Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve

One of Hawaii's largest petroglyph fields with over 3,000 ancient ki'i pōhaku carvings dating back to 1200 AD — humans, canoes, turtles, family groups, and more etched into lava rock. The 1.1-mile Malama Trail is easy and takes about 30–45 minutes. Start paved, then crosses into a kiawe forest — watch for thorns. Replica petroglyphs near the parking lot are safe to touch and great for kids to make rubbings. Go early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler and light is best for spotting the carvings. Never touch the real petroglyphs — stay on the trail and behind fences.