries the Hawaiian name Papawai, meaning "water layer" in the local language. The location sits near land managed by the Queen Liliuokalani Trust, an important institution for the Hawaiian community.

The grounds offer multiple access points to the water along the shoreline, making entry convenient for different groups of visitors. Restrooms, showers, sports fields, and a public aquatic center are available to enable various activities during your visit.

The former airport runway now serves as the main parking area for visitors to the park. The old terminal building has been repurposed and functions as a public pavilion for community meetings and events.

Location: Hawaii County

Inception: 1976

GPS coordinates: 19.64250,-156.00500

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45