Most travelers think of Hawaii for its world-class beaches, relaxing resorts, and breezy lifestyle. But beyond the surf and sand, Hawaii is also home to some of the most extraordinary national parks in the United States. These parks protect not only the state’s striking volcanic landscapes and tropical forests, but also its rich cultural history and sacred heritage.
Made up of 137 volcanic islands stretching across the Pacific, Hawaii offers a dramatic blend of craters, cliffs, and coastlines. Rainforests steam with life, pristine beaches sparkle in the sun, and ancient ruins whisper stories from the past. Whether you’re hiking lava fields, exploring sacred temples, or snorkeling near coral gardens, Hawaii’s national parks promise unforgettable experiences that celebrate both the land and its people.
8. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is more than just a scenic path—it’s a journey through time. Running along the rugged southern and western coast of the Big Island, this 175-mile trail retraces the steps of ancient Hawaiian fishermen and communities.
Divided into manageable sections, the trail offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Hikers pass by the remains of centuries-old temples, shrines, and petroglyphs while enjoying panoramic ocean views. Though some stretches are well-preserved, others wind through overgrown jungle or across jagged lava rock, giving a real sense of adventure. This trail is a must for anyone wanting to walk in the footsteps of Hawaii’s ancestors.
7. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
A visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is both powerful and humbling. Located on the island of Oahu, this site honors the lives lost during the surprise Japanese attack on December 7, 1941—an event that changed the course of history and drew the U.S. into World War II.
The memorial features an engaging museum with photographs, videos, and personal stories that bring the past to life. A boat ride takes you to the USS Arizona Memorial, floating solemnly above the sunken battleship. Other nearby sites, like the USS Bowfin and USS Missouri, offer deeper insight into naval warfare and the Pacific campaign. It’s an emotional and educational stop that leaves a lasting impression.
6. Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Tucked away on the remote Kalaupapa Peninsula of Moloka‘i lies one of Hawaii’s most poignant historic sites. Kalaupapa National Historical Park preserves the story of those who were forcibly exiled here due to leprosy between 1866 and 1969.
Access to the park is limited and requires a permit, which adds to its sense of sacred isolation. Visitors can explore former homes, churches, and medical facilities, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean cliffs and quiet beaches. The experience is sobering, but it’s also a tribute to the resilience of those who lived here in hope and dignity.
5. Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
Rising above the shoreline on the Big Island’s northwest coast is Puʻukoholā Heiau, a massive stone temple built by King Kamehameha I in the late 1700s. This National Historic Site marks a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history, as Kamehameha sought to unify the islands under one rule.
The temple’s enormous lava stones still stand today, offering insight into the engineering skills and spiritual beliefs of ancient Hawaiians. Visitors can walk nearby trails, visit smaller sacred sites, and learn about the civil wars and unification of the islands. It’s a place where myth and history intersect under the Hawaiian sun.
4. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Just a short drive from Kona, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park showcases a thriving coastal settlement that once supported hundreds of Hawaiians. With ancient fishponds, stone walls, and reconstructed thatched homes, this site brings traditional Hawaiian life into clear focus.
Wander the paths lined with petroglyphs, visit spiritual shrines, and explore the ingenious aquaculture systems that provided food for generations. The park also includes stunning beaches and protected wetlands where sea turtles and monk seals often rest. It’s a peaceful, educational escape into Hawaii’s living past.
3. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Further south along the Big Island’s coast, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park reveals a fascinating story of redemption. In ancient Hawaii, those who broke sacred laws faced the death penalty—unless they reached a puʻuhonua, or place of refuge.
This sprawling park includes temple ruins, fishponds, royal grounds, and wooden carvings known as ki‘i. Visitors can witness traditional canoe carving or weaving demonstrations, then swim and snorkel in nearby tidepools. With its deep cultural roots and gorgeous coastal views, this park is a powerful window into Hawaii’s spiritual traditions.
2. Haleakalā National Park
Towering over Maui’s eastern half, Haleakalā is the world’s largest dormant volcano—and a natural wonder unlike any other. The national park spans lava fields, lush valleys, bamboo forests, and crashing waterfalls, making it one of Hawaii’s most diverse landscapes.
Adventurers can trek through the summit’s surreal crater, watch the sunrise from 10,000 feet above sea level, or hike the coastal Kipahulu trails past cascading pools. Wildlife watchers may even spot the rare nēnē goose, Hawaii’s state bird. Stargazing here is phenomenal, too, thanks to the high elevation and low light pollution.
1. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
At the heart of the Big Island lies Hawaii’s most iconic and awe-inspiring national park. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is home to Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth, and Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active.
This ever-changing landscape of lava tubes, steaming craters, and fiery vents offers a front-row seat to nature’s raw power. Trails lead through rainforests, past petroglyphs, and over hardened lava fields, while ranger programs provide context to the science and spirituality of volcanoes. Whether you’re watching the glow of molten rock or stargazing from the summit, this park delivers an unforgettable experience.
In Conclusion
Hawaii’s national parks go far beyond scenic vistas—they’re a vibrant blend of cultural heritage, ecological beauty, and geological wonder. From the peaks of volcanoes to the silence of sacred temples, each park tells a story that deepens your connection to these extraordinary islands.