The best walks and hikes in Hawaiʻi County

The park offers an otherworldly experience, with trails crossing stark, solidified lava lake floors and passing steaming vents. You can walk through lush rainforest that suddenly opens up to volcanic craters. For a unique perspective on the volcanic landscape, consider the Halema‘uma‘u and Keanakāko‘i Craters trail. For the most current trail conditions and safety alerts, it's always best to check the official National Park Service website.

Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Pu‘u Huluhulu Cinder Cone trail is a relatively short and easy walk across a lava field to a forested cinder cone, offering great views. Another excellent choice is the Kaulana Manu Nature Trail near Hilo, which is a well-maintained loop perfect for a short nature walk and listening to native birds.

The slopes above the Kona coast offer beautiful forested trails. A popular choice is the Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail loop in the Honuaʻula Forest Reserve. It provides a cooler, shaded alternative to the coastal heat and winds through a lush landscape.

While many of the island's most famous waterfalls are best seen from viewpoints or tours, some trails get you close to the action. The Onomea Bay Trail, part of the scenic route near Hilo, is a highly-rated hike that winds through a lush tropical valley with streams and coastal views, embodying the classic rainforest-to-ocean scenery associated with Hawaiian waterfalls.

For a significant challenge, the Keauhou Trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a strenuous 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route across a hardened lava field to a remote coastal campsite. Another demanding option is the Kīlauea Iki Crater via Uēaloha and Devastation Trail Loop, a longer and more strenuous version of the classic crater hike.

Absolutely. The hike to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is one of the most unique coastal treks in the world. It's a 5.5-mile (8.8 km) round-trip hike across a rugged, sun-exposed coastline to one of only a few green sand beaches on the planet. The reward is a truly memorable landscape, but be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Layering is key due to the island's diverse microclimates. For volcanic and high-altitude hikes, like those in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, wear sturdy hiking shoes, long pants, and bring a rain jacket and warm layers, as conditions can change quickly. For coastal and valley hikes, lightweight clothing, a hat, and sun protection are essential. Always carry more water than you think you'll need.

For most day hikes in places like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, you only need to pay the park entrance fee. However, permits are required for all overnight backcountry camping within the park. Some trails on private or state land may also require specific permits or have access restrictions, so it's always wise to check in advance for your intended route.

Both offer stunning views of the dramatic northern coastline. The Pololū Valley hike is shorter, more accessible, and leads down to a beautiful black sand beach. As of early 2022, access to the Waipiʻo Valley floor and its trail has been restricted to residents and tour operators due to safety concerns on the steep access road. While you can't hike down, the Waipiʻo Valley Overlook still provides one of the most iconic and breathtaking views on the island.

There are over 230 designated hiking routes throughout Hawaiʻi County. They range from easy coastal walks and lush nature trails to strenuous, multi-day treks across volcanic landscapes, offering something for every skill level.

The trail network in Hawaiʻi County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the incredible diversity of the landscape—being able to hike across a still-steaming crater floor one day and through a lush, tropical rainforest the next is a unique experience that defines hiking on the Big Island.