what to visit in hawaii big island

The Ultimate Hawai’i Big Island Travel Guide (2024)

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Volcanoes, stargazing, whale watching, and waterfalls galore will greet you on the Island of Hawai’i . Welcome to the ultimate Big Island travel guide!

The Island of Hawai’i is larger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined and then some. The Big Island has die-hard fans, and I am one of them. The Big Island is for coffee connoisseurs, astronomers, whale watchers, volcanologists, manta ray snorkelers, and travelers who crave a white-sand beach.

Everything you need to know about planning your trip is in the Big Island travel guide .

Here are some quick links to essential planning resources: – Check out the best (and worst) times to visit the Big Island – Pick what part of the island is the best fit for your group – Find the best beaches around the island – We’ve got you covered with 21 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island

Want to hop around? Use our handy table of contents below to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the big island itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Hawai’i (Big Island).

Big Island Travel Guide: Facts

Impress your seatmate on the plane or win trivia night with these facts about the Island of Hawai’i: 

• The Island of Hawai’i has 4 out of the 5 major climate zones in the world and 8 out of 13 sub-zones, following the  Köppen climate  classification scheme. That means the Big Island has deserts to polar tundra to rainforests and in-between. 
• Two of the five shield volcanoes that formed the island are still active. Kilauea and Mauna Loa are active but may not be erupting. Kilauea is the most active, see if it is  erupting here for your trip .  Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park is worth a visit.
• The next Hawaiian island is forming fifteen miles off the island’s southeast coast. Loʻihi, is erupting 3,000 feet below the surface of the ocean. While it will still be several thousand years before this volcano breaks the sea’s surface, it has already risen more than 10,000 feet from the seafloor and has a crater that measures three miles across.
• Kamehameha the Great , who unified the Hawaiian Islands as one kingdom in 1810, is believed to have been born in the Big Island’s North Kohala area, Waipio Valley. 

• Captain James Cook , who is widely considered to be the first European to set foot on the Hawaiian Islands, was killed at Kona’s Kealakekua Bay in 1779.
• Measured from its seafloor base to its highest peak,  Mauna Kea  is the world’s tallest mountain, taller than Mount Everest, since the base of Mount Everest is above sea level.
• The island is often referred to as the Island of Hawaiʻi, the Big Island, or Hawaiʻi Island to distinguish it from the state.

Big Island Geography

The Big Island is aptly named:  it has 63% of Hawaii’s combined land mass . That means it’s larger than all of the other islands, combined. And, with new volcanic eruptions, the island is getting bigger.  

There are five major volcanoes on the Big Island and six main regions: Kona, Kohala, Hamakua Coast, Hilo, Puna, and Kau. 

Like all of the Hawaiian islands, there are two sides: a leeward side and a windward side. The leeward side of the island is drier and the windward side is wetter. 

Welcome to sunny Kona. The Kona district stretches for most of the leeward side of the island and includes beaches, snorkeling spots, coffee farms , and cultural sights. Here you’ll also find one of the two airports, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA). It’s one of the most popular areas on the island to stay thanks to airport proximity, activities, and weather. 

Shielded from the winds, you’ll find warm weather, mostly clear skies, and calm, swimmable beaches (here are the  5 Best Kona Beaches ). Into the cooler hillside you can explore the coffee farms that are so prevalent in the area. And enjoy an incredible historic site,  Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park .

Plus, you will find the best snorkeling spot on the island here (in our opinion). 

Check out even more to love about Kona: The 21 Best Things to do in Kona (+ tips to know before you go) Where to Stay in Kona: the 7 Best Hotels and Vacation Rentals Tried & Tested: The 5 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel (& Dives) in Kona

Kohala 

Just north of Kona on the leeward side of the island is the Kohala Coast, also sometimes referred to as the Gold Coast thanks to the number of five star resorts in this area. It’s also home to some of the best beaches on the island, like Hapuna Beach, with it’s white sand and beautiful blue water. Just note that in the winter, some of these beaches get hit with large currents and waves, making them dangerous for swimming.

Venture further inland and you’ll leave the resorts behind and find another side to the Kohala district, with the cowboy (paniolo) town of Waimea, the charming town of Hawi, and the sacred Pololu Valley. 

Related reads: The 15 Best Things To Do In Waikoloa Kona vs Waikoloa: What’s the Best Place to Stay on the Big Island

Hamakua Coast

Here, you’re off the leeward side of the island and you’re now on the lush, tropical windward side. The Hamakua Coast is famous for its jagged coastline, waterfalls , and stunning scenery. Waipio Valley is also located here, which is known for being the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I. 

The largest town of the windward side, here you’ll find another airport, Hilo International Airport (ITO), serving inter-island airports and some west coast airports. This small city has a great downtown and is also a launching point for many of the spectacular sights in the area, including Volcanoes National Park. Explore our  1-Day Hilo Itinerary for Things to Do and the Best Things to Do in Hilo (+nearby) .

South of Hilo you have the Puna district, an area known for its fertile soil. You’ll find plenty of farms here growing flowers, macadamia nuts, and papayas. You can also visit the lava viewing area of Kalapana, once a historic town before it was partially destroyed by lava. 

This southern region is quiet, but is home to two major attractions: Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and the majority of Volcanoes National Park (including Kilauea Volcano). You’ll also find coffee farms, mac nut farms, and hiking trails. What you won’t find are large hotels, golf courses, or a bustling town. 

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit the Big Island?

While you may be visiting from a place that has four seasons each year, in Hawaii there are just two: summer (kau) and winter (hooilo). Summer runs from May to October and winter lasts from November to April. 

Luckily, the weather on the Big Island is warm and pleasant year-round, so there’s truly no bad time to visit.  But our favorite months to visit are May and October, because there are fewer visitors, the weather is great, and it’s a little less expensive to travel in this off-peak season period.  

You can find all the details for the best time to visit the Big Island (and the worst), plus our advice on when to visit for whale watching, snorkeling, and the cheapest costs!

While the winter months get a little more rain and might be a little cooler, the weather in Kona stays pretty sunny and warm year-round. It’s a  perfect spot to plan a winter vacation . On the Kohala Coast you’ll find even drier conditions but be prepared for some rough surf in the winter. 

That said, if you plan to visit the windward side in the winter, you are in for cooler temperatures and more rainfall. But that’s what makes that side of the island so lush and beautiful. 

Getting to the Big Island

There are two (two!) airport options for you to choose from on the Big Island. The main airport that serves the most visitors is  Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport  (KOA). The airport is located seven miles northwest of Kailua-Kona and serves inter-island, domestic, and international locations. 

Located on the other side of the island is Hilo International Airport (ITO), which is located two miles east of Hilo. This airport serves inter-island locations as well as some domestic airports on the west coast.

Renting a Car and Getting Around the Big Island

If you’re hoping to see all that the Big Island has to offer, having a car is going to be pretty important. Our favorite recommendation is  Discount Hawaii Rental Car . We use them  any time we island hop  and we’ve saved thousands of dollars by using them over the years. 

While the island is big, you can drive around the island in one day, either using the northern route, the southern route, or by taking the saddle road through the middle of the island. When driving from Kona to Hilo, the northern route will take approximately 2 hours. You can shorten your journey to 1.5 hours by taking the saddle road, however you’ll miss some of the sights on the  Hamakua Heritage corridor .

For the most part, the roads on the Big Island are well paved and easy to navigate with any type of car — no 4 wheel drive required! There are a few spots where having a 4WD car is preferred or required, but you can visit most sights just cruising around with regular wheels. 

If you don’t want to rent a car but you still want to get out and see the sights, a guided tour is a great option. Our favorite tour that will pick you up from your hotel and take you around is the  Big Island Circle Tour .

Where to Stay on the Big Island

Ready to book your stay on the Big Island? There are so many different options: a quaint vacation rental in coffee country, a tiny home on a bed of lava, a five-star resort, or a small boutique hotel. Whatever you’re looking for, the Big Island has something for you.

Should you stay in a hotel or vacation rental?

There’s something for everyone on the island. The Big Island has plenty of five-star resorts, quaint hotels, and unique vacation rentals. But what’s the right spot for you? 

The first choice you’ll need to make is whether you’re looking for a hotel or a vacation rental. There’s no bad choice. Go for a hotel if you’re looking for the traditional resort experience with big pools, nearby beaches, and restaurants within walking distance. Opt for a vacation rental if you want access to a kitchen, are looking for space, or are looking to save money. 

If you’re still not sure what you want to do, we  break down the difference between choosing a hotel and a vacation rental in Hawaii .  

Should you stay in Hilo, Kona, Kohala, or…?

Because you read our geography section (above) you know that the island has a leeward side and a windward side. The leeward side is the drier side and includes Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast. These are the most popular places for visitors to stay, but are they the right spots for you? 

Check out our where to stay guide, which walks you through the accommodation options for different areas of the island: from the luxury resorts on the Kohala Coast to the unique options on the windward side. 

Related Articles:

• Where to Stay on the Big Island: an area by area guide
• Hilo vs Kona: picking the right place for you
• Where to Stay in Kona: the 7 Best Hotels and Vacation Rentals
• Where to Stay Directory: Big Island

How Many Days Should You Stay on the Big Island

When you’re planning a trip to the Big Island, your list of things to see will be long. And the more you read about this beautiful island, the more you’ll add to your list of things to do and see. That’s why we recommend spending at least a week on the Big Island. This will give you time to check off some of your top experiences while also enjoying some downtime to relax. 

Most visitors seem to agree with our advice to stay for at least a week: the average number of days a traveler spends on the island is eight. 

Read more about  how many days you should spend on the Big Island .  And don’t miss our  Hawaii packing list   as you’re getting ready to go.

Beaches and Snorkeling Spots on the Big Island

Who doesn’t love a good beach when they’re on vacation? If you’re headed to the Big Island, you’re in luck. There are plenty of beautiful beaches for you to discover. Our favorite beaches include:

1.  Hapuna Beach : If you’re looking for white-sand beaches, this is the spot. One of the best beaches on the island (if not the best), Hapuna Beach offers plenty of soft sand, good swimming conditions in the summer, and plenty of parking. It is what beach vacation dreams are made of.

2.  Kikaua Point Park : This is the best spot for kids (though truthfully we love it as adults as well). This park has a protected cove that makes swimming here easy pretty much year-round. And it’s also surprisingly good for snorkeling. But the limited parking makes it a tough beach to get to.

3.  Punalu’u Black Sand Beach : A must-see beach on your trip to the Big Island, it’s the best black sand beach in the state (in our opinion). But swimming here isn’t so easy, so plan to spend your time on the shore marveling at your beautiful surroundings.

Check out this  list of our favorite Big Island beaches , complete with directions, parking information, and must-know tips.

