Hawaii State & National Parks + Forests

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State Parks

Ahukini State Recreation Pier – Located on the east side of Kauai, Ahukini State Recreation Pier offers visitors a chance to fish, picnic, and watch airplanes land and take off from nearby Lihue Airport. The pier was once used as a loading dock for sugar and pineapple exports, but it was later converted into a recreational area. Today, visitors can enjoy views of the ocean and nearby mountains, and can even see the occasional sea turtle or monk seal.
Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park – Located on the island of Oahu, Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park is a 1,100-acre park that showcases Hawaii’s native plants, animals, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites, hike along scenic trails, and learn about traditional Hawaiian lifestyles and practices. The park also offers camping facilities and a visitors center with exhibits and information about the park’s history and ecology.
‘Aiea Bay State Recreation Area – This park is located on the island of Oahu and is popular with locals for its picnic areas and beach. Visitors can swim, fish, and play volleyball or horseshoes, and the park offers restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. ‘Aiea Bay State Recreation Area is also known for its stunning views of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.
‘Akaka Falls State Park – Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, ‘Akaka Falls State Park is home to a 442-foot waterfall that is one of the tallest in Hawaii. Visitors can take a short hike through a lush rainforest to reach the waterfall, and can also see other smaller waterfalls and scenic vistas along the way. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits about the area’s history and ecology.
Diamond Head State Monument – This iconic volcanic crater is located on the island of Oahu and is one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions. Visitors can hike to the top of the crater for stunning views of Waikiki and Honolulu, and can also explore World War II-era bunkers and other historic sites along the way. The hike is moderately strenuous and takes about 1-2 hours round trip.
Ha’ena State Park – Located on the north shore of Kauai, Ha’ena State Park is known for its scenic beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach, or can explore the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains. The park is also home to historic sites, including the Heiau (Hawaiian temple) at Ke’e Beach.
Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau State Monument – This park is located on the island of Maui and is home to two ancient Hawaiian temples, or Heiau. Visitors can explore the temples and learn about Hawaiian history and culture, and can also enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. The park is located in a rural area and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of tourist areas.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Located on the east side of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a popular snorkeling spot that is home to a variety of colorful fish and other marine life. The bay is a protected nature preserve, and visitors can learn about the area’s ecology and conservation efforts at the park’s visitor center. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure visitors’ safety.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is known for its beautiful white sand beach. The park spans over 61 acres and includes picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty. Hapuna Beach is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. It was also named one of the best beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler.
He’eia State Park – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 18 acres of land. The park features a large grassy area, picnic tables, and barbecue pits. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the park’s lagoon. The park also has a cultural center that offers educational programs on traditional Hawaiian practices, such as hula and lei-making.
Hulihe’e Palace – a historic site located in the town of Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. The palace was originally built in 1838 as a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty and later served as a summer palace for King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. Today, the palace is a museum that showcases Hawaiian artifacts and royal memorabilia. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the history of Hawaii’s monarchy.
‘Īao Valley State Monument – located on the island of Maui and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The park is home to the ‘Īao Needle, a 1,200-foot-tall rock formation that is a popular hiking destination. The park also features a botanical garden, picnic areas, and a visitor center that offers educational exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history.
‘Iolani Palace State Monument – located in downtown Honolulu and was the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy from 1882 to 1893. The palace is a National Historic Landmark and has been beautifully restored to its original grandeur. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and see the royal throne room, bedrooms, and dining room. The palace also has a museum that displays artifacts and documents from Hawaii’s monarchy era.
Ka’ena Point State Park – located on the northwestern tip of the island of Oahu and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seabirds, monk seals, and humpback whales. Visitors can hike along the park’s coastal trails and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The park also has a cultural site that features ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs.
Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline – located on the eastern shore of the island of Oahu and covers over 50 acres of land. The park is known for its stunning coastline, which includes sea cliffs, tide pools, and sandy beaches. Visitors can hike along the park’s scenic trails, which offer views of the ocean and nearby islands. The park is also home to a historic lighthouse that dates back to the early 1900s.
Kaka’ako Waterfront Park – located in downtown Honolulu and covers over 30 acres of land. The park is known for its stunning views of the ocean and skyline and is a popular destination for picnics and outdoor events. The park also features a playground, basketball courts, and a fishing pier. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s walking paths and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Kalopa State Recreation Area – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 100 acres of land. The park features hiking trails that wind through a lush rainforest and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also picnic in the park’s grassy areas or camp overnight in one of the park’s campsites.
