My dear friend and fellow blogger, Kara Paul, author of Roaming Near and Far, wrote this delightful travel article. I know you’ll enjoy her work as much as I have, and the helpful details + insights she provides! Please enjoy the beautiful Lili’uokalani Gardens as Kara tells us all about it! All photos were taken and provided by Kara.
If you want to get a real flavor of life on the Big Island, one of the places you have to visit is Lili‘uokalani Gardens in Hilo. At 24.67 acres, it is the largest authentic Japanese ornamental garden outside of the country of Japan. This is a local park that is heavily frequented by local residents and children, as well as often visited, at least briefly, by tourists.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is in many ways akin to the heart of Hilo. It’s a picturesque gathering place with beautiful gazebos, stone sculptures, torii bridges, stone bridges, and banyan trees. Located by the ocean and near to Mokualoa (“Coconut Island”), it’s the perfect backdrop for pictures, picnics, exercise, and exploration. Don’t be surprised to see the occasional wedding or a wedding couple taking pictures before heading to their reception at one of the local hotels. The park is a place for sunshine, the smell of the ocean, and fresh air–provided it isn’t flooded due to the torrential rains that sometimes pass through Hilo!
Getting to the Park + Parking
Getting to Lili‘uokalani Gardens isn’t very hard and best of all, is a free local attraction open year-round. The official Google address is 189 Lihiwai St #151, Hilo, HI 96720. The Park is located along the famous Banyon Drive of Hilo and is also ADA accessible. Occasionally, the park closes for maintenance or fire ant abatement.
You can walk from any of the hotels along Banyan Drive, or take a car to get there. There also is a limited bus schedule. Recently, before I moved away, Hilo started a bikeshare program, which has a bike station at the park as well as some downtown Hilo locations. By using a credit card, you can easily rent a bike to get from Downtown Hilo to Lili‘uokalani Gardens and vice versa.
Unless there is a special event, large wedding, or a huge Pokemon Go event, there should be ample street parking, as well as parking stalls next to the gardens, and a small parking lot on the makai (ocean) side of the park. Hilo weather changes all the time, so consider bringing an umbrella!
Time
The nice thing about this park is you really can spend as much time as you want here. Some people walk their dogs at the park, while others relax for hours, reading a book or catching up with old friends. Due to its proximity to Mokualoa (the “island of life” usually called “Coconut Island” by locals), many people walk over a long bridge to Coconut Island. At Coconut Island, families like to have parties, play on the beach, or jump off the diving tour. Interestingly, Mokuola once had a temple dedicated to healing.
Throughout my time in college and life in Hilo, I enjoyed going to the park to hang out with friends and spend time with my then-boyfriend (now husband). I’ve even attended a couple of weddings there–including that of my brother- and sister-in-law!
I have so many happy and sad memories attached to that place….pleasant memories of laughs and good times, and bittersweet memories of times spent with some people I really cared about who are no longer my friends. It provided a place to relax and recharge when I felt stressed or depressed. It also became a place to enjoy when I wanted to take pictures or hang out with a good friend.
Lili‘uokalani Gardens really can be anything and everything for you.
Amenities
Lili‘uokalani Gardens is conveniently located by Suisan Fish Market. If you’re craving a poke bowl or want to buy fresh seafood, walk a few blocks to the fish market. The garden also sits by Hilo Bay Cafe, a restaurant overlooking Hilo Bay known for its “contemporary, locally-inspired dishes” and more.
A hop and a skip away is the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, which has Wai’oli Lounge and the Queen’s Court. The Naniloa Hotel, which has Hula Hulas Restaurant, also sits a few blocks away.
There’s a popsicle place in the park (once a coworker shared their popsicles), and the nearby Banyan Mini Mart. Finally, there are men’s and women’s restrooms at Lili‘uokalani Gardens, but don’t expect much from a park bathroom.
As with any new place you visit, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
The History
The park has been around for over 100 years.
