National Parks in Hawaii
Hawaii is home to 2 major National Parks and 6 additional smaller park sites. I have visited the parks that are listed in red, but I only linked the parks I’ve reviewed. I also put which island the parks are on for your planning purposes.
- Haleakala National Park – Maui
- Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park – Big Island
- Honouliuli National Monument – Oahu
- Kalaupapa National Historic Park – Moloka’i
- Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park – Big Island
- Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park – Big Island
- Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Park – Big Island
- World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument (Pearl Harbor) – Oahu
Hawaii State Parks
During my 16 days in Hawaii I was able to make it to 4 state parks. Unfortunately, there are 50 state parks so I didn’t even make a dent, but I’m thankful for where I was able to go!
Akaka Falls State Park – Big Island – famous for 442 foot tall ‘Akaka Falls’
He’eia State Park – Oahu – known for the fishponds and sandbar that you can paddle to
Lava Tree State Park – Big Island – lava molds of tree trunks from the 1700s
Wailuku River State Park – Big Island – known for ‘Boiling Pots’ and Rainbow Falls
Day trip ideas in Hawaii
I spent a lot of time in Hawaii and got to live like a local. In addition to all the National Parks we visited, I was also able to hike all around the island and eat at some local spots. Even though this site is geared towards National Parks, I hope to write some specific itineraries in the future. Until then, I’ll share some of my favorite activities we did while I was on the islands!
Oahu
Snorkeled at Sharks Cove
Spent the day at Waimea Bay
Hiked down to the Makapu’u Tide Pools
Hiked up Mount Olympus
Visited Pearl Harbor
Big Island
Spent a few days in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Walked the lava trail at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau NHP
Hiked to Green Sands Beach
Visited South Point
Sampled coffee at a Kau Coffee
Last updated: June 4, 2023
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