The best walks and hikes in Hawaiʻi County

Step into a world of serene beauty on the Liliʻuokalani Gardens Loop, an easy 0.9-mile (1.4 km) hiking trail that transports you to an Edo-style Japanese garden right in Hilo. You'll stroll past traditional stone lanterns, cross graceful arched red bridges spanning koi-filled ponds, and discover a charming teahouse. The flat, paved paths make it a relaxing experience, though some areas near the fishponds can be a bit uneven or slippery after rain.

This gentle route is perfect for a quick, peaceful outing, taking only about 21 minutes to complete with a minimal 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain. The gardens are easily accessible in Hilo, with ample parking available, making it a convenient stop for a morning or late afternoon walk. It's an ideal choice for families, those with strollers, or anyone looking for a tranquil escape.

What truly sets this trail apart is its distinction as one of the largest Edo-style Japanese gardens outside of Japan, offering a unique cultural and historical experience. Named after Hawaii's last monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani, the gardens honor the first Japanese immigrants to the Big Island. You can also connect to Mokuola (Coconut Island) via a footbridge for extended views and a picnic spot, adding another layer to this already special place.

The Kumukea Beach hiking trail offers a delightful, easy stroll along a unique Hawaiian coastline. You'll experience a distinctive blend of fine black lava and golden-brown sand underfoot, with swaying palm trees and magnificent ocean views accompanying you. Keep an eye out for ancient ruins and the intriguing anchialine water ponds, and you might even spot green sea turtles (honu) or spinner dolphins, making it a truly memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

This is a very accessible route, covering just 0.6 miles (1.0 km) with a negligible 1 foot (0 metres) of elevation gain, taking only about 15 minutes to complete. Public access to this beautiful beach, despite its location within the Hualalai Resort, is available through the security guard's hut. It's an ideal choice for family friendly hikes Kumukea Beach, especially if you're looking for a quick, rewarding outing.

Kumukea Beach is notable for its pristine luxury beach setting and the geological history evident in its lava flows. A section of the route follows the historic Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, adding a cultural layer to your walk. The area is especially famous for its stunning sunsets, offering a perfect end to your day on the Kona-Kohala coast.

The Hilo Bayfront Trail offers a delightful, easy walk along the picturesque shoreline of Hilo Bay, providing expansive views of the water and the distant, majestic peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. This 1.1-mile (1.8 km) paved pathway winds through beautifully maintained green spaces, including the Queen Liliuokalani Gardens with its lush greenery and towering palm trees. It's a flat, accessible route, perfect for a quick 27-minute outing with minimal effort, gaining only 17 feet (5 metres) in elevation.

This multi-use pathway is suitable for all fitness levels, including families and those with leashed dogs. While some segments run parallel to busy streets, the trail offers a relaxing experience. Be sure to prepare for plenty of sun exposure, as shade is limited along the route. It's an ideal choice for a casual stroll at any time of day, offering easy access to Hilo's natural beauty.

The Hilo Bayfront Trail is part of a larger community initiative to connect various points of interest, including downtown Hilo, Hilo Harbor, and Coconut Island. The area holds deep historical roots, once a marshland and a site of Polynesian settlement, with plans for interpretive signs to highlight its cultural significance. This trail showcases Hilo's natural beauty, encompassing its beaches, parks, and recreational areas, making it a valuable asset for both residents and visitors.

The Kawa'a Beach Trail offers a unique, easy escape to a secluded black sand beach on the Big Island. This short 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hike, with virtually no elevation gain, leads you through a landscape of lava rock and shrubland before revealing Kāwā Bay, a hidden gem with numerous tidepools and freshwater springs. It's a perfect, quick adventure for those seeking a tranquil coastal experience without a strenuous trek.

To access the trail, you'll follow a lava road from the highway; consider a high-clearance vehicle or be prepared for a 15-minute walk if parking by the highway. The entire journey takes only about 12 minutes, making it an ideal stop for a quick exploration. Remember to bring your own water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the bay, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this special place.

Beyond its natural beauty, Kawa'a Beach holds deep cultural and historical significance, with ancient structure remains like Ke'eku Heiau in the area. It's also a vital conservation site, protecting nesting areas for the critically endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtle. This trail offers a chance to connect with both the natural and cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi County, making it a truly notable destination.

The Crater Rim Trail offers a captivating journey around the summit caldera of Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, making it one of the most popular routes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. As you hike, you'll experience a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from dense rainforests with 'Ōhi'a trees to the stark, arid beauty of the Kaʻū Desert, all while walking over ancient lava flows. Keep an eye out for steam vents and the dramatic Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which provide constant reminders of the dynamic geological forces at play.

This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike, with 688 feet (210 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 26 minutes to complete. While some sections are paved, you should be prepared for uneven gravel paths and occasional steep inclines or stairs. You can access various parts of the trail from multiple trailheads, such as Uēkahuna, allowing you to choose a shorter out-and-back section if you prefer. Always stay on marked trails due to unstable ground and be ready for rapid weather changes.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique position on the edge of an active volcano, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness ongoing geological processes. It's a fantastic way to explore the park's diverse landscapes, from lush greenery to volcanic desolation, all within a single route. The Crater Rim Trail provides a profound sense of connection to the Earth's raw power and is a must-do for anyone visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.