The Best Sunrise on the Big Island of Hawaii : Laupahoehoe

While many visitors to the Big Island chase the sunset on the Kona coast or ascend volcanoes for a view above the clouds, one of the island's most profound and dramatic morning spectacles unfolds on the rugged Hāmākua coastline. Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park, a scenic peninsula carved from ancient lava flows, offers a sunrise experience that is not just beautiful, but deeply moving. Here, the dawn breaks not over calm, sandy shores, but against a backdrop of raw oceanic power, jagged black rock, and a history that lends a powerful weight to the morning's first light.

This is a sunrise for the thoughtful traveler, the photographer, and anyone seeking to connect with the untamed spirit of the island. It’s a place where the violent beauty of the coast meets a story of tragedy and resilience, making the daily ritual of the rising sun feel like an act of renewal.

A Theater of Light and Water

What makes a Laupāhoehoe sunrise so spectacular is its dramatic composition. As the first light appears on the horizon, it illuminates a scene of breathtaking contrasts.

Jagged Silhouettes

Fingers of black lava rock and jutting sea stacks stand in stark silhouette against a sky that shifts from deep purple to fiery orange and pink.

Crashing Surf

The park is known for its powerful waves that crash against the rocky shoreline, sending plumes of white spray into the air. The sound and sight of this raw energy are a core part of the experience.

Reflective Tide Pools

At low tide, small pools left behind on the lava shelves capture the colors of the rising sun, creating perfect, mirror-like reflections for photographers.

Lush Greenery

The deep green of the sprawling lawn and the silhouettes of swaying coconut palms provide a vibrant contrast to the dark lava and the blue of the ocean, completing a picture of wild, coastal beauty.

This is not a quiet, gentle awakening. It is a powerful, multi-sensory experience where the roar of the surf accompanies a spectacular display of color, reminding you of the immense natural forces that shape this island.

A Place of Remembrance and Resilience

The stunning beauty of Laupāhoehoe Point is forever intertwined with a tragic past. On April 1, 1946, a devastating tsunami generated by an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands struck the peninsula, which was then home to a small fishing village and a school. With no warning system in place, the massive waves swept through the community, claiming the lives of 24 people, including 16 schoolchildren and five teachers.

Today, a poignant stone monument stands in the park, inscribed with the names of those who were lost. To watch the sunrise from this spot is to participate in a quiet act of remembrance. The daily return of light over a place marked by such a profound loss offers a moment for reflection on the resilience of the community and the enduring power of nature. It transforms a beautiful view into a deeply meaningful experience.

Visitor's Guide: Planning Your Sunrise Visit

Location

In order to holoholo (travel) to Laupāhoehoe you will want to rent a car. The best place to grab a convertible, 15 passenger van, or luxury vehicle to explore Big Island Hawaii. Is from us Mauka Hualalai Rentals

Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park is located on the Hāmākua Coast. From Highway 19, turn towards the ocean between mile markers 27 and 28 and follow the winding, scenic road for just over a mile down to the park at sea level. The drive itself, through lush jungle and past old plantation houses, is part of the adventure.

Amenities

The park is well-maintained with restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and pavilions, making it a comfortable spot to linger after the sun is up. There is also a boat ramp and ample parking.

Safety First

It is crucial to understand that Laupāhoehoe is not a swimming beach. The surf is rough, the currents are strong, and the shoreline is made of sharp lava rock. There are no lifeguards on duty. This is a place for sightseeing, photography, and quiet contemplation from the safety of the shore.

Beyond the Sunrise

After watching the sunrise, take a walk around the peaceful park and visit the tsunami memorial. The park is also a popular spot for local fishermen. For those looking to continue their journey, the historic Laupāhoehoe Train Museum is located nearby, offering a glimpse into the sugar plantation era.

In Conclusion

To truly experience the magic of the Big Island, you need the freedom to chase the dawn. Having your own vehicle allows you to wake before the world and make the beautiful drive to a place like Laupāhoehoe, where the first light of day promises not just a spectacular view, but a moment of connection you will never forget.