The best walks and hikes in KaʻŪ Preserve

The Kawa'a Beach Trail offers a unique, easy escape to a secluded black sand beach on the Big Island. This short 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hike, with virtually no elevation gain, leads you through a landscape of lava rock and shrubland before revealing Kāwā Bay, a hidden gem with numerous tidepools and freshwater springs. It's a perfect, quick adventure for those seeking a tranquil coastal experience without a strenuous trek.

To access the trail, you'll follow a lava road from the highway; consider a high-clearance vehicle or be prepared for a 15-minute walk if parking by the highway. The entire journey takes only about 12 minutes, making it an ideal stop for a quick exploration. Remember to bring your own water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the bay, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this special place.

Beyond its natural beauty, Kawa'a Beach holds deep cultural and historical significance, with ancient structure remains like Ke'eku Heiau in the area. It's also a vital conservation site, protecting nesting areas for the critically endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtle. This trail offers a chance to connect with both the natural and cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi County, making it a truly notable destination.

Discover the unique beauty of Kāwā Bay on an easy 1.0-mile (1.6 km) hike that takes roughly 25 minutes to complete. This short walking track leads you across fascinating volcanic terrain, where rugged lava fields give way to picturesque black sand beaches. You'll experience the raw, undeveloped coastline of the Big Island, with freshwater springs mingling with the ocean and broad, sweeping views that are particularly stunning as the sun dips below the horizon. It's a perfect, low-effort way to immerse yourself in Hawaii's natural landscape.

Planning your visit to Kāwā Bay is straightforward, though it's important to note the area has limited facilities. While an outhouse might be available near some access points, the bay itself is undeveloped, so pack everything you need and plan to carry out all your waste. This trail is an excellent choice for a peaceful outing, especially if you're looking to avoid crowds. Consider going in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this special environment.

Kāwā Bay is more than just a scenic spot; it's a place rich in cultural and ecological significance. The area is home to ancient sites, including Ke'ekū Heiau, one of the largest intact ceremonial temples in the region, and extensive burial grounds. It's also a critical nesting area for the critically endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtle, and green sea turtles are often spotted near the shore. This protected 550-acre space offers a rare chance to connect with both the natural and historical heritage of Hawai'i.

The Pit Crater Trail offers a fascinating journey into a preserved ancient Hawaiian rainforest, hidden within a collapsed pit crater. As you hike, you'll move through green pastureland and woodland meadows, crossing 1868 lava flows from Mauna Loa that showcase unique geological features like lava trees. The trail's main draw is the Forested Pit Crater, a natural sanctuary whose sheer walls protect a dense canopy of native koa and ʻōhiʻa lehua trees, providing a rare look at Hawaiʻi's landscape before human impact.

Planning your visit to this trail in the Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park requires a few considerations. You'll need to use a boot decontamination station to help prevent the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, protecting the island's vital ʻōhiʻa trees. The 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route from the Pit Crater Trailhead involves a strenuous 1125 feet (343 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 26 minutes, so be prepared for a solid workout. For a slightly easier start, consider the Pali o Kaʻeo Trailhead, though it adds 2.4 miles (3.9 km) to your overall distance.

What makes this trail truly special is the collapsed pit crater itself, acting as a natural fortress for an unspoiled native rainforest. This unique ecosystem within the crater is home to over 100 plant species, many of which are rare and endangered, offering a living window into ancient Hawaiʻi. Remember to stay clear of the crater's edge due to erosion, ensuring you can safely appreciate this remarkable natural wonder and its rich biodiversity.

The Pu'u o Lokuana Trail offers a captivating and easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hike through a landscape shaped by both volcanic activity and human history. With only 224 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 12 minutes, you'll traverse old ranch roads, grassy pastures, and ancient lava flows. The route culminates at the Puʻu o Lokuana cinder cone, where you can explore a historic "crimson heart" quarry and enjoy panoramic views of the Kahuku area and the Kaʻū coastline.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though sturdy footwear is advisable for the varied, sometimes rocky and grassy terrain, especially on the ascent to the cinder cone. As with many Hawaiian trails, an early start or late afternoon hike can provide cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for the scenic viewpoints. There are also longer Pu'u o Lokuana Trail loop options if you want to extend your adventure.

This trail is notable for its rich historical context; the cinder cone was once significantly taller before being mined for its vibrant cinders, and it even housed a secret radio station during World War II. It's a fantastic way to experience the dynamic interplay of natural features like magma formations and grasslands with significant human events, offering a unique glimpse into the Kahuku landscape.

The Kona Trail Loop is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Big Island, offering a diverse landscape that feels both wild and accessible. You'll traverse sections of the Lower Kona Trail, where the path winds through lush, tropical vegetation, providing a refreshing escape into nature. The atmosphere is generally peaceful, allowing you to connect with the island's unique environment away from the more crowded spots.

Planning your visit to this Kona Hawaii hiking trail is relatively simple, as the R.O.D. Gate and Trailhead serves as a convenient starting point with available parking. While no permits are required, it's always a good idea to check local conditions before you go. Starting your hike in the early morning is recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the peak sun, ensuring a more comfortable experience on the trail.

This moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) loop, with its 1097 feet (334 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 3 hours and 22 minutes duration, is a great option for those looking for a substantial hike without being overly strenuous. It offers a good balance of challenge and reward, making it a popular choice among Kona hiking trails. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the island's unique ecosystem and enjoy some quality time outdoors.