1. Hapuna Beach State Park - 45 minutes from Kona
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Location:
Waimea, HI (Big Island)Highlights:
Looking for the picture-perfect Hawaiian beach day? Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area has it all—white sand, clear water, and ocean activities galore, just over two miles from Kawaihae.Recommended For:
Beachgoers, snorkelers, surfers, families, and anyone dreaming of a classic Big Island beach escape.What I Love: ♥
Wide sandy shoreline, year-round sunbathing and snorkeling, migrating whale sightings, and well-maintained park facilities.- Swim and snorkel in calm, crystal-clear waters with lifeguards on duty for extra peace of mind.
- Stroll part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, which winds through the park toward Puako and Spencer Beach.
- Catch waves for surfing or bodyboarding, especially during the summer months when conditions are just right.
- Relax with picnic tables, pavilions, restrooms, and showers all easily accessible from the parking area.
Cost:
$10 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors; $5 per person for walk-ins. Free for Hawaii residents.Distance from Kona:
Expect the drive to take around 45 minutes.How to Get to Hapuna Beach:
From Kailua-Kona, take HI-19 North toward Kawaihae. Turn left onto Hapuna Beach Road (Old Puako Rd) and follow signs directly to the beach parking area.Address:
Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 967432. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
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Location:
Kapaa, HI (Kaua‘i Island)Highlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking along towering sea cliffs or paddling beneath waterfalls, this is that once-in-a-lifetime place. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is a remote paradise of 4,000-foot cliffs, lush valleys, and untouched beaches on Kaua‘i’s northwestern coast.Recommended For:
Serious hikers, adventure travelers, photographers, kayakers, and anyone craving dramatic Hawaiian scenery and remote wilderness experiences.What I Love: ♥
Iconic sea cliffs, the breathtaking Kalalau Trail, boat-accessible beaches, and untouched waterfalls—all in a vehicle-free natural sanctuary.- Hike the renowned 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which weaves through five valleys between Ke‘e Beach and Kalalau Beach.
- Admire waterfalls, wild coastline, and sweeping jungle views via helicopter or coastal boat tours departing from Hanalei Bay or Port Allen.
- Paddle the coastline by kayak or paddleboard during the calmer summer months—permit required for beach landings.
- Experience the raw beauty of the Kalalau Valley and Hanakoa Valley, accessible only by foot or sea.
Cost:
$10 per vehicle and $5 per person entry fee for non-residents. Permits required for hiking beyond Hanakapi‘ai and all overnight camping.Distance from Lihue:
Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to the trailhead at Ke‘e Beach.How to Get to Na Pali Coast:
From Lihue, drive north on HI-56 and then west on HI-560 toward Ha‘ena State Park. Park at Ke‘e Beach (advance reservation required), the official trailhead for the Kalalau Trail. Alternatively, book a boat or helicopter tour from Hanalei or Port Allen for aerial and water-based access.Address:
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kapaa, HI 967463. Lapakahi State Historical Park - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kona
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Location:
Waimea, HI (Big Island)Highlights:
If you’re curious about ancient Hawaiian life and love rugged ocean views, this park is a fascinating stop. Lapakahi State Historical Park invites visitors to step into the past and explore the remains of a traditional coastal fishing village in North Kohala.Recommended For:
History buffs, cultural travelers, families, and coastal hikers interested in Hawaiian heritage and oceanfront views.What I Love: ♥
Self-guided walking tour through ancient village ruins, sweeping sea views, and its proximity to protected marine areas and nearby beach parks.- Walk a one-mile self-guided trail through partially restored ancient structures and native plant life.
- Learn about traditional fishing practices, daily life, and village architecture of early Hawaiians.
- Visit the nearby Pu?ukohola Heiau and Mahukona Beach Park for a full day of history and shoreline adventure.
- Observe marine life in the offshore Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District, a protected ocean area perfect for spotting reef species.
Cost:
Free admission; donations appreciated.Distance from Kona:
Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 15 minutes.How to Get to Lapakahi State Historical Park:
From Kailua-Kona, take HI-19 north to Kawaihae, then head north on HI-270. Continue for about 12.4 miles until you reach the signed entrance on the left side of the road.Address:
HI-270, Waimea, HI 96743Romantic State Parks in Hawaii
4. Kiholo State Park Reserve
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Location:
Kailua-Kona, HI (Big Island)Highlights:
If you're craving raw natural beauty and don’t mind going off the grid, this rugged gem is calling your name. Kiholo State Park Reserve surrounds the serene Kiholo Bay and offers lava landscapes, tide pools, and a deep connection to ancient Hawaiian land divisions.Recommended For:
Adventure campers, geology enthusiasts, snorkelers, wildlife watchers, and travelers seeking a rustic and scenic coastal experience.What I Love: ♥
Fossilized lava flows from Mauna Loa and Mount Hualalai, peaceful swimming lagoons, and a sense of seclusion that makes it feel worlds away from modern life.- Camp under the stars at basic tent-only campsites—just bring your own water and supplies.