Queen Lili‘uokalani donated five acres of land along Waihonu, a five-acre traditional fish pond, for a public park in 1907. Ten years later, the Committee on Public Lands and Internal Improvements made the designated area 17 acres. The park was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants of Hawai‘i, who had come in 1868 to work in the sugar cane industry. The park’s ground was broken in November 1917, which was the same month the beloved Queen Lili‘uokalani died. The park, named in her honor, opened in 1919.
Many women were instrumental in helping ensure the park became the beautiful place that it is today. One woman, Laura Kennedy, the wife of the president of the Hilo Board of Trade, went on a business trip to Japan. She wanted the park in Hilo to reflect the impressive landscaping at Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto. Hence she and her husband donated time, resources, and money to bring her vision to fruition.
Other Events
The park has weathered two tsunamis, both the year before it opened, and four years after it opened. It also has a traditional teahouse named Shoroan (Pine Ocean Breeze), built in 1972. However, you can see it from the outside (unless one day you somehow get invited to a tea ceremony there). Arsonists destroyed the tea house in 1994, so the community later rebuilt it. Over the years, additional changes increased the park’s size to what it is today.
If you visit at the right time, be sure to catch a hula festival at the park sometime near Queen Liliuokalani’s birthday, September 2nd.
Although I no longer live in Hilo, Lili‘uokalani Gardens will always have a special place in my heart due to how many memories I’ve had there, and the mesmerizing moments of beauty, whether the sun peeking through the banyan trees casting beautiful shadows, or seeing Downtown Hilo twinkling a warm welcome at night. Don’t miss finding your Lili‘uokalani moment in Hilo, Hawai‘i.
About the Author
Kara Paul was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, but recently relocated to Montana with her husband. She is the author of the blog Roaming Near and Far. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Kara seeks to inspire women and couples to find adventures and to travel despite fears and anxiety.
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. The following article contains links, which if you click through and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 🙂
This is the only Hawaii packing list you’ll need for your vacation. It has all of the details on the items you should bring. This packing list has everything to get you started and beat the packing overwhelm. I’ve also added tips and tricks for all of the necessary accessories you’ll need (and can buy ahead to save money!), such as sunscreen, repellant, a portable phone charger, and more! I’ve broken down the list into must-haves, clothes, accessories, and so forth, so you can decide what’s best for you!
Also please note that I am a part of the Amazon Affiliate Program and this article contains links which, if you click through and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Essentials
Your must-have items include your license/ID for the flight, passport (if applicable), cash, credit card, your medications, phone, your rental car and/or hotel confirmation, and your keys.
Luggage
You’ll most likely bring one carry-on per person, so you really want to only pack your essential things. I also highly recommend these packing cubes, as they keep all of your clothes, shoes, and other random items nicely stored and organized.
General Clothes Packing List for Women
Swimsuit, socks, undies/bras, PJs, good shoes for hiking, light-colored clothing (as this will help you stay cool during your trip), shorts, beach cover up (I love this one), light jacket (because it does get cold + it’s nice to have for the airplane), nice dress for fancy places, and a sunhat (this one is economical + protects your skin!).
General Clothes Packing List for Men
Swim shorts, socks, undies, PJs, good shoes for hiking, light-colored clothing, shorts, aloha shirt for fancy places, light jacket, straw hat, hats, and comfortable hiking clothes.
Accessories
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Your Hawaii Packing List wouldn’t be complete without sunscreen, which you should use everyday! A bad burn will ruin your Hawaii trip, and we don’t want that to happen. Hawaii has a law banning the sale of sunscreens that have chemicals harmful to the coral reefs. These two harmful chemicals are called oxybenzone and octinoxate, and they can bleach the coral. This sunscreen should come in handy on your trip + it’s reef safe! You’re welcome!
Beach bag
A big beach bag is so handy to have. Just stuff everything you need in it and go! I love these beach bags, as they’re trendy and have a convenient inner pocket as well!
Sunglasses & Chapstick
Protect your eyes from the sun with sunglasses, and keep those lips hydrated with chapstick!
