Parker Ranch

The Basics

Explore cowboy life on the Big Island with a tour of Parker Ranch. Many guided tours of the Big Island include a a drive through the ranch’s scenic pastures, in addition to visiting island waterfalls, rain forest, and volcanoes. Those interested in learning more about the Parker family and Hawaii’s paniolo culture can take a free, self-guided tour of the ranch homes that includes a short film about the ranch’s history and exhibits about the Parker family.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Parker Ranch is a must-visit for those interested in Hawaiian history.

• Self-guided tours of two Parker Ranch homes, Puuopelu and Mana Hale, are free.

• The Parker Ranch Store sells souvenirs such as Hawaiian-style beef jerky, handcrafted jewelry, and paniolo apparel.

• Taste grass-fed, pasture-raised Hawaiian beef at Village Burger in the Parker Ranch Center shopping mall near the ranch.

How to Get There

Parker Ranch is located in the town of Waimea, in the central northern region of Hawaii’s Big Island. Most visitors arrive by car on their way from Hilo to the Kona coast or as part of a guided tour of the Big Island.

When to Get There

Parker Ranch can be visited year-round, and the ranch homes are open for tours Monday through Friday. The ranch holds rodeos and horse racing events over the 4th of July and Labor Day weekends. Stop by the visitor center in Parker Ranch Center in Waimea to find out what’s happening at the ranch.

Parker Ranch Rodeos

See the Hawaiian cowboys in action during the annual Parker Ranch 4th of July Rodeo. The Independence Day tradition includes team roping events, barrel racing, and horse racing, as well as local foods and pony rides for the kids.

How much land does Parker Ranch own in Hawaii?

Parker Ranch has around 130,000 acres of land, making it one of the largest cattle ranches in the US. The cattle enjoy grazing on the rich volcanic grasslands of the Mauna Kea and Kohala Mountains. Around 10,000 mother cows inhabit this vast land.

Is Parker Ranch open to the public?

Yes, the public is welcome to visit Parker Ranch. It offers free self-guided tours of all the sights on the property, including historic homes and gardens. Family art and heirlooms are on display, and you can learn all about the Parker family as you tour the grounds.

Does Parker Ranch have a restaurant?

Yes, Parker Ranch has a restaurant called the Parker Ranch Broiler. It’s a top spot for hanging out at the bar with a drink, sitting around the fireplace, or trying some of the local grass-fed beef. It’s a casual restaurant where everyone is welcome, right in Kamuela.

Is Parker Ranch good for kids?

Yes, kids will enjoy visiting Parker Ranch, where they can learn all about the paniolos or Hawaiian cowboys. You could also go on a horseback or ATV tour, which many kids will think is a blast. Kids can also run around and explore the ranch on foot.

When is the best time to visit Parker Ranch?

Parker Ranch is open year-round, so you can visit whenever you like. They have festivities over the Fourth of July weekend, like rodeos and horse races, so that’s a fun time to visit. It’s open Monday through Friday from around 8am until 4pm, so choose whichever time suits your party.

Is Parker Ranch worth visiting?

Yes, Parker Ranch is worth visiting. You can explore one of the largest cattle farms in the US for free, learn about the history of Hawaiian cowboys and their way of life, view the volcanic mountains, and enjoy the fresh ranch air.

Ways to explore

You can visit Parker Ranch independently with a free, self-guided tour of the historic Puʻuopelu and Mana Hale homes. Exhibits and a short film share the story of the Parker family and Hawaii’s ranching legacy. Visitors typically begin at the Parker Ranch Center in Waimea, where on-site parking is available.

Alternatively, many full-day Big Island tours include a scenic drive through Parker Ranch pastures as part of a broader itinerary. These guided tours often combine stops at island waterfalls, rainforest lookouts, and volcanoes. Most tours depart from Kona or Hilo, and include round-trip transportation and local commentary.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-friendly paths and accommodations are available throughout the visitor areas, but wheelchair users should check ahead; some areas have uneven pathways.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Hat, sunscreen, water bottle, camera

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes and layers—Waimea’s higher elevation can bring cooler weather.

Not allowed

Approaching livestock, leaving marked paths, disturbing operations involving cattle

Amenities

Restrooms, picnic areas, visitor center, parking

Address

Parker Ranch is located in Waimea (Kamuela), on Hawaii’s Big Island—approximately 45 minutes north of Kona and just under an hour northwest of Hilo. Most visitors reach it by car or bus, or on guided cultural or scenic tours.

Driving

From Kona, take Highway 19 north, then merge onto Highway 190 toward Waimea. Follow signs to the Parker Ranch Center, which offers free parking near the visitor center and historic homes.

Public transportation

Hele‑On buses—including lines 1, 76, 80, 301, and 60—stop at Highway 19 at Opelo Street, just a 4-minute walk from the Parker Ranch Center.

Best times to visit

Mid-morning visits are ideal, offering cooler temperatures and beautiful light.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are typically calmer and less crowded, allowing you to explore at your own pace without weekend event crowds.

Best months to visit

Visit between November and April for mild, stable weather. Summer’s rainy season brings more heat and humidity.

Special events

Special events happen throughout the year, including the 4th of July Rodeo and Horse Races, Labor Day Rodeo (August/September), and Christmas Tree Lighting (December).