If you’re coming to snorkel, we’ve got you covered. These are our  favorite snorkeling spots on the island .

The top one, Kealakekua Bay isn’t easily accessible from land so we recommend a  boat tour  or a  kayak trip  out to enjoy it. It’s one of our most memorable experiences in Hawai’i to date.

Remember that while the beaches in Hawaii are beautiful, they are not without risk. Currents, dangerous shore break, and changing ocean conditions make swimming in any ocean dangerous. Practice beach safety by swimming on beaches with lifeguards, obeying lifeguard flags, and when in doubt, don’t go out. This website has more excellent information to help keep you safe. 

Things To Do on the Big Island

The Big Island is full of amazing adventures, stunning natural beauty, and important heritage sites. There’s more to do and see than you can fit into one trip, so prioritizing what you want to experience is important. 

Ready to craft your list of things you can’t miss? Here are a few of our favorite experiences, but you can read the  full list of things you can do activities on the Big Island. 

• For an up-close experience with the ocean’s gentle giants, head out for  night snorkeling or diving with Manta Rays
• Hike in Volcanoes National Park , drive the crater rim, walk through a lava tube, and look into Halema’uma’u Crater
• Dip your toes in the water at a stunning  black sand beach
• Explore  underwater at Kealakekua Bay  — you may get lucky and be greeted by a pod of spinner dolphins
• Visit a coffee farm and sample fresh coffee in Kona’s famed coffee country (these are out favorite coffee farm tours! )

That’s just the tip of the iceberg of the amazing experiences the Big Island offers. To plan your trip, check out our  five  can’t miss experiences on the Big Island .  It’s also home to a ton more farm tours (not just coffee farms) and you can go whale watching in the winter !

And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss our  12 things to do in Kona with kids . It has some great ideas that your kids will love.

Want help seeing how to fit all of the best sights into your vacation?  Our Big Island itinerary  was created just for that. The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. With the download, you’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary  and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to the Big Island.

Best Tours and Activities on the Big Island

While we embrace DIY travel, there’s something to be said for a  great  tour on the big island. Not only are you supporting a local business, but you’re getting time with a guide who truly knows the island. Whether they’re teaching you the history of the islands during a canoe tour or they’re educating you on the marine life during a snorkeling trip, a good tour experience can stick with you for years. 

We’ve done the hard work for you by finding the best of the best tours on the island. Here’s a sampling of our favorites to get started,  but don’t forget to check out our full list . 

If you’re visiting the Big Island on a cruise ship, don’t miss the best Big Island shore excursions and our Cruise Travel Guide .

Popular Big Island Videos

Get to know the Big Island and see some of our best recommendations with our most popular Big Island videos.

Or, explore our full library of videos on Hawaii .

Full Library of Big Island Articles

Want to binge-read everything we’ve written on visiting the Big Island? Pour yourself a Mai Tai and browse all Hawai’i Big Island articles here .

The Best Big Island Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, we’ve got you covered.  Our island itineraries  help you navigate the planning process and make your trip smooth once you’re on-island. Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away.

Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away.

We hope you have an amazing trip!

~Jordan & Erica

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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17 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Looking for the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii ? I’ve put together the ultimate guide after several trips to the Big Island. After my second trip there, I realized just how many things there are to do on the island. The island is magical, nature-centered, and has a bit of everything for everyone and I’m excited to share the best of what I’ve found.

While it’s often overlooked by tourists flocking to Maui, Oahu , and Kauai, the Big Island of Hawaii has tons to offer. It’s a diverse destination, with two active volcanoes, and eight different ecosystems and climate zones. This makes it an incredible place for exploration, outdoor recreation, wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and so much more.

When visiting the Big Island, it’s important to note that the two sides of the island are very distinct. The Kona side, home to most of the tourist infrastructure, including hotels and resorts, is drier, while the Hilo side is rainy but lush. I always suggest staying on the Kona side for your first trip.

There are unforgettable experiences on both sides of the island, including the unmissable things to do that I’ve listed below.

Planning a Trip to the Big Island? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do on the Big Island:

• The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai , for the best overall hotel
• Fairmont Orchid , for the best family-friendly hotel
• Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , for the best new hotel
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel , for the best beachfront hotel
• Mauna Lani, A Auberge Hotel , for the best boutique hotel

Things to Do

• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Do Manta Ray Night Dive
• Visit the Mauna Kea Summit for Stargazing
• Go on a Coffee Farm Tour
• Catamaran Sail and Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

For more on visiting the Big Island, don’t miss my slow travel guide !

1. Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

If you do one thing on the Big Island, make it a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . Home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Hale Ma’uma’u, there are tons of different options for visiting the park, ranging from a day trip to a multi-day stay that will allow you to explore it in-depth. Popular sites within the park include the Thurston Lava Tube area, as well as the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes you around a crater rim. The Visitor Center is a great first place to start a visit to the park. If you prefer a guided experience, this highly-rated small-group experience is a good option. If you have a car, consider this self-guided driving tour .

2. Do a One-of-a-Kind Manta Ray Night Dive

For an unforgettable experience, take a scuba diving adventure to view the more than 240 Manta Rays that call the Kona Coast home. There are multiple guided tours to choose from that include guides to help you encounter these wild creatures in a safe, responsible way that protects the mantas and their habitat. In researching tour options, this night manta ray experience consistently came up as the highest-rated and most popular.

3. Visit One of the Many Incredible Beaches

The Big Island has tons of amazing beaches on all parts of the island to explore. A few I love in particular are Waialea Beach (Beach 69) , which is intimate and not overly crowded and also has plenty of shade; Hapuna Beach , one of the largest public beaches with restrooms, perfect for an all-day stay; and Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) , which has a small bay with stunning blue waters.

4. Visit the Mauna Kea Summit for Stargazing (or Sunset)

The summit of Mauna Kea Volcano is magical no matter what time of the evening you visit. Come at the end of the day to watch the sun set above the clouds or come after nightfall for epic stargazing. With the summit rising 13,796 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea Observatory offers late-night stargazing tours with incredible visibility you won’t find elsewhere.

5. Stay at World-Class Resorts

Hawaii has some of the top resorts in the world that will complete your experience in a tropical paradise. The Four Seasons Hualalai is a personal favorite—we had an incredible stay here for our 10th wedding anniversary and babymoon. The Fairmont Orchid is also a top-rated hotel, and the new Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , looks stunning as well.

6. See the Active Lava Flow

Catching sight of an active lava flow is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many visitors to the Big Island. If you’re lucky enough to be there during an eruption, I highly recommend this otherworldly experience. The Hawaii Volcano Observatory posts daily updates that can assist with planning. This highly-rated guided tour of the active lava flow is a good option.

7. Get Breakfast with a View at The Coffee Shack

If you want to dine while overlooking Kealakekua Bay and 26 miles of Kona coast, The Coffee Shack is the place to do it. But it’s not just the views that are incredible here; we came four mornings in a row for breakfast because the food was so delicious. Lines can be long, so come early to snag a good table—it’s worth it.

8. Visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens

A hidden gem on the Big Island, Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens is a sanctuary for thousands of rare and endangered plant species from all over the world. A trip through the gardens includes paths and bridges that will lead you over streams and waterfalls and into panoramic views of Onomea Bay.

9. See the Akaka Falls on the Hilo Side

On the eastern side of the island, Akaka Falls State Park is a worthwhile stop. You can take a short, self-guided walk through lush, tropical flora to several scenic viewpoints that overlook Akaka Falls. The 442-foot waterfall cascades down into a stream-eroded gorge.

10. Get Malasadas at the Famous Punalu’u Bake Shop

Depending on where you’re staying, it can be a trek to get down to the island’s southernmost tip, where Punalu’u Bake Shop is located. But without a doubt, it’s worth the drive. The famous malasadas, Portuguese pastries similar to fluffy donuts, were outstanding. Get there at the opening if you want to snag some of the rarer flavors.

11. Go Snorkeling at Two Step Beach

Two Step Beach is one of the Big Island’s most famous snorkeling stops, and for good reason. We snorkeled here a few times on our most recent trip and saw all kinds of fish and even an octopus. I recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear and water shoes so that you don’t have to deal with rentals.

12. Make the Drive for Shaved Ice at Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice

Shave ice is a staple of a Big Island vacation, and Anuenue is our family’s favorite place to get it. There’s something special about it—so much so that we drove an hour north to the Kohala Coast two days in a row to enjoy it. Make sure to order condensed milk on top for an extravagant treat.

13. Swim at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

In the south of the island, the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a breathtaking sight. With jet-black sand from volcanic activity, the view is unforgettable. It’s also a great place to spot sea turtles basking in the sun. This is a perfect stop to combine with a trip to Punalu’u Bake Shop (mentioned above) for malasadas or a visit to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach . Fun fact: A drive to Papakōlea Beach takes you past the Southernmost Point of the United States !

14. Hike into the Pololū Valley

A hike in the Pololū Valley is a great experience for active travelers and will be like no other hike you’ve ever done. Located at the northernmost tip of the island, close to the town of Hawi, it features a scenic overlook and a black sand beach. To get from the overlook down to the beach, it’s about a 30-minute walk down, and while steep, it’s not overly strenuous. The Waipi o Valley is another great hiking option in the northern region of the island.

15. Go on a Coffee Farm Tour

Kona Coffee is world-renowned, and it comes from the Big Island. Coffee enthusiasts should look into going on an organized coffee farm tour, which will teach you about the coffee process from seed to cup, as well as what makes Kona Coffee so special. There are many different farm tours to choose from, here’s a coffee farm tour that stood out as particularly interesting.

16. Don’t Miss the Incredible Rainbow Falls from Wailuku River State Park

Close to downtown Hilo, Wailuku River State Park is the home of the well-known Waianuenue, or Rainbow Falls. An 80-foot waterfall, it gets its name from the rainbows that frequently appear in the mist when the sun is shining. The waterfall is easy to see, with ample parking very close to the viewing area.

17. Get Out on the Water

The Big Island is ripe with opportunities for water recreation, with so many different options for getting out on the water. Surfing, SUPing, and kayaking are all easy ways to dive in. If you want something more organized, consider a catamaran trip or a snorkeling tour . Great snorkeling spots in addition to Two Step (see above) are Kahalu’u Beach Park, Ho’okena Beach Park, and Kealakekua Bay near Captain Cook. If you like to whale watch, a whale watching tour is also a great way to get out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Big Island

How many days do you need on the big island of hawaii.

How long to stay is a personal decision, but I loved my eight-night stay on the Big Island. That amount of time allowed us to slow down and get a feel for the island. You could certainly visit for a shorter amount of time, but remember that the island is Hawaii’s largest, and driving times can be long.

Is it Worth Going to the Big Island of Hawaii?