Resuable grocery cooler bags
Hawaii banned plastic bags, so if you go shopping at the grocery store, you’ll want one of these. I like these bags (which you can also find at grocery stores in Hawaii) because they keep your groceries cool. They’re perfect to pack snacks and meals on the go, and they keep your food nice and cool!
Towels
I love the Sand Cloud towels because they’re lightweight, portable, and they don’t get tons of sand stuck to them! If you don’t want to pack towels in your luggage, check with your hotel BEFORE your trip to see if they have towels you can borrow—that way you can save space and weight in your luggage.
Slippers (flip flops)
In Hawaii, “flip flops” are known as slippers. You’ll be grateful to have these to wear around. They’re nice and cool and easy to wear at the beach. You can find $1 slippers at stores like Walmart in Hawaii.
Mosquito repellant
Especially when you go hiking, mosquito repellant really helps keep away the bugs. Mosquito bites are so itchy, red, and ugly, and you can avoid them by putting on some repellant.
Phone charger
Don’t forget your charger! I have a “last minute” list that I review right before we head out the door and the phone charger is always on this list. You don’t want to have to buy another phone charger on the road!
Phone battery charger for the road
It would be devastating to get to a beautiful spot and put up your phone to take a picture… only to find it’s dead! Don’t be that person and keep yourself well prepared with this smartphone portable charger. These are perfectly portable and lightweight, just be sure to charge them ahead of time and they’ll keep your phone charged!
GoPro
The Hawaii Packing List isn’t complete without a camera or something to document those memories! The GoPro is perfect to collect memories while you’re snorkeling and exploring the reefs. It’s also heavy-duty and therefore ideal for hikes, waterfalls, and even cliff jumping! We have the GoPro Hero 8 and love the features it has, including 4k videos, wide angle lens, and stabilization options. If you get a GoPro, also be sure to get one of these floaty handles—there have been too many stories of people dropping their GoPros and losing them forever. You don’t want to lose your GoPro in the water!
Mavic Mini Drone
If you want to take it a step further than the GoPro and truly document your trip, this drone is perfect for getting amazing footage. Not only is it compact and easily portable, but it produces beautiful quality images and videos. With the amazing quality and efficiency of the drone, the Mavic Mini is the gift that keeps on giving.
Waterproof phone case
If you feel anxious about leaving your valuables on the beach while you’re snorkeling or swimming, these waterproof cases are great to put in your phone and keys! Just don’t lose them in the water!
Reusable water bottle
This is an essential item on your Hawaii packing list. Hawaii banned plastic water bottles, so be sure to bring your own reusable water bottle. I love these ones because they keep your water insulated and cold. You can get free cups of water at most of the restaurants and eateries, but having your own reusable water bottle insures you’ll always have water with you.
Snorkeling gear
You can rent snorkeling gear at some of the beaches in Hawaii, but if the idea of someone else’s mouth on the gear grosses you out (no matter how much they sanitize it!), like me, then it’s best to just bring your own snorkeling gear. You can buy some in Hawaii at Walmart, Costco, Target, or any store, but you can also order them online and bring them with you. These are great snorkeling gears and shouldn’t take up too much room in your carry on.
Reef walkers
I’ve never been a fan of reef walkers because I just don’t enjoy wearing wet shoes, but they do have a good purpose. They’re helpful when you’re going to beaches that don’t have much sand, such as the lava rock on the Big Island. These are an economical choice, light, and they’re even good to use on hikes, especially on muddy hikes.
Rash guard
Most locals don’t wear rash guards but I totally understand if you need one of these. I added this to the list in case you’re sensitive to the sun or sand.
Toiletries
Save money by bringing your own toiletries. These toiletry bottles on Amazon are great but you can also just get travel-size bottles at Walmart and fill them with your own soaps and products. Some general toiletries you’ll want are: shampoo, conditioner, soap/body wash, razor, deodorant, toothbrush/toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, contacts/solution, makeup/remover, hairbrush.
