The park is a Big Island historical gem tucked away along the rocky, arid coast of Kohala District, roughly a dozen miles north of the small, industrial port town of Kawaihae, and features a range of carefully restored structures exemplifying the early days of the village’s 600-year-old past. Visitors to the park pass by canoe storage sheds, coastal “hales” (houses), traditional stone tools and furniture, and an intricate maze of unmortared lava rock wall bordering the footpaths and crowding the shoreline. For anyone interested in traditional Polynesian rock wall building, this place is a must-see on the island and a great example of the craftsmanship of the ancients. The intricacy of these painstakingly stacked structures is astounding; they span across the beachfront in seemingly perfect columns, with occasional breaks large enough to let just a single human through.

The park’s name – lapa kahi – means “single ridge” in the Hawaiian language and refers to the ancient land division that existed here more than half a millennia ago. Back then, the entire island was divided into narrow pie slices spanning from verdant upland taro farms growing the ubiquitous staple crop all the way down to the sea-level communities of fishermen, banana farmers and breadfruit growers. The monarchy reigning over the island organized its subjects this way, and the inhabitants of each land slice traded among themselves for what they needed: fish making its way up the mountain slopes, and taro coming down to the coast. This was called an “ahupua’a” (ah-hoo-poo-ah-ah) and was how land was organized in the time of old Hawaii similar to the political districts found on Big Island today.

So, Lapakahi was a fishing village at the bottom of the ahupua’a, whose generations of fishermen would ply the waters just off of the coast of black lava boulders and white coral, casting out their nets and pulling in piles of fat, succulent fish like ono, ahi and mahi-mahi. They would trade their catch with upland farmers living on the slopes of Kohala Mountain – the northernmost of the five volcanoes making up Big Island’s entire landmass. This system of trade was what the ancient economy of the island was based on, and still survives intact in some places, though in a much more informal sense. It has left a legacy of Big Island farmers, hunters and fishermen bartering their excess harvest for the goods they can’t produce themselves with friends and family living far away.

And it wasn’t just fish being produced down at the coast, either; to this day at Lapakahi visitors can see examples of ancient salt pans – bowl-shaped carved black lava stones used for drying ocean water in the sun and collecting the salt left behind. This was the only method the ancients had to produce the crucial foodstuff, since the island is comprised of basalt volcanic rock with no mineral deposits. Traditionally the salt, known as “pa’akai” in Hawaiian, was used to preserve fish and season food, and was a highly valued commodity due to the painstaking process in creating it. 

There were also groves of kukui nut trees, sometimes called “candlenut”, planted at the low elevations, which produced an oil-rich native Hawaiian nut burned in traditional lamps. Lamp stands which long ago burned kukui nut oil can still be seen at the historical park, which were likely used all the way up until the 19^th Century.

Down the coastline from Lapakahi’s main parking lot is a large thatch-roof hut complete with walls of woven grass, an A-frame of skinny bamboo poles and a square courtyard of low stacked rock walls. This is the structure featured in many of the photos of the park, and is arguably the most interesting of all the structures standing on its grounds. From the walled-in courtyard, this spot offers a fantastic panorama of the maze of rock walls lining the shore, the surrounding dry scrubland of stout, thorny keawe trees, and beyond that the rolling flanks of Kohala Mountain shrouded in eternal clouds. The seaside hut is a reconstructed dwelling, and the original house occupying the site was used as living quarters well into the 1900s.

The Vibrant Marine Life Conservation District Just Offshore

Big Island’s North Kohala Coast boasts a rich diversity of sea life found milling about in the warm, shallow inland waters. Tropical species of fish and coral account for much of this biodiversity, and few places on the island harbor more of it than along this stretch of coastline making up the historical park’s boundary. This is great news for swimmers and snorkelers, who frequent the nearby Koaie Cove looking for schools of fish, urchins, eels, sea stars and the occasional turtle.

Common fish found just offshore at Lapakahi include several species of butterflyfish, recognized by their long snouts used for probing the reef’s nooks and crannies looking for small invertebrates, as well as the yellow tang – a type of surgeonfish and one of the most iconic to be spotted in Big Island’s waters. Snorkelers sometimes notice them grazing on the algae growing on the backs of the endangered Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. It’s also a great place to see stands of the intricately textured cauliflower coral, which thrives in the offshore reef’s sunny shallows and provides an important habitat for several different strata of coastal sea life.

