Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Hawaii
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Trent Jonas
Author
The State of Hawaii, undoubtedly, is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in all of America. Fortunately, much of it has been preserved in several national, state, and local parks. Some of Hawaii’s state parks, in fact, are simply stunning, and whenever you’re on the islands, you should not pass up a chance to visit these incredible natural and historical places – we think they’re the best state parks in Hawaii.
Most Popular State Parks In Hawaii
The most popular state parks in Hawaii, apart from their Aloha State locations, have one thing in common: incredible beauty. Whether it comes in the form of beaches, waterfalls, or amazing views, you won’t be disappointed on a visit to one of these incredible parks.
1. Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Things to do in Diamond Head State Monument. Diamond Head State Monument is the most visited state park in Hawai’i, thanks in large part to its proximity to Waikiki and Honolulu. The park is home to the iconic Diamond Head Crater and offers excellent hiking, as well as historical sites and incredible views over the Pacific to Molokai and back over Oahu and the urban coastline.
2. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, USA
Things to do in Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is home to what is generally considered the best beach on the Big Island. It’s even been called the best beach in the USA on more than one occasion. With its sweeping views of the Pacific and imposing Mauna Kea volcano, this north Kona/Kohala Coast park is the perfect place to spend a day swimming, body surfing, and whale watching.
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3. Makena State Park
M?kena State Park, 4670 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Things to do in Makena State Park. Makena State Park is home to not just one, but three, amazing beaches—Big Beach, Little Beach, and One’uli Black Sand Beach—all curving around the base of Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone on Maui’s southwest coast. This park is ideal for a day of picnicking, body surfing, and exploring. The shore break can be rough at these beaches, so always use caution when in the water.
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4. ‘Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park, Hawaii 96728, USA
Things to do in ‘Akaka Falls State Park. ‘Akaka Falls State Park does not offer much in terms of exploring or activities - just a short, paved hiking trail loop that’s less than half a mile in length. But the payoff is huge. You’ll pass through lush rain forest, over small streams and even a small waterfall before you get to the highlight of the walk: incredible 442-foot ‘Akaka Falls. You will encounter stairs and elevation gain on the trail.
Best State Parks In Hawaii To Camp
The incredible natural spaces in Hawaii naturally lend themselves to camping. Some of the best places to camp in Hawaii can be found in its state parks. These are our favorite state parks for camping in Hawaii.
5. Polihale State Park
Polihale State Park, Lower Saki Mana Rd, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
Things to do in Polihale State Park. Polihale State Park is a remote state park on Kauai, located at the western terminus of the Na Pali Coast. The sea cliffs rise dramatically from the north end of this broad, golden beach. The park is accessible only by a rugged, unimproved sand and dirt road, which means it’s never too crowded and perfect for a weekend of beachfront camping.
6. Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park
Ahupua?a ?O Kahana State Park, 52-222 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaaawa, HI 96730, USA
Things to do in Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park. Formerly known as Kahana Valley State Park, Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park is a living park. Several families live on the ahupuaʻa - land division - contained within the park, making it the only public ahupuaʻa in the state of Hawaii. A camping trip to this incredible park on Oahu’s windward shore will immerse you in traditional Hawaiian culture while allowing you to enjoy the incredible, lush beauty of this part of the island.
7. Koke’e State Park
Koke?e State Park, Hanapepe, HI 96716, USA
Things to do in Koke’e State Park. Koke’e State Park is often overshadowed by its more accessible neighbor, Waimea Canyon State Park. But visitors who don’t continue to the drive the amphitheater at the head of the Kalalau Valley are missing out on a spectacular nature experience, as well as one of the best campgrounds in the Hawaii State Parks system. From this park, you can hike into the valley or along the rim of Waimea Canyon. If you don’t wish to camp in a tent, camper cabin rentals are also available at Koke’e.
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Best State Park In Hawaii To RV
Camping in vehicles, including recreational vehicles, trailers, and vans, is not permitted at most Hawaiian state parks. However, the one exception also happens to be one of our favorite state parks in the Aloha State.
8. Wainapanapa State Park
Wai??napanapa State Park, Hana, HI 96713, USA
8. Wainapanapa State Park
Things to do in Wainapanapa State Park. Wainapanapa State Park is located just outside of Hana on along the Hana Highway. It’s home to Maui’s best-known black sand beach, and it’s a wonderful place to camp and explore. In addition to traditional campsites and rental cabins, Wainapanapa State Park offers the only van camping available in the Hawaii State Parks system. Visitors who wish to camp in their van at Wainapanapa must make reservations on the Division of State Parks website - and use caution when driving the narrow and curvy Road to Hana. But, also be sure to enjoy the journey, stopping at the waysides, as it’s as spectacular as the destination.
