Pohoiki Boat Ramp

Overview

Pohoiki Boat Ramp sits within Isaac Hale Beach Park at the far end of the Red Road. The 2018 Kīlauea eruption reshaped this shoreline, building a wide new black-sand beach and trapping the ramp behind a sandbar—so the ramp is still closed. Expect basic facilities, big coastal views, and a raw, evolving landscape rather than a traditional swimming beach.

What You’ll Find

• A growing black-sand beach created by the 2018 lava flow—great for walking and watching surfers, but often with a heavy shore break and strong currents.
• Small warm ponds formed when black sand dammed heated spring water. These are not disinfected; use at your own risk and avoid if you have open wounds. It’s also recommended to skip sunscreen in the tiny ponds to keep the water clean.
• A lifeguard tower overlooks the bay, plus picnic tables and BBQs. Restrooms are portable toilets only, and there’s no running or drinking water—bring everything you need.

Current Status

The boat ramp is closed because black sand filled the bay; dredging has been discussed but isn’t in place for public use. The park operates 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., and the listing is marked temporarily closed.

Safety Notes

The shore break here can be dangerous, with strong currents. If you choose to enter the ocean or the warm ponds, you do so at your own risk. The Department of Health cautions about bacterial risks (like leptospirosis) in the ponds—avoid with open cuts and use common sense.

Getting There

From Pāhoa, follow Highway 130 to its end, then turn left onto Highway 137 (the scenic Kapoho–Kalapana “Red Road”) to reach Pohoiki. GPS can be unreliable along this coast, so stick to the highway signs. Address: 13-101 Kalapana Kapoho Beach Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your stop within park hours (9–6). Early or late in the day tends to be more pleasant for exploring the black sand and taking photos, and it keeps you comfortably within the gate hours.