The Hidden Gems of Big Island Hawaii that Rely on Conservation Efforts for their Preservation

Big Island Hawaii is a place of wonder and adventure, with countless attractions and activities to enjoy. From the majestic volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa to the stunning beaches of Hapuna and Punalu’u, from the historic sites of ʻIolani Palace and Pearl Harbor to the cultural events of Merrie Monarch and Aloha Festivals, there is something for everyone on the island. However, there are also some hidden gems on Big Island Hawaii that are not as well-known or visited, but are equally amazing and worthy of attention. These hidden gems are also places that rely on conservation efforts for their preservation, as they are threatened by various environmental and human factors. Here are some of the hidden gems of Big Island Hawaii that rely on conservation efforts for their preservation:

• Papakolea Green Sand Beach. One of only four green sand beaches in the world, Papakolea Beach is located on the southern tip of the island. The green color comes from a mineral called olivine, which is eroded from a nearby volcanic cinder cone. The beach is accessible by a 2.5-mile hike or a 4-wheel drive vehicle, but it is worth the effort to see this rare and beautiful sight. The beach is part of the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which protects and manages the natural and cultural resources of the area¹. However, the beach is also vulnerable to erosion, vandalism, littering, and overuse by visitors. Conservation efforts include educating visitors about the beach’s fragility and uniqueness, enforcing park rules and regulations, and restoring native vegetation around the beach².
• Golden Pools of Keawaiki. A hidden oasis among the black lava fields on the northwest coast of the island, the Golden Pools of Keawaiki are freshwater ponds that have a unique gold-colored algae growing on the rocks. The algae gives the water a shimmering golden hue that contrasts with the dark lava surroundings. The pools are reached by a moderate hike over lava fields and along the shoreline, but they offer a refreshing and serene escape from the heat and crowds. The pools are part of a state-owned land that is managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), which aims to conserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the area³. However, the pools are also threatened by invasive species, pollution, vandalism, and illegal camping. Conservation efforts include removing invasive plants and animals, monitoring water quality and algae growth, educating visitors about the pools’ sensitivity and significance, and enforcing state laws and rules⁴.
• 1790 Footprints. A historical and cultural site on the south coast of the island, the 1790 Footprints are fossilized footprints of Native Hawaiians who were caught in a volcanic eruption. The footprints are believed to be from a group of warriors who were returning from a battle when they encountered a lava flow from Kilauea Volcano. The lava cooled quickly around their feet, preserving their impressions in stone. The footprints are part of the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which protects and manages the natural and cultural resources of the area¹. However, the footprints are also endangered by erosion, vandalism, theft, and weathering. Conservation efforts include documenting and mapping the footprints, stabilizing and restoring the site, educating visitors about the footprints’ history and importance, and enforcing park rules and regulations⁵.

Big Island Hawaii’s hidden gems are places that offer unique and memorable experiences for visitors who seek them out. They are also places that rely on conservation efforts for their preservation, as they are precious and fragile parts of the island’s natural and cultural heritage. By supporting conservation efforts on Big Island Hawaii, we can help protect these hidden gems for ourselves and future generations.

Source:
(1) Secret Big Island Spots that Only Locals Know About | Hawaii – Randy Ripley. https://www.randyripley.com/blog/2020/2/14/secret-big-island-spots-that-only-locals-know-about.
(2) Offbeat Guide to Hawaii’s Big Island | Roadtrippers. https://maps.roadtrippers.com/trips/15232480.
(3) 15 Hidden Places In Hawaii Only Locals Know About. https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/hawaii/hidden-places-hi/.
(4) 8 Secret Places To Explore in Hawaii – Travel Off Path. https://www.traveloffpath.com/8-secret-places-to-explore-in-hawaii/.
(5) Most People Don’t Know These 9 Hidden Gems in Hawaii Exist. https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/hawaii/hidden-gems-hi/.