When it comes to amazing picnic spots, the Big Island of Hawaii has got you covered. With its diverse landscape and abundance of natural beauty, there are plenty of amazing locations to choose from. This article will explore some of the best picnic areas on the big island. Whether you’re looking for a place with stunning ocean views or a quiet spot in the forest, you will find it here! So pack your basket and get ready for an unforgettable picnic experience in Hawaii!
What You Need For A Big Island Picnic
If you want to make the most of a picnic on a big island, it’s important to come prepared. Pack food and beverages that won’t spoil in the sun, like fruits, vegetables, sandwiches, and other snacks that can be kept in insulated carriers. Bring enough sunscreen and protective clothing to shield you from the sun’s strong rays, along with hats and sunglasses. You should also bring along beach towels and chairs or blankets so everyone can stay comfortable throughout the day.
Finally, pack a first-aid kit with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent, and antihistamines in an emergency. With this checklist of essentials taken care of, your picnic will be much more enjoyable!
Picnic Spots On The Big Island
Now for the essential part- finding the perfect spot for a picnic on the big island! Choosing a good location is the key to having an enjoyable experience. Here are just a few of the beautiful locations for your afternoon of eating outdoors:
Waikaumalo Park
Waikaumalo Park is a hidden gem of Nīnole and offers the perfect spot for a picnic. With an overgrown trail that parallels Waikaumalo Stream, the park has something to offer every visitor. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Waikaumalo Park is great for picnics due to its quiet atmosphere, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying your meal in peace.
With plenty of green spaces for running around and restroom facilities conveniently located nearby, Waikaumalo Park presents the perfect setting for a family outing or an afternoon date. The park also features shaded picnic tables, making it ideal for enjoying your meal. Whether you’re looking to relax or get active, Waikaumalo Park is worth exploring!
Keokea Beach Park
Keokea Bay was once used exclusively as a retreat for weary sugar cane workers. Today, however, its 7-acre site has been transformed into a serene beach park featuring an elevated pavilion perfect for picnicking. There is even a small pool on the right side of the bay that is comparatively safe to swim in.
Visitors who want to take in some of the Big Island’s breathtaking landscape can make their way up to the top of the hill, where they will find a scenic overlook. With picturesque ocean views and plenty of space for playing games, Keokea Beach Park is an excellent spot for spending quality time with family and friends.
Waiakea Fishpond
Situated in Hilo on the island of Hawaii lies a huge fishpond with a special history. Also referred to as the ‘Royal pond,’ it served as a fishpond for three generations of Kamehameha’s, signifying its importance in local culture. Visitors can expect an oasis of calm surrounded by open lawns and picnic tables at this serene spot.
To complete their exploration of the area, they can take a walk in search of the impressive Kamehameha Statue, which looks out upon the surrounding landscape. Truly it’s a magical place where one can connect with nature and honor the heritage of those who have walked through there before.
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is a stunning beach park located on the Big Island’s western coast. This picturesque location offers opportunities for exploration and relaxation, as it houses an array of lush tropical vegetation, ancient Hawaiian artifacts, and breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters.
With its abundant wildlife and history-rich atmosphere, Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Big Island. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear and explore the nearby coral reefs! It’s also a great spot for picnicking, as visitors can enjoy their meals while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Lava Tree State Monument
Located in the Puna district of Hawaii’s Big Island, Lava Tree State Monument is a great place to visit for a picnic. The park protects the molds left behind in 1790 when lava flowing from Kīlauea Volcano engulfed the area’s trees and filled their empty cavities. This fascinating phenomenon left an other-worldly landscape, often called “Lava trees,” and gave the small park its name. Apart from its peculiar topographical features, the lush tropical forest canopy provides ample shade and scenic beauty, making any outdoor picnic a refreshing experience.
Moreover, visitors are granted easy access with parking spaces available at the entrance of this free state monument. Whether solo or with a group, Lava Tree Monument is ideal for visiting picnickers who wish for an unforgettable day surrounded by nature!
Kona Coast State Park
The Kona Coast State Park is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional picnic experience. Located on the sunny Kailua-Kona coast, it’s easy to access and boasts nearly five miles of white-sand beaches, which make for an idyllic setting with plenty of room for family-sized blankets and picnics. Only 25 minutes south of Kona International Airport, the park provides opportunities to explore tidepools filled with tropical fish and breathtaking hikes along the pristine coastline that offer sweeping views of the neighboring islands.
Plus, the ocean teems with sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and manta rays that dot its blue surface, making this a great spot for those who want to explore Hawaiian marine life without picking up a paddle or snorkel gear. The Kona Coast State Park is worth visiting if you’re looking for a tranquil beach picnic full of natural beauty and peaceful moments.
Maka’eo Walking Path
The final destination on this list is one you will want to take advantage of, the Maka’eo Walking Path. Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, this path is perfect for a day out with friends and family. It offers breathtaking views of Hawaii’s natural plant life, and its well-maintained trails make it ideal for strolls or more challenging hikes.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot for two or an open area with plenty of room for a large group, the Maka’eo Walking Path has it all. And during your walk, you’ll find plenty of areas to pull off and set up a picnic, or you can use some picnic tables available to the public. With some snacks and drinks, this is the perfect setting to spend quality time with the people you enjoy most!
Make A Trip To These Big Island Picnic Spots!
There are endless options for picnic spots on the big island, but these destinations should be on your list if you’re looking to experience the best that this island paradise offers. From picnicking at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and exploring the Lava Tree State Monument to enjoying a beachside picnic at the Kona Coast State Park and taking in the beauty of Maka’eo Walking Path, you will be sure to find a place that fits your picnic style. So grab some snacks and drinks, head out, and let the beautiful Big Island be your backdrop for a perfect day!
