Hawaiʻi County Preserves Kawainui Makai Property on Hilo-Hāmākua Coast Acquired Through PONC Program

Hawaiʻi County Preserves Kawainui Makai
Property on Hilo-Hāmākua Coast Acquired Through PONC Program

An 81-acre site on the Hilo-Hāmākua coast will be preserved in perpetuity following its purchase by the County of Hawaiʻi.

The $6.2 million acquisition occurred through the County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission (PONC) program. Known as Kawainui Makai, the property features a pebble beach and well-preserved estuary, offering a unique point for recreational, cultural, and fishing access along the coast.

“This purchase wouldn’t be possible without the advocacy of community members who recognized its ecological and cultural importance,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “Because of their efforts, and the support of the previous owner, we are able to keep this special place in public hands forever.”

The site is located in the ahupuaʻa of Kawainui and Onomea and is the first PONC purchase to occur in the North-South Hilo area. Prior to its purchase by the County, the property had been listed for sale, putting it at risk of being developed.

Following the acquisition, the County is exploring stewardship opportunities with partners, such as the Makahanaloa Fishing Association, to ensure management is led by the community.

“Makahanaloa Fishing Association’s mission is to protect our community’s right to maintain the generational bonds to our precious shoreline areas,” said association President Blake McNaughton. “Thanks to the County of Hawaiʻi, as well as the many folks who helped to advocate for this purchase, we now have that opportunity in perpetuity. We are excited to lift up this kuleana for stewardship of Kawainui. We’ll be working to plan for the future of this ʻāina and look forward to engaging with the community of North Hilo around the restoration of this space.”

Funding for PONC is supported by an annual 2% contribution from the County’s property tax revenues. For more information on Kawainui Makai, view the 2024 PONC Annual Report.

Under PONC, 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.

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