Kolekole Gulch Park set to reopen after upgrades to infrastructure

Kolekole Gulch Park will reopen on April 24 following the $6.3 million in upgrades to the park and its facilities.

Located within a steep gulch between the Old Māmalahoa Highway and Kolekole Stream, just mauka of the Kolekole Bridge in Kuhua (immediately north of Honomū), the 5.5-acre park has been an important community asset since at least the early 1930s, supporting swimming, picnicking, camping, gatherings and other recreational uses.

The primary aim of the project was to provide a fully accessible park in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act while also making significant upgrades to aging park infrastructure.

Major improvements include construction of a new comfort station; a new pavilion; potable water infrastructure; fire protection water system; refurbished pavilions; and new walkways, ramps, picnic tables, lighted parking areas and landscaping.

“Kolekole Gulch Park is an important point of access on the Hāmākua Coast for fishing, swimming, surfing, and overall enjoyment of the stream and ocean, activities that are vital to our culture and the well-being of local residents,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “By enhancing accessibility for all and introducing upgraded amenities, we are securing its place as a cherished community space for generations to come.”

The Department of Parks and Recreation will host a public reopening event at park on April 24 at 10 a.m.

“Kolekole Gulch Park looks and feels entirely brand new,” said Maurice Messina, Director of Parks and Recreation. “We are excited to return this valuable resource to our community, enhanced in so many ways to allow greater access and enjoyment by all.”

The Kolekole Gulch Park project is one of several Department of Parks and Recreation construction projects underway or recently completed that enhance accessibility and ensure parks meet ADA requirements.

The park’s pavilions will be available to rent beginning April 25 by calling the Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 808-961-8311. Camping will continue to be suspended pending an upcoming State Department of Transportation project.

Kolekole Gulch Park hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The gate to the park will be locked nightly.