Big Island Playground Makes Top 50 List

Kamakana Playground, located in Kailua-Kona, has made Early Childhood Education Zone’s list of 50 Best Playgrounds in the United States.

The wooden structured playground that boasts of ocean views and a variety of play options for children was ranked 11th and is the only Big Island playground to make the list. Additionally, the playground was only one of two playgrounds to make the cut throughout the entire state. Camp H.R. Erdman Nature Built Playspace on Oahu was ranked number seven.

Kamakana Playground is situated in Harold H. Higashihara Park along Highway 11, heading towards Kealakekua. Unique features of the playground include themed art details, including picnic tables shaped like Hawaiian Islands and tribal carvings on park walls. The playground is even home to a replica of a Hawaiian canoe.

Children may find enjoyment in the two turn, total darkness slide, while parents take in the breathtaking views of the ocean and trees.

Also on the property are tennis courts, horseshoe courts, and inlaid tables for chess and checkers.

According to Early Childhood Education Zone, “Playgrounds provide exciting learning opportunities that build a child’s self-confidence and let their creativity flourish. Outdoor play allows children to explore and interact with their world, all while getting much-needed fresh air and physical activity.”

To view the entire list of Top 50 Playground’s in the U.S., visit Early Childhood Education Zone’s website.