Wild, rugged, and volcanic, the best parks on the Big Island will leave a lasting impression.
Hawaii’s Big Island is big and beautiful and it has 14 State Parks to prove it. Each one has its own appeal – some have breathtaking beaches, fun snorkeling, rainforest waterfalls, Hawaiian villages, mighty mountains, and some even have remnants of lava!
To help you decide where to spend your time on your next Hawaii vacation, we have highlighted some of the best parks on the Big Island:
Akaka Falls State Park
Visiting Akaka Falls is a must on any visit to the Big Island.
Its 422 feet of gushing water into a pretty gorge makes it one of Hawaii’s most memorable waterfalls. When you visit, you will take a 4-mile-long trail across green rainforest to reach Akaka Falls and enjoy an additional sneak peak at Kahuna Falls as you walk.
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
The beautiful Kealakekua Bay is an important part of Hawaiian history – it was the first place that Hawaiians had contact with Westerners.
Today, it is as pretty as ever, with crystal clear waters and a beautiful coral reef, making it perfect for snorkeling.
Kiholo State Park Reserve
Kiholo State Park is a unique example of the Big Island’s diverse landscape.
It has stark lava lining the coast, while the water is a perfectly clear, bold blue. During your visit, look out for green sea turtles on the beach of Kiholo Bay.
Kekaha Kai State Park
Located on the Kohala coast, the Kekaha Kai State Park is filled with pristine sandy beaches and wild, rugged mountain hiking.
Take the 4.5-mile-long Ala Kahakai trail from Mahai’ula Beach to Manini’owali Beach, which also takes you past Makalawena Beach.
Lapakahi State Historical Park
For an insight into historic Hawaiian life, be sure to visit Lapakahi State Park, one of the best preserved examples of old Hawaiian culture.
Explore what was an old coastal village and learn more about the traditional Hawaiian way of life. Plus, the beaches are beautiful here and ideal for snorkeling.
Wailuku River State Park
Trek to some of the most dramatic scenery on the island at Wailuku River State Park.
The highlight of the walk is the incredible Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot-tall waterfall that is easily accessible and a great photo opportunity. The park also includes Pe’epe’e Falls and Boiling Pots can also be spotted throughout.
Kalopa State Recreation Area
The quiet land that makes up Kalopa State Recreation Area is located at 2,000 feet and hidden in an ohi’a forest just above the Hamakua Coast.
The park is a great place for a picnic or for camping, and has plenty of nature trails and walks that are great for families.
Lava Tree State Monument
Last but not least – take the seven-mile-long trail at the Lava Tree State Monument.
This spot has an incredible collection of tree molds that were left this way after a great lava flow took over the forest. That is, the lava wrapped around the trees, cooled, and left behind only the mold of the trees.
This is an extremely unique and impressive site, so make sure to bring your camera.
To find out more about the best parks on the Big Island, or to book a discount Hawaii activity, visit HawaiiDiscount.com today.
Please remember that popular activities sell out frequently. We recommend making reservations well in advance of your trip.
To book an affordable Hawaii tour or activity, call 1-866-482-9775 today.
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