How to Hike to Shipman Beach: A Complete Guide to Haena Beach Trail
Key Takeaways:
- Shipman Beach, also known as Haena Beach, is located on the Big Island's southeastern shoreline and requires a 2.5-mile scenic hike to access.
- The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September, when weather conditions are more favorable for hiking and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
- The hike features diverse landscapes, including dense jungle, basalt cliffs, and opportunities to see unique wildlife like Hawaiian green sea turtles and monk seals.
- Safety tips for hiking include wearing sturdy footwear, bringing sufficient water and snacks, checking the weather, and respecting wildlife by observing from a distance.
- Shipman Beach is a secluded paradise with beautiful black and white sand, but caution is advised due to potential rogue waves and sharp lava rocks.
Table of Contents:
Okay, you caught me...by “research,” I definitely mean time spent lounging on this epic beach. But hey, you’re basically talking to an expert. That’s gotta count for something, right?
Also known as Haena Beach, Shipman Beach is tucked along the Big Island’s southeastern shoreline and shouldn’t be confused with the beach of the same name on Kauai.
So, what makes it special? The hike to the beach has everything you could want in a Hawaiian adventure, from jungle vines and ocean views to wildlife and hidden surprises.
Shipman Beach, Photo by Thomas Tunsch, CC BY SA 3.0, via Flickr
Something that spectacular must be difficult to get to, right? It's actually not too bad! In fact, it's just a 2.5-mile hike down an easy, scenic trail.
The best part of the trek? At the end of the hike, you're rewarded with a beautiful secluded beach that never has a crowd.
Between the sea turtles, giant banyan trees, and blue waters, you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a fairy tale in Shipman Beach.
When is the Best Time To Visit Shipman Beach?
Image from Flickr by Pedro Szekely
The best time to visit Shipman Beach (Haena Beach) is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more predictable, the trail conditions are drier, and wildlife sightings, such as green sea turtles, are more frequent.
During these months, hikers can expect sunnier skies and reduced chances of rain, making the 2.5-mile trek along the Puna Trail more enjoyable and less muddy.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for hiking to avoid the midday heat, and visitors may find the beach less crowded during weekdays, offering a more secluded experience.
However, even in the dry season, brief rain showers are common in this part of the Big Island, so it's wise to check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Wet Season
If visiting during the wetter months (October to April), be prepared for slick, muddy trails, and consider using trekking poles for stability.
Regardless of the season, always bring plenty of water, and sun protection, and respect the natural habitat, especially when observing wildlife like sea turtles resting on the shore.
Step-by-Step Directions to the Trailhead
Finding the hike to Shipman Beach shouldn’t be much of a struggle. You could just follow the voice in the back of your mind telling you to forget your responsibilities and go find an adventure. That alone should plant you right around the trailhead.
But, if you’re internal BPS (Beach Positioning System) is on the fritz, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step directions below.
Getting To Shipman Beach Trailhead
If you're looking for a hike on Google Maps (we know you are), search for Beach Road parking on Beach Road in Hawaiian Paradise Park, Keaau.
Searching Maps for the trailhead or beach won’t get you to either. This official Hawaii.gov map will also get you to the right location. Search “Puna Trail” in the box on the top left.
Alternative Route
Out of Keaau, head south on HI-130 (Keaau-Pahoa Road). As you drive along Hawaiian Paradise Park, look for Kaloli Drive and take a left on it.
Follow it all the way to the end, then take a left onto Beach Road. At the end of Beach Road, you'll see a gravel parking lot and marked trailhead.
Pretty easy so far, huh?
What to Expect on the Shipman Beach Hike
There’s a lot to explore, discover, and learn on this fully stocked adventure in Shipman Beach. Here's everything you need to know.
Hike
The hike shouldn’t give anyone too much trouble. If it's been rainy, you’ll want to bring shoes you don’t mind getting muddy.
But overall, the hike is relatively short with an elevation change of fewer than 25 feet.
Plant lover? Well, guess, what... the first half of the hike will take you through some dense jungle, with plenty of opportunity to spot some exotic fauna.
Plus, the trail is wide and well-maintained!
Along this first half, there are some huge banyan trees you won’t be able to miss. You’ll probably also see a few Ohias at this point on the hike and many more a bit further down.