The Big Island of Hawaii is worth visiting. Less crowded and slower-paced than other Hawaiian islands, The Big Island is incredibly relaxing. It’s also a diverse destination, with the combination of volcanoes, lava beds, and white-sand beaches providing a unique landscape.

What’s the Best Part of the Big Island to Stay?

The west side of the Big Island—the Kona side—is considered the better part for visitors. It’s sunnier and more convenient, with lots of activities and places to stay clustered in the area.

Which Airport Do I Fly Into for the Big Island?

If you’re going to be exploring the west side of the island, as I recommend above, you should fly into Kona International Airport. The Big Island has a second major airport on the opposite side, Hilo International Airport, but it’s a 1.5-hour drive from there to Kona without traffic and can take much longer.

Do You Need a Rental Car on the Big Island?

When visiting the Big Island, my number one tip is always to have a rental car. It gives you the freedom to access the different areas of the island, which are quite spread out from one another. I always use  Discover Cars  to book the most competitive rates for rental cars on the Big Island.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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23 Best Things to Do on the Big Island Right Now

Are you looking for the best things to do on the Big Island?

If so, you’re in luck, as we have done all the research and compiled a list of the top things to do on the island. From beaches and snorkeling to exploring volcanoes, there’s something for everyone.

With its diverse landscape and many activities, the Big Island is an excellent destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Even if you’ve been here before, there is something new and exciting waiting for you around every corner. 

Don’t have time to read about all the activities on this list? No worries—we have shortlisted the top three things to do below to make things easy for you.

Our Top Picks

Snorkel with Manta Rays

Snorkeling with Manta Rays is a must-do activity in Hawaii, offering the incredible experience of nighttime encounters with these majestic, friendly, harmless creatures.

Zipline Over the Umauma River and Falls

Ziplining over the Umauma River and Falls is an exciting and thrilling adventure that allows you to enjoy incredibly breathtaking panoramic views of waterfalls and the surrounding natural beauty.

Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument

The Captain Cook Monument is the ultimate spot for snorkeling on the Big Island, providing the perfect chance to discover the underwater world, see different kinds of sea creatures, and learn about the monument’s important history.

Top Things to Do on The Big Island of Hawaii

(1) manta ray night snorkel or dive.

Not many places in the world offer the opportunity to swim with manta rays . On the Big Island, you can do just that! Imagine the thrill of being in the presence of these incredible creatures, witnessing their graceful movements up close.

The Big Island is home to a large population of manta rays, and going on a manta ray night snorkel or dive tour is the perfect way to experience their world.

It’s an adventure that will leave you with lifelong memories and foster a deep appreciation for the wonders of marine life. This is by far one of our favorite things to do on the island.

The best way to see these majestic creatures is with an experienced guide via a tour.

(2) Zipline Over the Umauma River and Falls

Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled adventure as you zipline over the Umauma River and Falls on the Big Island.

Ziplining high above the lush tropical landscape, you’ll take in breathtaking panoramic views of the cascading waterfalls and surrounding natural beauty.

Expert guides will ensure your safety and provide interesting tidbits about the area’s history and ecology.

Guests can choose from the 9-line, 2-mile zipline or tackle the 4-line zipline tour.

This zipline reminds us of our  zipline adventures in Kauai  with its stunning views and thrilling ride.

(3) Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument

For the best snorkeling on the Big Island, head to the Captain Cook Monument off Kealakekua Bay. This area was declared a Marine Life Conservation District in 1969 and is home to many vibrant sea creatures, including green sea turtles and a large variety of fish.

The area has excellent visibility year-round, making it an ideal spot for snorkelers of all ages. Be sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen!

There are three main ways to get to the monument: 

Take a Boat Tour

If you don’t want to kayak or hike, a boat tour is the way to go. This is the fastest and easiest way to get to the monument.

Many tour companies offer trips to Kealakekua Bay, but make sure to choose a company that follows the  Sustainable Tourism Association  of Hawaii guidelines. We recommend booking with Sea Paradise.

Kayaking takes about 15 to 25 minutes one way. The best way to get there is to join a guided tour. There are three companies that have been issued permits by the  Division of State Parks  to operate guided kayaking tours to the monument:

• Deluxe Morning Kayak & Snorkel Kealakekua Bay
• Deluxe Afternoon Kayak & Snorkel Kealakekua Bay
• Aloha Kayak Co.
• Kona Boys, Inc

The hike into Kealakekua Bay is 3.7 miles roundtrip and is considered intermediate. The trail is open, so you’ll want to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

We don’t recommend this option unless you just want to hike. The trail is not scenic, and you’ll be exhausted hiking back after a long day of snorkeling.

(4) Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

No trip to Hawaii would be complete without visiting the unique and incredible Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s a beautiful place to witness some of nature’s most powerful forces, explore lava caves, and hike through lush rainforest.

The park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Here you can see lava flow (when flowing), hike trails with unique and exciting views, such as the Crater Rim trail, explore steam vents and lava tubes, learn about Hawaii’s fascinating geology and more.

The drive to the park is about 2 hours from Kailua-Kona and 45 minutes from Hilo, so plan plenty of time for your visit here. We usually spend the day at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while staying in Hilo. It’s one of the many reasons why we always say visiting Hilo is definitely worth it .

(5) Visit the Mauna Kea Summit

The Mauna Kea Summit is one of the most popular attractions on the Big Island and is home to some of the world’s most advanced astronomy research facilities.

At the summit, you’ll be amazed by the surreal landscape above the clouds.

Whether you’re a stargazing enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, visiting the Mauna Kea summit promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of our planet and universe.

Just remember to plan your visit accordingly, considering the altitude and weather conditions.

Note:  a four-wheel drive vehicle is required to drive to the summit. Two-wheel drive vehicles are not allowed past the end of the paved road by the visitor center.

(6) Take a Helicopter Tour

Taking a helicopter tour to witness the Big Island’s breathtaking beauty from a whole new perspective is one of the  top things to do in Hawaii .

This experience is an adventure of a lifetime, allowing you to fly above dramatic volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and pristine coastlines.

From the comfort of a helicopter, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the island’s diverse terrain, capturing stunning aerial photographs and memories that will last a lifetime.

Experienced pilots will guide you through the island’s most iconic landmarks, sharing interesting facts and stories along the way.

Whether it’s your first time in a helicopter or you’re a seasoned flyer, a helicopter tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience that shows the remarkable natural wonders of the Big Island.

(7) Enjoy Gorgeous Views at Waipi’o Valley Lookout

The breathtaking beauty and stunning views of Waipi’o Valley are not to be missed. This dramatic landscape has been part of the Big Island’s cultural history for centuries and is now a popular tourist destination.

The panoramic vistas from the lookout point are simply incredible, offering a glimpse into the raw and untouched nature of the Big Island.

From the lookout, you can see cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and cliffs. You can also watch vibrant waves crashing against the beautiful black sand beach.

The valley is no longer open (as of February 2022) to the public for safety reasons, but you can still enjoy the views from the lookout point.

(8) Go Whale Watching

If you are lucky enough to visit the Big Island in winter (November to March), you must add whale watching to your itinerary.

Hawaii’s humpback whales migrate here annually, and it’s an incredible experience to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The best time to go is during peak season, from mid-January through March, when they are most active.

There are many boat tours that take you around the ocean to watch these gentle giants. Here is an article we wrote about our favorite whale-watching tours in Hawaii .

Of course, you can also see whales while on land without a tour. The best places for whale watching from shore are along North Kona, North Kohala, and Hilo coasts. Many people have reported seeing whales before at Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site.

If you want to increase your chances of spotting a whale though, we recommend taking a tour.

(9) Spend a Day at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Arguably the  best black sand beach on the Big Island , Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore some of Hawaii’s unique natural wonders.

Punalu’u is renowned for its resident honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), often seen basking on the beach or swimming nearby. Make sure to respect their space and observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance.

We usually go to Punalu’u after visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park since it’s only a 19-minute drive from the park.

With its unique landscape, abundant wildlife, and serene ambiance, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

Note:  the currents here can be strong, so practice safety when swimming.

(10) Visit the Green Sand Beach (Papakolea Beach)

If you are looking for a fun adventure that will take you off the beaten path, visiting the Green Sand Beach is an absolute must!

Located near South Point, Papakolea Beach is one of the few green sand beaches in the world, boasting a distinctive olive-green hue created by the presence of a mineral called olivine.

You need to take a scenic 2.5-mile (one-way) hike to reach this gem. Unfortunately, the land between the parking lot and the beach is fragile and culturally significant, so driving a car is illegal as it damages the road and ruins the landscape.

There are, however, local operators that often advertise a “4×4” ride to the beach. This is reportedly illegal, though.

We took this hike, and yes, it was hot! But the stunning views of the coastline and crashing waves make it worth it. Bring plenty of water, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by beautiful sights—the contrast of the green sand against the deep blue ocean is breathtaking.

Note:  the waves here can be rough and unpredictable, so please use caution when swimming.

(11) Sample Kona Coffee

The Kona region of the Big Island is renowned for its ideal climate and volcanic soil, creating the perfect conditions for growing exceptional coffee beans. 

If you are a coffee lover, visit a local coffee farm or plantation to learn about the traditional coffee-making process and sample some of the world’s finest brews. 

We recommend taking a farm tour to get an up-close look at the production process and taste the various varieties.

Our favorite coffee tours are  Kona Coffee Farm Tour  and  Hala Tree Coffee .

(12) Go to a Luau

No trip to the Big Island is complete without attending a  traditional Hawaiian luau .

You will experience a spectacular show filled with dancing, drumming, music, and more while enjoying authentic local cuisine during the luau.

The Legends of Hawaii Luau and Hawaii Loa Luau are the top two luaus on the Big Island that we recommend. Book your reservation in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly!

(13) Polulu Valley Lookout and Beach

Polulu Valley is one of our favorite places on the Big Island. The lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the valley and crumbling sea cliffs below.

Once you’re done taking in the views from the lookout point, you can go down to Polulu Beach. The hike is short (0.6 miles) but very steep and can get muddy after heavy rainfall. It took us about 22 minutes to reach the beach.

Once you get to Polulu Beach, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful black sand beach and spectacular cliffs.

The currents here can be strong, and we don’t recommend swimming here unless you are an experienced swimmer. Even so, don’t venture out too far.

We mainly come here to enjoy the views and relax. If you’re looking for one of the best spots on the  island to watch a sunset , the Populu Valley Lookout is a fantastic spot.

(14) Spend the Day at Hapuna Beach or Mauna Kea (Kauna’oa) Beach

Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach are two of the most stunning white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering a perfect day of sun, sand, and relaxation.

