Kalopa Nature Trail
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Kalopa State Recreation Area

4.7
·188 reviews·Honokaa, United States

Discover a tranquil rainforest oasis at Kalopa State Recreation Area, featuring a native arboretum and serene nature trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy solitude and bird song

CrowdLow
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Kalopa Nature Trail

Kalopa State Recreation Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy solitude and bird song

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a tranquil rainforest oasis at Kalopa State Recreation Area, featuring a native arboretum and serene nature trails.

4.7
(188 reviews)

"A tree lover's paradise offering a rare, secluded escape into Hawaii's lush native rainforest."

Vertical photo
TIP

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:

Pack Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Native Arboretum

Native Arboretum

Park grounds

Wander through a collection of Hawaii's unique trees, including the rare loulu palms. A true botanical gem.

Guided Nature Trail

Guided Nature Trail

Main trail loop

Discover diverse flora with numbered markers and informative pamphlets detailing native and invasive species.

Peaceful Rainforest Setting

Peaceful Rainforest Setting

Throughout the park

Immerse yourself in the calming sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh, oxygen-rich air of the lush rainforest.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Kalopa State Recreation Area offers a peaceful escape into Hawaii's native rainforest. Arrive prepared for a serene experience, as it's a secluded spot perfect for quiet reflection and nature walks. Cell service is spotty, so download any maps or information beforehand.

Nature Lover's Paradise

This park is a haven for tree enthusiasts, featuring an arboretum with rare loulu palms and a well-maintained loop trail. The guided nature trail with informative pamphlets makes it easy to identify native and invasive species, enriching your understanding of the local flora.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy solitude and bird song
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Sunlight filters through trees
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

i just wanted to share a little bit of my home with you guys. quick PSA Kahakuloa is not for tourists to walk around. yes there food stands/trucks but no driving on property or going to the bay nor the river. lemme know if you guys wanna see more of my home ! #yourlocalnews00 #hawaii #trending #viral #xyzbca #vlogs #foryoupage #blog #blowthisupforme #kahakuloavalley
@yourlocalnews00
5.7K likes • 37.2K views

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:

Pack Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:

It’s a full on turtle party 🐢🌊#thingstodoinkona #konahawaii #konahawaiiactivities #kalokohonokōhaunationalhistoricalpark #fypシ
@ellierunssd
2.5K likes • 57.8K views
Kalopa State Recreation Area and Waipao Lookout
thebowenkindalife
32 likes • 440 views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the trails and meadows with ease. Good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Bring Picnic Supplies

Enjoy a meal amidst nature with available picnic tables and grills. :sandwich:

Excited for to experience Papahānaumokuākea and grateful for the opportunity to protect these sacred zones! #marinedebris #conservation #hawaii
@ho_not
2K likes • 12.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable here. Save maps and info before you go! :iphone:

Pack Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitos can be prevalent, especially at dusk. Come prepared to enjoy your visit! :bug:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the trails and meadows with ease. Good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Bring Picnic Supplies

Enjoy a meal amidst nature with available picnic tables and grills. :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(188 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kalopa State Recreation Area for its serene and secluded rainforest setting, making it a perfect escape for tranquility. The well-maintained arboretum and guided nature trail are highlights for nature lovers, offering an educational and peaceful experience. While generally a positive experience, some note the lack of cell service and the presence of mosquitos, especially at night.

"Seeking tranquility? Look no further than Kalōpā State Recreation Area. Starting with the drive up from the highway, you wind through some beautiful trees and ranch land before arriving. The day we were there, we had the entire park to ourselves, which is a rare thing in Hawaii! It's an awesome and we'll preserved park setting, complete with bathrooms and picnic tables. It's a tree lovers paradise! Stroll in the meadows or take a walk along one of several trails, listen to the bird song, breathe the plentiful oxygen, stare at the blue sky."

Rae H George

"It’s a nice secluded area to take a walk in the rainforest. There is a short guided nature trail with pamphlets that have a map and descriptions of different numbered trees and plants along the trail, as well as whether they are native or invasive to Hawaii. There is an indoor gathering space. It’s pretty simple and we spent about an hour here."

Beau Gray

"My family and I had a great time walking the property. The flowers were gorgeous, as were the trees."