There is very little beach to speak of along the park’s shoreline, so swimmers and snorkelers should use extreme caution while getting in and out of the water, and to keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty here. Intimidating-looking bluffs of jagged black rock stick out into the bay, and are regularly assaulted by ranks of charging white-capped waves coming in from the open ocean. These conditions make going for a dip here difficult sometimes, with just a few reliably safe spots with strong rip currents present just beyond their peaceful waters. With so many better, safer beaches found just a few miles down the road around the town of Kawaihae, such as Spencer Beach Park and Hapuna Beach, it’s advisable that those new to the island or who aren’t strong swimmers steer clear of the ocean at Lapakahi Park.

How To Get to Lapakahi State Historical Park

Lapakahi State Historical Park is easiest to access from the main West Hawaii town of Kona – Big Island’s primary tourism hub and the best spot to pick up beach and hiking supplies for trips to the Kohala Coast. Head north along Highway 19, otherwise known as Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway, for roughly 35 miles until the road forks, and turning left will bring visitors to the industrial port town of Kawaihae in less than half a mile. Continue through the town, and turn onto Highway 270, otherwise known as Akoni Pule Highway, which runs another 20 miles north to the town of Hawi and the northern tip of the island.

After driving about twelve miles north on Highway 270, past the turn for the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company and its showroom of free samples and dizzyingly good coffee, signs for Lapakahi Park will come into view near mile marker 14, and turning left here will bring drivers onto a narrow two-lane road that leads to a parking lot after dropping a few hundred feet down the hill. A park ranger is usually on duty at the modern-looking building in the middle of the lot, however guided tours of the stone ruins and heritage.

Here, you can find out when is the best time to see whales, what types of whales you might encounter and how much it’ll cost you.

Plus, we share some top tips on what to know before going whale watching in Hawaii. So read on and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime experience today!

Table of Contents:

• The Best Places to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii
• When Is the Best Time to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?
• What Types of Whales Can You See on the Big Island of Hawaii?
• How Much Do Whale Tours Cost on the Big Island of Hawaii?
• What should you know before going Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii?
• FAQs in Relation to Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii
• What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?
  • Where is the best place to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?
  • Can you see whales from the Big Island of Hawaii?
  • When can you see whales in Kona?
  • Conclusion

The Best Places to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to see whales but some areas are better than others. 

There are many different types of whales that can be seen here, and the best time to see them is from December to April. Whale watching tours typically cost around $100 per person but some times can be a little cheaper if you book a larger group. 

While there are many great spots for whale watching on the island, some locations offer better opportunities than others.

Here are three great places to catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures while they’re passing through Hawaiian waters:

1) Kealakekua Bay – This sheltered bay is located just south of Captain Cook Monument and provides an ideal location for snorkeling and swimming with dolphins as well as whale watching.

Humpback whales frequent this area between January and March making it one of the best times to visit Kealakekua Bay if you want to spot one!

2) Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail – Located on Oahu’s southeastern shore, this popular hiking trail offers stunning ocean views along its 1.8-mile journey up steep cliffsides (don’t worry, there are also plenty rest stops along the way).

On a clear day, you might even be able to spot humpback or sperm whales breaching in distant waters – definitely worth hike!

3) Lahaina Harbor – Maui’s Historic Whaling Town Comes Alive During Winter Months as Humpback Whales Migrate Past Its Shores En Route from Alaska to Their Breeding Grounds Off Lana’i and Moloka’i Islands Further South.

While Lahaina Harbor itself doesn’t offer much in terms of whale sightings (due mostly large boats), simply take a short drive northward towards Kapalua Beach where you should have no problem spotting these giants playing offshore.”.

4) Māhukona Beach Park- Pull up your chair on what used to be a dock for boats coming to a Sugar Cane Mill

Not on all the guides because it’s a favorite of locals so be very respectful at this place.  (although you should be respectful on all areas of the island). Jan through March it has beautiful sunsets and we see wales 50% of the time we’re there.  More if you have binoculars. 

Key Takeaway: The best places to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii are Kealakekua Bay, Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail, Māhukona Beach Park and Lahaina Harbor.

When Is the Best Time to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?

