Top Parks in Hawaii

Wear good hiking shoes; the trail can be rocky and steep. I saw a few people struggling in flip-flops, and it just didn’t look fun.

Get there early, like around 6:30 AM, to avoid the crowds and snag a parking spot. Trust me, it gets packed fast!

If you have a few extra bucks, consider taking an Uber instead of parking. The parking fee adds up, and it can be hard to find a spot.

try to visit on a weekday if you can. the weekends are super busy, and you’ll be stuck in lines longer than you want.

bring cash for the park entrance fee! some places near the park only accept cash, so having a few bucks on hand can save you a hassle.

Don’t skip the Jaggar Museum. Even if it’s under construction, the views of Kīlauea are amazing. I recommend going around sunset for the best photos.

Check the weather before you go. I was caught in a surprise rainstorm, and it made some trails super muddy. A good rain jacket is worth packing!

Grab some beach gear from the ABC Store – they have everything from snacks to sunscreen at decent prices... You'll save time looking for stuff later!

I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. It’s way less crowded, and you can snag a good spot on the beach without battling the weekend crowds.

If you want to catch a great sunset, head to the beach by 5:30 PM. Bring a picnic; it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring!

I think renting a bicycle to explore the park is a great idea. You can cover more ground and discover the hidden gems without spending too much time walking around.

If you're into fitness, bring your running shoes! The park has a beautiful walk/run path that’s great for exercise while enjoying the views.

My advice is to grab a spot for sunset at least an hour before. It gets super packed, and the views are absolutely stunning, so plan to get there early!

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks. The food options in the area can be pricey, and there's plenty of space to picnic in the park.

I think it's worth checking out the cultural demonstrations if you can. They only happen at certain times so grab a schedule at the entrance to not miss out. I missed it and I really regretted it!

My advice is to arrive just before 9 AM. The park opens then, and it's way less crowded. You’ll get to really enjoy the views and take photos without a ton of people in the way.

So, I recommend bringing a good pair of sandals or water shoes if you plan to go swimming. The beaches are rocky, and you'll be much more comfy than wearing flip flops. Trust me, I had a rough time without them!

I suggest grabbing some lunch at a local food truck nearby before heading in. Save some bucks because the park food is pricier, and you wouldn't want to spend all your cash on mediocre snacks like I did!

Check out the sunsets from the beach area! I was blown away by the views, and it’s a perfect way to end your day at the park.

Pack a picnic! The park has beautiful spots to relax, and you can save cash by grabbing some snacks from local food markets instead of dining out.

Bring some water and sunscreen, especially if you're planning to hike. It can get pretty hot, and you don’t want to be caught unprepared!

I truly recommend taking the Kalalau Trail early in the morning, around 7 AM, to avoid crowds and get the best photos. It was so peaceful, but by midday, it felt like a highway with people everywhere!

I suggest bringing a reusable water bottle so you can refill it at the park. Save money on bottled water; plus, you'll stay hydrated during those hikes! When I went, I saw a lot of people regretting not having enough water

I recommend checking out the evening show; it's a total highlight. But make sure you snag seats early—it's super popular and fills up fast

My advice is to grab the dining package when you book your tickets. It saves you money and you'll get to enjoy a nice buffet dinner before the show!