Top Things to do in Island of Hawaii
What to do and see in Island of Hawaii, Hawaii (HI): The Best Hiking Trails
Life on the Big Island is a little bit slower… and locals like it that way. The natural beauty and ecological features of the island are a draw for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Test your chutzpah at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, or climb to the indescribably beautiful summit of Mauna Kea. At the end of the day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a quivering plate of fresh poke, followed by a fruity shave ice.
Restaurants in Island of Hawaii
1. Kilauea Iki Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,428 reviews
A moderate 4 mile hike into a an old volcanic crater.
Reviewed By jdc8mbc
Start early in the day, if only because parking is extremely limited at the Kilauea Iki Overlook. There are two ways to hike: clockwise, the more difficult direction which begins with an unpaved path, or counterclockwise, the easier direction which begins with going down steps. The descent to the crater floor is 400 feet... the ascent back to the parking area via the counterclockwise direction involves hiking switchbacks which is easier than climbing uneven, high, and steep steps if one has taken the clockwise direction. If in relatively decent shape, allow approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Elevation/altitude is about 4,000 feet. The interpretative map/guide is available for $2 at the park headquarters and is worthwhile. Pack a hat/cap, sunglasses, plenty of water and insect repellent.
2. Kealia Ranch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By jami97 - San Diego, United States
LOVE this place, best shaved ice with awesome flavors, and seriously, it costs $2. Look forward to going back every year.
3. The 1871 Trail
4. Muliwai Trail to Waimanu Valley
5. Ka'aha Trail
6. Green Sand Beach Trailhead
7. Halemaumau Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8 reviews
Hike down the world's largest volcanic crater.
Reviewed By MattAbt0429 - Hermosa Beach, United States
One of the VNP park rangers recommended this hike to me and I’m glad he did - i loved it, almost as much as Kiluea’Iki trail. You hike downhill through an absolutely beautiful rainforest, then after about 1/2 hr you’re inside the active Kilauea crater! I didn’t think I’d ever be inside an active volcano, but there I was. You can see the smoke from the crater, but no lava. It’s absolutely otherworldly down there. From the bottom, you can continue on to other hikes, or hike back uphill, which is a moderate climb. As a bonus, for some reason no one else does this hike - it’s almost like they’re trying to hide it - so you might be the only one there.
8. Waipio Na'alapa Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By okmac - Spokane Valley, United States
What a stunning and gorgeous place. The lookout at the end of the road has parking, restrooms and beautiful views. Descend the nearly 1 mile paved road down to the valley floor, at an average 25% grade, and you'll be even more rewarded. Ferrin the end of the paved path to the beach is another quarter mile on gravel. Wear good shoes and take plenty of water. The beach, river, and valley at the bottom are gorgeous. Hike back up at your own pace. Took us 35 minutes of grinding each way.
9. Mauna Iki Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
A 3.2 mile historical hiking trail.
Reviewed By Treeeman - Seattle, United States
Have done this hike several times. It is a moderate difficulty hike which has a few steep segments with lava that needs to be traversed. It is not dangerous, but one needs to watch one's step in places.The floor of the crater is well worth experiencing with several steam vents noticeable.
10. Kipuka Puaulu (Bird Park) Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
An easy one-hour hike through meadowlands and old growth forest.
Reviewed By Steve82WCHS - Nappanee, United States
Easy trail with minimal elevation gain through a cool tropical forest. Opportunities to see many birds, including honeycreepers, but go early or late as they are not very active mid-day. Trail has lots of interesting signage concerning the trees and other plants found in the forest. Highly recommended as part of your Volcano NP visit
