5 Top Spots for Shore Fishing in Hawaii

By Debbie Hanson

May 23, 2019

Wondering where to go shore fishing in Hawaii? Check out spots to catch giant trevally, amberjack, other saltwater species while Hawaii shore fishing

While some may initially think of this Pacific Island chain as an offshore fishing destination, there are plenty of parks and piers where you can experience shore fishing in Hawaii too. Check out this list of accessible favorites if you're planning a visit to the islands and want to try a few Hawaii shore fishing spots.

1. Spencer Beach Park, Big Island of Hawaii


One of the top parks on the Big Island. Spencer Beach Park has soft sand, shady palm trees, a picnic pavilion, a campground, and shore fishing spots on the beach -- the perfect place for a family fishing weekend. 

2. Keahou Harbor, Big Island of Hawaii


This is another family friendly Hawaii shore fishing destination. More experienced anglers can fish from the pier with natural baits like sardines or ballyhoo for a chance at an ulua (giant trevally). Beginners can head to the rock wall to catch angelfish, yellow tang, and manini. 

3. Hanalei Pier, Kauai


If you're wondering where to fish from shore on the island of Kauai, Hanalei Pier is a good place to start. This is particularly the case during the summer months when the bigeye scad arrive in the area. Large predatory species such as ulua and amberjack feed upon these baitfish, boosting your chances of a memorable catch. 

4. Black Rock, Maui


When it comes to fishing in Hawaii, Black Rock on the island of Maui is one spot you shouldn't miss. This is a black lava peninsula that is located at the northern end of Kaanapali Beach. In addition to being a popular fishing spot, snorkelers frequent Black Rock with the hopes of catching underwater glimpses of species like mackerel and triggerfish. 

5. Kaena Point State Park, Oahu


This is a relatively remote park that encompasses much of the shoreline along the northwest corner of Oahu. Kaena Point is a spot for those who want to go deepwater shore fishing in Hawaii due to an extreme depth drop. If you want to target an ulua (giant trevally) from shore, it would be hard to find a better spot on the island of Oahu to do it.

If you haven't tried saltwater fishing from the shore in the Hawaiian Islands yet, you may be surprised to learn that no marine recreational license is required. You do, however, need a Hawaii fishing license if you plan to fish any of the freshwater lakes in the Hawaiian Islands.

Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer, women’s sport fishing advocate, IGFA world record holder, and freshwater guide living in Southwest Florida. Hanson’s written work has appeared in publications such as Florida Game & Fish Magazine, BoatUS Magazine, and USA Today Hunt & Fish. To learn more about her work, visit shefishes2.com or follow her on Instagram @shefishes2.