Volcanic

A barren, otherworldly landscape of wind-sculpted red rock formations and boulders that looks like the surface of Mars. Hawaiian legend says the rocks were placed here by the gods. The red, orange, and purple colors of the rock against the blue sky are striking, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light is warm. Kids love climbing on the rocks and the landscape is so unusual it sparks their imagination. A 4WD vehicle is needed to reach the site. Views of Molokai across the channel add to the drama. There are no facilities so bring everything you need.

A staircase of 1048 old railway ties straight up the side of Koko Crater to the rim at 1208 feet. This is essentially a giant outdoor stairmaster and kids who are up for the challenge love the sense of accomplishment at the top. The views from the rim are panoramic covering Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, and the east side of Oahu. The climb is relentless with no shade so start early and bring lots of water. There is a gap in the ties about two-thirds up where a bridge once stood that requires some scrambling.

The site of Maui last volcanic eruption (around 1790) with a dramatic landscape of black lava flows meeting the ocean. The Hoapili Trail crosses the lava field along the coast with views of tide pools, ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, and distant Molokini crater. Dolphins are frequently spotted in the bay. The terrain is rough and exposed so good shoes and sun protection are essential. Walking on the a-a lava fields is a unique experience that helps kids understand volcanic geology in a tangible way.

A short loop trail through a forest of eerie lava molds left behind when a lava flow swept through a forest of ohia trees in 1790. The trees burned away but the hardened lava preserved their shapes, creating hollow pillars and ghostly tree-shaped columns. Kids think the formations look like petrified forest creatures. The 0.7-mile paved loop is easy and shaded. It is a quick stop that vividly demonstrates the power of volcanic activity in a way kids can see and touch. The surrounding forest has regrown around the formations creating a beautiful contrast.

A natural blowhole on the rugged northwest coast of Maui that shoots ocean water up to 100 feet in the air when the surf is up. The short hike down from the road (about 0.6 miles) crosses rocky lava terrain to a dramatic coastline. Kids are thrilled by the eruptions of water from the blowhole. The surrounding lava formations and tide pools are fascinating. Stay well back from the blowhole and cliff edges as it is genuinely dangerous up close. The heart-shaped rock formation nearby is another fun find for kids.

A jet-black sand beach where Hawaiian green sea turtles regularly haul themselves onto the sand to rest. Kids are amazed seeing these ancient creatures up close, basking just feet away on the dark sand. The black sand is made of volcanic basite and feels unlike any beach they have ever been to. The swimming conditions are often rough so this is more of a wildlife viewing and wading beach than a swimming beach. A small park with shade trees and picnic tables makes it a comfortable stop. Always maintain the required 10-foot distance from the turtles.

One of only four green sand beaches in the world, located at the southernmost point of the United States. The green color comes from olivine crystals in the volcanic cinder cone that surrounds the beach. Reaching it requires a 5.5-mile round trip hike across windy grassland or arranging a local shuttle ride. The beach sits in a cinder cone amphitheater with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. The green sand is genuinely remarkable and kids love collecting (and then returning) the tiny green crystals. Swimming is rough and not recommended.

A natural blowhole on Kauai south shore that shoots seawater through a lava tube creating a geyser-like eruption and an eerie moaning sound. Kids are mesmerized by the unpredictable eruptions that can shoot 50 feet into the air. The viewing area is safe and paved with a railing. The sound the blowhole makes as air is forced through the tube is haunting and tied to a Hawaiian legend about a giant lizard trapped in the rock. The whole visit takes 15 to 20 minutes and pairs well with a stop at nearby Allerton Garden.

A dramatic black sand beach surrounded by sea caves, lava tubes, and blowholes on the Road to Hana. The jet-black sand contrasts with turquoise water and green jungle creating otherworldly scenery. Kids are fascinated by exploring the lava tubes and sea caves along the coast. A short coastal trail leads to blowholes and natural rock arches. The beach itself has strong waves so swimming requires caution but wading at the edges is fine. The park also has cabins and camping for overnight stays.