The Hawaiian Islands are perhaps most well-known for its incredible beaches in a variety of colors, rugged sea cliffs, and lava rock coastline, but here at Only In Hawaii, we love exploring the underrated gems you’ll find once you head inland. Nestled on the slopes of the Kohala Mountains on the Big Island, this natural reserve area is so head-turning that it tops our travel wish list this year. Let’s explore, shall we?

Covering approximately 10,000 acres, the Pu’u O Umi Natural Reserve Area is truly one of the most magical places you can visit in Hawaii.
Wayne Lindsey/AllTrails
While most people have heard about — or even witnessed — the verdant cliffs of Waipio and Waimanu Valleys, few people know that these steep cliffs form part of the reserve boundary.
Maggie Benson/AllTrails
Extending downslope to the Kohala sea cliffs and a coastal dry grassland, Pu’u O Umi hosts two rare types of montane bogs surrounded by ohia forests, shrublands, and grasslands.
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
As soon as you step foot in this untouched oasis, you’ll immediately be transported to the movie Jurassic Park, as the ferns and moss lend itself to a prehistoric atmosphere.
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
From the dense forest...
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails

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...and stunning flowers blooming year round...
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
...to the sprawling countryside and views of the vast Pacific Ocean, one thing is certain: Pu'u O Umi is breathtaking.
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
Amateur and professional photographers alike love capturing the ethereal beauty of this reserve, and you won't want to visit without a camera.
Maggie Benson/AllTrails
One of the few legal access sites for the Kohala Mountains, you won’t find any maintained trails here, but it is absolutely worth a visit — especially if you’re looking to get away from it all, if only for a few hours.
Rich M/AllTrails
So, what are you waiting for? Add this little-known natural oasis to your Hawaii outdoor bucket list as soon as possible. You certainly won't be disappointed.
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails

So, tell us, have you ever been to the ethereal Pu’u O Umi Natural Reserve Area? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then head on over and join our Hawaii Nature Lovers group on Facebook to share photographs you’ve taken there — and, well, anywhere in the Aloha State.

If you loved this, you’ll want to check out the underrated marsh on Oahu you’re sure to fall in love with.

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