It has been my observation that a lot of families with young children come to Kona and spend an inordinate amount of time lounging by the cement pond and the kids in and around the pool. I would like to suggest some amazing alternatives that will enhance the lives of both the adults and the kids. Please note that the beaches at Mauna Kea and Beach 69 are outstanding for kids. In fact, at those two spots you will find that families with children vastly outnumber unaccompanied adults. On most days both offer soft, diggable sand, a calm ocean with minimal surf and extremely accesible, clean restrooms.
Below I present a couple spots that are uniquely great for kids, both fairly close to Kailua. These spots are family friendly and an unaccompanied mom with her brood should feel totally safe.
The Keiki Ponds Great for Moms with Toddlers!
If you are in Kona with Keikis (young children) here is a local secret you may wish to pursue. Follow the Kuakini Hwy across Palani, cross Kaiwi St. and park in the lot for the Aquatic Center. (If you end up at the Old Airport you’ve gone too far.) Lug your keiki across the soccer field, find a gap in the fence and see the beach access sign. Pass through the stucco fence onto walkway between the gazillion dollar homes and..voila! You see a stretch of sand behind the breakwater with a large shallow tide pool. For generations, young Kona mothers have brought their children here to catch some rays and relax by the sea. You are entirely welcome.
Kukio Beach Great for kids
Heading north from the airport you will pass two entrances to Kona Coast State Park. The second of these is opposite a sign for a national veterans cemetery. We call this park "Cemetery Beach." There are clean restrooms and showers, but the beach is short and dangerous. I do not snorkel at Cemetery Beach.
Continue north and take the next turn to the left. This is totally unmarked, but there is a turn lane. (If you end up at Hualalai you have gone too far, your destination is an easy u-turn and a half mile or so back toward Kailua.) Here you will find public beach access for the Four Seasons Resort. There is a guard station and if you are early enough they will give you a beach pass. Follow the signs and it will take you through the lava field to a parking lot. A very short walk will bring you to clean restrooms and a sandy beach and a manicured lawn and bountiful shade trees. You will think you are in heaven! Additionally, there is a huge tide pool ideal for young children. One could not imagine a safer place for a family outing. The snorkeling in this tide pool is not great, but that is hardly the point. This place is totally perfect for kids and their parents.
© Jeffrey Hill 2011
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