Moku Ola - Coconunt Island

Lili`uokalani Gardens is a collection of County parks on the Waiākea peninsula, including Moku Ola. The Japanese garden began in 1917 with 17 acres and expanded after several tsunami to slightly more than 20+ acres. Over the years other gardens were added: Moku Ola (also known as Coconut Island) in 1933, Isles, and Rakuen (Happiness Park), and the meadow/Bicentennial Garden bringing the total to 24.67 acres.

Moku Ola is a small island just offshore from the main Gardens. The park includes a large grassy area, small beaches, showers, public restrooms, water fountain, a pavilion (available for rent from the County of Hawaiʻi) and picnic areas.

Moku Ola was a sacred place in ancient Hawaiʻi, being a pu'uhonua or place of refuge. The name Moku Ola translates as "healing island" or "island of life" in the Hawaiian language. According to the Historic Hawaiʻi Foundation, “The island has been used for various purposes, including as a residence for Hawaiian royalty, a fishing and farming area, and a site for spiritual and cultural practices."

During World War II, the USO took over Moku Ola for a recreation area. The first pontoon bridge to the island was built by the military. The stone tower on Moku Ola was utilized by the Navy during World War II to practice getting off the side of ships into the water.

Accessing Moku Ola

Moku Ola is ADA accessible. Enter the parking lot for Moku Ola from Keli`ipio Place, then cross the pedestrian bridge. There is one handicap parking space at Moku Ola parking lot, closest to the water fountain and ramp to the bridge.