Leave in hair conditioner
Hawaii has a way of teasing your hair… quite literally. Leave-in hair conditioner is my go-to product to get out the knots and tangles that accumulate after a lovely day of sun, salt, and sand. The Fructis Garnier Coconut Leave-in Conditioner is my favorite leave-in conditioner because it smells amazing and works great with my hair (I have thin + straight hair) which you can buy and squeeze into one of your travel bottles before you go! 🙂
Medications
Don’t forget any pills or medications. This is on my last-minute list of stuff to bring!
Now that I know what to pack, what should I do in Hawaii?
I hope this Hawaii packing list helps and that you have a great trip to Hawaii! If you’re looking for things to do on any of the islands, check out my FREE Ultimate Hawaii Bucket Lists! Or fill in your information below to get the Bucket Lists sent straight to your inbox!
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the Big Island’s greatest gems. It has frequent sea turtles resting along its shores, which is a sight to see! With the beautiful black sand, sparkling blue water, and tons of picture-taking opportunities, you don’t want to miss out on this beach. Located on the southern coast of the Big Island, the Punalu’u Black Sand beach has a place to swim, relax, and enjoy the honu (the sea turtles!).
Getting to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach + Parking
Both Google and Apple maps will take you straight there. There is a small parking lot with no fees or charges. If the lot is full, you can park on the street outside the lot.
Time
You can stay here as long as you like! Some people stay here for about 20 minutes to walk along the lava rocks and/or the black sand to see the turtles. Some people stay here a whole day! It’s really up to you.
Amenities
There is a place to rinse off and a public bathroom, but don’t use any chemicals or shampoo, as the runoff from the showers goes into the ocean and the chemicals can harm the turtles who frequent the area.
There are no food trucks or places around here. I’ve seen a little pop-up stand, so there might be locals who sell things there occasionally, but the last couple times I went it was empty. So don’t rely on food places at this beach and make sure to bring water. The closest town is Na’alehu, which has Punalu’u Bakery (you should definitely stop here!), a farmer’s market, and some other small gas stations and stores.
I love Punalu’u Black Sand beach because of the turtles and the unique black sand. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this beach! I hope you enjoy!
Here are the best Big Island beaches of Hawaii! If you’ve never been or are planning your big trip, these are some iconic spots you’ll want to keep in mind. Growing up on the Big Island, I loved the variety of the beaches… whether you’re in the mood to just relax on a white sand beach, be adventurous and hike to a green sand beach, or see the sea turtles at the black sand beach, there was always something fun to do. So be prepared to find black, green, and white sand on the Big Island of Hawaii! Here are the best Big Island beaches to visit, and there’s something for everyone!
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
This is an adventurous endeavor, as you have to hike about 3 miles to see the green sand beach. Why is the Green sand beach green? The sand is made from the olivine crystals that formed from lava. The beach is actually the inside of an eroded volcanic crater and the eroded cliffs continue to produce thousands of olivine crystals, giving the beach its famous name and look.
The Green Sand beach is a great place to relax (especially after a long hike) but be aware that the shade is limited and the waters can be rough. Bring lots of water and sunscreen.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
This is a great place to relax and enjoy the honu (sea turtles) resting on the beach. If you walk around the lava rocks, you might even see the sea turtles feeding on the algae.
Hilo Coast
Hilo isn’t known for having the world’s best beaches, but the Hilo coast has its own uniqueness. I won’t spoil the secret spots, but there are quite a few beaches/coasts here that have sea turtles constantly hanging around. Be sure to check out some of the parks and beaches along the Hilo coast, because you’ll be sure to find turtles!
Hapuna Beach
One of the most relaxing and beautiful of the best Big Island beaches is Hapuna Beach. This beach features the iconic white sand, blue waters of the Hawaiian islands. Hapuna beach costs $5 for non-residents and parking is limited so get there early. This beach has a lifeguard and is perfect for relaxing and spending the day. There is a food place located on site but the prices are high due to being the only place around. Bring lots of water and your own food + snacks for a fun day on the beach!
Mauna Kea Beach
Located near Hapuna beach, Mauna Kea Beach also features white sand and clear blue waters. It’s the perfect romantic getaway. The parking here is very limited so be sure to arrive early!
