HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaiʻi is a popular place for tourists, but some spots are very crowded and full of stores and restaurants. If you want to visit somewhere peaceful and full of Hawaiian history, then Lapakahi State Historical Park on Hawaiʻi Island is a great choice.
This park was once an old fishing village from more than 600 years ago. Today, you can walk through the village and see how people used to live. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it’s free to enter.
Lapakahi is about 39 miles from Kona Airport and 77 miles from Hilo; so, it’s perfect for a day trip. There are picnic tables, so you can bring your lunch and enjoy the view of the ocean. The park is peaceful and quiet, with amazing sea views and rocky cliffs.
You’ll also see lava rock walls and rebuilt ancient homes, called “hale” that show what life was like long ago. These old buildings are made from grass, wood and stone.
There’s a short walking trail that’s about one mile long that’s great for both keiki and adults. You can walk at your own pace and enjoy the scenery.
Fun and Games from the Past
A long time ago, around 100 people lived in this village. They fished, cooked, traded and played games.
Today, you can try out some of those traditional Native Hawaiian games, like spear throwing (‘o‘o ihe), “checkers” (konane), and stone bowling (‘ulu maika). There are signs to help you learn the games, and a park worker can answer questions.
The plants in the park are also interesting. People in the village used them for healing and medicine. They also grew sweet potatoes and kalo/taro, along with fishing.
More to Do Nearby
Lapakahi is a great stop on your way to other fun places nearby. You can visit:
- Kohala Coast lava fields.
- The Kona Coffee Belt to see coffee farms.
- Mauna Kea, a volcano where you can ski in the winter.
- Waikōloa Beach, with hotels and beach clubs.
If you like water activities, the Kohala Coast is perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. Some great beaches nearby include:
- Hapuna Beach.
- Beach 69.
- Mauna Lani Beach Club.
- Mauna Kea Beach.
These beaches are great places to see colorful fish and even Hawaiʻi’s honu (sea turtles).
You can click here to learn more about the park.
Lapakahi State Historical Park is a quiet and beautiful place where you can learn about Native Hawaiian life. It’s a fun and educational stop for families who want to explore nature, history and culture without the crowds.