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26467-129
Big Island, Hawaii, Kohala Coast, North America, United States
Puako Petroglyph Preserve, South Kohala.

©Greg Elms/Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±

Puako Petroglyph Preserve


With more than 3000 petroglyphs that date back as far as the 16th century, this preserve is among the largest collections of ancient lava carvings in Hawaii. Scratched into the stone are thousands of stark depictions of chiefs, families, boats, animals, and other symbols that reflect the daily life and mythology of ancient Hawaiians. The ¾-mile walk from Holoholokai Beach Park to the preserve adds to the experience – take the well-marked trail at the parking lot.

The walk is easy but rocky; wear sturdy footwear and expect blazing sun.


Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¼´Ê±¿ª½±'s must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Holoholokai Beach Park

0.41 MILES

Forget about sand and enjoy picnicking and strolling at this pleasantly uncrowded beach, blanketed by chunks of coral and lava. Facilities include…

2. Puako Shoreline

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Puako is known for its large, attractive tide pools. There are multiple public shoreline access points along Puako Beach Dr, but the entrance area before…

3. Hale ‘I‘ike

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Part of the lobby space of the Auberge Mauna Lani resort is taken over by this museum, which showcases a wide range of royal artifacts, shark-tooth…

4. Kalahuipuaʻa Historic Trail

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The first segment of this easy trail meanders through a 16th-century Hawaiian settlement, passing lava tubes once used as cave shelters and a few other…

5. Kalahuipuaʻa Fishponds

1.36 MILES

These ancient fishponds are among the island's few remaining working fishponds. As in ancient times, they're stocked with awa (Hawaiian milk fish). Water…

6. Hokuloa United Church

1.67 MILES

Heading toward Puako ‘town’ you’ll pass the Hokuloa United Church on your right. This may be the cutest little white seaside church on the Big Island…

7. Beach 69

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This lovely powdering of white sand is a local favorite but remains somewhat off the tourist radar. Both family-friendly and gay-friendly, its calm,…

8. Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve

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This collection of petroglyphs carved in lava rock is so easy to access that it merits a stop, although the Puako Petroglyph Preserve further north is…