With its wide stretch of soft white sand and perfect turquoise waters, Hapuna Beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling (when the water is calm), and sunbathing.

Mauna Kea Beach, located about a 17-minute walk from Hapuna Beach, is known for its picture-perfect white sand beach. During the summer, when the water is calm and the visibility is clear, this beach is a popular spot for snorkeling.

Mauna Kea Beach is also a popular location to spot manta rays at night. There is a lookout called Manta Ray Point, where you can spot them from the shore if you are lucky.

Note:  Mauna Kea Beach is on the Mauna Kea Resort property, so you will have to pay for parking if you are not a guest. Parking is $20, and they only have 40 parking spots available. Parking is competitive, so get there early or park at Hapuna Beach and walk over to Mauna Kea Beach.

(15) Explore Kaumana Caves

If you’re looking for a fun adventure, then Kaumana Caves is a must-visit. Located in Hilo, these lava tubes were formed during an eruption of Mauna Loa in 1881 and offer a unique glimpse into the island’s volcanic history.

The caves are conveniently located 10 minutes from Hilo town, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary if you are already on that side of town.

The caves are easy to find and don’t require a guide. The hike is 0.5 miles roundtrip. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is quite rocky. And, of course, bring a flashlight!

(16) Hike to Akaka Falls

The Akaka Falls Trail is a short, easy hike that takes you through the lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall. As you make your way along the path, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas and the spectacular sight of Akaka Falls plunging 442 feet into a pool below.

Take a moment to pause and appreciate this magnificent waterfall’s sheer power and beauty.

The well-maintained trail and viewing platforms are a safe and enjoyable experience for hikers of all ages.

This is by far one of our favorite waterfalls on The Big Island . If you are staying in Kona, it makes the drive to Hilo that much more worth it. Since they are close, we usually combine seeing Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls on one trip.

(17) Stop By Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is another must-see waterfall for anyone visiting the Big Island. Located in Hilo town, Rainbow Falls plunges 80 feet down a lava cave, offering stunning views.

The name “Rainbow Falls” derives from the rainbows that often form in the mist, adding a touch of magic to the scene.

While you are there, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty from the viewing platform, which offers an unobstructed view of the falls and the lush surrounding foliage.

If you want to increase your chances of spotting a rainbow, visit in the morning.

With its accessibility (no hike required to see the falls) and stunning beauty, Rainbow Falls is a must on your Hilo itinerary.

Side note:  Going to The Big Island and need recommendations on where to get malasadas? Our review has a list of the top places to get malasadas on The Big Island .

(18) Visit the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park 

The Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, located on the south Kona coast, right next to  Two Step Beach , is a must-visit site. It’s known as the City of Refuge and was once an important place for Hawaiians seeking refuge from punishment or death.

As you explore the park, you’ll encounter restored temples, fishponds, and carved statues that showcase the craftsmanship of ancient Hawaiian culture.

The coastline here is also stunning and offers beautiful views of the bay and surrounding landscape.

You can take a peaceful walk along the coast to enjoy the serene ocean views and rugged shoreline. You can also learn about Hawaiian customs and traditions through informative exhibits and signs.

We usually stop here before going to Two Step Beach to snorkel or relax.

(19) Visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden

Located in Oneamea Valley, about 5 miles north of Hilo, this lush garden showcases a variety of exotic plants from around the world.

If you love nature and want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this is a great place to visit.

You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the scenery and beautiful views of tropical flowers, plants, streams, and waterfalls.

(20) Explore Pahoa Town

Take some time to explore the charming town of Pahoa on the Big Island. This vibrant community offers a unique and laid-back atmosphere that embodies the spirit of old Hawaii.

We come here to wander through the colorful streets and discover an array of eclectic shops, local boutiques, and art galleries showcasing the talent of the island’s artisans.

There is also a diverse culinary scene, with many restaurants, food trucks, and cafes offering everything from farm-to-table delights to international cuisine.

If you are also on a tighter budget, Pahoa is a great place to stay. We have rented an Airbnb here multiple times and found lots of great deals.

(21) Liliuokalani Park and Garden

Named after Queen Liliuokalani, Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, this park is a tribute to her love for gardens and is a perfect spot for relaxation, contemplation, and watching the sunrise .

Come stroll through the park’s meticulously manicured Japanese-style gardens filled with vibrant flowers, serene ponds, and graceful bridges. 

There are multiple benches to sit on and enjoy the beautiful scenery or a picnic surrounded by lush greenery.

Liliuokalani Park and Garden offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting you to unwind and appreciate nature.

(22) Hike to Makalawena Beach

Makalawena Beach  is one of the best white sand beaches on the Big Island and one of our favorite beaches in Hawaii. This secluded beach has miles of pristine white sand and beautiful turquoise waters, perfect for swimming when the water is calm.

The only downside is that there is no easy way to access this beach—you have to hike 2.7 miles total, but it’s worth the effort!

Once you’ve reached the beach, grab a spot under some shade and enjoy its natural beauty.

A 4WD is recommended for the drive, especially since most rental cars do not allow you to drive on the road that takes you to the Mahai’ula Beach parking lot. This is where most people park.

We usually rent a 4WD for part of our trip to explore locations that require one, such as Mauna Kea Summit and Makalawena Beach. After we are done, we rent a sedan for the remainder of the trip.

Note:  Some people drive the road with normal-sized and non-4WD vehicles. However, we also saw them struggling to drive through parts of the rough road. Can it be done without a 4WD? Yes, but is it worth the risk if you are renting the car? Probably not!

(23) Go to a Farmers Market

The Big Island is full of delicious local produce, and the most convenient way to get it all in one place is at the farmers’ markets.

Whether it’s fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, or prepared foods, you’ll surely find something you’ll love here! You can also pick up handmade souvenirs like jewelry and art.

Exploring the farmer’s markets is one of our favorite things to do when visiting the Big Island. We love trying all the different varieties of fruits and vegetables and bringing home some goodies to share with family and friends.

You can also find many other local treats like coffee, tea, honey, jams, sauces, and more.

The Ali’i Gardens Marketplace in Kona and the Hilo Farmers Market are two of the best markets on the island. Make sure to check them out if you get a chance!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are ideal on big island.

The Big Island is the largest of Hawaii’s islands, so it takes more time to explore all that it offers. We recommend staying for at least five days, but 7-10 days would be ideal if you have more time.

This will give you enough time to explore different areas of the island and experience both the Hilo and Kona sides.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Big Island?

Driving around the Big Island takes about six hours, from Hilo to Kona and back. Of course, that doesn’t include any stops or detours along the way.

We recommend slowing down and taking your time to explore each of the different areas and towns on the island.  Kona and Hilo  are so different, and both are worth visiting. This will make your experience more memorable and give you a deeper understanding of Hawaii Island.

What Are Some Unique Things to Do on Big Island?

The Big Island offers lots of unique experiences, from exploring green sand beaches to visiting active lava flows (if flowing). Here are some of the top things that you can only do on the Big Island of Hawaii:

• Manta Ray Night Snorkel or Dive: This experience is a must-do on the island. You can witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat at night as they feed and swim around you.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: The landscapes here are just spectacular. If you are lucky, you may even see some lava flow if you visit during an eruption.
• Mauna Kea Summit: You’ll be above the clouds, and you can even stargaze here after watching a perfect Hawaiian sunset.

Is It Worth Going to the Big Island?

Absolutely! The Big Island is full of unique experiences and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something here for everyone.

From swimming with manta rays to exploring the lush landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this island has so much to offer. And don’t forget its many white sand and spectacular black sand beaches!

Final Thoughts

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of our favorite Hawaiian Islands. From its diverse landscapes and natural beauty to its unique culture and delicious food, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or rest, the Big Island has something for everyone. So come explore—you won’t be disappointed!

Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRYSTA

21 Top Attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger explored the Big Island of Hawaii in early 2023.

The Island of Hawaii, more often simply referred to as the Big Island, is famous for its incredible natural attractions, particularly the volcanoes, which have shaped and continue to shape the landscape. Originally formed by five volcanoes, the island still continues to grow as the active Kilauea spews lava into the ocean.

The two largest volcanoes on the island are Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea , which together comprise almost three-quarters of the island's surface. Mauna Kea, now extinct, is the highest mountain in the Pacific Basin at 13,800 feet above sea level.

The Big Island is also a top tourist destination for its exotic tropical climate, filled with lush forests and stunning waterfalls , as well as its gorgeous beaches . People come from all over the world to surf the huge Pacific waves, snorkel among the bright fish and coral, and dive to explore the diverse ocean life.

Hilo, on the northeast coast, is the island's biggest town and the best place to stay for those focusing on exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . Kailua-Kona sits on the opposite side of the island in the middle of the west coast. This region is best known for its coffee and breathtaking sunsets.

Find interesting places to visit with our list of the top attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii.

1. See Nature in Motion at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

2. enjoy the view from the waipio valley overlook, 3. star gaze on mauna kea, hawaii's highest mountain, 4. visit the kona coffee living history farm, 5. learn island traditions at pu'uhonua o honaunau national historical park (kona coast), 6. visit the best snorkeling spots, 7. see akaka falls state park and kahuna falls, 8. wander through the hawaii tropical botanical garden, 9. lounge on the beach at hapuna beach state park, 10. waikoloa beach resort, 11. ahu'ena heiau, 12. spend time in kailua kona, 13. shop at the hilo farmers market, 14. kealakekua bay state historical park, 15. tour parker ranch (kona coast), 16. bodyboard at magic sands beach, 17. swim at manini'owali beach, 18. walk the malama trail to the puakō petroglyph archaeological district, 19. stroll lili'uokalani gardens, 20. get the umauma experience, 21. explore with botanical world adventures, tips and tours: how to make the most of your trip to the big island, map of attractions & things to do on the big island of hawaii, the big island of hawaii - climate chart.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most geologically interesting national parks in the United States, home to two active volcanoes that allow visitors to see the wonder of nature in action. Visitors should be aware that various parts of the park and surrounding area, including roads, may be closed during periods of volcanic activity.

Sitting on the southeast side of the island, the park covers a total of 21 square miles but continues to grow as active lava flows into the ocean and cools into rock. The park is home to the Kilauea volcano, which has been active in recent years, with steam and ash explosions at the summit causing closures at the visitor center.

The Halema'uma'u crater , the legendary home of the Hawaiian goddess of fire, Pele, is an actively steaming crater, which brings curious tourists to its brim.

Crater Rim Road brings tourists to the park's top attractions, including Devastation Trail , the landscape left behind after a 1959 eruption from the Iki crater. Another top attraction at the park is Thurston Lava Tube , a unique place where lava once flowed and cooled in such a way that it left a tunnel nearly 500 feet long and 20 feet high.

