Know the Rules/Fishing Regulations/Marine Managed Areas/Hawai‘i Marine Life Conservation Districts/Old Kona Airport

Hawai‘i - Old Kona Airport Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD)

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  • Hawai‘i Island — HAR 13‑37
  • 217 acres | Established 1992

The Old Kona Airport MLCD protects a broad stretch of coastal waters along the western coastline of Hawai‘i Island, just north of Kailua‑Kona town. Access is simple: from the intersection of Palani Road and Kuakini Highway, head west past the old industrial area. Ample parking is available along the length of the former runway, directly fronting the shoreline.

MLCD Boundaries

The district includes the nearshore waters fronting Old Kona Airport State Park and adjacent private lands. Its boundaries are defined by:

  • A line 500 yards seaward from the west end of the park
  • A line 500 yards seaward from the Kailua lighthous
  • A designated No Boating Zone in waters directly off the park

A single day‑use mooring is located offshore of the prominent “Shark Rock” near the MLCD’s northwestern boundary, in about 40 feet of water.

Marine Environment & Entry Points

Water Entry

There are several shoreline features that provide ocean access:

  • Small inlets and sandy channels along the park frontage (best in calm conditions)
  • A surf break over the reef shelf east of Shark Rock
  • A large sandy tidepool between the park’s eastern end and Kuka‘ilimoku Point, popular for small children
  • A partially protected cove at the northwestern end—the preferred entry for snorkelers and shore divers
  • A semiprotected basin at the southeastern end of the strip, suitable for divers during calm to moderate conditions

Underwater Features

The reef fronting the park is characterized by:

  • Numerous shallow lava fingers extending offshore
  • Depths of up to 50 feet before dropping sharply into deeper ocean
  • Substantial coral cover with diverse reef fish communities
  • Frequent sightings of turtles and rays
  • Excellent snorkeling within 50 yards of shore

This combination of shallow structure and access points makes Old Kona Airport a favorite for confident snorkelers and experienced divers.

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Safety Considerations

  • Exercise caution during entry—sharp coral and lava rock line most of the shoreline.
  • Dangerous swells and currents may occur during both summer and winter storms.
  • No lifeguards are currently on duty, though staffing is planned for the future.

Facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Showers
  • Emergency and pay phones

Regulations

Permitted Activities

  • Akule may be taken by handline at night; ‘ōpelu may be taken by lift or ‘ōpelu net with bait or chum for home or commercial use.
  • Finfish may be taken from shore for home consumption by throw net or pole‑and‑line (without reel) with bait.
  • Collection of wana, wana halula, and hā‘uke‘uke is allowed with hand tools (no SCUBA) from June 1–October 1.
  • Use of the state mooring is allowed for up to 3 hours per boat per day, non‑commercial only, first come, first served.
  • Commercial dive/tour operations allowed with a DLNR permit, both from shore and at the mooring.

Prohibited Activities

  • Taking, harming, or possessing any marine life, including live shells, ‘opihi, live coral, algae, limu, or marine eggs, except as allowed above.
  • Removing or altering sand, coral, rock, shells, or other geological features, or possessing gear intended for such use.
  • Fish feeding or introducing substances to attract marine organisms.
  • Anchoring any watercraft within the MLCD.
  • Operating motorized watercraft within the No Boating Zone, except for emergency or enforcement operations.
  • Conducting commercial dive/tour activities without a valid permit.