Must-See National Parks in Hawaii: Where to Go First
Start with the right park or risk wasting your one chance
Start your trip at the wrong park, and you could lose an entire day. You might end up stuck in traffic, circling a whole parking lot, or hiking a trail that’s too hot or muddy to enjoy. In a place like Hawaii, where every moment counts, that’s a mistake you want to avoid.
Think of Hawaii’s national parks like a buffet. There’s a lot to try, but if you fill up on the wrong thing first, you might miss the best part. When you choose the right starting point, you’ll have the energy and time to enjoy more of what makes these parks so special.
What You’ll Learn
Here’s what you’ll walk away with:
The right park to visit first
Smart timing tips
A few lesser-known gems
Summary
Hawaii offers an extraordinary collection of eight national park sites across four islands, each showcasing unique geological wonders, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. For first-time visitors, choosing where to begin can be overwhelming, but understanding each park's distinct character and accessibility will help you prioritize your island adventures.
The Two Must-Visit National Parks
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island
Why Visit First: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park stands as the crown jewel of Hawaiian national parks, encompassing 323,431 acres and featuring two of the world's most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
Visitors to this park have the rare opportunity to witness Earth's creative forces in real time. It is both an International Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Current Volcanic Activity: As of June 2025, Kilauea is experiencing an ongoing summit eruption, with the fountaining phase of episode 26 predicted to begin between June 18 and 20, 2025, based on current summit inflation rates. The ongoing Halema'uma'u eruption has featured 25 spectacular eruptive episodes since it started on December 23, 2024.
Essential Experiences:
Crater Rim Drive: A scenic loop providing multiple viewpoints of Kilauea Caldera
Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku): Walk through a 500-year-old lava cave
Chain of Craters Road: A 19-mile drive descending 3,700 feet to the coast with numerous stops
Steam Vents and Sulfur Banks: Witness volcanic gases emerging from the earth
Practical Information: The park charges $30 per vehicle for a 7-day admission, with entrance fees applying only to visitors age 16 or older. Parking lots can fill up by 10 AM, and visitors should expect traffic delays, especially during periods of active eruptions.
Haleakala National Park, Maui
Why Visit Haleakala National Park: It offers an entirely different volcanic experience, featuring the world's largest dormant volcano crater at an elevation of 10,023 feet.
The park is renowned for its spectacular sunrise views, diverse ecosystems ranging from subtropical rainforest to alpine desert, and its unique collection of endangered species.
Signature Experience: The summit sunrise viewing requires reservations ($1 fee) for vehicles entering between 3:00 and 7:00 AM. Reservations are bookable up to 60 days in advance, with tickets released at 7:00 AM HST. Mark Twain famously called this sunrise "the sublimest spectacle I ever saw".
Summit Sunrise/Sunset: Iconic viewing from the crater rim with reservations required
Crater Hiking: Trails descending into the massive volcanic valley
Kipahulu Section: Features scenic pools, waterfalls, and coastal access
Stargazing: Exceptional night sky viewing due to high elevation and limited light pollution
Practical Considerations: Weather varies dramatically by elevation, as summit temperatures can be near freezing while coastal areas remain tropical. The park charges $30 per vehicle for a 3-day admission.
Essential Planning Information
Entrance Fees and Passes
Individual Park Fees (2025):
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: $30 per vehicle (valid 7 days)
Haleakala National Park: $30 per vehicle (valid 3 days)
Money-Saving Options:
Hawaii Tri-Park Annual Pass: $55 (covers Hawaii Volcanoes, Haleakala, and Pu'uhonua o Honaunau)
America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 (all national parks nationwide)
Free Entrance Days 2025: January 20, April 19, June 19, August 4, September 27, and November 11.
Best Times to Visit
Optimal Seasons: The dry season from April to October offers the most comfortable hiking conditions, fewer crowds, and better accommodation rates. Spring (May) and fall (September) are particularly ideal for avoiding peak tourist seasons while enjoying excellent weather.
Daily Timing: Arrive early (before 10 AM) to secure parking and avoid crowds. Parks fill up quickly, especially Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where parking is typically full by late morning.
Other Notable National Park Sites
Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oahu
One of the best things to do in Oahu is to visit the most popular national park site in Hawaii, which commemorates the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial features the USS Arizona Memorial, a visitor center, and educational exhibits about the Pacific Theater of World War II. Admission is free, with tours available daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, Big Island
This 420-acre site preserves ancient Hawaiian culture as a former place of refuge where lawbreakers could escape death by reaching this sacred sanctuary. The park features reconstructed temples, royal fish ponds, and dramatic ki'i (carved images) that represent deified chiefs and gods.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Big Island
Located along the western coastline near Kona International Airport, this park preserves ancient Hawaiian settlement sites, including fishponds, heiau (temples), and petroglyphs. Visitors can spot Hawaiian green sea turtles, native birds, and possibly Hawaiian monk seals.
Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, Big Island
Home to one of the largest restored heiau (temples) in Hawaii, built by Kamehameha the Great in 1790-1791 without mortar. The massive stone temple measures 224 feet by 100 feet and is surrounded by walls that are 16 to 20 feet high.
Recommended Itinerary Strategy
For 7-10 Days: Focus on both major national parks. Spend 2-3 days on the Big Island for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and related sites, then 2-3 days on Maui for Haleakala. Inter-island flights are essential and should be booked early.
For 4-5 Days: Choose one island and thoroughly explore its national park offerings. The Big Island offers a diverse range of park experiences, featuring five National Park Service units.
Single-Day Priority: If you can only visit one park, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers the most dynamic and globally significant geological experience, especially during periods of current volcanic activity.
Begin your Hawaiian national parks journey with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness active volcanic processes. Then, contrast this with Haleakala's dormant crater and the breathtaking sunrise spectacle. These two parks showcase Hawaii's volcanic origins while offering completely different landscapes and experiences.
The Island Menu: Choose your first plate wisely
Planning your Hawaii trip is like lining up at a buffet. Everything smells amazing, and it’s tempting to scoop up whatever’s closest. But if you go for the heaviest, most decadent dish first, you’ll probably regret it by the time the absolute favorites show up.
That’s what it’s like picking which national park to visit first.
Some parks are intense. Big hikes, changing weather, long drives. Others are more relaxed and better for easing into your trip. When you choose right, you leave room for more. More energy. More moments. More memories. However, if you start with the wrong one, you might burn out early or miss something that better suits you.
Your first stop sets the rhythm. It shapes how you experience the rest of Hawaii. Since most visitors only get one shot at this, that choice matters more than most folks think.
This guide doesn’t just show you what’s out there. It helps you pick what makes the most sense to do first, based on timing, travel flow, and the kind of day you want to have.
Hawaii's National Parks: More Than Just Pretty Views
Hawaii isn’t just beaches and surfboards. The islands hold stories told through lava flows, cliffside temples, and ancient footpaths. Across four of its islands, Hawaii has eight national park sites, each one shining a different light on what makes this place so rare.
Here’s what they all share: they’re shaped by the land and the people who’ve called it home for centuries. When you visit these parks, you’re not just checking off a travel list. You’re stepping into living places that continue to change and inspire.
That’s why planning your visit based on what you want to see, how much time you have, and what you can realistically do matters more than you might expect.
Start with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island
If you are deciding where to begin your national park journey in Hawaii, start here. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island spans over 323,000 acres and features two of the most active volcanoes on Earth: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. This park offers something few others can: the chance to witness the planet’s surface changing in real time.
Visiting this park is not just about scenic views. It is also about standing at the edge of a living landscape, where the ground may be steaming beneath your feet and the air carries the scent of minerals.
Why visit this park first?
This park offers the most dynamic and memorable start to any itinerary. The geological activity, scientific significance, and size make it unmatched.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve
Home to some of the most dramatic volcanic landscapes in the world
Offers a unique perspective on how the Hawaiian Islands were formed
Starting here allows visitors to appreciate the geological foundation of the islands, setting the stage for the rest of the trip.
Current volcanic activity
As of June 2025, Kīlauea is actively erupting. Scientists predict that Episode 26 of the Halemaʻumaʻu eruption will begin between June 18 and 20. It follows 25 previous episodes, starting in December 2024. While not uncommon in Hawaii, witnessing a live eruption is a rare and unforgettable experience.
Even during periods when lava is not visible, the steam, shifting earth, and scent of sulfur offer a clear reminder of the robust processes beneath the surface.
Key attractions in the park
Each location within the park offers a distinct view of its volcanic environment:
Crater Rim Drive: A scenic road that circles the summit of Kīlauea, with several overlooks for observing the caldera
Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube): A short, walkable lava tunnel that gives a glimpse into how lava once flowed underground
Chain of Craters Road: A 19-mile road descending to the coastline, passing through old lava flows and showcasing wide-open landscapes
Steam Vents and Sulfur Banks: Areas where volcanic gases rise through cracks in the ground, coloring the rocks and soil
These stops offer a mix of short walks, scenic views, and geological insight.
Visitor information and tips
To get the most out of your visit, planning is recommended.
The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle and is valid for seven days
Arrive before 10:00 a.m. to secure parking and avoid midday congestion
Wear layered clothing to adjust for temperature shifts with elevation
Prepare for traffic delays during eruption activity or peak times
Visiting Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park first gives your trip purpose and perspective. It offers a rare chance to see the island's foundation in motion and sets a strong tone for exploring the rest of Hawaii’s natural and cultural sites.