Address: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, Hawaii

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park

This incredibly beautiful valley on the northeastern coast of the Big Island, about 50 miles north of Hilo, has often been described as a sort of "Shangri La," almost cut off from the outside world. The valley, about one mile wide, dissects the Kohala Mountains and is difficult to reach because of the steep cliffs on the three landward sides. Strong waves make it equally unapproachable from the sea.

Bananas, papayas, mangoes, avocados, and grapefruit grow on the fertile valley floor, and colorful ginger trees, orchids, and hibiscus decorate the landscape. Where the valley meets the ocean is a long black-sand beach. As many of the local people will tell you, it was in this area that the movie Waterworld was filmed.

There is a steep and twisting road into the valley, which allows access by car or by foot. Most car rental companies do not allow their vehicles to be driven down into the valley, so some people choose to walk down the road. Think twice before undertaking this adventure; it's difficult work on the way back up.

If you are able to drive down the road, be sure to give way to vehicles ascending from the valley floor. At the bottom, turn right and follow the bumpy and wet road to the beach. This long beach with rough surf is achingly beautiful, and due to its isolation, you'll likely have it all to yourself.

Waipio is fed by the Hiilawe Falls , which drops over 1,200 feet. This double waterfall is one of the highest in the world, but in the dry season has very little water nowadays because it is used to irrigate the land above the valley.

A popular scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast is the Hamakua Heritage Corridor , which runs from the town of Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout .

Location: Waipopo Valley Road, Hamakua Coast

Mauna Kea is Hawaii's highest mountain and home to the Mauna Kea Observatory , which is an active research facility. The temperatures here are very cold, a sharp contrast to the tropical paradise below, but that does not stop crowds from gathering at the visitor center nightly for unparalleled views of the stars above.

The summit and the Visitor Information Station, which sit at altitudes of 13,800 feet and 9,200 feet respectively, can only be accessed by 4WD vehicles — a trip that is often prohibited by rental car companies.

The easiest way to enjoy the mountain is via the Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour , which relieves you of the most problematic issues, like finding a suitable vehicle, staying warm, and parking.

This tour includes a picnic supper at a Hawaiian ranch, an informative ride up the mountain to the summit, a hooded parka, and an evening of stargazing complete with hot cocoa. Tourists should be aware that, due to the extreme elevation, participants must be at least 16 years old, in good health, and have not recently been diving.

Location: Hawaii County, Hawaii

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is the nation's only living history museum dedicated to the heritage of traditional coffee farming. Operated by the Kona Historical Society , this working farm shows visitors what life was like for coffee growers in the 1920s and 30s. Costumed interpreters happily converse with tourists while they go about their daily tasks, from planting and harvesting to cooking and crafting.

You can explore the grounds freely, observing the Kona Nightingale (a breed of donkey) and learning about old methods of roasting and grinding. The farm also invites visitors to sample, and of course purchase, some of their amazing coffee.

Nearby in Kailua-Kona, tourists can also take a pre-arranged tour of the commercial Hula Daddy coffee plantation, or tour the roasting facility at Mountain Thunder Plantation.

Address: 82-6199 Mamalahoa Highway, Captain Cook, Hawaii

The Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a great place to visit to learn about island traditions. The present temple site was restored by the national park authorities and is a replica of the original, which dates from the end of the 18th century. The palace was a place of refuge, protected by a huge wall measuring 10 feet high and 16 feet wide.

This thick wall between the former palace and the sanctuary has been preserved over the centuries, with repair work being carried out in 1902 and 1963-64. Using information gleaned from pictures, replica koa wood carvings of temple gods have been placed in their original positions.

Attractions found on the estate include the landing place of the royal canoes ("Keone'ele"); the stones on which the royal family played a type of Hawaiian game known as "konane;" and the Ka'ahumanu Stone, behind which the Queen hid from Kamehameha's henchmen but was discovered when her dog began to bark.

Also on-site are a royal fishpond known as "he-lei-palalu;" the Keoua Stone, supposedly the favorite place of Keoua, King of Kona; burial vaults; rock carvings; and models of houses belonging to the priests and inhabitants of the City of Refuge.

Address: State Hwy 160, Honaunau, Hawaii

Snorkeling is the best way to see the wildlife that inhabits the waters around Hawaii. Visitors can spot the bright tropical fish that live in and around the reef, as well as bigger swimmers like the endangered green sea turtle, octopus, and occasionally even dolphins. The calm waters of the summer months are the best (and safest) conditions for snorkeling, while winter months are usually too rough.

The best place on the Big Island for first-time snorkelers and tourists curious about Hawaii's aquatic life is the Kahalu'u Bay Education Center . Visitors can go here to learn about the region's unique reef ecosystem and how to explore the reef responsibly without upsetting the delicate balance. The center also provides equipment rentals, as do several other outfitters in Kahalu'u Bay . The best area for snorkeling is the southern end, which is well-marked and attended by lifeguards.

Another top snorkeling spot is Kaunaoa Beach , also known as Mauna Kea Beach , which is home to an extensive reef system that helps keep the water calm. As a special treat, book a nighttime snorkeling session through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel . The beach is lit up, attracting a variety of sea life, including manta rays. The hotel also provides rentals, as well as scuba lessons and gear.

Manini'owali Beach on Kua Bay is known for having a good population of green sea turtles. Although there are no rentals or concessions on-site, there are lifeguards and basic rest facilities.

Wailea Beach is another top snorkeling spot with an exceptionally diverse reef fish population, but it's also a popular family beach, so it is often crowded.

When setting out, always check for the most recent water conditions, and speak to lifeguards if in doubt.

Read More: Best Places to Go Snorkeling in the World

Akaka Falls State Park near Hilo is home to both Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. The Akaka Falls are the tallest on the island, free falling 442 feet. The setting here is quite stunning, with lush surroundings of tropical ferns, bamboo, and orchids.

The trail to the falls is conveniently paved but steep and includes sections of steps. The trail, a loop less than a half-mile in length, leads you up past Kahuna falls to the top of Akaka Falls, with an offshoot that leads to a viewing spot perfect for getting photos of Akaka.

Address: Akaka Falls Road, Honomu, Hawaii

Located just off the Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive , between Hilo and the Waipio Valley Lookout , the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden has more than 2,000 species of tropical plants. A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and studying tropical flora, the garden attracts tourists, botanists, and photographers.

This 40-acre garden is filled with wandering paths that explore this secluded valley, and there is also a 500-foot observation walkway that overlooks a ravine and its many plants. The garden's Palm Vista is known for its collection of more than 200 species of palms from all over the world.

Address: 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou, Hawaii

Hapuna Beach is regarded as one of the best beaches in the country, known for its soft white sand and ample facilities. The beach at Hapuna Beach State Park is staffed with lifeguards, especially reassuring since conditions can become dangerous with a change in tide.

Tourists and locals come here for sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, and of course some of the world's best surfing. There are also concessions and picnic shelters, as well as screened shelters for overnight stays with access to electricity, refrigeration, and showers. The park also has miles of hiking trails, which afford amazing views along the coast.

The state has put up signs that show stick men in waves smashing into the sand. Although they may be funny to look at and worth a picture, the story they tell is all too real! The waves here are deceptive and have a tendency to pick you up and unceremoniously dump you right onto the sand, usually face first.

Address: Old Puako Road, Waimea, Hawaii

Located on the Kona Coast, Waikoloa Beach is home to a lovely area with a number of petroglyphs. Most visitors come to this area for the Hilton Waikoloa Village . Few resorts in the world compare to the care that has gone into creating a magical environment for their guests.

While the resort is large, guests can move around the grounds using a sleek air-conditioned transit system or beautifully appointed wood-paneled boats, which cruise the canals on the grounds. Art galleries here contain millions of dollars of Hawaiian, Oriental, and other art.

On the grounds are tropical gardens set with sculptures grouped by theme. A variety of species are found throughout the gardens, which surround a saltwater lagoon. One highlight of the resort is a dolphin area where guests, especially children, can wade in and interact with the dolphins.

Sporting opportunities consist of two championship golf courses, tennis courts surrounded by stadium seating, a lagoon for stand up paddleboarding and kayaking, and three pools for aquatic fun.

This temple, directly behind the Kamehameha Hotel in Kailua Kona, is possibly the best example of a Hawaiian place of sacrifice. Ahuena Heiau was built by Kamehameha I on Kamakahonu Beach and is dedicated to the god Lona.

Kamehameha I spent the last years of his life at Ahuena Heiau. According to Hawaiian custom, his bones were removed from his corpse on a stone platform in the temple and taken north, possibly to Wawahiwa Point, where they were left at a secret location.

His son and successor, Kamehameha II, grew up here and this area became central to the abolition of the tabus and the destruction of heathen idols and temples during his reign. Further measures to abolish the old religion were then implemented from Lahaina, the seat of government. The restoration of Ahuena Heiau was supervised by the Bishop Museum in Honolulu.

Address: Kaahumanu Place, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua Kona is home to one of the world's most famous Ironman Triathlons. Each October, the town is home to 2,000 of the fittest people on the planet as they swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and cap it all off with a full marathon distance run of 26.2 miles.

The rest of the year, the main town on the Kona Coast is a good base for visitors who want to explore this stretch of the Big Island. This is the main shopping center and where many of the snorkeling and boating trips depart.

The town is a fun place to spend an afternoon wandering through shops and along the waterfront. In the evening, fairy lights twinkle under palm trees, while diners enjoy a meal on the patios along the waterfront.

Hilo Farmers Market has become a local institution — so much so that it now operates daily, year-round. More than 200 vendors gather in Hilo's historic downtown, selling locally grown produce and flowers, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. The market also hosts special events, including annual festivals and weekly themes like Hilo Hula Tuesdays and Market Music.

Hilo is located near the eastern tip of the island at one end of the Hamakua Heritage Corridor , which stretches north to the Waipio Valley Lookout. Other things to do in Hilo include watching a planetarium show at the 'Imiloa Astronomy Center and visiting the East Hawaii Cultural Center .

Address: Kamehameha Avenue, Mamo Street, Hilo, Hawaii

South of Kailua-Kona, the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is located where Captain Cook landed in 1779 and later died in a skirmish with native Hawaiians. Kealakekua Bay is a protected Marine Life Conservation District, resulting in pristine waters and plentiful sea life.

Because of the abundance of bright fish and thriving coral, this is a particularly popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. Points of interest within the park include the Captain James Cook Monument and Hikiau Heiau , a temple built to honor the Hawaiian god Lono.

Address: 82-6099 Puuhonua Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii

Cattle ranching may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Hawaiian agriculture, but the Parker Ranch is actually the largest in the United States. Covering 355 square miles from the Kohala mountains to the northwest coast of the Big Island, the ranch makes up about 9 percent of Hawaii's total area.