You can learn about the beliefs, traditions, and legends that surround the Ohia plant here.
They're currently suffering from an island-wide disease so check out this guide for advice on helping save them while you explore your hike to Shipman Beach!
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman
On this portion of the hike, you may also want to be on the lookout for wild hogs. These feral, invasive sons of guns will usually run away from people, but be careful, they can become aggressive.
Get ready for a view! About halfway through the trail, it’ll start to run along a basalt cliff shore.
If it's your first time, we’d recommend taking the trail that continues at varying distances from shore, rather than the shoreline.
However, if you're looking for some variety, you can hike along the shore all the way to Shipman Beach -- you can’t miss it.
That being said, I don’t recommend taking it back...Full disclosure: It can be difficult to reconnect with the trail and some hikers could get lost.
Shipman Beach
Depending on the conditions, you may need to get muddy for the final hundred feet or so of the hike.
The good news is, at this point, the beach should already be in view! And... what a sight to see -- Shipman Beach is beautiful.
Black and white sand form a swirly mix across the shore, which is divided in half by a stream that feeds into the ocean.
Basalt cliffs border the beach on either side, and the historic Shipman Estate sits behind it.
The cliff and pools closest to the hike are a beautiful place to explore; however, the other side of the beach can be quite dangerous.
Rogue waves combined with sharp lava rock have injured multiple people over the years.
Ten to fifteen yards out into the ocean, you might be able to find a few sinkholes, which are a fun distraction.
Be careful, you may find them without looking! But don’t worry, they are only a foot or two deep at the most.
Don’t forget your goggles because there are lots of fish and other forms of sea life to see in Shipman Beach!
Wildlife and Scenic Views Along the Trail
Photo by Jeremy Bishop
As you pass from the trail onto the beach, you’ll probably notice signage for the (Hawaiian goose) refuge.
Shipman Beach and surrounding Shipman Estate make up the oldest breeding reservation in the world.
Read the informational panels and signs for notices, restrictions, and tips on how to keep these birds safe.
You should also check out all the lava rock surrounding the beach -- the safe parts, anyway!
There's almost always an abundance of sea turtles, which can sometimes be found on the beach or swimming around close to shore as well.
If you're really, really lucky...
You may even get to see a Hawaiian monk seal. These big, lovable guys and gals are always welcome company on the islands.
Remember to keep your distance from each of these animals since they're endangered and protected.
Monk seals, in particular, are teetering on existence and should be given an extra-wide berth.
Please try not to make disturbing noises or gestures within earshot of the seals, as well.
These creatures aren’t found anywhere else in the world outside of the Hawaiian Islands and need to feel comfortable in all of their very limited habitat.
Officials will make you pay a hefty fine of up to $50,000 if you are caught disturbing the monk seals.
Rangers, police, and local residents all take seal protection very seriously, but as long as you are highly respectful, you shouldn’t have an issue.
Important Safety Tips for Hiking to Shipman Beach
Hiking to Shipman Beach (Haena Beach) is a rewarding experience, but preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. The 2.5-mile trail can be challenging due to uneven terrain, muddy patches, and sudden weather changes.
- Check the Weather: The Puna District is prone to sudden rain showers, even in the dry season (May–September). Always check the forecast before heading out and avoid the trail during heavy rain, as it can become slippery and hazardous.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip are essential. The trail includes lava rocks, tree roots, and muddy areas, making flip-flops or casual shoes unsafe.
- Bring Water and Snacks: There are no facilities along the trail or at the beach, so pack at least 2 liters of water per person and light snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Protect Against Sun and Insects: While parts of the trail are shaded, sections are exposed to the sun. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes in marshy areas.
- Respect Wildlife: Shipman Beach is a resting spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles. Enjoy observing them from a distance, but don’t approach or disturb the animals.
By taking these precautions, you’ll ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure to one of the Big Island’s most beautiful hidden beaches.
Explore Shipman Beach with Shaka Guide
Plan your visit to Shipman Beach with Shaka Guide! Explore the cool sand and clear blue water on the Big Island. Our tour is easy to follow and full of fun stories about the beach. Don’t wait—download the tour today and start your adventure!
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We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
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