M Finn-Scofield

What People Like

Peaceful rainforest setting
Native arboretum
Well-maintained trails

What People Dislike

No cell service
Mosquitos at night

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kalopa State Recreation Area is located about three miles off Highway 19. The drive itself winds through scenic ranch land and beautiful trees, offering a pleasant prelude to the park's tranquility. Reddit

Yes, the road is generally accessible. While there was a mention of Pa'akea Road being open after years of closure for traffic management, this refers to a different area and doesn't directly impact access to Kalopa State Recreation Area itself. TikTok

The drive is described as winding through beautiful trees and ranch land, setting a peaceful tone for your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding entrance fees is not readily available, but many state recreation areas in Hawaii are free to enter for day use. It's always a good idea to check the official Hawaii State Parks website for the most current information. Reddit

Operating hours for state parks can vary. It's recommended to check the official Hawaii State Parks website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on park hours. Reddit

Yes, Kalopa State Recreation Area offers camping facilities, including tent-specific areas and cabins of various sizes. Reservations are typically required for camping. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely strolls through the arboretum, walk along the nature trails, listen to bird songs, and simply relax in the serene rainforest environment. It's also a fantastic place for camping. Reddit+1

Yes, there is a short guided nature trail with pamphlets that provide maps and descriptions of the numbered trees and plants, indicating whether they are native or invasive to Hawaii. Reddit

The park is well-equipped with bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and even a grill area, making it comfortable for day visits and camping. Reddit

Kalopa State Recreation Area features an arboretum of native trees, including rare loulu palms, and a diverse range of other native and invasive plant species. Reddit

Absolutely! Families can enjoy walking the property, admiring the gorgeous flowers and trees, and utilizing the picnic and camping facilities. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

The lush rainforest, diverse native trees like the loulu palms, and the well-maintained nature trails offer beautiful photographic subjects. The serene atmosphere also lends itself to peaceful nature shots. Instagram

Yes, the arboretum is home to rare loulu palms, which are a unique and photogenic aspect of the park's flora. Reddit

With its rich biodiversity of plants and tranquil rainforest setting, Kalopa is an excellent spot for nature photography, especially for those interested in botanical subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kalopa State Recreation Area is a wonderful spot for families seeking a peaceful nature outing. The guided nature trail is engaging for children, with numbered markers and informative pamphlets that can turn a walk into a fun learning adventure about plants and trees. The open meadows and gentle trails are perfect for little legs to explore. Reddit

With picnic tables and grills available, families can easily plan a delightful lunch amidst the serene rainforest. The availability of cabins and tent camping also makes it an excellent destination for a family camping trip, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the natural world together. Just be sure to pack mosquito repellent for the evenings! Reddit

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those passionate about flora and fauna, Kalopa State Recreation Area is a must-visit. The native arboretum, featuring rare loulu palms, offers a unique opportunity to study and appreciate Hawaii's endemic plant life. The guided nature trail provides an educational layer, detailing the ecological significance of various species. Reddit

The park's network of trails, though generally gentle, allows for enjoyable hikes through the lush rainforest. The tranquil atmosphere, filled with bird song and fresh air, makes it an ideal location for mindful walks and nature photography. It's a place to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Big Island's interior. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Arboretum and Trails

Kalopa State Recreation Area is renowned for its arboretum of native Hawaiian trees, a living collection that showcases the islands' unique botanical heritage. Visitors can explore this verdant landscape via a gentle loop trail that meanders through the park. For a more educational experience, the guided nature trail is a must. This trail features numbered markers corresponding to a pamphlet, providing detailed information about each plant and tree, including its native or invasive status in Hawaii. It's a fantastic way to learn about the local ecosystem while enjoying a peaceful walk. Reddit

Beyond the specific trails, the park offers open meadows and a general sense of tranquility. The bird song is a constant companion, and the air is described as plentifully oxygenated, making it a refreshing escape. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or simply seeking a quiet communion with nature, Kalopa provides a serene environment to appreciate Hawaii's natural beauty. Reddit

Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the various paths. The park is well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. The combination of diverse flora and the peaceful rainforest atmosphere makes Kalopa a unique destination for nature lovers. Reddit

Camping and Facilities

For those looking to extend their stay, Kalopa State Recreation Area offers camping facilities, including tent-specific areas and cabins of various sizes. Each tent area is covered and has a concrete floor, which might require some adjustment when setting up a tent. The camping experience is enhanced by the availability of multiple covered picnic areas and a grill place conveniently located near the bathroom facilities. Reddit

The park's amenities include an accessible bathroom with a shower and even outlets, adding to the comfort of campers. Ample parking is also available, making it easy to access your car from the campsite. However, campers should be aware that there is no cellular service within the park, and mosquitos can be prevalent at night, so it's advisable to come prepared with repellent. Reddit

Overall, the camping grounds are described as well-maintained and clean, offering a solid base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. It's a great option for families or individuals seeking an immersive nature experience away from the hustle and bustle. Reddit

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