Waikōloa Petroglyph Reserve

"A little off the beaten path, but worth it. Expect to spend 10-30 min trekking the lava field looking for petroglyphs. They aren’t marked with signage, and so you traverse the field looking for markings. The site is sandwiched in the middle of a golf course, so it feels a little odd taking photos of a historical site, to end up with golfers & golf carts in the photo. The path is unstable and can be treacherous where you walk so I do not recommend for young kids, and it would be well advised to have closed-toe shoes. This is not a “must see” for the area, but definitely worth the stop if you’re in the vicinity."

"The directions here were challenging, & the place wasn't marked well. 1. 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. 2. 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. & a restaurant."

"We enjoyed walking along the paths surrounding the Waikoloa Petroglyphs. There were several carvings of stock figures, warriors, circles and waves. Be careful some areas are difficult to navigate. Well worth a visit."

"Pretty darn cool! Petroglyphs everywhere, you won’t miss them. Where good shoes, the trail is flat but that volcanic rock is rough. Other than tough terrain, easy walk, signs with good info too. Not busy. I’d recommend if you’re nearby! Give yourself 30 mins."

"Thousands of old carvings into the lava rock. Surprisingly interesting. It's free and you just walk through the lava field. Go first thing in the morning before it gets hot plus the lightning is much better for pictures."