Explore Hawaii’s National Parks with iBestTravel

For its geographic size, the state of Hawaii is well-stocked with national park sites: eight, with one more in the works. You can witness where America suffered one of its worst military disasters and learn about the war that followed. Additionally, you can see how the islands were formed and dive deep into the rich culture and heritage of the Native Hawaiian people.

At many of the parks, you can experience the islands’ nature up close, engage in hikes, and enrich your knowledge through ranger-led talks and walks. Choose a park and create unforgettable memories, from thrilling sunrises over volcanic calderas to following ancient royalty’s footsteps or scrambling down towering sea cliffs.

1. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Best park to see volcanoes in action

In a nation where national park boundaries are usually firmly fixed, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawai‘i may well be the fastest-growing national park in the USA. This vast park, which extends from sea level to 13,680 feet, allows you to see the elemental forces in action that formed the Hawaiian Islands.

• Frequent eruptions send lava into the Pacific Ocean, creating new land as the glowing liquid rock cools.
• Temporary paths provide surprising access to the action.
• Trails traverse the summit caldera of Kīlauea, an active volcano, and explore ancient Hawaiian sites featuring over 23,000 petroglyphs dating from 1200-1450 CE.

2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oʻahu

Best park to remember a pivotal moment in history

The most visited site in Hawaii, Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Oʻahu recalls the events of December 7, 1941, a date essential to American history. The centerpiece is the USS Arizona Memorial, built over the remains of the battleship destroyed in a surprise attack.

This park features a museum stating the events leading up to the attack and the implications that followed, pertinent to understanding America’s entry into WWII.

3. Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Big Island

Best park for walking with the spirits of Hawaiian royalty

A fine example of monumental structures built with enormous lava rocks by the Native Hawaiian people, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site has a captivating backstory. In the late 18th century, the legendary King Kamehameha fought for dominance of the islands. Invasions, victories, losses, and betrayals occurred until a plan for peace was crafted at this vast structure overlooking the ocean.

4. Haleakalā National Park, Maui

Best park for unspoiled wonder from summit to sea

Haleakalā National Park is known for its dormant volcano that dominates Maui. Many visitors cherish the experience of watching the sunrise from the chilly heights of the 9700-foot caldera.

• Trails connect sacred sites and geological wonders throughout the park.
• Visit the remote Kīpahulu District, with its tropical landscapes and waterfalls.

5. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, Big Island

Best park for exploring Hawai‘i’s culture and nature on foot

Spanning over 175 miles, the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail connects sites sacred to Native Hawaiian culture. This trail features:

• Spiritual sites and historic lands of royal families.
• Scenic landscapes where old lava flows meet the ocean.
• Tidepools with bright red indigenous shrimp.

6. Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Molokai

Best park to bear witness to one of Hawai‘i’s longest and darkest chapters

Located on Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park is a site of both tragedy and history. Beginning in 1866, over 8000 Native Hawaiians were banished here due to Hansen’s Disease.

The stark beauty of Kalaupapa contrasts with decades of heart-wrenching stories still echoed today. Reaching this site for a guided tour entails either a small plane flight or a 3.5-mile hike with significant elevation changes.

7. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Big Island

Best park for learning Hawaiian traditions at a sacred place of refuge

Situated on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a compelling site for ancient Hawaiian culture. For centuries, it served as a refuge for defeated warriors, dethroned kings, and lawbreakers during times of conflict.

8. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, Big Island

Best island to contemplate the mysteries of the ancients

Another must-see on the Kona Coast, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park preserves ancient fishponds constructed by the Hawaiian people, showcasing remarkable engineering with long breakwaters and unanswered questions about their construction.

9. Hono‘uli‘uli National Historic Site, Oʻahu

Prepare for Hawaii’s newest park

Although not yet open to the public, the Hono‘uli‘uli National Historic Site on Oʻahu is on track to become a vital historical park. It documents the WWII concentration camp where over 3200 individuals of Japanese descent were unjustly detained.

This article was first published on May 5, 2021, and updated on February 16, 2023.