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Coconut palms along a seaside path looking across Hilo Bay from Liliʻuokalani Park

Big Island · Sights & Parks

Culture & History on the Big Island

Palaces, heiau, gardens, and museums that tell the islands’ story.

National & State ParksWaterfallsLookouts & Scenic PointsCulture & History
Coconut palms along a seaside path looking across Hilo Bay from Liliʻuokalani ParkCulture & History

Hilo

Liliʻuokalani Gardens

A free, peaceful hour on Hilo's waterfront. Walk the bridges early, then head into town for breakfast.

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The ʻImiloa Astronomy Center sign and the center’s cone-shaped buildings in HiloCulture & History

Hilo

ʻImiloa Astronomy Center

It's the best rainy-day stop in Hilo and the perfect primer before you drive up Maunakea.

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The oceanfront side of Huliheʻe Palace and its lawn in Kailua-KonaCulture & History

Kona

Huliheʻe Palace

A rare, close-up look at royal Hawaiian life right on Aliʻi Drive, and an easy add-on to a morning in Kailua-Kona village.

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The massive stone platform of Puʻukoholā Heiau above dry grassland near KawaihaeCulture & History

Kohala Coast

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

It's one of the most important places in Hawaiian history, and it's free. Follow it with a swim at Spencer Beach Park just downhill.

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