Puakō Petroglyph Park

Learn the History of the Islands

Hawaii is one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, attracting millions of tourists annually. With its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant cultural heritage, Hawaii offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. The Puakō Petroglyph Park and Archaeological Preserve is one of the most intriguing places in Hawaii, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

The Puako Petroglyph Park is located on the island of Hawaii, also known as the “Big Island.” It is a cultural and historical treasure trove, showcasing over 3,000 petroglyphs carved into the volcanic rock by the ancient Hawaiians. These petroglyphs depict various subjects, including humans, animals, geometrical shapes, and Hawaiian symbols. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the indigenous Hawaiian culture’s lives, beliefs, and rituals.

Visitors to the Puakō Petroglyph Park can take a guided tour of the park, where they will learn about the history and significance of the petroglyphs and have the opportunity to view them up close. The guided tour is a great way to get the most out of your visit to the park. The knowledgeable guides will provide valuable insights and information about the petroglyphs and the Hawaiian culture.

In this article, we’ll explore the most exciting activities at and near the Puakō Petroglyph Park and why you should add this fantastic destination to your Hawaiian itinerary as a client at the Exclusive Hawaii Rehab!

Fun and Exciting Activities at the Exclusive Hawaii Rehab

Other than the guided tours, there are several other exciting activities that you can enjoy at and near the Puakō Petroglyph Park.

These include:

Hiking and Exploring the Scenic trails

The Puakō Petroglyph Park is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, and several hiking trails will take you through the lush jungle and past stunning waterfalls. The trails are easy to navigate and offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, making them an excellent option for visitors who want to get out into nature and experience the beauty of Hawaii.

Surfing and Bodyboarding

The area around Puako Petroglyph Park is famous for its great surf and bodyboarding conditions. There are several beaches nearby, like the Holoholokai beach park and Mauna Lani Resort, that offer ideal waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. Whether you want to try surfing for the first time or catch some great waves, this is the perfect place to do so.

Bird Watching

Another exciting activity at Puako Petroglyph Park is bird watching. The park is a prime spot for bird watching, as it is home to various bird species, including the endangered Nene goose. The park is also home to many migratory bird species, making it a great place to spot a wide range of avian species. Visitors can bring their binoculars and cameras and spend hours observing and photographing the various birds in their natural habitat.

Watch Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets

Dormant but still towering at over 33,000 feet, Mauna Kea is the tallest volcano in the world. Climbing to the top of the volcano is rewarded with one of the most spectacular views on the Big Island. Although the sun sets on the same side as the town, on the west coast, one of the most astonishing things to do in Kona is to watch the sunrise from the summit of Mauna Kea.

Indulge in breathtaking sunsets over the ocean waves at the beach. After checking out a few other beaches, you can settle on your favorite and spread a blanket to watch the sun go down from the sand. Throw together a picnic and save money on a romantic meal for two by dining somewhere with a beautiful view.

Visit a Seahorse or Coffee Farm

The seahorse farm in Kona hosts over 30 species of these beautiful aquatic animals. Visit the facility to get close to seahorses and sea dragons and learn more about these fascinating creatures. Consider visiting the Fairmont Orchid Resort to interact with sea turtles.

The high quality of Kona coffee has earned the region worldwide recognition. Hawaii’s tropical climate is ideal for cultivating beans, which results in some of the finest coffee on the market. If the coffee you love caffeinated drinks, you can learn more about coffee by touring a genuine Kona coffee plantation or stopping into a few local coffee shops.

What Are Petroglyphs?

Many petroglyphs in Hawaii date back to the 16th century, providing an intriguing glimpse into the Hawaiian islands’ ancient past. Hawaiians refer to this type of rock art as “k’i’i pohaku,” which means “images in stone.” The term “Petroglyph” originates from the Greek words “petros” meaning rock, and “glyphein,” to carve.

However, the actual reasons for their location and production remain a mystery, even if some petroglyph images are clustered near historic property boundaries or along footpaths through black lava rock fields. Unfortunately, the construction of resorts and golf courses damaged many of these gems, destroying historical images that had survived an earthquake or lava flow.

Take Care of the Park

Some fields have been kept in their natural state and are open to visitors. These sites are essential for those curious about Hawaii’s past and present. Please observe the rules of conduct and stay on the designated routes and observation areas.

Do not try to create rubbings of the rock images or touch them in any way; this will only damage what has stood the test of time. Pictures of the petroglyphs are best done in the early morning or late afternoon when the slanting shadows provide depth and highlight the carvings.

A Compelling Feature of Addiction Treatment in Hawaii

Hawaii is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and cultural heritage. The Puakō Petroglyph Park is one of the state’s unique and exciting destinations. Visitors can discover the ancient Hawaiian history and traditions deeply ingrained in the local culture. This park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hawaii, and plenty of exciting activities can be enjoyed both at and near the park.

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab is conveniently located less than an hour and a half from the Puakō Petroglyph Park and other top destinations for client outings like the ancient City of Refuge. Call our Intake Coordination team today to learn more about our addiction treatment and mental health services in Hawaii!