South Point Park, or South Point Complex as it is sometimes called, marks the southern-most point in the United States. This area is located south of Hilo and Kona on the Big Island. It is believed to be where the first Hawaiians landed when migrating here. This is a beautiful spot along the coast, and it is fun to say you have visited the southern most point of the United States.
You can drive almost all the way to South Point. Many people drive and look south, though technically, there is a short walk to get to the sea. South Point Complex is actually a National Historical Landmark, but there are no signs or information.
South Point Park Hawaii is also home to the popular hike to Papakolea Beach, one of only 4 green sand beaches in the world. The trail runs about six miles and is flat. The trail is also exposed to the sun and wind the entire time, so be prepared. We didn’t have time for this trail, but is definitely on our list to do next time.
Quite a few people visit South Point, though there isn’t a Visitor Center or really any sort of civilized marking. The road ends, and people pull off to the side. Then you can walk over to the cliffs that stand about thirty feet above the turquoise blue water. The ocean is beautiful in this area. We could actually see bright yellow tangs swimming in the crystal-clear water below. Keep ahold of kids’ hands, though, because there is no rail, and it is a very far drop to the ocean below. There were a few people fishing off the cliff, and we watched as they pulled in small silver fish. We even explored a large blow hole where you can see the ocean crashing below.
We walked along the road to the southeast. There is a road that drives out there, but you would need a very stout vehicle with a lot of clearance to make the drive. This is the southern point of Hawaii, though there is nothing saying so other than the compass on your phone. Still, there are pretty tide pools, and the waves crash spectacularly against the volcanic rock. It’s a great spot for photos and we saw several locals in long flowing dresses taking advantage of the wind to shoot glamour photos.
Though South Point isn’t a destination we’d prioritize, since we were going around the south end of the island, it was worth the short detour to say we’d been there. If you’ve been through this area and find yourself with extra time, it is definitely worth a stop. Make sure to visit the Punalu’u Bake Shop. It is the southernmost bakery and makes the best malasadas.
