The 9 Best State Parks in Hawaii
Hawaii conjures up pictures of powder-white sand beaches without a trace of human footprints, sun-dappled turquoise seas, and swaying coconut trees. This Polynesian paradise floats in the midst of the Pacific and offers a laid-back, outdoor way of living. The crown gem of the Pacific is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from hiking, fishing, and animal viewing to surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. From the molten lava pouring from Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park to the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast, Hawaii is home to numerous magnificent parks, reserves, and leisure zones. Prior to your visit, we advise calling the restaurants and attractions to confirm the most recent operating hours.
Haleakala National Park
All of the archipelagos in the chain are volcanically active. They were created by a series of eruptions over time. The Big Island’s volcanoes are the only ones in Hawaii that are currently active. The Haleakala crater, a gigantic fissure seven miles across, is protected by this park. It does this by protecting it on the east end of the bay of Maui.
Haleakala hasn’t erupted since roughly 1500 AD. Visitors may trek down into the crater to get a closer look. Even sleeping in the crater at the campsite is an option. This definitely makes it one of the 9 best state parks in Hawaii that you can’t miss out on. You can also stay in one of the three old cottages that line the route. There are more rare animal and plant species on Haleakala than in any other US national park. That is why you should tread carefully here. Among them is the Hawaiian geese, which build its nest inside the crater.
Makena State Park
Makena State Park on Maui is one of the finest white-sand beaches in Hawaii and a well-liked location for sunbathing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, and surfing. Hawaii is known for its white-sand beaches. Views of the archipelago of Molokini and Kahoolawe are also visible from Makena, which is located at the southernmost point of Maui.
Take an umbrella and lots of sunscreen because Makena Beach doesn’t have much shade. But on most evenings, the Makena cloud, a type of meteorological phenomena, moves in and covers the sky between Haleakala and Kaho’olawe. Since it keeps its beautiful white sand cold during the warmest portion of the day, the cloud is frequently appreciated.
Lapakahi State Park
The Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, in the North Kohala District of the Big Isle of Hawaii, was created to conserve the historic remnants of an old Hawaiian fishing hamlet. It is situated 12.4 miles to the north of Kawaihae Harbor. Visitors to this 262-acre wild coastline park may discover traditional Hawaiian history by taking a mile-long self-guided walk and looking around the settlement’s partially rebuilt ruins. The safeguarded Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District lies distant from the park, while Mahukona Beach Park is to the park’s north.
Kalopa Native Forest State Park
The Kalopa Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area is a nature reserve. It has a native arboretum of ohia lehua trees and other indigenous flora. It is about 40 miles northwest of Hilo. The main campus of Kalopa Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area and Arboretum is located at an elevation of 2,000 feet. It is close to the community of Honokaa, a few miles inland from the Hawaii Belt Road.
It is home to a number of unique flora, including indigineous hibiscus and threatened loulu palms. Water for drinking, bathrooms, overnight cottages, and basic camping spots are available in the park. Do not forget to visit Delta Airlines cancellation policy in case of any last minute changes in your plan.
Palaau State Park
The Palaau State Park is a state park located on the Hawaiian archipelago of Molokai. Previously, it was a place where patients with Hansen’s Disease were there to prevent the disease from spreading to others. Numerous historic remains may be seen in the 233-acre park. This includes Kaule O Nanahoa (the phallus of Nanahoa), a phallic rock that increases fertility.
The Kalaupapa Lookout, located 1000 feet above the ground and accessible by a trail that meanders through an ironwood forest, provides stunning views of Kalaupapa. The park offers a variety of activities, such as camping, hiking, and animal viewing, as well as picnic tables, bathrooms, a picnic shelter, and campgrounds.
Diamond Head Park
Oahu is the most populous of the Hawaiian islands. Honolulu is its capital and a significant international airport. Still, it boasts a lot of parks. One of the islands’ most recognisable sights is Diamond Head. It rises to the east of Honolulu. British mariners in the 19th century mistook the formation’s numerous quartz grains for diamonds. This gave this large, almost circular volcano its name.
Diamond Head acts as a defense platform due to its geographical location on the southern point of Oahu, and the greatest views are visible from the summit’s world war II bunkers.
Waimea Canyon State Park
The oldest island in the Hawaiian chain is Kaua’i, which was last active around five million years ago. It is located at the extreme western end of the chain. The 560 square mile island has a road around its perimeter, but its center is uninhabited and wild. It has an average yearly rainfall of more than 11,000 millimeters. Mount Waialeale in the island’s center is the rainiest spot on the planet.
The Waimea river, a frequently furious stream fuelled by the island’s extraordinary rainfall, excavated the 900-meter-deep Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The canyon has a vibrant landscape. It has year-round rainfall which results in a luxuriant array of flora. Along with that, the rocks in the canyon depths are vivid red.
Na Pali coast state park
The Kalalau Trail, one of the most well-known and infamous routes in the world, is located on Kauai’s Na Pali shoreline. This 11-mile clifftop walk winds along Kauai’s northwest coast through lush jungle.
This gorgeous trail has a perilous reputation due to heavy rainfall. Also, slick conditions, and sheer cliffs make it even worse. One precipitous portion is popular as “crawler’s ledge”. In 2008 Backpacker journal named Kalalau one of America’s most dangerous hikes. Also, trekking poles and sturdy boots are a must for hikers. They should take caution while crossing streams during periods of intense rains. Kayaking is another option for getting to Kalalau Valley. It can be risky due to storm waves and currents, especially in the winter. In Hanalei, you can get guides and boat rentals. Make sure to check out Delta airlines Vacation packages provided. It will make your trip a simple and seamless experience.
Iao Valley state monument
The Iao Needle is a 366-meter basalt pinnacle that guards the Iao River valley. It is in the verdant Iao Valley on the western part of Maui. The Iao Needle is also referred to as Kuka Emoku by the locals .It has been a lookout during times of war and represents the phallic stone of Kanaloa. Kanaloa is the Hawaiian deity of the ocean. A few intrepid hikers have clobbered their way up the heavily forested spire. They were able to reach the peak even though there are no paths leading there.
The Iao Valley is now a serene location with somewhat simple climbs. The Iao Valley was a suitable fortress in times of conflict because of its small aperture and plenty of resources.