“The best time to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii are December through May”. Humpback whale watching is one of the most popular tourist activities on the Big Island of Hawaii but it’s not an all-season sport. 

Every year, these majestic creatures migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and give birth in our warm waters. This amazing natural phenomenon attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at these gentle giants.

So when is the best time to see whales on the Big Island?

The answer may surprise you – it’s actually not during whale season! While peak whale season runs from December through May, we recommend coming slightly outside of those months if you really want to maximize your chances of seeing a humpback.

Why, you ask?

It all has to do with timing and luck. You see, even though humpbacks begin migrating towards Hawaiian waters as early as October or November, they don’t tend to stay close to shore until after mating and calving season has ended in late February or March.

So while there are certainly more whales around during peak season (December – May), your odds of spotting one from shore are actually higher later in the springtime.”.

If you’re interested in whale watching on your next visit to the Big Island, we recommend planning your trip for April, May, or June.

These months offer the perfect combination of warm weather and high odds of seeing a humpback close to shore.

And even if you don’t see a whale during your stay, there are plenty of other amazing things to do on the island – from hiking, exploring volcanoes to relaxing on beautiful Big Island beaches!

Key Takeaway: The best time to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii is actually not during whale season, but rather later in the springtime.

What Types of Whales Can You See on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Humpback whales are the most commonly seen type of whale on the Big Island of Hawaii. These majestic creatures can be seen year-round off the coast, making them a popular tourist attraction.

Other types of whales that have been spotted in Hawaiian waters include sperm whales, orcas, and blue whales. While not as common as humpbacks, these other whale species can still be seen occasionally by lucky viewers.

How Much Do Whale Tours Cost on the Big Island of Hawaii?

Prices for whale watching tours on the Big Island of Hawaii vary depending on the company, but typically range from $50 to $100 per person. Prices may also vary depending on the time of year and availability.

For example, prices may be higher during peak season (generally between December and April) or if there are special events happening that draw in more tourists.

If you’re looking to book a tour, it’s best to shop around and compare rates before making a decision.

Be sure to read reviews as well. Here are our favorite Whale Watching Tours on the Big Island of Hawaii 

Looking to go whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii? Prices for tours typically range from $50 to $100 per person. Shop around and compare rates before making a decision – and be sure to read reviews! Click To Tweet 

What should you know before going Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii?

What should you know before going whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii?

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Every year, thousands of people come to the island to see these majestic creatures up close.

However, before you book your tour, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, the best time to go whale watching on the Big Island is between December and April.  Coming on Summer Vacation will yield tons of fun and sun but it include any whale sightings. 

This is when the weather is warmest and whales are most active in Hawaiian waters. There are several types of whales that call Hawaii home including humpback whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales.

Each type has its own unique behaviors and characteristics that make them interesting to watch. Most tours last 3-4 hours and cost around $150 per person.

This includes time spent traveling out to where the whales are as well as time actually observing them. Be sure to dress comfortably for your tour with sunscreen and layers as it can be quite sunny out on the water.

Lastly, remember that while Whale Watching can be an incredible experience, it’s important not to disturb or harass these animals in any way. Doing so is not only rude but also illegal.

Now that you know a little bit more about whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii, it’s time to start planning your trip. Keep these tips in mind and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Key Takeaway: The best time to go whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is between December and April.

FAQs in Relation to Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii

What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?

The best month for whale watching in Hawaii is typically between December and April. This is when the humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around the Hawaiian Islands to mate and give birth.

During this time, there are often more than 10,000 humpback whales in Hawaiian waters at any given time.

Where is the best place to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?

There are a few great places to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii. One is from the shores near Kapa’au, where North Pacific humpback whales can be seen breaching and spouting offshore from December to April.

Another good spot for whale watching is at Punalu’u Beach, where you might see migrating sperm whales as well as Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun.

Finally, don’t forget about Makahoa Point in Kohala Coast State Park, which offers stunning views of both humpback and spinner dolphins playing in the waves.

Can you see whales from the Big Island of Hawaii?

Yes, you can see whales from the Big Island of Hawaii. Humpback whales are often seen in Hawaiian waters between December and April, while false killer whales and melon-headed dolphins can be spotted year -round.

The best place to whale watch on the Big Island is undoubtedly Kealakekua Bay, where spinner dolphins also frequent.