Shipman Beach (secret gem)
This is for the adventurous soul, as Shipman beach is a hike that takes you through a jungled area. It’s a few miles long, but the seclusion of the area is so worth it. As you enjoy your time on the secret beach, you’ll see turtles and monk seal frequenting the area. Bring your own food and water, and be sure to take out what you bring in. A pro tip is to rinse off in the fresh water to get the salt water off before hiking back.
Kahaluu Beach Park (snorkeling)
Located in Kona, Kahaluu Beach Park is perfect for snorkeling! It’s full of colorful fish and reef, and has picnic tables and benches to share a meal. This is a great spot for the whole family.
I hope you enjoy your adventures on the Big Island, and especially take the time to relax at the beach. These beaches all have their own personalities and characteristics, and I hope you’ll plan some of them into your itinerary! 😀
Also known as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipi’o Valley is a site that will not disappoint. With a lush green valley, a black sand beach, and sapphire-colored water, Waipi’o Valley is an iconic site to visit on the Big Island. It is located on the northern coast, and contains several waterfalls, which are either dangerous to find or blocked by private property. You will probably get the most satisfaction (and safety) out of visiting the black sand beach in the valley. However, if you’re up for an adventure, check out Muliwai Trail Hike or Waimanu Valley.
Getting to Waipi’o Valley + Parking
Address: 48-5546 Waipio Valley Road
To get to Waipio Valley, turn onto Highway 240 at Honoka’a. You will follow this road for about 9 miles until you reach the lookout point. There is a small parking lot, with no fees or charges. The parking lot is small, but people usually come and go quickly, instead of hiking down. If you wait a couple of minutes, you should be able to get a parking space. Otherwise, use caution when parking on the side of the street.
Driving down to the valley is highly discouraged, as the roads are narrow and SUPER steep. It will wear and tear on your car, and it might just be against the policy of your rental vehicle. However, there are usually locals around who offer rides round trip for about $15-$30.
Time
If you’re planning to just stop and admire the lookout, you’ll probably spend about 20 minutes here. It’s a great spot for a picnic, as there is a pavilion with tables and benches.
If you’re planning to hike down and explore the valley, expect it to take longer—probably about 1-2 hours.
The Mo’olelo (the story) of Waipi’o Valley
Waipi’o was once home to the kings of old Hawaii. It is named after the Waipi’o river that flows through it. Waipi’o, pronounced wai-pi-o, means “curved water,” as the river runs its own course. King Kamehameha, the great king of all the Hawaiian Islands, received his calling in the Waipi’o valley, leading him to conquer each island. The valley was once heavily populated but a tsunami caused devastation in 1946 and the valley now has a few inhabitants, homes, and taro fields.
The Trail
Hiking down to Waipio Valley can be hard on your legs. It’s very steep and, combined with the humidity and jungle-like atmosphere, can be very hot. So wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring some water, and take your time. When you get to the bottom, turn right towards the beach. If you turn left, you will come across the small community and private property. Please be respectful of private property and the no trespassing signs, as these are local residents. The beach is public access, so feel free to explore around there. On your way to the beach, be prepared for mud, as the ground is not paved.
Are there bugs or wild animals at Waipio Valley?
Note that there are wild horses in the valley. They won’t bother you, but just be aware that they are there. There are also mosquitoes, so be sure to wear some repellant.
Swimming at Waipio Valley
The black sand beachfront is beautiful but don’t be deceived. The current is especially strong in the valley, so swimming is discouraged. The break can also be rough. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk. I like to just enjoy the view, put my feet in the water (to cool off), and walk along the shore. The black sand is so unique and beautiful, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!
I love going to Waipio Falls. I never got to enjoy it growing up in Hawaii, because my parents rarely took us to the “touristy” places, but it is definitely a gem! I hope you get to see and enjoy it!
E komo mai! 🌺 I am the author of Aloha State of Mind, a self help book that teaches you how to create paradise wherever you are. My blog, Naturally Aloha, focuses on all things Hawaii: culture, values, food, lifestyle, and more. I hope my writing inspires you to carry aloha with you everywhere! Learn more…
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