Hawaii National and State Parks, Lakes, and Historical Sites

Over 6 million visitors enjoy paradise in Hawaii through its 8 national parks, 2 world heritage sites, and 7 national natural landmarks. The list of parks in Hawaii includes numerous state parks, over 400 named beaches, and 750 miles of shoreline. The famous weather in Hawaii keeps visitors coming year-round to surf at the beautiful beaches, walk through ancient lava forests, or be greeted with the infamous “Ahola spirit.” Historical attractions include pre-Columbus settlements and palaces of the Hawaiian Kings and Queens. Over 1600 years of Hawaiian history can be explored on the major islands. Go can go surfing or beach-combing on white sand, black sand, red sand, or even green sand.

There are six main Hawaiian islands and each of them offers something different. Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island all have their own different and unique landscapes. From beautiful waterfalls and lush rainforests to Volcanic craters and majestic mountains, find your year-round adventure in the Aloha State.

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National Parks & Historic Sites

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

73-4786 Kanalani St #14, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Established in 2000 for the preservation, protection, and interpretation of traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175 mile corridor and trail network of cultural and historical significance. It traverses through hundreds of ancient Hawaiian settlement sites and over 200 ahupua’a (traditional land divisions). Connect now!

Haleakalā National Park

Kula, Maui, HI 96790

This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place – renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on Hawaii Island (the Big Island). At its heart are the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes. The Crater Rim Drive passes steam vents and the Jaggar Museum, which features volcanology exhibits and a viewpoint overlooking Halema’uma’u Crater. Thick ferns mark the entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku). The Chain of Craters Road weaves over lava. Trails crisscross the park.

Honouliuli National Monument

Waipahu, HI 96797

Although not yet open to the public, Honouliuli National Monument (NM) will tell the history of internment, martial law, and the experience of prisoners of war in Hawai‘i during World War II. Honouliuli NM will be a place to reflect on wartime experiences and recommit ourselves to the pursuit of freedom and justice.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

189 Kaiulani St, Kalaupapa, HI 96742

When Hansen’s disease (leprosy) was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands, King Kamehameha V banished all afflicted to the isolated Kalaupapa peninsula on the north shore of Molokai. Since 1866, more than 8000 people, mostly Hawaiians, have died at Kalaupapa. Once a prison, Kalaupapa is now refuge for the few remaining residents who are now cured, but were forced to live their lives in isolation.

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

To survive in a hot and arid environment the native Hawaiians (kanaka maoli) used ancient fishing skills, including the building of fishponds, and the knowledge of the location of precious fresh water (wai) that flows into the many brackish pools throughout the park. The spirit of the people (poe) and the knowledge of the elders (kupuna) created a tradition of respect and reverence for this area.

Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

State Hwy 160, Hōnaunau, HI 96726

Imagine you had just broken the sacred laws, the kapu, and the only punishment was death. Your only chance of survival is to elude your pursuers and reach the Pu’uhonua, a place of refuge. The Pu’uhonua protected the kapu breaker, defeated warriors, as well as civilians during the time of battle. No physical harm could come to those who reached the boundaries of the Pu’uhonua.

Pu`ukoholā Heiau National Historic Park

62-3601 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743

How many places in America can you walk in the footsteps of a king? Where else has a stranded sailor risen up to become a great chief over an entire island? Where else can you experience the culminating event of a people, foretold from centuries past? Where else can you stand on a beach and watch as sharks pass over a submerged temple? Experience all this and much more – only at Pu’ukohola Heiau!

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

At World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, home of the USS Arizona Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. The monument preserves and interprets the stories of the Pacific War, from the internment of Japanese Americans to the battles in the Aleutians.

For more attractions, visit Go Hawaii.

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