A. Demography

• Population size: 120,317
• Population density (no./sq. km): 11.5
• Population growth (1980-1990): +31%
• Percent urban population: 8%

B. Geography

• Island area (sq. km): 10,433
• Shoreline length (km): 428

C. Coral reefs

• Estimated percent reef: 50%
• Reef area (sq. km): 252
• Reef types: fringing, non-structured communities
• Protected areas:
  • Marine life conservation districts: Kealakekua Bay, Lapkahi State Historic Park, Old Kona Airport, Wailea Bay
  • Fisheries management areas: Hilo Bay, Puako Bay & Reef, Kailua Bay
  • Total area (ha): 288
  • Percent of protected reef area: 1.1%

Information sources:

1. State of Hawai'i Data Book
2. State of Hawai'i Data Book
3. Hunter, 1995; UNEP/IUCN, 1988

Further reading:

1. Clark, J. R. K. 1985. Beaches of the Big Island. Univ. of Hawaii Press. 169 pp.
2. Click here for more information about Marine Life Conservations Districts