Hawaii is known for its incredible natural landscapes and rich history, so it’s no wonder that there are so many protected areas throughout the Islands. The Big Island is home to four National Parks for visitors to explore and learn about what makes the Hawaiian Islands unique.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is probably the most famous and popular national park on the Big Island and possibly all of Hawaii. Why, you ask? Well, as the name suggests, it’s home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world: Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
According to Hawaiian legend, Pelehonuamea (or just Pele if you can’t pronounce that), the goddess of fire, lives in the Helemaumau Crater at the summit of the Kilauea volcano. She is revered for shaping and creating land, but her volatile, destructive temper is also something to be feared.
You can visit Pele and the active volcanoes by visiting the park. It’s located on the southeastern edge of the island. For adventure-prone visitors, there are plenty of hiking trails surrounding the crater, filled with thermal vents, unique plants, and incredible views. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can drive straight to the crater rim and enjoy shops and dining in the visitor’s center.
You won’t find anything like this on the mainland!
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historic Park
On the western face of the Big Island, just below the Kona Airport, is the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Long ago, native Hawaiians used the freshwater pools in the area (which are rare on the Big Island) to build a large fishpond to help sustain their community. It quickly became a place of renewal and cultural and spiritual significance.
While this might not be the largest National Park in Hawaii, it’ll give you an up-close look at the ingenuity of the native Hawaiians and how they lived hundreds of years ago. There are also several walking trails and a beach for you to enjoy.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
To the south of Kailua-Kona you’ll find the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This was once a refuge for native Hawaiians who had broken sacred law, defeated warriors, and civilians during battles. The Pu’uhonua was a sacred place, and it protected everyone inside from physical harm.
Today, the sacred Pu’uhonua still stands as a monument to native Hawaiians and their ancient culture. Visitors can see the buildings, artifacts, and sculptures just as they were hundreds of years ago. The temple, called Hale o Keawe, holds the remains of Hawaiian chiefs along with their mana (power).
This is one of my favorite “secret” spots on the Big Island that most tourists don’t know about.
Pu'ukoholā Heiau National Historic Park
A Heiau is a Hawaiian temple, and none are arguably more important than the Pu'ukoholā Heiau on the Kohala Coast. The Pu'ukoholā Heiau was built in the late 1700s by Kamehameha before he began his campaign to unify the Hawaiian Islands. While the temple might not look as it did hundreds of years ago, the site remains a symbol of unification and lasting peace.
Pu'ukoholā Heiau National Historic Park was dedicated in the 1970s to preserve the cultural and historical significance of the site. Hike down to the ocean to see a submerged temple or take a guided tour to really soak up the history of this incredible national park.
Can’t Get Enough of the Big Island?
I don’t blame you! If you’re tired of taking short, busy vacations and want more time to enjoy the wonders of Hawaii, why not move here permanently? There are plenty of properties available on the Big Island for you to start your life in tropical paradise. Give me a call at 808-209-6244 or send me an email at RandyRipley808@gmail.com to start your search today!
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.