Puakō Petroglyph Preserve
Explore over 3,000 ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs on an accessible, shaded trail. A sacred site offering a glimpse into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Puakō Petroglyph Preserve
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 3,000 ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs on an accessible, shaded trail. A sacred site offering a glimpse into history.
"It is so unusual to walk among such precious masterpieces that you usually see in museums behind glass."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Avoid slippers; opt for closed-toe shoes due to uneven terrain and thorny plants.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, as it can get very hot, especially during midday hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Petroglyphs
Throughout the preserve
Marvel at over 3,000 ancient Hawaiian rock carvings, some dating back to 1300 AD.
Easy Walking Trails
Designated paths
Enjoy a flat, accessible walk through shaded areas, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Wildlife Sightings
Along the trails
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like mongooses and Pacific golden-plovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect Sacred Sites
+1Best Footwear and Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Avoid slippers; opt for closed-toe shoes due to uneven terrain and thorny plants.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, as it can get very hot, especially during midday hikes.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Respect this sacred site by not touching petroglyphs and taking all trash with you.
🅿️ Free Parking
Ample free parking is available roadside near the preserve entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Avoid slippers; opt for closed-toe shoes due to uneven terrain and thorny plants.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, as it can get very hot, especially during midday hikes.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Respect this sacred site by not touching petroglyphs and taking all trash with you.
🅿️ Free Parking
Ample free parking is available roadside near the preserve entrance.
🐝 Bee Aware
Be cautious of a beekeeping area located off the main path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer number and historical significance of the petroglyphs at Puakō, finding the easy, shaded walk a unique and accessible way to connect with ancient Hawaiian culture. The preserve is praised for its natural beauty and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. However, some reviews highlight concerns about the lack of strict enforcement of rules, leading to instances of littering and potential damage to the site.
"These petroglyphs were saved from destruction by lava flows & placed here on a easy walking path. History, art, human creativity, the need for human expression rolled up into a simple walk. We learned there are thousands of petroglypths out in the surrounding lava fields. Saw some wild life on the walk including mongoose & pacific golfen-plover.
It is a flat easy walk. Can accomodate wheelchairs or strollers. Plenty of free parking roadside.
* Check out the photos"
Richard Chang
"Puako is one of the richest collection of picture writings on rocks ("kaha kii") on the islands. It is so unusual to walk among such precious masterpieces that you usually see in museums behind glass in secured environment. Here they blend in with nature in their place of birth close to magnificent beach and forest.
Early Hawaiians did not read or write but they expressed themselves with more than 3,000 petroglyphs at Puako alone. Some meanings of them are a mystery, that are believed to be astronomical navigation maps or encode religious messages."
Andre Kochetov
"Part of the resort is to take care of this historical site. It’s right by the beach but the trail is a shaded walk for the most part into the petroglyph area where there’s carvings on the rocks all over the floor, you can’t walk over it but you can get right next to it. There’s also a bee keeping area off the path, so “bee” careful."
Ahzure Hercules Uriel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Waikōloa, on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. It's accessible via a short drive from major resorts. Ample free parking is available roadside near the entrance.
Yes, it's generally well-marked. Look for signs indicating the preserve. Many visitors access it from the beach parking lot.
Using GPS is recommended. Search for 'Puakō Petroglyph Preserve' or nearby landmarks like the Waikōloa Beach Resort area.
Many visitors start their exploration from the beach parking lot, which leads to the trails.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the preserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Puakō Petroglyph Preserve is free.
The preserve is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's an outdoor site, so there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Puakō Petroglyph Preserve.
While there are no official hours, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and to appreciate the carvings. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal.
While official guided tours might not always be available, local knowledge and information can often be found through community resources or by observing interpretive signs if present.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trails are generally flat, easy, and shaded for the most part, making them suitable for most visitors, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
A typical visit to explore the petroglyphs takes about an hour round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend observing the carvings.
No, you cannot walk directly on the petroglyphs. Trails are provided to view them from close proximity without damaging them.
Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as mongooses and Pacific golden-plovers along the trails.
Restroom facilities may be limited or unavailable directly within the preserve. It's advisable to use facilities at nearby beaches or resorts before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful and avoid using flash photography if it could disturb wildlife or other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic shots of the petroglyphs and the surrounding landscape.
While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, always prioritize respect for the site and other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive archaeological and natural areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Focus on capturing the intricate details of the petroglyphs, the textures of the lava rock, and the natural beauty of the preserve.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to be respectful of the sacred site by not touching the carvings and by packing out all trash. This visit can be a great educational experience, sparking curiosity about Hawaiian culture and the ingenuity of ancient peoples. Consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat and enjoy a more comfortable experience.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The preserve is also a chance to observe local flora and fauna, including unique bird species and the introduced mongoose. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby beaches for a full day of exploration. Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring water, as the terrain can be rugged in places and the sun intense. The preserve is a testament to the importance of cultural preservation and offers a peaceful, contemplative experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Puakō Petroglyphs
+1Unlike many museum artifacts, these petroglyphs remain in their original context, blending with the natural lava fields and the nearby coastline. This allows visitors to experience them in a way that feels deeply connected to the land. The variety of images includes human figures, animals, canoes, and geometric shapes, each holding potential meaning that continues to be studied and interpreted by archaeologists and cultural practitioners.
It's crucial to remember that these are sacred sites. The petroglyphs are a testament to human expression and a vital link to Hawaiian history. Visitors are urged to tread lightly, observe respectfully, and leave no trace to ensure their preservation for future generations.
+1Navigating the Preserve and Its Trails
While the trails are generally well-defined, it's important to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended over flip-flops or sandals, as the terrain can be uneven, and thorny plants are present along the path.
Visitors should be aware of their surroundings. There is a beekeeping area located off the main path, so it's advisable to be cautious. Additionally, while the petroglyphs are visible from the designated paths, it's strictly forbidden to walk directly on them to ensure their preservation.
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