- Explore the dramatic coastal terrain formed by 19th-century lava flows from two major volcanoes.
- Snorkel in Kiholo Bay’s calm waters, where sea turtles and reef fish often make appearances.
- Beachcomb for driftwood, coral, and shells along the volcanic shoreline or relax and take in the views.
Cost:
Free entry; camping permits required in advance via the Hawai‘i State Parks reservation system.Distance from Kailua-Kona:
Expect the drive to take around 30 minutes.How to Get to Kiholo State Park Reserve:
From Kailua-Kona, head north on Queen Ka?ahumanu Highway (HI-19). Look for the signed turnoff at mile marker 81; the gravel access road leads to the park entrance and campground area.Address:
71-2000 Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 967405. Kaena Point State Park
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Location:
Waialua, HI (O?ahu)Highlights:
If you’re up for a scenic hike that ends in wild coastal beauty and rare wildlife sightings, this one’s a must. Ka?ena Point State Park lies at O?ahu’s westernmost edge, where waves crash, seabirds nest, and history hides in the dunes.Recommended For:
Hikers, birdwatchers, surfers, conservation-minded travelers, and anyone drawn to remote natural beauty and raw coastal energy.What I Love: ♥
Remote beach vibes, monk seal sightings, cliffside hiking, native vegetation, and an eerie look at the remains of an old railway destroyed by a tsunami.- Hike the Ka?ena Point Trail, a rugged coastal path with panoramic views and rich native ecosystems.
- Spot protected wildlife including Hawaiian monk seals, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, and Laysan Albatrosses in their natural habitats.
- Surf or snorkel in powerful waters—best for experienced adventurers only, as conditions can be intense.
- Reflect on the historic ruins of the Honolulu–Kahuku railway, washed away by a 1946 tsunami but still visible along the route.
Cost:
Free entry; no permits required for day use.Distance from Honolulu:
Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on whether you approach from the North Shore or West O?ahu.How to Get to Ka?ena Point State Park:
From Honolulu, you can reach the trailhead via two routes: head west toward Yokohama Bay for the Wai?anae-side trail, or take the H-2 north to Mokule?ia for the North Shore access. Both trails eventually lead to Ka?ena Point—no vehicles allowed past a certain point.Address:
Ka?ena Point State Park, Waialua, HI 967916. Ahupua'a 'O Kahana State Park
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Location:
Kaaawa, HI (O?ahu)Highlights:
If you want to experience a slice of Hawaiian life where land, sea, and culture meet, this is the place. Ahupua?a ?O Kahana State Park is the only public ahupua?a on O?ahu, offering lush rainforest hikes, cultural education, and coastal camping in a deeply meaningful setting.Recommended For:
Hikers, campers, cultural travelers, families, and those looking to connect with the traditional Hawaiian relationship between land and community.What I Love: ♥
Rainforest trails, a living cultural learning environment, beachside campsites, and an authentic glimpse into Hawaiian land stewardship.- Hike the one-mile Kapa?ele?ele Ko?a and Keaniani Lookout Trail for stunning bay views or explore the 2.5-mile Nakoa Trail through tropical jungle and freshwater streams.
- Camp at one of 10 permitted beach sites—perfect for stargazing and easy sunrise access.
- Learn about the traditional Hawaiian ahupua?a system, which integrates mountain-to-sea resource management.
- Hunt responsibly in designated areas on weekends and holidays with a valid license.
