Hawaii is not just famous for its beautiful beaches and resorts. It also has some amazing national parks. These parks preserve the stunning natural scenery and also historical sites. Hawaii is made up of 137 volcanic islands, so you can always find impressive cliffs, craters, and mountains.
You can also see steamy rainforests and picturesque beaches in the national parks, with breathtaking views of the ocean. There are many exciting outdoor activities to enjoy, and the ancient ruins and temples make Hawaii even more special.
8. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
One of the top highlights of visiting Hawaii is definitely the opportunity to hike or go camping in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is not only home to the world’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa, but also the most active volcano, Kilauea, which erupted consistently from 1983 until 2018.
These massive volcanoes, located in the southeast part of the Big Island, attract thousands of tourists every year. Exploring the park means witnessing giant cracks in the ground, huge caves formed by lava, and smoking vents. You can also observe smoldering craters and watch as lava flows slowly make their way across the already rugged landscape.
While the park is best known for its volcanoes, there are also other beautiful areas to discover. Pristine beaches, historic ranches, and Ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites can be found throughout the park.
Additionally, the park’s visitor center provides a comprehensive overview of the area’s intriguing history and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
7. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s history, culture, and heritage, one great way is to hike along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. The trail runs along the beautiful shores of the Big Island and takes you past many ancient Hawaiian settlement sites. Along the way, you’ll be treated to amazing views and scenery.
The trail is divided into several shorter sections and covers over 175 miles along the southern and western coastline of the island. It follows the same path that ancient fishermen used, and some parts were even traveled by canoe in the past. As you hike, you’ll come across the remains of old temples, shrines, houses, fishponds, and petroglyphs.
Some sections of the trail are well-preserved, while others are overgrown and neglected, leading you through crumbling cliffs and rough lava rocks. Besides exploring the ancient settlements, you can also enjoy the beautiful plants and animals along the trail and take in the stunning views of the coast.
6. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
If you’re interested in Hawaii’s culture and traditions, you should visit the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, which is just a half-hour drive down the coast. It’s an ancient seaside settlement that has recreated buildings and old fishponds.
The park was established in 1978 along the Kona coast and has many archaeological features, including religious sites, stone walls, and fish traps. These features show how Hawaiians used the land and took advantage of the abundant sea life.
You can also see petroglyphs and fishermen’s paths, which are evidence of the settlement that was founded over a thousand years ago. Besides learning about their beliefs and why they chose to live in such a rugged landscape, you can enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery and nature. It has gorgeous beaches, swaying palm trees, and old lava fields.
The park also protects various wildlife, including seals and sea turtles.
5. Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
There is a very interesting historic site on the northwestern coast of the Big Island called Puukohola Heiau. This site has the remains of a major temple built by the Ancient Hawaiians, as well as other structures, hiking trails, and a museum.
In 1782, Kamehameha the Great built a large sacrificial temple to please the god of war after gaining control over most of northern and western Hawaii. Thousands of people helped build Puukohola Heiau, which was completed in less than a year and reached a length of over 220 feet.
The temple is still visible from miles away because of its huge red lava rocks. You can explore the old temple and learn about the violent civil war that happened on the island in the late 1700s. Today, the site represents unity and peace, and the park, museum, and ruins are a fascinating place to visit.
4. Haleakala National Park
Maui is mainly made up of the massive Haleakala, a dormant volcano believed to be the largest in the world. This volcano is now a national park and offers unique lunar landscapes to explore, including scorched cinder cones and lava caves.
The park, established in 1916, covers most of the eastern part of the island and includes the remarkable Kipahulu coastline. The contrasting scenery includes lush rainforests, picturesque pools, and shimmering waters alongside desolate lava fields.
While some visitors enjoy swimming in the ocean, many opt to hike up the volcano’s side and descend into its crater, providing an unforgettable experience. The summit, standing at 10,023 feet, offers breathtaking views of stunning sunrises and sunsets.
From this vantage point, it is also possible to see five other islands in the distance, making the park a popular spot for stargazing.
3. Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Moloka’i, also known as ‘The Friendly Isle’, has a fascinating history. In the past, it wasn’t as welcoming as it is today. The island is home to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which preserves the remains of two leper colonies.
These colonies were places where people with leprosy, a disease that couldn’t be cured at the time, were isolated from the rest of society for the rest of their lives. Leprosy was introduced to the Hawaiian islands by foreign workers in 1830 and spread to thousands of people over the next 150 years.
To prevent further spread, the Kingdom and later the State of Hawaii forced leprosy patients to the isolated Kalaupapa peninsula. Today, visitors to the park can explore the houses, churches, and medical facilities of the quarantine station. The site, in operation from 1866 to 1969, is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
However, due to its remote location, with access only by plane or a long, steep cliffside trail, only a few adventurous individuals make it to the refuge each year. Those who do visit are rewarded with beautiful white sand beaches and breathtaking coastal views.
2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a meaningful and emotional place that honors the infamous attack that led the United States into World War II. Located on Oahu, the memorial includes a museum by the waterfront where visitors can learn about the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and the events in the Pacific theater.
One of the highlights is a boat trip to the nearby US Arizona Memorial, which sits on the spot where the ship sank. Along the peaceful harbor, you will find various monuments and memorials where you can pay tribute to the servicemen who lost their lives.
The attack resulted in the tragic loss of over 2,400 American lives and the sinking of twelve ships, as explained by informative plaques. The museum exhibits not only depict the aftermath of the devastating air raid but also explore the nation’s path to war.
The museum showcases authentic artifacts, exhibits, and historic photos, creating a solemn atmosphere. Survivors’ oral testimonies are also available to listen to, further adding to the sense of sadness.
Additionally, the USS Bowfin Museum and USS Missouri Memorial, located nearby, offer even deeper insights into the events of that fateful day, making them worth a visit after exploring the Pearl Harbor Memorial.
1. Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
If you continue along the west coast of the Big Island, you will find the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. This park is a refuge for Hawaiians who broke important laws and were trying to avoid death. In the park, you can explore coastal village sites, fishponds, and a royal complex with temples and residences.
You can even go inside recreated homes and take pictures of intricately carved statues. The park’s ruined stone structures provide an interesting glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life and laws. Visitors can also watch demonstrations of traditional basket weaving and canoe carving, as well as enjoy centuries-old games and performances.
Additionally, you can explore tidepools, hike around the park’s royal grounds, or go snorkeling in its beautiful coral gardens.
