Waikōloa Petroglyph Reserve — Attraction in Hawaii

The directions here were challenging, & the place wasn't marked well. Finding it, 2. Review. 1. When you get near the address, you'll see a gas station, & a 7-11, followed by a strip mall. Also, a golf course lies behind everything. So, park by the 7-11 . There is a gated community next door, for people who live on the golf course, behind 7-11. The less "abled" you are, park as close as possible to the golf cart path, adjacent to the gas station. What someone should make clear: you're walking the golf cart path into the golf course. From here, you will find signs telling you about the petroglyphs. For people who don't walk well or far, this is the closest you get. You'll be heading toward hole 4. There is a good bathroom. Eventually signs & where to go becomes clearer. There are a few small glyphs on the way as you walk the path. As you go farther, you'll realize the lava sculpted area, on which the ancients carved their glyphs, is starting to unfold in front of you. Those who walk very well should go to the Left. There is a path "through" the dried lava, & they will see the most. For those who aren't as able, go to the right. You'll have a separate flatter, easier path, & still see some glyphs. Your own ability will tell you how far to go; i.e. I got to a point where I was not sure if I should continue. My wife ran ahead, & it was good I stopped. She took photos, & I turned around. The deeper areas are challenging "holes" to climb into & out of, where you see the most. Best for those 30 & under. Teens enjoy "climbing" in & out of here, w steep ridges. There are a few signs (not many) put in by the park system, very informative, & repeated throughout, these help we who are over 50. The site is well worth seeing, & is the best way to see ancient hand-carved glyphs without having to hike far. Have your younger, more energetic family members take photos for you. No human guides. Very "self serve", & in the middle of a golf course. There is a nearby strip mall w good coffee. &...

If you are in or will be passing the Waikoloa area in the Big Island of Hawaii, you must stop and check out this amazing historical site of Hawaiiana.

The Malama Petroglyph Trail is just over a half mile each way, out and back style hiking trail that leads to the Puako Petroglyph Preserve. You'll find the trail in the Waikoloa area of Hawaii's Big Island, close to the The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii and Holoholokai Beach Park. If at the King's Shops, you can hit the trail from there as well.

The trail is more of a nature trail than a difficult hike perfect for just about anyone so bring the kids and a camera, but those who are not to stable on their feet need to take care. Still, this is a hike and you should always be prepared. It is very sunny out on the lava, so make sure you have your sunscreen on, wear a hat and have proper clothing on. Being a trail, proper shoes are advised and no flipflops.

As with any culturally significant area like this, be respectful of this place and especially of the petroglyphs. Look but don't touch is the rule here so avoid any rubbings as well, take a photo instead. Be sure not to leave any trash and show respect for the...

Neat little piece of history. A lot of reviews mention sturdy shoes but as long as your sandals have a pretty thick sole, you'll be fine. Some steep and rocky spots but my 53 y/o mother with bad knees and I were able to make it around the whole area with relative ease in Tevas sandals.

Park at the nearby shops by the shell and walk right across the road, there's signage to direct you. We spent about 45 minutes here. Go in the morning before the heat of the day, the lava rock gets hot fast.

Plenty of cool carvings and caves to check out. A visit is definitely worth fitting in if you're interested in the history of the indigenous peoples. Wish they would fence off some areas to protect the integrity of the history, as there's been obvious vandalism, but there are plenty of authentic glyphs to see and appreciate,...