Two distinct roads take center stage at Kīlauea: Crater Rim Drive is a scenic route that circles the summit; Chain of Craters Road is an excursion route that descends the slopes all the way to the sea. Road access may vary depending on volcanic activity and park conditions. Be sure to check conditions before driving.
Historic Sites and Expansive Trails
Puʻukoholā Heiau was built by Kamehameha the Great between 1790 and 1791. The temple played a decisive role in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands. Its construction period and historical significance give the site a special place in the history of the archipelago.
The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile corridor of culturally and historically significant trails. It passes through traditional landscapes, ancient Hawaiian sites, and more than 200 ahupuaʻa. Several sections are open for hiking; access varies by section. Before your trip, check which parts are suitable for your plans.
At Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, an ancient Hawaiian settlement includes parts of four ahupuaʻa. From the park visitor center, it’s a 20-minute walk to Honokōhau Beach. Access information was updated on June 2, 2026; nevertheless, check current conditions before visiting.
Waterfalls and Nature
At ʻAkaka Falls State Park, a 0.4-mile self-guided loop trail winds through lush tropical vegetation to overlooks of Kahuna Falls and ʻAkaka Falls. ʻAkaka Falls plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge. This places a specific trail length alongside the waterfall’s remarkable height as two distinct measures.
Boiling Pots in Wailuku River State Park consists of a series of large pools connected by underground water flow or cascades. Rainbow Falls, also in Wailuku River State Park, is 80 feet high. On many mornings, rainbows form in its spray, for which the waterfall is known.
Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is home to 82 species and nearly 300 animals in a lush rainforest setting. Another experience awaits at the Maniniʻōwali (Kua Bay) section of Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park: when the sea is calm, you can swim there.
Regions and Getting There
As a broader island context, Hawaiʻi is divided into six main districts or regions: Hāmākua, Hilo, Puna, Kaʻū, Kona, and Kohala. These names provide a framework for the island’s regional references, while each of the historic sites, trails, and natural attractions mentioned has its own distinct features.
To get there, you can fly into Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) in Kona. Flight offers may change; check your current options before traveling. Hawaiʻi County offers free public transportation with the Hele On (Let’s Go) Bus, with service between Kona and Hilo Monday through Saturday. You should also check routes and schedules before traveling.
Discover more destinations: Hilo, Volcano, Waikoloa Village, Kailua Kona, Puako, Pahoa, Keaau, Pepeekeo, Mountain View, Holualoa, Captain Cook, Naalehu, Kealakekua, Kapaau, Waimea, Eden Roc, Kalaoa, Paauilo, Honokaa, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Pahala, Kukuihaele, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kawaihae, Papaikou, Nanawale Estates, Kahaluu-Keauhou, Orchidlands Estates, Fern Forest, Hawaiian Beaches, Fern Acres
For the broader travel overview: Hawaii.
