Laʻaloa Park in Kailua-Kona recently reopened following an improvement project which included reducing the size of the original parking lot, creating a new exit driveway, and realigning rock walls to establish a protective buffer around the heiau. C

Cinder walking paths, interpretive signs, and native plants were incorporated into the park to protect the cultural sites through understanding and awareness.

Located next to Magic Sands Beach Park, Laʻaloa Park is a culturally sensitive site that includes Haukālua Heiau and other culturally significant features. The area makai of the new parking lot is an archaeological preservation area protected by state law. Damages there are punishable under HRS §6E-11. The public is advised to always stay within the provided pathways and to never move rocks, take rocks, or otherwise damage features in this area.

In a press release Mayor Roth said, “We appreciate the close collaboration with the State Historic Preservation Division and other key stakeholders on this important effort to protect cultural resources and reopen Laʻaloa Park. Together with the recently completed accessibility improvement project at the adjacent Magic Sands Beach Park, these projects represent over $2.8 million in upgrades to our public parks in Kona. More importantly, they are a commitment to providing greater access to our public facilities and enhancing awareness and protection of critical cultural resources.”

Park hours are 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.