4.5Akaka Falls State Park(6.332 reviews) - Falls - if you have time…make your way to it! Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Waterfalls
The one thing we realized the park was helping with human foot traffic was posting a sign that said ONE WAY - you enter to the right and walk and enjoy the local trees and fauna. Follow the trail and it will lead you to the falls itself! There are two lookout points for photo ops. Easy walk.ONE VERY short trail. Parking was a bit of a challenge / park outside the park lines and it’s free. Park inside the very small lot it’s 5.00 and it’s entry fee is 5.00 as well. There’s a machine that takes credit card and local attendants are checking.See more..
This 182-acre park contains the Puuhonua, a sacred place of refuge, as well as other temples and coastal sites.See more..
4.5Punalu'u Black Sand beach(1.763 reviews) - Giant turtles, black sand, ancient art and giant turtles! Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours State Parks • Beaches • Parks
This easily accessible beach lies between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu, and is a popular detour when visiting the Volcanoes National Park. It draws both locals and travelers to its shores for its gorgeous black sand—a result of underwater volcanic activity—and for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive and endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. If you're lucky, you might spot these creatures resting on the warm, black sand. Hawaiian monk seals sometimes make a rare appearance, too. Tours of the Big Island often include a stop at this black sand beach, along with Akaka and Rainbow Falls. – TripadvisorSee more..
My family of four visited there on a recent day and found a snorkeling site (two steps) near the park extremely enjoyable. Easy access from the shore and the waters there offered a big variety of marine life. Corals are sadly dead, though. If you travel with young children or elderly, they can also chill there by staying in tidal pools which are safe and fun. There is a paid parking lot for $5 per car, but I also saw people parking on the street. I actually didn’t go to the park itself. See more..
