For safety information: https://www.adventuretourshi.com/blog/cliff-jumping-at-south-point-a-thrilling-and-safe-guide. *** UPDATE: There is no ladder to climb up, you'll have to climb the rocks on the right side of the platform (if you're facing the ocean) to get back up. Watch for sea urchins!

The South Point Cliff Jump on the Big Island of Hawaii is a thrilling experience that shouldn't be missed, but it's important to be prepared. Located at the southernmost point of the United States, the cliff jump is around 40 feet high and offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Safety is key, so make sure to check the wind and waves before taking the plunge. Remember, swimming skills are a must, and climbing back up the ladder after the jump is no joke. While you can't swim at South Point itself, nearby attractions like Green Sand Beach and Taco Tita offer great ways to round out your day trip. Just be sure to pack for all types of weather on this diverse island!

TRAVEL TIPS:

• Weather: South Point is dry, windy, and sunny most of the year. Mornings usually bring calmer winds, while afternoons can be gusty. It’s best to visit earlier in the day for smoother conditions.

• Pack a Day Bag: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, snacks or a packed lunch, swimsuit, towel, and a windbreaker. A camera or GoPro is great if you're planning to jump.

• What to Wear: Wear sturdy shoes for walking across uneven lava rock and grassy areas. Bring your swimsuit if you plan to cliff dive or swim, and water shoes are helpful for climbing the ladder out of the water.

• What to Bring: Bring everything you’ll need—there are no services, food, or shops nearby. If you plan to jump, check ocean conditions first and bring someone with you for safety.

• Phone Service: Cell reception is limited to fair, depending on your provider. Download maps ahead of time and share your plans before heading out.

• Bathrooms: There are no restrooms at the cliff area. The nearest public bathrooms are in Nā‘ālehu or near Green Sand Beach.

• Parking: Free parking is available along the road near the cliffs. Be cautious—avoid getting too close to cliff edges or parking in soft sand or grass.

• Check-In Booth: None. This is an unsupervised, self-guided site. Cliff jumping is done at your own risk—there are no lifeguards or safety personnel on site.

• Photography: The dramatic cliffs, clear blue water, and panoramic ocean views make for stunning photos. Sunsets here can be particularly breathtaking.

• Accessible for Disability: The area is rugged and uneven, with no developed trails, ramps, or facilities. It is not suitable for those with mobility challenges.

South Point Cliff Dive – History and Cultural Significance

1. Ka Lae – “The Point”

Ka Lae (which means “the point” in Hawaiian) is the southernmost point in Hawaiʻi and the U.S., and one of the most significant sites in Polynesian history. It’s widely believed to be one of the earliest landing sites of Polynesian voyagers, who navigated here using the stars, ocean swells, and bird flight paths.

This area is part of the ancient Kaʻū District, known for its rugged independence, rich oral traditions, and deep spiritual roots. Archeological features like mooring holes carved into the cliffside, fishing shrines, and heiau (temples) can still be seen near the cliffs.

2. Cultural Ties to the Ocean

For centuries, Hawaiians fished from these cliffs using clever systems of anchored canoes and lines, often dropping baited hooks into the deep waters where nutrient-rich currents bring abundant marine life. The steep cliffs and powerful winds made South Point both a valuable fishing site and a place of awe and respect.

The sea here is known as Moana ‘O Kaʻale, and it’s treated with reverence—the sharp drop-off and fast-moving currents are powerful and potentially dangerous.

3. The Modern Cliff Jumping Tradition

In recent years, cliff diving at South Point has become a popular adventure activity. The cliffs range from 30–40 feet high, with a deep, clear ocean below that’s relatively safe for experienced swimmers—if conditions are calm.

There’s even a makeshift ladder bolted into the cliff for easy exit. Locals and adventurous visitors jump into the turquoise-blue waters for an adrenaline rush, often after checking the tides and wind carefully.

However, it's important to remember:

• There are no lifeguards

• Conditions can change rapidly

• Cliff diving is done at your own risk

4. Ka Lae Today

Ka Lae is a place where ancient navigation, natural power, and thrill-seeking adventure meet. Whether you jump or simply watch, visiting South Point is an opportunity to stand in one of the most historic and wind-swept places in all of Hawai‘i—a meeting point between bold beginnings and wild ocean.