If you find yourself constantly dreaming of sipping from a freshly-chopped coconut on a white-sand Hawaiian island beach surrounded by breathtaking scenery and no one else, you are not alone! Today the island paradise we have in mind is He'eia State Park, nestled on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.
This 18.5-acre state park is situated on the windward side of Oahu on Kaneohe Bay, snuggled between the He'eia fishpond and the small boat harbor of He'eia Kea. At the park, you can witness the gorgeous sight of the Ko'olau Mountains shaking hands with Kane'ohe Bay and discover the lush gardens of this sacred land.
A Diverse Paradise at He'eia State Park
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The windward coast of this island in the state of Hawaii features a vast and diverse network of plant and marine life. Kane'ohe Bay offers a distinguished temperature, depth, and conditions that allow the coral to thrive, bringing more sea life to the area. Showcased by the jaw-dropping views of the Ko'olau Mountains, this sacred bay presents calm waters and an incredible place to soak in the majesty of mother nature.
Things To Do
Take a self-guided stroll through to see all the immaculate grounds have to share with visitors. Observe the extreme variety of plants in the park and enjoy the restored He'eia Fishpond(please note that the fishpond is private). Visitors also can take a 45-minute walking tour with a guide to learn about the history and culture of He'eia throughout time.
Through the park's Kama'aina Kids program and Snorkel Eco-Ventures Program, visitors can sign up for enriching and educational experiences. The waterfront programs aim to educate Oahu's youth in kayaking, sailing, small craft skills, and water safety.
Rent a kayak from He'eia and enjoy an aquatic adventure offshore. You can explore the Kaneohe sandbar and go snorkeling.
He'eia State Park is also a sure bet for special events of all sizes, including parties, meetings, weddings, and more! There are multiple event spaces to choose from, including a banquet hall and more intimate rooms for smaller gatherings. Incredible vistas boast amazing views of the Ko'olau Mountains, serving as the most picturesque backdrop for your celebrations.
Important Information For Your Visit
Located just 15 minutes from Kailua, the address to He'eia State Park is 46-465 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744. The park is open to the public seven days a week, from 7AMuntil sundown (except for federal holidays).
There is also a gift shop, open Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 4 PM. If you have the extra time, consider volunteering for the Kama'aina Kids program to help with a beach clean-up or removal of invasive plants.
For more aloha during your Hawaiian vacation, do more sightseeing along the Kamehameha Highway, visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial in Honolulu, or plan a getaway to the dreamy islands of Kauai or Maui.
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