Ka'a'awa Beach Park - named after a yellow wrasse fish found in Hawaiian waters - holds both historical and cultural significance to local fishing practices. Situated between Kamehameha Highway and the ocean, this two-acre piece of land serves as a link between land and sea.
Ka'a'awa Beach Park features and cultural aspects include:
Meaning of Ka'a'awa: Ka'a'awa in Hawaiian means the yellow wrasse fish. This name honors its historical association between local communities and an abundance of 'A'awa fish in this area.
Tradition Fishing Practices: Fishermen would frequently gather at Ka'a'awa Beach Park with poles and spears in hand to catch A'awa fish, underlining its cultural and communal importance.
Location and Size: The Beach Park occupies two acres of land, providing a relatively small but significant space for community gatherings, cultural activities and enjoying coastal living.
Land-Ocean Connection: Ka'a'awa Beach Park is situated between Kamehameha Highway and the ocean, creating a direct link between these elements that emphasize their value in local culture and lifestyle. This strategic positioning brings Ka'a'awa Beach Park into close contact with both land and water elements essential to its culture and lifestyle.
Narrow Sand Beach: The park boasts a narrow sand beach that faces the ocean, providing beachgoers a space to take in its shoreline and admire its beauty. This narrow beach contributes to creating an intimate and cozy feeling throughout the park.
Shallow Offshore Reef: Offshore there exists an interesting natural feature - a shallow reef - which brings beauty and diversity to coastal environments. Furthermore, it may contribute to marine biodiversity within an area.
Ka'a'awa Beach Park serves as both cultural and recreational space for local communities, providing fishing, beach activities, or hosting social gatherings in its unique setting. With historical ties to traditional Hawaiian fishing practices and its prime position between highway and ocean, this space represents both Hawaiian heritage and the natural beauty of coastal landscape.
Location: Kaalawai Beach, Diamond Head, Oahu
Parking: Limited street parking available
Access: Easily accessible from Diamond Head Road
Dangers: Caution during changing weather conditions
Amenities: Limited amenities, primarily a residential beach
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing
Scenic Qualities: Sandy beach, Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head Crater
Wildlife and Natural Features: Coastal vegetation, occasional marine life
Seasonal Information: Enjoyable year-round
Family Friendliness: Suitable for families
Nearby Attractions: Diamond Head State Monument, Waikiki Beach, Kapiolani Park