The entire ranch, which is operated by 6 th -generation Parkers, is open to the public. Tours include visiting the 19th-century John Parker House; the family cemetery; Pukalani stables; and Puuopelu, the modern family home. This elegant house is akin to a museum, housing more than 100 paintings by renowned artists like Renoir, Pissarro, and Degas.

Exhibits about the ranch and family history can be found at the Visitor Center and Museum, which has family heirlooms, photographs, and a short film.

Address: 66-1304 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, Hawaii

Magic Sands Beach is named for its "disappearing" sand. Depending on the ocean's mood, you may arrive to find a soft powder, or you might find a rocky, volcanic landscape at the water's edge. Even the locals can't tell you when it might change, but usually, you can find a few sandy spots to sit down on and admire the view.

It is located just south of Kailua Kona, and is most popular with bodyboarders, although you may see swimmers and snorkelers, too, if the conditions are right. Like all Hawaiian beaches, the waves can get rough in the winter, and caution should be used before entering the water. Be sure to bring sneakers or good water shoes, so you can explore when it's rocky.

Read More: Best Beaches in Kona

When it comes to beautiful beaches on the Big Island , some of the best are found around Kailua-Kona. One of the most popular beaches in the area is Manini'owali Beach, a white-sand beach just north of town that has gorgeous turquoise water, calm waves, and an expansive stretch of sun-bleached shoreline.

In fact, you may hear locals say that this is the best white sand beach on the Big Island. Of course, you'll have to visit yourself to be the judge. Regardless of its ranking, no one can deny that it is a stellar beach.

Families come here throughout the week for the snorkeling and swimming. You may even see a sea turtle or a dolphin. Keep in mind, though, that the beach is very exposed, so you'll have to bring your own umbrella, or simply prepare to be under the sun for the majority of the day.

Services are limited here, so be sure to bring in your own food and beverages, as well. The beach does have a parking lot, though, with showers and restrooms.

Location: Kua Bay Access Road, Kalaoa, Hawaii

At this point, you've probably noticed that the Big Island is one of the best places in the Hawaiian archipelago to learn about ancient Hawaiian history. If you're interested in learning about the early civilizations on the Big Island, you'll want to hike the Malama Trail to discover the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological District.

This easy hike is about a mile-and-a-half round-trip over flat (but rocky) terrain across a lava field and through a forest of tunnel-like branches. At the end of the trail is a fascinating expanse of rock art that dates back eight centuries. This collection of petroglyphs is one of the largest in the Hawaiian islands.

The hike to the petroglyphs is fairly easy, but it can be considered challenging because the terrain is overgrown with roots and strewn with rocks. Still, once you emerge at the petroglyph area, it's a really wonderful glimpse back in time at a civilization that lived on the Big Island nearly 1,000 years ago.

Address: 1 N Kaniku Drive, Waimea, Hawaii

The lush, tropical landscape of Hilo makes it one of the most beautiful spots on the Big Island. And within Hilo, you'll find a few extra special pockets of beauty. Lili'uokalani Gardens is one of those places, as it is one of the largest ornamental Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

Located along Banyan Drive, not far from the resorts that line Hilo Bay, Lili'uokalani Gardens is a sliver of solitude. This beautifully landscaped Japanese garden has towering banyan trees, arched bridges, stone lanterns, fish ponds, rock gardens, pagodas, and even a teahouse.

The garden was dedicated in 1917 to the first Japanese immigrants who came to Hawaii to work in its sugar cane fields. Today it is a lovely and tranquil place to slip away for a moment or two and pause for a moment of reflection.

Address: 189 Lihiwai St #151, Hilo, Hawaii

The Big Island is brimming with waterfalls, and most of them can be found on the Hilo side of the island. If you want to experience some waterfalls, and a shot of adrenaline while you're at it, you'll want to dive into the Umauma Experience .

The Umauma Experience is an adventure park just outside of Hilo that is home to several waterfalls, gardens, ATV tracks, and a ziplining course. This family-friendly park has two miles of ziplines, as well as more than five miles of ATV course. It's an exciting way for the family to spend the day together while experiencing the outdoor beauty of the Big Island.

The property has more than 14 waterfalls, as well. For those who don't want to commit to the whole day, you can pay an entry fee of $5 per person and walk up to Umauma Falls, which is the main falls on the property. But, those who do end up experiencing one of the adventures have the ability to see all of the falls, including ziplining over some of them for a truly unique view.

Other activities include kayaking and stand up paddleboarding along the Umauma River. The Umauma Experience is truly a comprehensive way to enjoy everything about being outdoors on the Big Island.

Address: 31-313 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Hakalau, Hawaii

The Umauma Experience is not the only zipline attraction on the Big Island. Just down the road, you'll find Botanical World Adventures , an additional zipline course with its own set of waterfalls and unique adrenaline-pumping activities.

This outdoor park has eight ziplines and a suspension bridge, plus a Segway tour, gardens, waterfalls, and a hedge maze. If you're interested in cycling, the park even has a bike course.

Most people come to experience the waterfalls, including the famous Kamae'e Falls, which is located right on the property. If you want to see the falls, you can easily drive straight to them, but people who visit the park like the opportunity to zipline over them, as well as other more hard-to-reach, falls within the forest.

Address: 31-240 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Hakalau, Hawaii

• A full-day sightseeing tour out of Kona and Waikoloa is the Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History which explores some of the island's most impressive natural wonders. With a group size limited to 13 people, this 11-hour tour is a more personal alternative, which travels down the Hamakua Coast , stopping at scenic vistas like the Waipio Valley Lookout , Akaka Falls , and Rainbow Falls . The tour also includes a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , where you will have time to explore its top attractions, like the Thurston Lava Tube and the Jaggar Museum , and later explore the black sands of Punalu'u State Park .
• Adventure junkies will not want to miss a chance to soar above the stunning Hawaiian landscape in the Helicopter Lava and Rainforest Adventures from Hilo . Taking off from Hilo , this thrilling ride brings you over the island's active volcanoes, where you can feel the heat rising and watch the lava flow into the sea from above. During the flight over some of the island's most beautiful sights, including tropical forests and stunning waterfalls, the pilot provides commentary and fascinating details about the wonders below.
• The 2.5-hour Night Manta Ray Adventure Guaranteed Sighting Tour is the perfect way to end the day. Providing an unforgettable experience, the tour begins with a cruise into the sunset off the Kona Coast . After enjoying the view, guests are provided with equipment and instruction and then led by a local guide to snorkel among the manta rays in their natural habitat. Snacks and beverages are provided, as well as all equipment.

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41 Truly Epic Things to Do on Big Island, Hawaii in 2024

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » Hawaii » 41 Truly Epic Things to Do on Big Island, Hawaii in 2024

From lava fields to pristine beaches, there are so many things to do on Big Island, Hawaii. We’re sharing all the must-sees as well as hidden gems that few tourists know about.

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that the Big Island has the most diverse landscape of all the Hawaiian islands .

From tropical jungles to lava fields to white sand beaches to sprawling ranches, it’s difficult to sum up the Big Island because it truly encompasses so many things. And this isn’t even touching on the bustling towns and quaint villages that ooze hippy vibes.

You’ll find world-class dining alongside hole-in-the-wall joints, and opportunities to zen out as well as heart-thumping adventures.

Every type of traveler will find reasons to love Big Island because there is truly something for everyone.

In this article, we’re sharing the very best things to do on Big Island Hawaii. 

Whether you’re looking for pure adventure or a bit of luxury, and whether you’re traveling solo or with small children (like we did!), this article will go over how to spend your time on what may just be your favorite Hawaiian Island. 

Big Island Hawaii Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!). Get ready to plan the perfect trip to this slice of paradise!

• How many days do you need
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• How to get around
• Where to eat
• Where to stay
• What to pack

Top things to do on Big Island

If you’re looking for a quick & easy list, these are our very top recommendations for things to do on your first visit to the Big Island.

• Snorkel with manta rays
• Akaka Falls
• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
• Papakōlea green sand beach
• Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
• Kona coffee farm tour
• Eat authentic Hawaiian food
• Punalu’u black sand beach

Keep scrolling for all the details on how to do each of these experiences yourself (+ insider tips and what to expect!).

1. Snorkel with manta rays at night

If you’re up for an adventure of a lifetime, don’t miss this bucket list experience. 

National Geographic and the Discovery Channel have both featured night snorkeling with manta rays, and it is often listed as the #1 thing to do on Big Island, Hawaii.

Just off the shore of Kona, there are more than 240 resident manta rays. Zip up your wetsuit, strap on goggles, and get ready to see them up close. It was truly one of our very favorite things to do in Hawaii .

We created an entire guide to snorkeling with manta rays in Kona so you know what to expect and exactly which tour company to book with (we’ll tell you why you should only book with this company!). 

2. Marvel at Akaka Falls

Plunging 442-feet into a verdant-framed gorge below, Akaka Falls is a Big Island treasure.

As stunning as it is accessible, this is arguably Hawaii’s most famous waterfall and definitely one of the can’t-miss things to do on Big Island Hawaii.

Within Akaka Falls State Park, you’ll follow a loop trail that is only 0.5-miles with minimal elevation gain- enjoy little work for extraordinarily high reward on this quick stop. You’ll also spot the 100-foot Kahuna Falls along the way.

Entrance fee : $5 USD, parking is $10 per vehicle

Tip : As this is one of the most popular waterfalls on Big Island, aim to get there early if you can to beat the crowds.

3. Spend the day exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Both an International Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique cultural and geographical landscapes in the world . 

Kilauea, the most active volcano on Big Island and Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano are the two centerpieces of the park. Drive the Chain of Craters Road down the length of the park from Makaopuhi Crater all the way out to the coast to see it all.

Surrounding these two volcanoes are a wealth of interesting trails and things to see:

• Kilauea Iki Trail : a fun, 4-mile hike across a solidified lava lake.
• Thurston Lava Tube : explore an underground cave created by a molten lava river.
• Crater Rim Drive : a gorgeous drive with stunning vistas around Kilauea Crater.
• Mauna Loa Lookout : views over the Kilauea caldera and the coast.
• Watch real lava flow : you’ll be able to see this if Kilauea has erupted recently.

Psst! Don’t forget to pack your America the Beautiful Pass to get free access to this National Park.

4. Hike to Papakōlea (Hawaii’s only green sand beach)

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is only 1 of 4 rare green beaches in the world . 

They form after rare eruptions bring green olivine crystals to the surface that erode when met with seawater.

You can access it along a 5.5-mile round trip trail or by a 4WD truck ($25 USD round trip or $15 one way). If you’re hiking, aim to go early in the morning or the late afternoon as the trail is in full sun and the beach gets very hot.

