February 4th, 2008
Top 10 National Parks in the Hawaiian Islands
Oahu - Nu’uanu Pali State Wayside is a lookout above the tunnels where visitors are treated to a panoramic view of the Oʻahu’s windward side with sweeping views of Kāneʻohe, Kaneohe Bay, and Kailua. It is also well-known for strong trade winds that blow through the pass, forming a sort of natural wind tunnel.
Kauai - Wailua River State Park is a lush river valley with riverboat cruise (fee charged) to Fern Grotto, an unusual fern-clothed cave set in a tropical garden; scenic vistas of attractive waterfalls and Wailua River Valley; the Wailua Complex of Heiau (National Historic Landmark)–remains of heiau (places of worship), pu’uhonua (places of refuge), birthstones and bellstone at this once important seat of chiefly power; river fishing and picnicking in riverside coconut grove; and dining and gift shopping at Marina Section.
Kauai - Ha’ena State Park is a scenic wildland park. This park lies at the “end of the road” on Kaua‘i’s north shore, and is an extremely popular destination for both visitors and locals. Viewing of wet caves — ancient sea caves formed during a higher stand of sea, probably 4,000 years ago; tradition credits Pele the volcano goddess as having dug the caves in her search for a new home. Beach-related activities, shore fishing, viewing of spectacular Na Pali Coast and swimming at Ke‘e Beach (conditions allowing). The turquoise cove provides a picturesque setting to enjoy a picnic or stroll on the beach. The trailhead for the 11-mile Kalalau Trail begins in this park.
Oahu - Diamond Head State Park is a crater of an extinct volcano that got its name when Western explorers mistook calcite crystals they found there for diamonds. The historic trail to the 761-foot summit starts inside the crater and is an easy, but steep, 45-minute hike to the top. Stay on the trail, wear appropriate footgear and sunscreen, take along water and bring a flashlight to light your way through the tunnels. Those who reach the summit are rewarded by a spectacular 360-degree view of O’ahu.
Maui - Makena State Park comprises 165 coastal acres of south of Wailea on the island of Maui. The largest beach, also known as "Big Beach" is 1.5 miles long and more than 100 feet wide. "Little Beach" nearby, is one of the few beaches on the Hawaiian Islands where nude sunbathing is tolerated by local police, another being ‘Red Sand Beach’ located near Hana. Big Beach, or Oneloa, is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, as it is both a wonderful sunbathing and bodyboarding spot.
Hawaii - Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a landscaped beach park with swimming during calm seas, bodysurfing during periods of shore breaks, sunbathing and other beach-related activities, picnicking and shelter lodging opportunities. Dangerous rip currents and pounding shore breaks during periods of high surf! Waves over 3 feet high are for experts–all other should stay out of the water and away from the shoreline! Lifeguard services. Hiking opportunity along the coastal trail.
Maui - Iao Valley State Monument is a paved 0.6 mile walk provides a scenic viewpoint of Kuka‘emoku (’Iao Needle), an erosional feature which abruptly rises 1200 feet from the valley floor. Learn about the plants brought by the Hawaiians who settled in ‘Iao Valley by taking a short walk through a botanical garden. This valley is rich in cultural and spiritual values and is the site of the battle of Kepaniwai where the forces of Kamehameha I conquered the Maui army in 1790.
Kauai - Waimea Canyon State Park the rim of the canyon overlooks of one of the State’s scenic treasures - the deep, colorful gorge of Waimea Canyon. Viewpoint of Ni‘ihau Island; wildland picnicking and short nature trail. Adjacent forest reserve with long, strenuous hike into and out of the canyon. Seasonal trout fishing. Pig and seasonal goat hunting nearby.
Kauai - Na Pali Coast State Park is a very special place. The pali, or cliffs, provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the sea. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. Extensive stone walled terraces can still be found on the valley bottoms where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro.
Oahu - Ka’ena Point State Park is a relatively remote wild coastline with picnicking opportunities and shore fishing. Large sandy beach at Keawa’ula Bay with board surfing and bodysurfing for experts and swimming only during completely calm conditions in the summer; lifeguard services. Long family hike (2.7 miles one-way) along volcanic coast with tide pools, small natural stone arches and fine views of Makua coastline. Early morning dolphin sightings from point near Kaluakauila stream mouth. Viewing of the large sea cave, Kaneana, legendary home of Nanue the shark man. Hot, dry area with little shade. No drinking water.