Kaumahina State Wayside Park – located on the Road to Hana on the island of Maui and covers over 7 acres of land. The park features scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the ocean and nearby waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails that lead through the park’s lush rainforest.
Kea’iwa Heiau State Recreation Area – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 384 acres of land. The park is home to a historic heiau, or Hawaiian temple, that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The park also features picnic areas and campsites.
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 12 acres of land. The park is home to a historic monument that commemorates the death of Captain James Cook, who was killed in the bay in 1779. Visitors can snorkel in the bay’s crystal-clear waters or hike to the top of the park’s overlook for panoramic views of the ocean.
Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park – located on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 1,600 acres of land. The park is home to three pristine white sand beaches, as well as hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can also explore tide pools, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or go camping overnight in one of the park’s campsites.
Kewalo Basin – located in the heart of Honolulu and covers over 22 acres of land. The park features a small boat harbor that is home to a variety of fishing charters, catamaran tours, and ocean adventure activities. Visitors can also stroll along the park’s boardwalk and enjoy views of the ocean and Waikiki skyline.
Kīholo State Park Reserve – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The park is home to a scenic beach, as well as hiking trails that offer views of the surrounding coastline and mountains. Visitors can also explore a historic fishpond or camp overnight in one of the park’s campsites.
Kohala Historical Sites State Monument – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 10 acres of land. The park features several historic sites, including Pu’ukoholā Heiau, a temple built by King Kamehameha I in the late 18th century, and the Mo’okini Heiau, one of the oldest temples in Hawaii.
Kōke’e State Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 4,345 acres of land. The park is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in Hawaii, offering panoramic views of the island’s lush rainforest and dramatic coastline. Visitors can also explore Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” which is located within the park.
Kukaniloko Birthstones State Monument – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 5 acres of land. The park is home to a sacred site where Hawaiian royalty gave birth, known as the Kukaniloko Birthstones. Visitors can also explore the park’s interpretive trail, which features informative signs about the history and culture of the site.
Lā’ie Point State Wayside – located on the northeastern coast of Oahu and covers over 7 acres of land. The park features a scenic overlook that offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby sea cliffs. Visitors can also explore the nearby rocky shoreline and tide pools.
Lapakahi State Historical Park – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 265 acres of land. The park is home to a partially restored ancient Hawaiian fishing village, where visitors can explore the remains of stone houses, temples, and fishing structures. The park also features hiking trails and a beautiful black sand beach.
Lava Tree State Monument – located on the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 17 acres of land. The park features an otherworldly landscape of lava trees, formed when molten lava surrounded the trunks of trees and left behind unique, tree-shaped rock formations. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and picnic areas.
MacKenzie State Recreation Area – located on the southeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii and covers over 13 acres of land. The park is home to a rugged coastline and rocky shoreline, where visitors can explore tide pools and watch for humpback whales during the winter months. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas.
Makapu’u Point State Wayside – located on the southeastern coast of Oahu and covers over 38 acres of land. The park features a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands, as well as a lighthouse that dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and watch for humpback whales during the winter months.
Makena State Park – located on the island of Maui and covers over 165 acres of land. The park is home to two beautiful beaches, Makena Beach and Oneuli Beach, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. The park also features hiking trails and picnic areas.
Mālaekahana State Recreation Area – located on the northeastern coast of Oahu and covers over 37 acres of land. The park is home to a beautiful beach and offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Laie Point State Wayside and Polynesian Cultural Center.
Manuka State Wayside Park – located on the island of Hawaii and covers over 13 acres of land. The park is home to a beautiful waterfall and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Waimea and the stunning Waipio Valley.
Mauna Kea Ice Age Reserve – located on the island of Hawaii and covers over 12,000 acres of land. The reserve is home to a unique ecosystem that includes subalpine and alpine vegetation, as well as rare bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve’s hiking trails and learn about the area’s geological and natural history.
Mauna Kea State Recreation Area – located on the island of Hawaii and covers over 122 acres of land. The park is home to the highest point in Hawaii, Mauna Kea, which rises over 13,000 feet above sea level. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Nā Pali Coast State Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 6,175 acres of land. The park is home to some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Hawaii, featuring dramatic sea cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails or take a boat tour to experience the beauty of the coast from the water.
Nu’uanu Pali State Wayside – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 5 acres of land. The park is home to a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the island’s Windward Coast, as well as historical markers that commemorate the Battle of Nu’uanu, a significant event in Hawaiian history.
Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area – located on the western coast of the island of Hawaii and covers over 103 acres of land. The park is home to a unique black sand beach and offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the park’s historical sites, including an old airport runway that has been converted into a walking path.