Next Stop: Haleakalā’s Summit Skies And Crater Trails
After witnessing the raw, active force of Kīlauea, Haleakalā National Park offers a peaceful but equally impressive contrast. Located on the island of Maui, this park features the world’s largest dormant volcanic crater, stretching nearly seven miles across. At 10,023 feet above sea level, the summit offers views that reach far across the Pacific.
This park feels different. The silence at the top is striking, and the colors of the crater shift through reds, purples, and deep oranges at sunrise or sunset. It is a calm experience, but no less memorable.
Why this one second?
Visiting Haleakalā after Hawai‘i Volcanoes helps balance your trip. The pace is slower, the hikes are more moderate, and the scenery is almost otherworldly. It gives you space to reflect and reset after the intensity of the Big Island.
Highlights a dormant volcano, not an active one
The cooler, high-altitude climate is a welcome change
Home to native species found nowhere else on Earth
It is also logistically easier to plan after you visit the Big Island, especially if you are splitting your time between islands.
Signature experience: Sunrise at the summit
It is the most famous activity in the park. Watching a breathtaking Maui sunrise above the clouds from the summit is often described as a spiritual experience.
Reservations are required for vehicles entering between 3:00 and 7:00 a.m.
The cost is $1 per vehicle and must be booked in advance
Tickets are released online 60 days ahead and sell out quickly
If you're not a morning person, sunset is an excellent alternative, offering the same views in reverse lighting, and no reservation is needed.
Top highlights inside the park
There is more to Haleakalā than the sunrise. Plan time for these locations:
Summit Area: Lookout points and short trails at high elevation, including the Pa Ka‘oao Trail
Crater Hiking: Trails like Sliding Sands descend into the massive volcanic valley for an otherworldly hike
Kīpahulu District: Located on the eastern side of the island, it features waterfalls, coastal views, and the popular Pools of 'Ohe'o.
Stargazing: With low light pollution and high elevation, the night sky is crystal clear and full of stars
These experiences offer a diverse range of scenery, from alpine deserts to tropical coastlines.
Visitor information and tips
Haleakalā is beautiful, but it can be tricky without proper planning. Elevation, timing, and weather all play a role.
Entry is $30 per vehicle, valid for three days
Summit temperatures can drop near freezing, even in summer
Weather changes quickly, especially at higher altitudes
Pack water, snacks, and sun protection for crater hikes
This park offers a powerful sense of quiet and scale. It is the perfect follow-up to Hawai‘i Volcanoes and rounds out your understanding of Hawaii’s volcanic roots in a calmer, more reflective setting.
Other National Park Sites Worth Your Time
Hawai‘i Volcanoes and Haleakalā are the biggest draws, but they are not the only places worth visiting. Hawaii is home to eight official national park sites across four islands. Many of them tell stories through history, culture, and coastal ecosystems, rather than focusing on volcanoes.
If your trip includes extra days or you're staying nearby, these sites add depth to your experience without requiring a whole day.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Oʻahu)
It is Hawaii’s most visited national park site. It honors the events of December 7, 1941, and the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial includes:
USS Arizona Memorial: Accessible by boat with timed reservations
Visitor center and exhibits: Focused on the Pacific Theater of World War II
Free admission: Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The site is both educational and emotional, offering a quiet space to reflect on one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (Big Island)
Located on the Kona Coast, this 420-acre park preserves a sacred place of refuge once used by lawbreakers seeking safety under ancient Hawaiian law.
Cultural landmarks: Includes reconstructed temples, royal fishponds, and ki‘i (carved wooden images)
Quiet setting: Palm trees, lava rock structures, and ocean views make it ideal for a peaceful stop
Great for families: Short walking trails and clear educational signage
This site brings Hawaiian customs and beliefs to life in a way that’s easy to understand and appreciate.
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park (Big Island)
Just north of Kona, this coastal park preserves the remains of ancient Hawaiian fishponds, temples, and petroglyphs.
Wildlife sightings: Sea turtles, native birds, and sometimes monk seals
Flat trails: Easy walking paths along the coast and through dry lava fields
Historic features: Preserved stonework shows how early Hawaiians managed land and water
It's a great stop before or after a nearby beach day or snorkeling trip.
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site (Big Island)
This site centers around a massive stone heiau (temple) built by Kamehameha the Great in the 1790s.
Built by hand: Stones were passed in a human chain over 20 miles, without mortar.
Historic importance: Played a key role in unifying the Hawaiian Islands under one ruler
Accessible location: Near the Kohala Coast resorts and Highway 19
The scale of the structure is impressive, and the story behind it is unforgettable.
