Experiences
Activities and Experiences at Parker Ranch
Parker Ranch — Hawai‘i’s oldest and largest working ranch — offers a variety of immersive opportunities to experience its rich heritage and lush landscapes. Enjoy a peaceful stroll exploring the grounds as you journey through our storied past and vibrant present, witnessing our ongoing commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the land. Or experience a more active one-of-kind, Paniolo adventure, seeing first-hand how Parker Ranch carries forward life and legacy.
Self-Guided Tours
Embark on a self-guided tour of the historic homes and grounds of Parker Ranch. These tours offer a deep dive into nearly 200 years of history, showcasing the Parker family’s rich legacy and intricate ties to the land, the Hawaiian monarchy, and the development of one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States. Upon arrival, you will receive a detailed pamphlet guiding you through the historic homes, gardens, and grounds, providing an intimate look at the ranch’s storied past.
In the scenic countryside of Waimea, Parker Ranch’s two historic homes, Puuopelu and Mana Hale, still reside among the green windswept pastures. These beautiful homes tell the Parker family’s story through historic heirlooms, works of art, and everyday items.
Mana Hale, the two-story “saltbox” koa-wood house that John Palmer Parker built, almost ship-like with its small rooms, narrow staircase, and low ceilings, reflects the simple saltbox style common to his New England origins. The interior is richly paneled with Hawaiian koa wood, befitting his royal bride, Chiefess Kipikane.
Puuopelu, purchased by John Parker II in 1879, is an elaborate Victorian-style manor that served as the family home through the sixth-generation heir Richard Smart. Richard surrounded it with flower gardens and filled it with his extensive art collection, family portraits, antiques, and treasures from world travels. The manor remained the family home until Richard Smart passed away in 1992.
Book a TourParker Ranch
Parker Ranch blends rustic charm with the authenticity of a working ranch, set against the lush green backdrop of upcountry Waimea. This unique setting has inspired generations, offering an unforgettable experience deeply rooted in the rich history and culture of Hawai‘i. The Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena, a cornerstone of the ranch, hosts the annual 4th of July Rodeo, showcasing the skills and traditions of the paniolo. This vibrant event brings together the community to celebrate and honor our ranching heritage.
If you are interested in sponsoring the upcoming rodeo, email us at sponsors-rodeo@parkerranch.com.
If you are interested in being a vendor at the upcoming rodeo, email us at rodeo-vendor@pri-hi.com.
Pukalani Stables
Pukalani Stables, with its iconic white rail fencing and distinctive “saddle high” sign, proudly hosts the Paniolo Heritage Center, where you can enjoy a beautifully refurbished open-air courtyard and an inviting space that awaits visitors. Step into the timeless ranch ambiance and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Hawaiian cowboy and the enduring legacy of Parker Ranch.
Visit the Heritage CenterHunting Tours
Experience the thrill of the hunt amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Hawai‘i’s Big Island. Parker Ranch spans approximately 130,000 acres of diverse terrain, from the ocean’s edge to the towering 8,000-foot elevations of Maunakea. Our guided hunting tours offer not only an unparalleled adventure but also stunning scenic views that are truly a bonus.
Our guided tours allow you to harvest Mouflon Sheep, Mouflon Hybrid Sheep, pigs, and goats. Mouflon Sheep are the island’s most prized game, renowned for their exceptional eyesight and elusive nature. Goats, found throughout the island, are often less wary than Mouflon Sheep, making them an accessible target for archery. Our pigs, often nocturnal, can be spotted feeding during cooler periods of the day, perfect for bow or rifle hunting. Boars with sharp, knife-like tusks and coarse hair offer an exhilarating hunt.
View more hunting photos and learn more about fees and pricing at the Parker Ranch Hunting website.
Reserve a Hunt
Media & Location Shoots
With thousands of acres on Hawai‘i’s inspiring Big Island, Parker Ranch boasts diverse topography and stunning scenery, making it a popular location for media and film productions. The ranch’s landscapes — ranging from desert-like black lava fields, to lush green uplands, and panoramic grasslands with ocean vistas — provide a versatile backdrop for creative projects of all types.
Historic structures and the ranch’s picturesque settings have been featured in numerous television shows, films, and print productions, showcasing the ranch’s scenic and cultural appeal. Whether you’re searching for an authentic Hawaiian setting or an alternative to an international or otherworldly location, Parker Ranch is an ideal site. Your vision can come to life here.
Parker Ranch has proudly assisted with crews representing:
- The Travel Channel
- The Golf Channel
- The History Channel
- The Weather Channel
- Microsoft
- Marlboro
- Norm Thompson
- J. Jill
- BMW
- Best Western
- Febreze
- Canon
- BBC