Pronounce it HAH-lay. The park on the shores of Pohoiki is named for the beloved son of its sands, Isaac Kepoʻ okani Hale. The little old house there sheltered generations of his family. The home remains a private residence. Please respect the privacy of the family and stay off of their property.
To learn a bit about Pohoiki, read this excellent article by Marcia Timboy.
Isaac Hale Beach Park is named in honor of Private Isaac Kepookani Hale (20 Sept 1928 – 12 July 1951). During the Korean War Hale served in the United States Army’s 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. He was a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his meritorious service, and of the Purple Heart. He was killed in action north of the 38th parallel on July 12, 1951.
A record of him may be found in the Korean War Project using Key No: 11837.
Hale is a Hawaiian surname and is pronounced HAH-leh. According to a family member, the name Hale originally was longer but, like many Hawaiian names, was truncated.
Pohoiki Bay was long a favored surfing and fishing location known for its strong currents, large waves, and boat ramp.
Until the 2018 lower Puna eruption it was a popular snorkeling site. The park had been expanded and modernized in 2006. Lava from the eruption covered much of the coral and safe ocean access. The flow never completely covered the park, and left the lava front a few hundred feet away from the boat ramp. The boat launch is now partially buried under a new black sand beach that extends along Pohoiki Bay and impounds a geothermal pool accessible from the park.
The park is located at the intersection of Pohoiki road and the Kapoho-Kalapana road (Hawaii state route 137).
For information on camping, visit the County of Hawaiʻ i Parks and Recreation website.
Are you interested in learning more about Hawaiian culture and arts? You just might enjoy the following Patreon pages:
Kaʻ ahele Hawaiʻ i – The support page for this site. Subscribe and get to see posts early and join talk-story sessions with Kumu Leilehua.
Kilo Hōkū – Learn some Hawaiian perspectives on the Hawaiian sky, stars, Moon, planets, and various phenomena with Kumu Leilehua Yuen.