Puna Trail that leads to Haena Beach (Shipman Beach)

Location: Hawaiian Paradise Park (Puna)

Directions: South of Hilo, drive Hwy. 130 to the Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision and turn makai (toward the ocean) on Kaloli Drive. Follow Kaloli Drive for several miles until it dead-ends into Beach Road. Take a left and follow Beach Road until it ends shortly in a gravel parking area ringed by large boulders with an information kiosk. There are frequent car break-ins (Notice the window glass in spots), so do not leave any valuables in your vehicle. The trailhead has no facilities.

Description: 5-mile round trip FREQUENTLY MUDDY hiking trail. This is a lovely, almost entirely shaded, cool trail, just perfect for an adventurous dog. There were a few areas of the trail where it was a lake of mud, so we would divert off the trail along parallel trails that must have been cut specifically due to the nearly impassable mud lakes. Right at about the 2 mile mark, you’ll come to the coastline with no beach and no safe access to the ocean. Enjoy the view and keep walking until you get to the actual beach. There were tourists and residents alike along with a few other dogs. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day, picnic (in the shade), swim, and see honu (sea turtles) – If you have a prey-driven dog, please keep your dog away from them! While this small bay seems protected and safe, strong currents can sneak up and are common here, so be aware.

NOTE: There are no facilities (bathrooms, trash cans, etc.) at Hā’ena Beach, so pack out what you pack in. This trail can be extremely muddy. Dogs must be kept on leash at all times on the trail to protect endemic wildlife, including nēnē, monk seals, and honu. No camping or hunting allowed.