Pros & cons
PROS
- Classic coconut-palm framing for big ocean views
- Often quiet with chances to spot whales and honu
- Trees are hammock-friendly for a mellow break
CONS
- No facilities, food, or water on-site
- Very limited shoulder parking on a narrow, winding road
- Hazardous ocean entry; this is not a swimming spot
Overview
A simple roadside pullout on the Red Road (Route 137) delivers exactly what the name promises: a breezy coconut grove perched above lava-rock shoreline and an endless blue horizon. It’s an undeveloped photo stop and chill-out nook, not a park—think shady palms, pounding surf, and the sound of wind through fronds.
What You’ll See
Expect palm trunks framing cobalt water and white spray where waves hammer the black lava. On calm mornings you might catch spinner dolphins working offshore; year-round, keep an eye out for honu (green sea turtles) along the rocky points. In winter (roughly Nov–Apr), this spot shines for humpback whale watching. After dark you’ll likely hear the chorus of coqui frogs, and a pueo (Hawaiian short‑eared owl) occasionally hunts along the road.
On‑Site Reality
There are no built amenities here—no tables, water, or trash cans. Parking is just shoulder pull‑offs with limited space. Restrooms are only at MacKenzie State Recreation Area and Isaac Hale/Pohoiki along this drive. There are no gas stations or reliable food options on the route, so stock up in Pāhoa before you go.
Getting There & Safety
This is one of several palm-lined turnouts scattered between Kalapana/Kaimū and Isaac Hale along Route 137. The Red Road is narrow, winding, and signed for slow speeds (about 25 mph). Pull completely off the pavement, yield generously, and keep valuables out of sight. Ocean entries here can be treacherous; enjoy the view from land.
Best Time to Visit
- Sunrise: soft light through the palms, calmer seas, and your best shot at spotting dolphins.
- Late afternoon: warm, side‑lit photos and moody surf drama.
- Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends. Night driving isn’t recommended here.
Photography & Vibe Tips
Frame the grove against breaking waves for scale, or shoot low angles through fronds for silhouettes. A lightweight hammock is perfect between widely spaced trunks—just be respectful, leave no trace, and don’t trample vegetation.
Where it is
19.4093, -154.9035Tips for Palm Tree Grove Overlooking the Ocean
- 01Go at sunrise for soft light and a chance at dolphins.
- 02Fill up on gas and snacks in Pāhoa; services are scarce on the route.
- 03Use small pullouts and park fully off the pavement—space is tight.
- 04For facilities, plan stops at MacKenzie State Recreation Area or Isaac Hale.
- 05Pack binoculars in winter (Nov–Apr) for humpback whale spotting.
Amenities
Near Palm Tree Grove Overlooking the Ocean
All places →All trails →
2 mi awayKehena Black Sand BeachSmall black sand cove with dolphins and a Sunday drum circleParking · Scenic Viewpoint
2 mi awayKehena Beach TrailShort, steep scramble to a moody black-sand cove with a free spirit.Moderate · 0.4 mi · 30 min
3.1 mi awayMacKenzie State Park Coastal TrailShort, rugged sea‑cliff ramble on the old King’s Highway.Moderate · 3.5 mi · 2.5 hr
3.1 mi awayOld Puna TrailFlat, muddy walk to secluded Hā‘ena (Shipman) Beach via old roadEasy · 5 mi · 3 hr
3.1 mi awayMacKenzie State Recreation AreaShady cliff-top picnic grove with roaring Pacific viewsTrailhead · Parking
4.7 mi awayStar of the Sea Painted ChurchTiny lava-saved church with hand-painted murals and quiet alohaParking · Restroom
5.1 mi away2018 Pohoiki lava deltaBrand-new 2018 lava coastline reshaping Pohoiki’s wild edge
5.2 mi awayPohoiki Black Sand Beach TrailShort stroll over new lava to a raw, wave-battered black sand shoreEasy · 1.1 mi · 30 min
