We are a Working Ranch

What if I already have an account?   If you have an account as of July 2026, you will have received an email with instructions how to upgrade to the new Web Portal or App.  If you are in doubt just try signing in with your email.  In place of the password, chose to "Reset Password" and see of you get a reset email.  Or just email us at operations@kapapalaranch.com

Do I have to have an account before I use the iPhone App?  Yes.  Please create an account first,  then download and use the iPhone app.  It is the best way to use your account.

What if I lose my Access ID? Yay!  The 5 digit Access ID numbers of the last 3 years no longer need to be remembered!  Instead you will sign in to a App or Web Portal.  If you forget your password there is a reset link.

Do I have to register every time I want to go?  You will create an account once.  Then, using your email and password to sign in you will request gate codes.

What happens after I put in for a new account?  We will review it for completeness, and you will receive an email.  It could be fast or it could be up to 2 days depending on where our ranch work takes us.

If you already submitted your ID allow at least 48 hours for the ID to be reviewed and your account verified.  This part takes a human.  

What if several days go by and I hear nothing?  Email us at operations@kapapalaranch.com.  The most common error is an email address that is incorrect so we canʻt get in touch with you.

Do I need an email? Yes, an email is needed for the initial registration and to use as your login.

Can I use my old 4 digit PIN?  No.  Those were discontinued in July 2023.  Please reregister.

Can a family member use my Access ID? No. Your access ID is unique to the user. If a family member is going without you have them get their own account.  However, multiple people can access WITH the registered user.

Does everyone who goes onto the Ranch need to register?  No.  Just one user in each party traveling together needs to request a gate code.  All users entering the Ranch need to sign onto the gate log.

How long is my Account good for?  You will be asked to update your information when your ID expires.   Otherwise we have sent out renewals at 2 years.  (This may change with our July 2026 system)

How do I get a Gate lock code when I want to go?  You must already have an account, then sign into your account and look for the menu item that says Request Access.  You MUST make the request no later than the 10PM the day before. There are instructions at the bottom of the ACCESS APP INFORMATION web page.

Is there a way to get the gate code other than by text message?  Yes.

-iPhone users can revel the gate code in the iPhone App  during gate hours.

-International users (our text system does not work with out of country phone numbers) can use the iPhone App or request the code be emailed.

Can I drive to the gate and fill out the form to get the code?    No. You must plan ahead. Requests need to be in by 10PM the day before you are planning to go. Once the codes are sent for the day, there are no more requests for that day. 

How far ahead can I request access?  90 days.

What is the cut off time for getting the code the next morning?  10PM the evening prior.

Can I request more than one gate?  Only one gate code per day.  If you request the wrong gate in error, cancel the request and re-enter.  It all must be done by 10PM. None of the roads connect so you must exit the way you entered.

I registered to get a gate code.  How do I know my request went through.  In your Portal look at My Access Requests.  This will give you all current, future and past requests. 

Iʻm not getting the text gate code in the morning. Could be a couple of things.  

-Make sure you are in an area with text service

-Make sure your phone can receive SMS (text) messages.  This is rarely a problem but sometimes iPhones are set for iMessage (iPhone to iPhone) messages only. 

What if I need help? We do not have dedicated office staff so results will vary.  Email operations@kapapalaranch.com or text 844.979.8989.  This text number is our text service and not a phone someone carries.  Response times vary.

What if I put in for the wrong gate by mistake? You can now cancel your request and put in a new one in your Portal.  (Before 10PM the night before your request.  Look in MY ACCESS REQUESTS

Can I camp on the Ranch?

Nope.

Can I tent camp in the STATE Forest Reserve Overnight?

No. Overnight stays are only at the cabin.  All overnight hikers must hold a permit for Halewai Cabin or Mauna Loa Summit Cabin can stay overnight at those cabins.

Can I ride my bike?  Or my horse?

Only on 'Āinapō access road.  Absolutely no venturing out onto the Ranch or riding a bike on the Honanui or Wood Valley Access.

Is there Parking? 

Yes.  

ʻĀinapō - There is signed, designated parking just past the corral in the area of the green shed made of shipping containers.  If you are leaving your truck and trailer and going on a ATV or UTV; or if you are in a two wheel drive or AWD vehicle and need to hike from here, this is the place to leave your vehicle.  There are often cattle in the area as we are a working ranch so park at your own risk.  There is no parking along the road in the Ranch.

Honanui - If you are leaving a vehicle and continuing on UTV,  park in the area just past the gate.

Do I need 4WD for ʻĀinapō Road?

YES!  Road conditions vary.  Some parts are good and other parts are not.  2WD cars lose traction and dig up the road, resulting in deterioration and costly repairs.  You will see a 4WD only sign at the lower parking area.  Only true 4x4 at this time.  The road is really rough in places.

What if I have an International Phone Number?

No problem as long as you have wifi or a eSim and some sort of data plan.  If you are on a multi day trip and donʻt have data let us know so we can work it out. 

What if I have car trouble?

The Ranch will NOT come to your rescue.  Be very careful to make sure charging cords are disconnected and doors are closed to prevent battery drain.   Also, make sure if you rent a vehicle that it has a spare tire.   A dead battery or flat tire  deep in the Ranch or at ʻĀinapō trailhead can be a costly event.  AAA will not respond but may refer you to a local tow company.