Responsible travel tip : Do not take any of the sand home with you as a souvenir, as this is strictly prohibited. 

5. Wander the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

Acclaimed as one of the most beautiful places in all of Hawaii , the Hawai’i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is a plant-lovers paradise in the lush Onomea Valley.

Just over a mile of trails showcase over 1,800 different species of rare and exotic plants from all around the world. 

You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a new world as you discover flora you may have never seen or heard of before.

Entrance fee : $25 USD, $12 USD for kids 6-16

Fun fact: Hilo is the “orchid capital of the world”! It should be no surprise to hear that there’s an orchid garden in this bioreserve.

6. Tour a Kona coffee farm

Kona coffee is one of the rarest coffees on the planet . 

Grown only on the western edge of Big Island, this stop is a must whether you’re a coffee aficionado or casually indulge in a cup of joe. 

• Greenwell Farms : one of the best Kona coffee farm tours (my aunt who has been to Hawaii many times and has done several tours says this is the best) 
• Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation : this plantation uses the finest kona beans to craft the finest and smoothest cups of coffee.
• Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm : an authentic kona coffee farm with farm tours and expansive vistas.

7. Try authentic Hawaiian food

While on the Big Island, make an effort to try traditional Hawaiian cuisine. 

Here are some of the foods to try, as well as some recommendations for where to get them on the Big Island.

Foods to try:

• Try laulau at Kaaloa’s Super J’s : an order of two laulau, kalua pork, and 3 sides is enough to split between two people
• Try loco moco at Hawaiian Style Cafe
• Try Spam musubi at Kawamoto Store
• Poi: staple food in the traditional Polynesian diet, poi is a thick and starchy paste made from the taro root and is light purple in color
• Saimin: egg noodles in hot dashi topped with green onions and kamaboko (fish cake)
• Try poke at Umekes Fish Market (order the poke nachos), Da Poke Shack , or Pa’akai Poke & Deli
• Huli huli chicken: chicken grilled and marinated in a sweet and savory sauce 
• Kalua pig: often the star of the food at a luau, kalua pig is cooked for several hours underground in an imu , or earthen oven
• Try malasadas at Punalu’u Bake Shop : the best flavor is the lilikoi glazed
• Try shave ice at Scandinavian Shave Ice (get the pineapple soft serve in the center!)
• Li hing mui: originating from China, li hing mui is salty dried plum, and is a popular flavor for snacks, including shave ice
• Haupia: this traditional Hawaiian dessert is made with coconut milk, and has a consistency between coconut jelly and pudding. It is often found at luaus.

8. Spot sea turtles on Punalu’u black sand beach

Not only is this black sand beach stunning, it is one of the best places on the island to spot sea turtles!

Bring your snorkeling gear and start in the waters just beyond the rocks as this is where they often like to hang out.

We planned to make this a quick stop, but ended up staying for quite a while – it was just so nice and we loved snorkeling with the turtles.

Important: I don’t think I need to go into this in too much detail, but you should never ever touch or get very close to a sea turtle. You are a visitor in their world, and you should observe them from a distance. We saw some people getting way too close during our time on the beach. Please don’t be that person.

9. Learn about Hawaii’s history at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau 

Pu-uhonua-o-Honaunau is a 180-acre restored park that once served as royal grounds and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians that broke kapu (sacred laws).

A self-guided tour of one of Hawaii’s most sacred historic locations takes you through the Great Wall, ki’i (wooden images of gods), a sacred temple that housed bones, all situated along a mysterious black lava shoreline.

Good to know : you can get in free with your National Park Pass .

10. Go underground at Kaumana Caves 

Sculpted in 1881 by the mighty Mauna Loa, the lava tubes snaking through Kaumana Caves are a fascinating adventure . 

Exploring the caves, you can go either left or right at the entrance, then as far down each tube as you’re comfortable with.

Insider Tip: Pack a headlamp and wear sturdy shoes!

11. Soak in the warm waters of Pohoiki Hot Spring

If you’re looking for a unique and off the beaten path thing to do on the Big Island, keep reading…

Along the island’s newest black sand beach are three volcanically-heated hot pools that are the last remaining (accessible) hot springs on the Big Island. 

The mix of cool seawater and magma-heated rainwater balance eachother out, creating the perfect, hot tub-like temperatures in the Pohoiki Bay and Hot Springs . 

How to get there : the pools are located near the parking lot in the Isaac Hale State Park. From Hilo, it’s about a 40-mile drive and takes 1 hour.

Tip : The further from the ocean, the hotter the pool.

12. Go Snorkeling

The best snorkeling on the Big Island is unarguably on the west coast. Kona is just as colorful below the surface as it is above! 

With your mask and fins, you can explore vibrant reefs teeming with wildlife . 

Top snorkeling spots near Kona

• Captain Cook (Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park): this spectacular coral reef encompasses one of the best snorkeling locations in all of Hawaii. Since the bay is a protected area, you’ll be able to spot abundant wildlife swimming among a colorful, well-developed reef. 
• Two Step : impressive coral reefs and lava rock pathways make up this popular snorkel spot. Directly off the beach are shallow coral areas where you can watch fish, otherwise you can head to the south side of the bay to try and see Hawaiian green sea turtles.
• Kahalu’u Beach Park : this protected bay resembles a real-life aquarium. Venture below the surface and you’ll see schools of tropical fish, coral heads, and sea turtles. Also, it’s easy to access, which makes it a great spot for beginner snorkelers. 

13. Spend a day (or more!) in Hilo

Not gonna lie, I didn’t have super high expectations for Big Island’s largest city, but we were blown away! 

There are so many fun things to do in Hilo (plus, beautiful waterfalls nearby!) that I only wish we’d had more time.

With more of a local feel than touristy Kona , you’ll definitely want to add part of a day (or a few!) exploring all the east coast has to offer.

Psst! Check out our guide to Hilo where we share tons of insider tips + the ice cream you just HAVE to get!

14. Explore Kona

Being that Kona is home to the island’s international airport, this is where most visitors start and end their time on the Big Island . 

Touristy? Yes. But absolutely worth exploring? Also, yes.

With great snorkeling, excellent restaurants, famed Kona coffee farms, and tons of opportunities to get away from the hustle of the main strip, there’s so much more to this town than meets the eye.

If you’re spending time any time here, you’ll want to check out our guide to the most exciting things to do in Kona.

15. Stargaze at the summit of Mauna Kea

While this is quite a distance from town, you can definitely do this activity as a day trip from Kona (most visitors to the Big Island do). 

The best, and only way to stargaze on the Mauna Kea summit is through a guided tour as the summit is closed to regular visitors 30-minutes after sunset.

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Trip

Complete with snacks, drinks, and free photos, this tour offers a well-rounded and fulfilling experience to the top of Mauna Kea. You’ll listen to historic accounts of Hawaii at the top while you sip a hot drink and enjoy a private star show through the Celestron telescope.

These tours can get pricey, but you can stargaze on a budget by self-driving to the visitor center. The viewing is actually better here even though you’re at a lower elevation because the lack of oxygen at the summit changes what you’re able to see.

Safety notice : Mauna Kea is one of the only mountains in the world where you can drive from sea level to nearly 14,000 feet within a few hours. If you don’t acclimate properly, you’ll likely experience severe altitude sickness. It’s highly recommended to stop into the visitor center for at least an hour before going to the summit. 

Good to know: We were not able to do this experience on our trip to Hawaii because it is advised that you do not bring children here due to the massive elevation change. If you are traveling with a baby or kiddos, keep in mind that you’ll have to skip this experience or find a babysitter.

16. Find out how to master the art of beekeeping at Big Island Bees

Raw and organic Hawaiian honey is the signature at Big Island Bees . 

On a beekeeping tour, learn about farming and cultivation up close at one of the world’s leading beekeeper farms.

Or simply visit the shop and do a honey tasting where you can compare 3 different varieties of this liquid gold. We bought a jar of the very special lehua blossom honey.  

What makes the lehua blossom honey special? I’m glad you asked! It is produced from bees that have been pollinating the ohia tree’s lehua blossoms. This flower is native to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else in the world, which makes lehua honey a very special souvenir. 

17. Shop local at a farmers market

We love stopping by farmers markets on our travels because it gives us a better sense of how the locals live. Plus, it’s always good to support local, small businesses. 

There are a couple popular farmers markets on the Big Island you should make a point to check out. 

Kona Farmers Market

Spread across 40 different stalls during peak days, you can find sweet and colorful fruits, flowers, leis, kona coffee, wooden sculptures, jewelry art, and novelty items at the Kona Farmers Market .

It can be a great place to support the local community and find a quality souvenir to bring home.

Our experience: When we visited, there weren’t all that many stands, but it may have been an off day.

Tip : Arrive early to grab the free parking near the entrance and the best pick of produce.

Hilo Farmers Market

Locals and tourists flock to the colorful Hilo Farmers Market for their fair share of exotic fruits, locally roasted coffee, sweet treats, crafts, and local trinkets.

It’s the largest and most popular market on Big Island , so definitely pop in to find things you won’t see anywhere else! 

Hours : everyday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Good to know : You’ll have the biggest selection on Big Market days, which are on Wednesday and Saturday. We visited on a Saturday (a “big market day”) and personally thought this market was much better than the one in Kona!

18. Cool off with shave ice

These mounds of finely shaved ice topped with vibrant syrups and toppings is a staple for locals and travelers.

• Tip: Definitely get yours with the Dole pineapple soft serve in the middle!
• Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice : fine shaved ice with an array of exotic flavors.
• Original Big Island Shave Ice Co, Inc. : family-run shop with homemade, creative inventions and timeless classics.
• Gecko Girlz Shave Ice : authentic Hawaiian shave ice using locally sourced products and ingredients. 

Had enough shave ice? If you want gelato instead, head to Gypsea Gelato for the best in town! And if you’re in Hilo, don’t pass up Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack for a chance to sample some of the prettiest soft serve you’ll ever see. 

19. Take an epic road trip around Big Island 

The best way to explore the Big Island is by car. No doubt about it!

We have a guide to choosing a rental car in Hawaii (which includes a money-saving hack and a word of caution!), but in general, the Big Island is very easy when it comes to driving. 

Psst! Get excited for your trip by reading these fun road trip quotes !

Why Big Island makes a great road trip:

• other than some parts of Kona, you won’t be dealing with much traffic
• most roads are well-maintained
• lots of scenic stretches of road around the island 
• you’ll find so many great pit stops along the way (some you’ll plan in advance, and others will be roadside signs that pique your interest!)

Pack lots of snacks, queue up your favorite road tripping playlist, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Good to know: Some people choose to base themselves in Kona for their entire time on the Big Island and take day trips. This can be a good option if you’d prefer to stay in one spot. However, we personally did a road trip and stayed all over the island which we think was the perfect plan for us as we got to get off the beaten track a lot more.