When can you see whales in Kona?

Whales can be seen in Kona all year round, but they are more commonly seen from January to April.  Heading northing to less crowded beaches and longer views makes it a little easier to sight whales as well.

There are two main types of whales that can be seen in Kona:

Humpback whales and false killer whales. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from Alaska every winter to mate and give birth, while false killer whales live in Hawaii all year round.

Conclusion

Whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. The best places to see whales are along the Kohala Coast and near Kealakekua Bay.

The best time to see whales is between December and April. You can see different types of whales, including humpback whales, pilot whales, false killer whales, and sperm whale calves.

Whale tours typically cost around $50-150 per person depending on tour group. Before going on a whale tour, make sure to dress warmly in layers and bring sunscreen and binoculars.

Looking to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most majestic creatures? Then look no further than whale watching on The Big Island of Hawaii! Here, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of different whales, including humpback whales, year-round. And there are plenty of tour operators offering affordable excursions that will take you right into their natural habitat. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and experience these amazing animals firsthand!

Need a guide book for whale watching and more activities on the Island?  There is one book that we recommend to all friends and family that visit the Big Island of Hawai. “The Big Island Revealed”   I would rather forget my swimtrunks that forget this book.  Its really is the Bible of traveling around the Big Island. You won’t regret buying it. 

PHOTOS on the page courtesy of the amazing artist and photographer Jacob Vandervelde

The summit of Mauna Kea rises to an impressive 13,796 feet. What’s more impressive is that this is technically the tallest mountain on Earth when you consider another 18,900 feet of the mountain hides below sea level. This totals to a towering 32,696 feet, nearly ¾ of a mile taller than Mount Everest. Mauna Kea is a cinder cone volcano which is the simplest type and takes the classic dome with a crater on top shape.  

The Island of Hawaii, otherwise known as the Big Island, owes its productive natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and storied past to Mauna Kea. Lava flows from the peaks of this still active volcano continue to mold the island, pushing it ever further upward towards the endless unknown.     

The Importance of Mauna Kea on Hawaii

Mauna Kea is a sacred place for native Hawaiians. According to tradition, Mauna Kea is considered the kapuna, or firstborn, of the Earth Mother Papahānaumoku and the Sky Father Wākea. This mountain holds much power and is the heart and soul of Hawaii and the Big Island. While Honolulu may be the state’s current capital, true local history places Mauna Kea at the center and beginning of it all. 

The Hawaiian Islands are made of various volcanos, some dormant and some active, that have very literally shaped the landscape here. From Haleakala on Maui to Mauna Loa, Kilauea, and Kohala on the Big Island, these volcanoes rise like ever-present guardians of island knowledge. They are an integral part of their historical and cultural significance, and none of these hold as much esteem, power, and importance as Mauna Kea.  

The mountain also is an important place for astronomical research and other types of scientific study. The clear skis found at the summit of Mauna Kea make for some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. A lack of light pollution and 360-degree views make it a valuable location where the University of Hawaii and other organizations study the skies. Several Mauna Kea observatories provide an unmatched view towards the heavens and a search into the world beyond. A thirty meter telescope and a project surrounding its use, known as TMT, has fueled ongoing study and development on the mountain.  

Tradition and modern science are in conflict here. Many native Hawaiians view the development of the summit as a direct threat to their history and culture. Governor David Ige has attempted to approach the situation with a sense of balance, but protests and demonstrations have occurred in defiance of Mauna Kea’s development. The Gov is relatively popular, but his support of TMT and the development of the summit has been met with mixed reactions.   

How to See Mauna Kea

As mentioned earlier, you can see Mauna Kea from just about anywhere on the Big Island, but to really get a sense of the grand scope of the mountain, you’ll want to dive into its heart. The two major cities on the Big Island, Kona and Hilo, make good starting points for a trip to Mauna Kea. Hilo is on the west side of the Big Island, Kona is on the east. You can reach the sites and summit of Mauna Kea by car from either of these towns within a few hours, and the excursion makes for a recommended day trip while you’re here. 

You’ll want to make sure to bring several layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather caused by the high altitude. This can lead to altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as this can help with the effects of elevation. Ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers can help with headaches.