Curious about what kind of vehicle fits island roads best? Explore the 11 best cars for driving in Hawaii to find a vehicle that suits your trip and terrain.
Essential Planning Information Before You Go
Having the correct information ahead of time can make or break your visit. These parks are beautiful, but they are also busy, remote, and sometimes unpredictable. Here are the details that matter most when building your travel plan.
Entrance fees by park
Both major national parks charge a flat entry fee per vehicle:
You do not need to pay for each person in the car. The entry fee covers everyone riding in the exact vehicle.
Pass options
If you plan to visit more than one national park site, consider these passes:
Hawaii Tri-Park Annual Pass: $55 and covers Hawai‘i Volcanoes, Haleakalā, and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau
America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 and grants access to all national parks and federal lands across the U.S.
These are worth it if you plan to visit multiple parks during your stay or within the year.
Free entrance days in 2025
On certain days, entry is free for all visitors. These dates apply nationwide:
January 20
April 19
June 19
August 4
September 27
November 11
Expect parks to be busier on these dates, particularly in popular areas such as visitor centers and overlooks.
Best times to visit
Hawaii’s climate stays mild year-round, but some times are better than others.
The dry season, from April through October, typically offers better weather for hiking and scenic views.
Best months: May and September bring good weather with fewer crowds
Avoid midday: Arrive early to beat heat, crowds, and full parking lots
For both major parks, arriving before 10:00 a.m. is a good rule of thumb.
How To Plan Your Visit Based On Your Schedule
Not everyone has two weeks to explore every corner of the islands. Whether you have one day or ten, you can still see the best parts of Hawaii’s national parks if you organize your time right. Here's how to structure your trip, depending on the number of days you have.
If you have 7 to 10 days
It is the ideal window. It gives you time to experience both major parks without rushing and still fit in beach time or other island activities.
Big Island: Spend 2 to 3 days around Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Use extra time to explore Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, Kaloko-Honokōhau, and Puʻukoholā Heiau if you are nearby.
Maui: Spend 2 to 3 days at Haleakalā. One day for the summit and sunrise, another for hiking, and a third to explore the Kīpahulu coast if you have time.
Travel Tip: Book your inter-island flights in advance. They are short but fill fast.
If you have 4 to 5 days
Pick one island and stick with it. Trying to squeeze in multiple islands in under a week will cost you more time than it's worth.
Choose the Big Island if you want the broadest range of national park experiences.
Choose Maui if you prefer scenic drives, higher elevations, and a slower pace of life.
Focusing on a single island allows you to delve deeper into the parks, rather than rushing from one to the next.
If you have only 1 day
If time is tight, make it count. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park offers the most dramatic and memorable experience in a single day, especially if the eruption is active.
Arrive early to explore Crater Rim Drive and Nāhuku.
Stay until dark if lava is visible for a night glow view.
Pack food and water so you do not need to leave the park midday.
If you're planning a move, these 10 essential tips for moving to Hawaii will help you prepare for the logistics, climate, and lifestyle differences before you arrive.
The Best Trips Start With The Right First Stop
Choosing the right national park to visit first in Hawaii shapes your entire trip. Starting at Hawai‘i Volcanoes gives you a dramatic, powerful look at the islands' volcanic foundation. Following it with Haleakalā brings in calm skies, quiet trails, and a new appreciation for Hawaii’s natural range.
From crater rims to coastal temples, every park has its own story to tell. With thoughtful planning, you can experience the most important ones without feeling rushed. And whether you have one day or ten, the correct sequence makes all the difference.
Before finalizing your travel dates, take a moment to map out your route. Check activity updates, reserve sunrise access if needed, and remember to arrive early. These small steps help you enjoy the big moments.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any rare or endangered insect species in Haleakalā National Park's crater?
Yes. Species like the Haleakalā flightless midge and silversword beetle live only in the crater's alpine desert.
Can visitors volunteer for conservation work in Hawaii’s national parks?
Yes. Parks like Haleakalā and Hawai‘i Volcanoes offer short-term volunteer programs. Check their websites for dates.
Are there World War II remnants outside Pearl Harbor's prominent memorial?
Yes. Old bunkers, pillboxes, and gun sites can still be found on Oʻahu, especially near trails and coastal areas.
What geothermal features can you safely see at Hawai‘i Volcanoes?
Steam vents and Sulfur Banks are easily accessible near the Kīlauea Visitor Center and feature marked paths for safe viewing.
For official updates, maps, closures, and real-time conditions, visit the National Park Service's Hawaii page before you go.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Park conditions, access requirements, and volcanic activity can change without notice. Always check official National Park Service websites or contact park staff directly before visiting. AmeriFreight does not provide legal, environmental, or travel advice.
