Safe Beach Day
Safe Beach Day
Spencer Beach Park
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Spencer Beach Park

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On the shoreline immediately below Puʻukohola Heiau, a famous temple built by Kamehameha I, is Spencer Beach Park. The park was named in honor of Samuel Mahuka Spencer, who served as the Big Island's county chairman, the equivalent of the present position of mayor, for twenty years from 1924 to 1944. Born in Waimea in 1875, Spencer was named after Samuel Mahuka, an uncle who raised him. After graduating from the The Kamehameha Schools for Boys in 1893, he held a number of government positions until his election as county chairman in 1924. Spencer died in Honokaʻa Hospital on February 28, 1960.

Spencer Beach Park centers on ʻOhaiʻula Beach, a large flat pocket of white sand with a very gentle underwater slope. A long shallow reef directly offshore and the extensive harbor landfill to the north provide good protection from the prevailing winds and offshore waves. Swimming, snorkeling, and skin diving opportunities are excellent. Hazardous conditions ordinarily occur only during severe storms. The protected beach and the facilities provided at the park have made it a very popular site, especially for families with little children. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, showers, tennis courts, a roofed pavilion, parking lots, a camping area, and a lifeguard tower. In the park are open grassy lawns, many large shade trees, and large population of birds, mostly mynahs and sparrows.

amenities

BBQ Grills

BBQ Grills

Metered Parking

Metered Parking

Picnic

Picnic

Restrooms

Restrooms

Showers

Showers

activities

Fishing

Fishing

Snorkeling

Snorkeling

Swimming

Swimming

Camping

Camping

prohibitions

No Alcohol

No Alcohol

No Amplified Music

No Amplified Music

No Dogs

No Dogs

No Fire Pits

No Fire Pits

No Smoking

No Smoking

hazards

Jellyfish

Jellyfish

Sharp Coral

Sharp Coral

Strong Currents

Strong Currents

Swim at your Own Risk

Beaches and oceans are dynamic natural environments.  Crowd conditions, currents, waves, wild animals, and other water and beach conditions can rapidly change. The risks and conditions shown on this site are informational only and not always real-time.  Actual conditions may differ.  Lifeguards are not always on duty or available.  Always remain aware of your surroundings and exercise due care for your own safety and the safety of others around you. 

Always check for water warnings or check with a lifeguard before you swim.