Mauna Kea is also sometimes known as the White Mountain because it does actually snow here. If you’re lucky enough (or unlucky, depending on how you see it) to see Mauna Kea on a snow day, be sure to drive carefully because the access road to the top can get slick. And keep an eye out for Poli’ahu, one of the four goddesses of the snow. You can even ski or snowboard at the summit if there’s enough snow. 

Check out these other recommended sites and stops on a visit to Manau Kea:

Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station

The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a good starting point for any trip to the summit. There is a parking lot where you can get out and take a good look at the volcano and surrounding areas. There are also bathrooms and a few places to sit down for a picnic lunch. The information station has been closed because of the coronavirus pandemic, so check its website before visiting. 

Saddle Road

Saddle Road, also known as Hawaii Route 200, spans the center of the Big Island and goes from Hilo to Waimea. This road takes you directly between the two major volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. If you don’t have the ambition or time to make it to their summits, this route makes for a good day trip that will give you a long view of each. You’ll see many diverse terrains and various ecosystems through the drive as you go from sea level to over 6000 feet.  

Lake Waiau

Lake Waiau is a small little lake found below the summit of Mauna Kea. It sits perched at an elevation of 13,020 feet, and there are a few different hikes you can take to reach its shores. It’s the highest lake on the entire Pacific Rim but isn’t much to look at other than that. An easy day hike if you want to stretch your legs after a drive, but it’s not a must-do activity.

Mauna Kea Summit

The summit of Mauna Kea is a top attraction for any visitor. You’ll get amazing views and feel the inherent power and beauty that this location holds for native Hawaiians and tourists alike. The drive takes about 2 hours, and you’ll want to be prepared for a high elevation environment, as mentioned earlier. The summit is open to visitors during daylight hours only, and you’ll need a 4WD vehicle to drive beyond the visitors center. But it’s a magical place that is well worth the effort. Be sure to respect this sacred land and leave it as you found it. 

Here are some amazing facts about Hawaii that you might not know!

1. Hawaii is the world’s largest island chain

It’s also the most remote landmass on the planet. While there are seven inhabited islands, there are another 125 for a total of 132 Hawaiian islands. These cover a span of nearly 1500 miles across the Pacific. 

2. The beaches here come in 5 different colors (or more)

Everybody knows that Hawaiian beaches are amazing, but not everybody knows that they are also multi-colored. You can find your typical white-sand and brownish beaches, but you’ll also find black, red, pink, and even green. Much of this color variation has to do with the volcanic nature of the islands. 

3. Hawaii has over 3000 species of native plants and animals

The islands’ isolated nature makes them home to an impressive amount of different plants and animals that exist nowhere else on Earth. This also means that many of these species are endangered or threatened. You can find an almost endless amount of tropical plants, and there are no native land predators. 

4. Hawaii was a globally recognized kingdom until 1898

Although Hawaii is now part of the United States, it was an independent kingdom before this. This is still quite controversial today, and the Hawaiian Kingdom’s illegal overthrow was shady at best. The US formally issued an Apology Resolution for the act in 1993. 

5. Facts about Hawaii Culture

HAWAII IS THE ONLY STATE WITH TWO OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

English and Hawaiian are the two official languages spoken here. A variety of Pacific Rim countries have impacted the islands’ culture and development, and you can hear other languages as well, often mixed to form pidgin. 

6. There are only 12 letters in the Hawaiian Alphabet

If you have ever wondered why Hawaiian words can be so long and repetitive, it’s because there aren’t many letters to choose from. The only ones used are A, E, H, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, U, and W. 

7. There are (technically) no snakes in Hawaii

Tropical locations are often crawling with creepy-crawlies, but not Hawaii. There are no indigenous snakes to be found here. There are sea snakes, which are highly poisonous but non-aggressive and shy. Some snakes have been brought to the island illegally that show up from time to time, but this is also rare. 

8. It snows here

You read that right. It does snow in Hawaii up on the highest volcanic peaks that reach over 13,000 feet above sea level. This high elevation results in colder temperatures that can see snow during the winter months. 

9. Mauna Kea is (technically) the world’s tallest mountain

Hawaii is home to the tallest mountain in the world. This is another fact that leaves many people scratching their heads. Manua Kea is not the tallest above sea level, but it is the tallest from floor to summit, measuring in at 33,500 feet. This makes it close to a mile taller than Mount Everest! 

