📍 Nā'ālehu, Hawaii

SouthPoint / Ka Lae offshore shoreline

Fishing at South Point (Ka Lae), Hawaii

3Species
Surf / shore / pointWater type
NoKid friendly
Nā'ālehuNearby town

Overview

South Point, known as Ka Lae, is the southernmost point of the Big Island of Hawaii and the United States. Located approximately 16 miles south of Nā'ālehu, it is accessible via South Point Road, a 12-mile paved road leading from State Route 11. The area is renowned for its strong ocean currents and winds, making swimming dangerous and not recommended. Historically, South Point has been a significant fishing location, with ancient Hawaiians creating mooring holes in the rock ledges to secure their canoes against the strong currents. Today, the area remains a productive fishing spot, with local fishermen casting their lines from the steep lava ledges to catch species such as ulua (giant trevally), red snapper, and mahi-mahi. The South Point Complex is designated as a National Historic Landmark due to its archaeological significance, including ancient fishing shrines and other cultural sites.

Fish species

Discover what swims here. Tap a species to explore its Species Quest guide.

Swipe to explore 3 species
Giant Trevally

Giant Trevally
Red Snapper

Red Snapper
Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi

Know your water

The waters off South Point are known for their clarity, offering good visibility for ...Water clarityRead full details

The waters off South Point are known for their clarity, offering good visibility for fishing.

The seafloor near South Point (Ka Lae) consists of steep lava ledges and deep waters,...Bottom compositionRead full details

The seafloor near South Point (Ka Lae) consists of steep lava ledges and deep waters, creating challenging fishing conditions.

The area's remoteness and difficult access contribute to lower fishing pressure c...Fishing pressureRead full details

The area's remoteness and difficult access contribute to lower fishing pressure compared to more accessible locations.

Where to fish

Promising areas

Fishing is popular from the steep lava cliffs and ledges at South Point, where anglers cast lines into deep waters.

Habitat & structure

The area features deep waters with strong currents, providing habitats for various fish species.

Getting on the water

Shore fishing is popular at South Point (Ka Lae), especially near the ancient fishing shrine (koʻa) and along the cliffs.

Did you know?

✦ South Point (Ka Lae) is the southernmost point in the United States.

✦ The area is known for its strong ocean currents and winds, making swimming dangerous.

✦ Ancient Hawaiians drilled mooring holes through rock ledges to secure their canoes while fishing.

Location & map

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Best time to fish

Fishing tips & conditions

Access, regulations & planning

Regulations and access can change. Verify current rules before fishing.

Public access & launching
Rules and restrictions

Records & notable catches

FAQs

Is fishing allowed at South Point (Ka Lae)?

Yes, fishing is allowed at South Point (Ka Lae). The area is known for its rich fishing history and remains a productive fishing spot today.

What species can be caught at South Point (Ka Lae)?

Anglers can catch species such as ulua (giant trevally), red snapper, and mahi-mahi at South Point (Ka Lae).

Are there any fishing restrictions at South Point (Ka Lae)?

Fishing is prohibited for certain species, including Hawaiian stingray, broad stingray, pelagic stingray, spotted eagle ray, blacktip reef shark, gray reef shark, whitetip reef shark, tiger shark, whale shark, horned helmet, and Triton's trumpet.

How do I access South Point (Ka Lae)?

South Point is accessible via South Point Road, a 12-mile paved road leading from State Route 11. The road ends near the cliffs of South Point.

Is swimming safe at South Point (Ka Lae)?

Swimming is not recommended at South Point (Ka Lae) due to extremely strong offshore currents and the absence of lifeguards in this remote area.

Are there any fishing tournaments held at South Point (Ka Lae)?

No documented fishing tournaments have been held at South Point (Ka Lae).