5 Unforgettable Natural Wonders To Explore Across Hawaiʻi Island

Forbes

28-05-2025

Hawaiʻi Island is the largest island in the United States.
While each of the eight main Hawaiian islands are rife with natural beauty, the archipelago's youngest landmass offers plenty of room to roam, with more than 10,000 square kilometers of captivating landscapes to explore. During a trip, visitors can experience a diverse array of destinations all across the island, with black sand beaches, rushing waterfalls and lush rainforests all found within its boundaries—and each one plays host to a fascinating array of flora and fauna. From sea turtles to bats to a whole host of both native and introduced birds, these scenic natural wonders are perfect for a wildlife-filled foray into the pristine beauty of Hawaiʻi Island.
The ʻiʻiwi is one of several endemic Hawaiian bird species that call Hakalau Forest National ... More Wildlife Refuge home.
It may not be as easily accessible as other Hawaiʻi Island parks, but those who book a guided tour of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge will be richly rewarded with an opportunity to spot some of the region's most elusive avifauna. Federally protected since 1985, this crucial preserve has earned widespread recognition with naturalists thanks to its high-quality montane rainforest habitats, with a wealth of native birds, reptiles and insects flourishing within the region. The ʻakiapōlāʻau, Hawaiʻi ʻakepa and nēnē are just a few of the indigenous avian species that might make an appearance for birders, while one of the archipelago's few native mammals—the Hawaiian hoary bat—calls the park home as well.
Hilo is the largest city on the island of Hawaiʻi.
During a trip to Hilo, visitors can explore charming tourist destinations spanning from the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center to the downtown Liliʻuokalani Gardens—and to sweeten the deal, there's an oasis of tranquility just west of the city in the form of Wailuku River State Park. As the name implies, this scenic preserve offers magnificent views of the Wailuku River—the longest on the island—but the crown jewel of the park is most certainly Rainbow Falls. Standing at a height of roughly 24 meters, this eye-catching natural feature is named for its colorful display that can be seen by hikers on sunny mornings.
Hawaiʻi is home to five different sea turtle species.
Located in the southern reaches of the island, Punaluʻu Beach sets itself apart from other coastal destinations thanks to its jet-black sand, a visually-stunning feature that stems from the constant volcanic activity that occurs nearby. Upon arrival, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and bask in the beauty of the many palm trees, while tiny fish and crustaceans can be found thriving within its natural rock pools—but there's one animal in particular that draws visitors to Punaluʻu Beach in droves. Sea turtles are a common sight at the water's edge, with both green and hawksbill varieties found lounging along the sand from morning to dusk.
Hawai'i Island is both the largest and youngest of the major Hawaiian islands.
Downtown Kailua-Kona plays host to a wealth of eye-catching introduced animals like the common waxbill, saffron finch and yellow-billed cardinal, but for those in search of indigenous species, Honua'ula Forest Reserve is just a short drive away. There are close to 3,450 hectares of verdant forest to explore across the site, with vast swathes of wet ʻōhiʻa forest and mesic koa forest that are brimming with all sorts of native plants. During a hike, visitors can encounter endemic vegetation like the Kokia drynarioides, while visiting birders should keep their eyes peeled for the 'io, a fearsome hawk that's now confined solely to Hawaiʻi Island.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916.
While Hawaiʻi has long earned acclaim for its lush landscapes, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offers a starkly different perspective on the archipelago, with craggy, sun-baked lava fields found all within its boundaries. There are plenty of hiking opportunities to be found within the park, with sites like the Nāhuku Lava Tube and Thurston Lava Tube providing a fascinating perspective on the physical composition of the island—and as an added bonus, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a top spot for birdwatching as well. During a stroll along the 1.9-kilometer Kīpukapuaulu loop trail, explorers can spot native species like the ʻiʻiwi and ʻapapane alongside colorful introduced birds like the common pheasant and warbling white-eye.