10. A Fact about Hawaii for Kids

HAWAII IS HOME TO JURASSIC PARK

The blockbuster movie Jurassic Park was filmed on the island of Kauai. There have been many other famous films that have been shot in the islands over the years as well. 

11. Pineapples are not native

While you might think that Hawaii is home to the fruit, pineapples were actually imported to the islands over the last century and a half and didn’t start as successful as they are now. The many varieties of pineapples now found here can be traced back to South America and some other tropical locations. 

12. The islands get larger every year

Hawai is one of the most volcanically active places on earth. The Big Island increases in size by around 40 acres every year because of regular eruptions from Kilauea. If you want a chance to see a real lava flow, this is the place to be. 

13. Hawaii was the first state to outlaw plastic bags

There are special environmental considerations that come with living on any island community. Hawaii has been a leader in conservation and progressive environmental policies and was the first state to ban plastic bags back in 2015. 

14. You can find almost all of the world’s climate zones here

Hawaii is diverse in many ways. Its changing elevations and ecosystem give it the claim of having 10 out of the 14 named climate zones. You can lounge on the beach and go snowboarding on the same day. 

15. Every beach is public here

Some landowners don’t like this fact being out in the open, but every beach in Hawaii is public property. And there is supposed to be public access every 1000 feet. This can sometimes get murky, but if you see a beach, you’re allowed to be there. 

16. You can mail coconuts to the mainland

You don’t need to box it up or put it in an envelope; you can just write an address and place proper postage, and ship this symbol of the tropics across the sea. This is a popular way to send a gift back home. 

17. More facts about Hawaii Volcanoes

HAWAII WAS A TRAINING LOCATION FOR THE MOON LANDING

NASA used the hardened lava rock surrounding Mauna Loa on the Big Island as a training location for astronauts headed to the moon on the Apollo Missions. There have been more recent instances of NASA use for potential Mars training as well. 

18. A Fact about Hawaii for Kids

SPAM IS A NATIONAL TREASURE

More Spam is eaten in Hawaii than anywhere else on earth. Pork is a traditional food of the islands, and this popular canned version has made its way into everyday life out here. Spam Musubi is a highly recommended treat to try when you visit.

19. Hawaii is the only US state that grows coffee

Kona Coffee is known worldwide, and Hawaii is the only place where this variety comes from. It’s also the only state in the US that grows commercial coffee. If you make it to the Big Island, a trip to one of its many coffee farms makes for a great afternoon. 

20. You can find the most active volcano in the world here

Volcanoes and Hawaii go hand in hand. Kilauea is the most active volcano in the world, and it has been almost steadily erupting since first being documented in 1983. If you want to see a live volcano in action, the Big Island is where to be.   

With global travel opening back up and an increased number of tourists at many sights around the world, there is an ongoing need to protect the wildlands that so many of us love to experience and live to pursue. 

Hawaii is one of the top destinations in the world due to its stunning beauty and serene settings. But these same traits that make the islands so alluring also make them fragile to overuse and destruction. Ecotourism is a crucial part of keeping Hawaii protected and pristine for generations to come.

What is Ecotourism? 

Ecotourism is the practice of fostering ways to travel that better protect sensitive natural environments while supporting and educating visitors to learn and respect the land. It can be simply stated as sustainable tourism but goes far deeper than that to reflect a commitment by tourists and locals alike to support the natural world and small communities that reside near popular travel destinations. 

Ecotourism is more of an ongoing practice and set of principles than any simple definition. And although there is more awareness surrounding the need for this form of enlightened tourism than ever before, it takes the efforts of travelers and small communities across the world to promote the messaging and put necessary practices into action. 

It can encompass everything from environmental concerns such as avoiding plastic and leave-no-trace ideals to promoting small local businesses over huge corporate travel companies. It can be as simple as cleaning up a beach or as in-depth as an entire organized association increasing awareness of eco-friendly ideals. 

This is all to say that ecotourism is growing and evolving every day. As more people learn about the travel ethics and best practices involved, the regions of the world where it is needed will thank humankind by remaining pristine and beautiful for many more years to come. Without it, we risk destroying some truly magical destinations forever. 

