Hawaiʻi County acquires property in North Kona to preserve public shoreline access

Hawaiʻi County has purchased a shoreline property near the popular “Banyans” surfing spot to preserve ocean access and recreation.

The 15,372-square-foot site known as Keakealaniwahine is one of the few non-developed coastal properties in the area along Aliʻi Drive, the county said in a news release.

The property was previously slated for development of a 5-story condominium.  

“In an area that already has seen plenty of shoreline development, this purchase really makes a difference,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said. “This site preserves critical ocean access, and I was pleased to join lineal descendants in blessing this special place.”

The $2.1 million purchase was funded through the County’s  Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission program. To learn more about Keakealaniwahine, view the 2020 PONC Report.  

It was the program’s No. 9 priority. Anticipated uses include public coastal recreation, subsistence fishing and shoreline gathering. But no vehicle access or parking is available.

Funding for this program is supported by an annual 2% contribution from the County’s property tax revenues.

Under the program, the County may acquire properties to preserve historically or culturally important sites, protect natural resources, and provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains.  

Properties are nominated each year by the public, reviewed and ranked by the commission, and recommended by the mayor. Purchases require a willing seller and authorization by the County Council.