Known for its strong currents and large waves, the bay was part of a fishing village for centuries.

[1] The park used to be known for good snorkeling, though the 2018 lower Puna eruption covered most of the coral and safer swimming area with black sand.

Lava flows from the 2018 lower Puna eruption covered part of the park's shoreline.

Lava managed to cover a few picnic benches and a small playground in the northern area of the beach park.

[4] Since the eruption, discussions abound regarding restoring boat access to fishing and tourism operations that used the ramp prior.