Ecotourism in Hawaii

Hawaii is a top destination for adventurers, vacationers, and all other manner of tourists. With world-class beaches, unmatched beauty, and the aloha spirit alive in full, the islands see millions of visitors every year. Over 10 million people visited Hawaii in 2019, with tourists outnumbering residents by around 6 to 1. While 2020 obviously saw these numbers drop significantly, the average number of visitors typically rises 5-10% every year. 

While these visitors bring in lots of money to support the local economy, their sheer numbers can significantly impact the natural ecosystem and affect the local communities that have lived here for generations. 

Hawaii is unique because it has a wide range of micro-climates that result in a lot of different flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. You can go from tropical rainforest to high mountain summits with snow (yes, snow) to a desert – all in the same day. This diversity in climate and life is amazing and means that each unique area and animal is always at risk. There are a large number of endangered species on the islands that are threatened by a fragile environment and heavy human impact. 

And right alongside the natural wonders found living on the islands, an entire world exists in their bountiful waters. The Hawaiian reefs are an unreal ecosystem all to their own that provide food, shelter, sustenance, and protection for a vast array of marine life. These coral reefs seem boundless and beautiful but are under steady attack from human use and development. 

Without proper ecotourism tactics in place, this beauty and natural biodiversity that makes Hawaii such a sought after destination could slowly start to disappear. Luckily, many different groups and organizations are committed to promoting beneficial ecotourism to prevent this from ever happening. 

And for Hawaiians, the commitment to protecting the land and sea for future generations is a fact of life and always has been. There are a few phrases you might hear when visiting Hawaii reflect this sacred sentiment: 

Malama ka’aina – to care and live in harmony with the land

Malama ke kai – to care and live in harmony with the ocean

These simple words reflect the storied tradition of respect and honor that locals hold for the natural world around them. Even though the tenets of ecotourism are just catching on in the mainstream, they have been a guiding force on the islands ever since humans first arrived here. 

Ecotourism Tips

If you want to become a more eco-friendly traveler on your visit to Hawaii, you can follow a few simple tips to benefit the natural environment and the amazing people who call the islands home.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen –  This tip is one most visitors to Hawaii don’t know about or often respect. If you plan on going in the water, you need to wear reef-safe sunscreen. The chemicals found in regular sunscreens are very harmful to the reefs and can kill them quickly. Reef-safe sunscreen is a little more expensive but an absolute must when swimming or snorkeling. 

• Clean Up the Beach – If you come to Hawaii you are going to visit the beach. Always clean up after yourself and make sure not to leave any trash or belongings behind when you leave. Better yet, take a few pieces of trash that aren’t yours to leave the beach better than you found it. 

• Support Local Businesses and Eco-Minded Tour Companies – Make sure to support local businesses when you visit. Whether that means a stop at the local bakery, street vendor, or local guide, spending your dollars away from the resort can better distribute resources. 

• Clean Your Shoes if You Visit a Farm – This goes for before and after your visit and will prevent seeds and plant-based sickness from spreading across the islands. It seems simple but is an easy way to minimize impact and risk to the plants and animals while you’re here.  

Hawaii Ecotourism Resources

If you want to learn more about ecotourism in Hawaii, check out some of these resources. They can help you become better educated or offer direction toward which companies and tours are committed to better practices that will help support the natural wonders of Hawaii for years to come. 

• Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii –  A great resource for learning about the principles and practices of sustainable tourism. Provides many programs and educational materials for visitors and residents alike. 

• Hawaii Reef Ocean Coalition – A great resource for more tips on how to enjoy your time in the sea while working towards its preservation. HROC is a collective of businesses, scientists, and non-profits dedicated to protecting the coral reefs through education, advocacy, and Hawaiian ideals. 

• Hawaii Green Business Award Winners – Here, you can find a list of businesses that have earned recognition by developing and implementing eco-friendly practices to help preserve natural Hawaii. Supporting a business that supports the environment is a crucial aspect of ecotourism. 

Educating yourself about the importance of ecotourism is critical for anyone who wants to visit Hawaii. The islands are an amazing location with an endless amount of adventure and natural beauty to uncover. But without a commitment by every traveler to do their part in respecting and preserving the land and sea here, they will not remain pristine forever. 

Ecotourism is a responsible way to experience the wild world around us and of critical importance for all visitors to Hawaii. Many other locations around the globe need special care and attention as well, and it’s our duty as travelers to respect and honor how we can keep these lands alive and thriving while minimizing human impact.