Cost:
Free day use; camping permits required for overnight stays.Distance from Honolulu:
Expect the drive to take around 50 minutes.How to Get to Ahupua?a ?O Kahana State Park:
From Honolulu, take HI-63 (Likelike Hwy) through the Ko?olau Range, then continue north on HI-83 (Kamehameha Hwy) along the coast. The park entrance is located between Ka?a?awa and Punalu?u along Kahana Bay.Address:
52-222 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaaawa, HI 96730State Parks in Hawaii for Families
7. Kalopa Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area - 1 hour Hilo
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Location:
Honoka?a, HI (Big Island)Highlights:
Looking to cool off in a native forest filled with rare Hawaiian plants? Kalopa Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area offers a peaceful, high-elevation escape just inland from the Hamakua Coast with lush trails and native biodiversity.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, botany buffs, birdwatchers, hikers, and travelers seeking a quiet forest retreat off the beaten path.What I Love: ♥
The native 'ohi'a lehua forest, an arboretum of rare and endangered Hawaiian plants, and cozy cabins that let you stay overnight among the trees.- Stroll through the arboretum filled with native hibiscus, loulu palms, and highland flora unique to Hawai?i Island.
- Stay in rustic overnight cabins or pitch a tent at one of the basic campsites surrounded by towering trees.
- Hike the well-shaded trails that loop through dense forest at a cool 2,000-foot elevation—ideal for a refreshing nature walk.
- Relax in a peaceful setting with drinking water and restrooms available, making it a perfect low-key day trip or weekend stay.
Cost:
Free entry for day use; permits required for camping and cabins (fees vary).Distance from Hilo:
Expect the drive to take around 1 hour.How to Get to Kalopa State Park:
From Hilo, take HI-19 north along the scenic Hamakua Coast. Near Honoka?a, turn inland on Kalaniai Road and follow signs to the park entrance.Address:
44-3480 Kalaniai Rd, Honokaa, HI 967278. Waianapanapa State Park - 2 hours and 30 minutes from Kahului
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Location:
Hana, HI (Maui)Highlights:
Ready for black sand beaches, sea caves, and a touch of ancient Hawaiian legend? Wai?anapanapa State Park is a mystical, scenic treasure tucked at the end of the Hana Highway with lava landscapes, folklore, and wild ocean views.Recommended For:
Road to Hana travelers, mythology lovers, snorkelers, hikers, photographers, and campers seeking unforgettable coastal beauty.What I Love: ♥
Jet-black volcanic sand, blowholes and lava tubes, freshwater caves, seasonal red tidepools, and rich Hawaiian storytelling woven into the land.- Swim and snorkel off the volcanic black-sand beach, one of the most iconic coastal sights in all of Maui.
- Discover caves, sea arches, and ancient lava tubes as you hike the coastal trails.
- Watch for the red tidepools caused by native shrimp—or imagine the blood of Princess Popoaleae, as the local legend tells it.
- Camp overnight with a permit to enjoy sunrise over the Pacific and the soothing sounds of seabirds and waves.
Cost:
$10 per vehicle and $5 per person for non-residents. Entry and parking reservations required in advance.Distance from Kahului:
Expect the drive to take around 2 hours and 30 minutes along the scenic but winding Hana Highway.How to Get to Wai?anapanapa State Park:
From Kahului, take the legendary Hana Highway (HI-360) east. Just before reaching Hana town, turn left onto Wai?anapanapa Road and follow it to the park entrance.Address:
Wai?anapanapa State Park, Hana, HI 967139. Wailoa River State Park and Recreation Area - 10 minutes from Hilo Airport
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Location:
Hilo, HI (Big Island)Highlights:
Need a peaceful place to walk, reflect, or learn right in the heart of Hilo? Wailoa River State Recreation Area offers serene views, cultural landmarks, and riverside trails just steps from downtown and Hilo Bay.Recommended For:
Families, art lovers, history buffs, walkers, and travelers looking to explore Hilo's heritage in a tranquil outdoor setting.What I Love: ♥
The Wailoa River winding through grassy lawns, the majestic King Kamehameha I statue, and the cultural exhibits at the Wailoa Arts & Cultural Center.- Stroll the scenic riverside pathways connecting Waiakea Pond to the ocean, with views of bridges, banyans, and memorials.
- Explore the Wailoa Center—a free-entry cultural venue showcasing rotating Hawaiian art and heritage exhibits.
- Admire the prominent statue of King Kamehameha I, symbolizing Hawaiian leadership and unity.
- Relax near the adjacent Lili?uokalani Gardens, or launch a kayak from the boat ramp for a different view of the park.
Cost:
Free entry; donations welcome at the cultural center.Distance from Hilo Airport:
Expect the drive to take around 5–10 minutes.How to Get to Wailoa River State Park:
From Hilo International Airport, take Kekuanaoa Street west, turn onto Pi?ilani Street, and follow signs to the Wailoa River entrance. The park is bordered by the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11) and easily accessible from downtown.Address:
Piilani St, Hilo, HI 96720Plan Your Trip