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Best State Parks In Hawaii For Hiking
The rugged interior terrain and gorgeous shoreline of the Hawaiian Islands make them a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. And the hiking in Hawaii is some of the best there is. Here are our picks for the best state parks in Hawaii for hiking.
9. Ha’ena State Park
H?'ena State Park, 6CC9+8R Wainiha, Hawaii, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
Things to do in Ha’ena State Park. Ha’ena State Park is located on the north shore of Kauai, and in addition to being a fantastic park unto itself, it serves as gateway to both the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and the famous Kalalau Trail. This means that you’ll find some of the best hiking in the entire Aloha State in and starting from Ha’ena State Park. Hike to beaches, waterfalls, and incredible views. Separate permits are required to hike the Kalalau Trail beyond a certain point and for overnight stays in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Be sure to check the Division of State Parks website for conditions and regulations (as they both change quite often) before you go.
10. Iao Valley State Monument
??ao Valley State Monument, 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
Things to do in Iao Valley State Monument. Iao Valley is both a historic site and a lush, dramatic setting. The Iao Needle towers over this narrow valley in the West Maui Mountains that was the site of a ferocious battle in Kamehameha’s attempt to consolidate the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom. Walk the trails and paved footpaths in this stunning park, read the placards and learn about the fascinating natural and human history of this place.
11. Ka’ena Point State Park
Ka?ena Point State Park, Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96791, USA
Things to do in Ka’ena Point State Park. This park is located on a remote peninsula on far northwestern Oahu that separates the leeward shore from the North Shore. For non-residents of Oahu or Oahu residents without a vehicle permit, the park is accessible only on foot. The rugged coastline and remote beach are beautiful, but the hike does include some elevation changes, and it’s quite exposed. There is no drinking water available in the park, so when you go, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The effort is well worth it!
12. Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon State Park, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
Things to do in Waimea Canyon State Park. This park encompasses part of the 14-mile long and one-mile wide Waimea Canyon on Kauai. This 3,600-foot deep gorge is often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and it’s similarly dramatic. In the park, you can hike the canyon rim and even descend into the canyon, itself, which is home to one of the wettest places on Earth. While this means that you could very well get rained on during your hike, it also means you’ll see amazing waterfalls along the way.
Little-Known State Parks In Hawaii
Some state parks and reserves in Hawaii are not as well known as their more popular counterparts. For visitors, that can be a good thing, as you’ll get to experience some of the best spots in the Aloha State with fewer crowds. Take a look at these lesser-known state parks in Hawaii when you’re planning your next visit.
13. Ka’u Forest Reserve
Ka?u Forest Reserve, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA
Things to do in Ka’u Forest Reserve. The reserve is located within the Ka’u District on the southern tip of the Big Island. This grove of native forest on the shoulders of Mauna Loa has been protected since 1906. The reserve provides important habitat for endangered and threatened species of Hawaiian birds, which makes it a popular spot for birding. There are no facilities, such as trails or campsites in the reserve. But it’s definitely worth exploring. Those seeking a more front-country experience in a similar setting can visit the Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is immediately adjacent to the reserve.
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14. Polopoli Spring State Recreation Area
Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, Kula, HI 96790, USA
Located near the charming town of Kula, there are many things to do in Polopoli Spring State Recreation Area is immediately adjacent to Haleakala National Park on Maui and offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the same amazing upcountry terrain and forest that you’ll find at this elevation in the national park - including the flora and fauna, like endemic Hawaiian bird species - without the crowds and fees. You will encounter some elevation changes hiking in this park.
15. Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, Captain Cook, HI 96704, USA
Things to do in Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. This park is located on the Kona Coast, a few miles south of Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. It is the site of the first contact between the people of the Hawaiian Islands and westerners. English captain James Cook landed at Kealakekua Bay in 1778 before sailing on to what is now the Oregon Coast - then part of the Spanish Empire’s Alta California. Cook returned to Kealakekua Bay in 1779, where he was met by a large contingent of Hawaiians under the command of King Kamehameha the Great. After a skirmish, Cook was struck and killed. There is a historic marker at the estimated site of his death. Before contact, the bay had long been an important cultural and religious site for the Hawaiian people. The remains of a large temple, Hikiau Heiau, are located within the park, and the heiau is still used for rituals and rites today. The bay, itself, is a marine sanctuary and an excellent place for kayaking and snorkeling. It’s recommended that you go with a local outfitter to ensure that you have all the proper equipment and permits.
We think these are the best state parks in Hawaii, and if you visit any of them, you will not be disappointed. For permits and reservations for entry or camping, visit the Hawaii Division of State Parks website. Was your favorite Hawaii state park on this list? Let us know in the comments!
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