Pala’au State Park – located on the island of Molokai and covers over 233 acres of land. The park is home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands, and offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which was once a leprosy colony.
Polihale State Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 140 acres of land. The park is home to a stunning white sand beach that stretches for over 17 miles and offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area – located on the island of Maui and covers over 1,880 acres of land. The park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including redwood trees, grasslands, and streams, and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the nearby Haleakala National Park.
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park – located on the island of Maui and covers over 5 acres of land. The park is home to a beautiful waterfall and offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and swimming in natural pools. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Hana and the scenic Road to Hana.
Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau State Monument – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 2 acres of land. The park is home to an ancient Hawaiian temple, or heiau, that was once used for religious and cultural ceremonies. Visitors can learn about the site’s history and significance and enjoy panoramic views of the island’s North Shore.
Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Wayside – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 45 acres of land. The park is home to a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the island’s south shore, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the nearby Manoa Falls Trail and Lyon Arboretum.
Queen Emma Summer Palace – located on the island of Oahu and was once the summer residence of Queen Emma, the wife of King Kamehameha IV. The palace is now a museum that showcases the life and legacy of Queen Emma and her family, as well as Hawaiian history and culture.
Royal Mausoleum State Monument – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 19 acres of land. The park is home to the Royal Mausoleum, which houses the remains of several Hawaiian monarchs, including King Kamehameha IV and Queen Liliuokalani. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of the site and pay their respects to Hawaii’s royal family.
Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 40 acres of land. The park is home to the remains of a Russian fort that was built in the early 1800s, as well as a museum that showcases the site’s history and cultural significance. Visitors can learn about the site’s role in Hawaii’s history and explore the nearby town of Waimea.
Sacred Falls State Park – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 30 acres of land. The park is home to a stunning waterfall that drops over 100 feet and offers opportunities for hiking and picnicking. However, access to the falls is currently closed due to safety concerns.
Sand Island State Recreation Area – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 400 acres of land. The park is home to a beautiful beach that offers opportunities for swimming, surfing, and fishing, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities. Visitors can also explore the nearby USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor.
Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 2 acres of land. The park is home to an ancient Hawaiian temple, or heiau, that was once used for religious and cultural ceremonies. Visitors can learn about the site’s history and significance and enjoy scenic views of Kailua Bay.
Wa’ahila Ridge State Recreation Area – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 290 acres of land. The park is home to hiking trails that offer scenic views of Honolulu and the surrounding areas, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities. Visitors can also explore the nearby Manoa Falls Trail and Lyon Arboretum.
Wahiawā Freshwater State Recreation Area – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 27 acres of land. The park is home to a freshwater lake that offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the nearby Dole Plantation and historic town of Wahiawa.
Wai’anapanapa State Park – located on the island of Maui and covers over 122 acres of land. The park is home to a beautiful black sand beach that offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring sea caves. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hana Highway and Haleakala National Park.
Wailoa River State Recreation Area – located on the island of Hawaii and covers over 130 acres of land. The park is home to a freshwater lagoon that offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as walking paths and gardens. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Hilo.
Wailua River State Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The park is home to the Wailua River, which offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and hiking, as well as scenic views of waterfalls and lush vegetation. Visitors can also explore the nearby Fern Grotto and Opaeka’a Falls.
Wailua Valley State Wayside Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 32 acres of land. The park is home to scenic views of the Wailua River and surrounding valleys, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the nearby Wailua River State Park and Kapa’a town.
Wailuku River State Park, also known as Rainbow Falls – located on the island of Hawaii and covers over 80 acres of land. The park is home to a stunning waterfall that drops over 80 feet and offers opportunities for hiking and scenic views. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Hilo and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Waimea Canyon State Park – located on the island of Kauai and covers over 1,800 acres of land. The park is home to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” a stunning geological formation that offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic views. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Waimea and the Koke’e State Park.
Waimea State Recreational Pier – located on the island of Oahu and covers over 20 acres of land. The park is home to a fishing pier that offers opportunities for fishing and picnicking, as well as scenic views of the nearby Waianae Mountains. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Waimea and the Ka’ena Point State Park.

National Parks

National Natural Landmarks

Diamond Head: Towering exposed basaltic cinder code, located within the middle of Honolulu’s urban core.
I’ao Valley: Eroded volcanic pinnacles covered in vegetation and surrounded by a lush rain forest.Kanaha Pond: A brackish water bird refuge.Ko’olau Range Pali: Faulted, eroded mountain range is the remnant of a shield volcano.Makalawena Marsh: Located in Kekaha Kai State Park, site supports endangered birds such as the Hawaiian stilt.Mauna Kea: 11,000 foot mountain is the world’s finest example of a shield volcano.North Shore Cliffs: Contains steep, eroded volcanic cliffs.