If you’re looking for things to do on your Hawaii vacation, the islands’ parks should definitely make your bucket list.
Hawaii’s national parks and state parks have plenty of activities to keep you busy, they’re inexpensive, and they will allow you to explore some of the best natural beauty that the island has to offer.
On your next Hawaii vacation, make sure to visit some of these top parks and recreation areas:
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – This park is a must-visit for anyone who takes a trip to the Big Island. A visit to this park will let you see firsthand one of the major volcanoes that is shaping the Hawaiian islands. Kilauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, so the park may offer something new each time you visit.
- Waimea Canyon State Park – Visitors to Kauai should definitely take a trip to and through this vast gorge. Called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” it stretches 14 miles long and drops over a half a mile to the tropical jungle below. If you have time, be sure to take one of the hikes that lead you deeper into this amazing territory.
- Kokee State Park – Adjacent to Waimea Canyon State Park lies Kokee State Park, another gateway to Kauai’s natural beauty. Like most of the other parks listed here, Kokee State Park offers plenty of hiking, as well as some opportunities for camping and other park activities.
- Haleakala National Park – Visitors to Maui should schedule a tour of Haleakala, Maui’s most famous volcano. This park offers amazing views of Maui throughout the day, but the most popular time to visit is at sunrise and sunset. The park has plenty of hiking, wilderness and drive-up camping, a coastline, and much more.
- Iao Valley – Located on the western portion of Maui, Iao Valley State Monument offers a scenic escape into a lush, tropical valley. Visitors can explore a botanical garden, viewpoints, and hiking trails.
- Diamond Head State Park – Oahu vacationers must definitely stop by Diamond Head State Park, which is just a short distance from Waikiki. A short, steep hike will take you to the summit of this volcano, which presents grand views of Honolulu, the Waikiki shoreline, and the ocean surrounding Oahu.
- Kalaupapa National Historical Park – Visitors to Molokai will want to put this park on their to-do list. Like the rest of the island, it is relatively quiet compared to the hustle and bustle of Oahu. This used to be a leper colony of sorts and today it is only accessible by mule. It is a good location to visit for those who want to learn more about the history of the Hawaiian Islands.
If you’re visiting an island for the first time, these parks should definitely make your must-visit list. The best way to see many of these parks is through a tour, so visit Hawaii Discount for the best deals on Hawaii tours, Hawaii activities, and Hawaii vacation packages.
Please remember that popular activities sell out frequently. We recommend making reservations well in advance of your trip.
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