8 Top Hawaii National Parks (2023)

Hawaii is a beautiful state that is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Like many other states in the United States, Hawaii has beautiful and historic national parks. Hawaii national parks are eight in number, each offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

Haleakala National Park is one of Hawaii’s most popular national parks and is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano. Visitors can watch the sunrise over the crater and hike through the beautiful landscapes. This is one of many Hawaii national parks that offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Hawaii and the United States.

Its name evokes images of sandy beaches, palm trees swaying in the sea breeze, rainbows, sunset cocktails, and sensational seafood. Hawaii is easily one of the most popular holiday destinations in the United States. Lovers of nature and history will find plenty to see and do in the Hawaiian Islands, especially in the national parks of Hawaii.

If you’re interested in exploring Hawaii’s cultural heritage, the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a must-see. Within the park, there are ancient Hawaiian temples, fishponds, and other cultural sites that provide a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

Also, Hawaii national parks offer a range of experiences, from hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes to learning about the island’s rich cultural history.

So, whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring volcanoes, or learning about Hawaiian history, there’s something for your viewing and learning pleasure in Hawaii national parks.

List Of Hawaii National Parks

Below are the top national parks in Hawaii:

1. Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is located on the island of Maui and is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano. The park offers visitors breathtaking views of the sunrise over the crater and a variety of hiking trails. The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round.

• Visiting hours: The park’s visitor center is open daily from 7 am to 3:45 pm.
• Location: The address of Haleakala National Park is 7,000 feet above sea level on the Haleakala Highway (HI 378), Kula, HI 96790.

2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the island of Hawaii and is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s volcanic history through hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led tours. The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, but some areas may close due to volcanic activity.

• Visiting hours: The Kilauea Visitor Center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, while the Jaggar Museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.
• Location: The address of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is 1 Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718.

3. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park comes third on this list of Hawaii National Parks. This park is located on the island of Hawaii and is a must-see for those interested in Hawaiian history and culture. The park features ancient Hawaiian temples, fishponds, and other cultural sites that provide a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

• Visiting hours: The park is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
• Location: The address of Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is 1871 Trail, Captain Cook, HI 96704.

4. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is located on the island of Hawaii and is home to ancient Hawaiian fishponds, petroglyphs, and other cultural sites. The park also offers visitors a chance to hike through the beautiful coastal landscapes.

• Visiting hours: The park is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
• Location: The address of Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is 73-4786 Kanalani St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

5. Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is located on the island of Molokai and is a former leprosy colony that now serves as a memorial to those who lived there. The park can only be accessed by hiking, mule ride, or airplane.

• Visiting hours: The park is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, except on federal holidays.
• Location: The address of Kalaupapa National Historical Park is P.O. Box 2222, Kalaupapa, HI 96742.

6. World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument is located on the island of Oahu and is a tribute to the men and women who served in the Pacific during World War II. The park includes the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic sites.

• Visiting hours: The park is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
• Location: The address of World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument is 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818.

7. Honouliuli National Historic Site

Honouliuli National Historic Site is an awesome national park in Hawaii for learning and pleasure. It is located on the island of Oahu and is a former internment camp for Japanese Americans during World War II. The park offers visitors a chance to learn about this dark period of American history and the impact it had on the people who were forced to live in the camp.

• Visiting hours: The park is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm.
• Location: The address of Honouliuli National Historic Site is 91-1259 Midway St, Kapolei, HI 96707.

8. Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and is the largest marine conservation area in the world. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and monk seals. The park is not open to the public but can be accessed through guided tours or by permit.

• Location: The address of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is 300 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96850.

Conclusion

Hawaii national parks offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Hawaii. From the world’s largest dormant volcano at Haleakala National Park to the ancient Hawaiian temples and fishponds at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, each park provides a unique experience.

To truly appreciate the islands’ history and beauty, I recommend that you also explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Kalaupapa National Historical Park, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Honouliuli National Historic Site, and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

It is important to note that each park has its operating hours and may have closures or restrictions due to volcanic activity or other reasons. Visitors should check each park’s website for the latest information before planning their trip. This will help with information on current operating hours and any restrictions or closures due to volcanic activity or other reasons. With their stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, Hawaii’s national parks are worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or marine life, Hawaii national parks offer something for everyone.