20. Make a pit stop in Pahoa

Situated on the eastern tip of Big Island, Pahoa is a quiet and peaceful village, with the highest concentration of historic, centuries-old buildings in Hawaii. You can stroll main street or walk the town’s old boardwalk to discover some of the rich history and charm that is preserved today. 

The Isaac Hale Beach Park is one of the town’s newest attractions, created after the historic 2018 volcanic eruption. And if you’re visiting on a Sunday, be sure to check out the Maku’u Farmers Market. 

21. Stay in a quirky Airbnb

We usually opt to stay in Airbnbs during our travel for the convenience they offer. Having a home to come back to with a kitchen and laundry has become something we really value when traveling. Even more so now when traveling as a family . 

There are some great Airbnb stays available on the Big Island that we’d recommend if you’re looking for a unique place to stay.  

Eco-Friendly Shipping Container :

Nestled at the center of a 10-acre property surrounded by lychee and exotic fruit orchards. The outdoor tub and fire pit make for a romantic getaway that’s still close to downtown Hilo.

Luxurious Dome Home (with an outdoor bathtub!) :

This stunning geodome has most of the comforts you’d expect of a hotel room as well as the uniqueness that comes with a glamping experience. It truly is the best of both worlds. 

Budget friendly Farm Stay : 

This quirky greenhouse-turned-guesthouse is perfect for travelers looking for a unique stay on a budget. With an outdoor shower and memory foam mattress , you won’t be sacrificing comfort.

The Bali Hale :

This sweet cottage has an outdoor shower and is one of the more affordable places you’ll find in Hawaii. Need I say more?!

Psst! Is this your first time staying in an Airbnb? We’ve got an entire article on how to book with Airbnb , including tips on what to look for in a listing and red flags to watch out for. 

22. Eat all the fruit

Hawaiian fruit just hits different .

The pineapples are sweeter, the papayas tastier, the apple bananas (the tiny ones!) yummier. While in Hawaii, eat as much fruit as your heart desires.

The best place to buy fruit is typically at farmers markets, which you’ll find all over the island.

When it comes to fruits, I will warn you about two things:

The prices for fruit were higher than I expected. I understand a lot of foods have to be shipped in, making the prices higher. However, I didn’t think the fruit that’s actually grown on the island would be so expensive. I suppose a lot of it comes down to the cost of living for the farmers and how much it costs to maintain the land. 

Stick to fruits that are in season. We got tempted with some out of season fruits, and well, were pretty disappointed. Also, try to buy fruits that were grown locally for the best flavors. At the grocery store, you’ll see that some of the fruits you might think are local are actually imported from places like Mexico.

Psst! We have a whole list of Hawaiian fruits you need to try . Check it out and see how many you’ve tasted, or even heard of!

23. Visit the Southernmost point in the USA

If you want to say that you’ve been to the most southern point of the United States (Yes, even further south than the sign in Key West! We’ve been there too!), it is only a short drive from Papakolea Beach.

There’s nothing all that notable about this point (no sign at this one), other than the fact that it’s a popular spot for cliff jumping . There are also some pull out areas nearby where you could have a picnic (though I will warn you that you won’t find any shade in this area).

24. Adopt a dog for the day

If you’re looking for a fun way to get your dog-fix while traveling, the Hawai’i Island Humane Society hosts doggy field-trips where you can bring a shelter dog around the island with you for the day.

By doing this you’re giving back to the island and giving one of their dogs a positive experience, plus higher chances of getting adopted.

Good to know : Field trips are by appointment only, Saturday through Monday.

Locations: 

• Humane Society location near Hilo
• Humane Society location near Kona

25. Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at Merrimans 

If you appreciate good food, listen up because you’ll definitely want to pencil in a meal at this restaurant during your time on Big Island.

With locations on the 4 main islands, Merriman’s Restaurant is sort of a Hawaiian staple. Specializing in regional, farm-to-table fare with an emphasis on sustainability and supporting local farmers, the menu highlights seasonal ingredients and Hawaiian flavors.

We dined at the Big Island location in Waimea (their flagship location) for my birthday, and had the most wonderful experience. The service was top-notch, the Mai Tai blew me away (the best I’ve ever had), and the food was incredible – from the starter to dessert.

It was by far our favorite meal in Hawaii , and we’d highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.

Good to know: Reservations are necessary for dinner. Check their website for the menus and to book a table.

26. Indulge in a Passionfruit doughnut at Punalu’u

Famed for being the southernmost bakery in the USA , Punalu’u Bake Shop is a classic stop on a Big Island road trip.

Located not far from the famed green sand beach, you’ll smell the baked items before you step foot in the door. 

They specialize in malasadas , a type of doughnut . And the glazed lilikoi , or passionfruit, flavor is the best! 

While it is certainly a touristy hotspot , it still makes a good (and delicious!) stop if you’re in the south of the island.

27. Go on a farm tour

The Big Island is home to well over 4,000 farms . 

From those that focus on livestock (you’ll see lots of these in the Waimea area) to organic fruit farms nestled in the rainforests, there are all types. 

If you’re interested in how things are grown or made, consider joining a farm tour on the island: 

• Honomu Goat Dairy Farm :  completely free to visit and the friendly goats will approach visitors for plenty of interaction
• Greenwell Farms : one of the best Kona coffee farm tours (my aunt who has been to Hawaii many times and has done several tours says this is the best).
• Sharkey’s Farm Tour : tour this 100-year-old farm that produces coffee, vanilla and cocoa
• The Vanillerie : learn how vanilla beans grow

Alternatively… Hawaii’s “bean-to-bar” chocolate is ranked among some of the best in the world. 

The rich volcanic soil and pure rainwater of the islands helps to create their distinct and flavorful chocolates. 

You won’t need any convincing to bring a few bars back home, however you may indulge in them all before then!

Good to know: There are several cacao farms in the Hilo area, but the most well-known is Lavaloha . 

28. Visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Center 

If you’re looking for a free thing to do in Hilo , pay a visit to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Center. 

It’s more or less a gift shop , but you can also learn a bit about the process of getting these nuts from the farm into your hands.

You can also try some samples (yes, please!) and stock up on macadamia nuts to bring home.

Insider Tip: If you’re pressed for time, you can skip this stop and get these same macadamia nuts in almost any grocery store or ABC store in Hawaii.  

29. Get views over Waipiʻo Valley

Many travelers to the Big Island stick only to Kona, Hilo and Volcano. But if you have the time, we’d highly recommend making it to the north of the island where you can see some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery .

The Waipi’o Valley is one of the most picturesque places on the island; however, much of it is only accessible for native Hawaiian people and their guests. 

Fun story: My parents were invited down into this valley a few years ago by one of the residents who knew my family. They said it was incredibly lush and beautiful with lots of fruit trees and even freshwater prawns. Sounds magical!

Since you can’t go down into most of the valley, here are a few things you can put on your list:

Waipiʻo Valley Lookout : This lookout is beautiful, but the road past the overlook is only accessible for residents.

Pololu Trail : This steep, .6-mile path leads down onto a black sand and rock beach strewn with driftwood and bordered by pines. It is different from any other beaches we saw in Hawaii and is almost reminiscent of beaches on the Oregon Coast . 

Good to know: The locals ask that photos taken here not be shared online or on social media.

Fresh Off the Grid : This food truck has smoothies, poke, and bowls at reasonable prices. 

Hawi: Stop in this cute little town and pop in wherever your heart (or tummy!) desires.

• Kohala Grown Market : locally-made food items, sandwiches, produce, and smoothies
• Kohala Coffee Mill : Tropical Dreams ice cream cone
• Roots Alchemy : vegan eats
• Bamboo : lunch and cocktails 

30. Relax at Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach is a heavy hitter as far as accolades go. 

It has recurring features in many “Top 10” or “Best” lists including: Best Beaches in America, Top 10 Beaches in the World, Best Beaches on Big Island, AND Best Beaches in Hawaii.

This beach is the largest stretch of white sand in the Hawaiian islands and is great for swimming, boogie boarding, leisuring, and snorkeling.

We spent an afternoon here and had the best time playing in the waves! 

Tip: There are many shaded picnic tables, making this a great place to bring lunch or a snack.

31. Go whale watching (in the winter only!) 

Watching these gentle giants play in the waters off the coast is truly one of the most memorable things to do on Big Island Hawaii. 

Whales migrate from Alaska all the way to the warm Hawaiian waters during the winter months from November to April. The peak months for spotting are typically January to March. 

They’re a protected species in Hawaii, so there are many fantastic and ethical whale watching tours in Kona to choose from. 

32. Book a photoshoot with a local photographer

We think there are few souvenirs more special than photos . 

Local photographers know the areas really well, including when you’ll get the best lighting and where to go to avoid crowds. 

Plus, since you get to hang out with a local for a while, you can ask for insider advice on where to eat and places to explore nearby. 

This local photographer does shoots just north of Kona and earns rave reviews.

Here’s what guests are saying:

“…To start with, Ranae is an extremely warm and personable photographer. She is very talented, and was able to capture everything we wanted and so much more. The turnaround time was very quick and the pictures were captured beautifully. The editing, mood and highlights were all so perfect! … I would definitely recommend Ranae for anyone looking for a great, memorable and warm experience!” – Anusha, December 2022

33. Go zip-lining over a waterfall

Soaring across the lush jungle just outside of Hilo, Big Island Zipline takes you on a 7-line course through rugged and raw Hawaiian nature .

Take in views of the mountains and Hamakua Coast before you arrive at the grand finale, zipping past a powerful 250-foot waterfall .

What you need to know:

• Hours: 2.5 hours
• Price: $209
• Location  

What guests are saying:

“Beautiful scenic vistas with knowledgeable guides made this an experience we will always remember. Three first time zip liners were made comfortable by the education provided by the guides and the progression of increasing difficulty. Each zip was more beautiful than the one before, ending with a stunning view of KoleKole falls!” – Catherine (April 2023)

34. Try kava

Borrowed from Polynesian culture, kava is a traditional ceremonial drink that comes from the kava root. Grown only in Hawaii and certain islands in the South Pacific, kava was traditionally used as a sedative or anesthetic. 

There are a few kava bars on Big Island where you can try this unique beverage yourself.The most notable is La Hiki Ola Kava Bar , where we recommend spending an evening enjoying live music. 

35. Visit a parrot sanctuary

Rescuing re-homed and rehabilitated parrots for over 18 years, the Parrots in Paradise Sanctuary is non-profit Kona treasure.

You can see and interact with more than 90 parrots from all over the world here, where they receive space to fly, a nutritious diet, and fun interaction to live out the rest of their days.

“Amazing experience and definitely one of the highlights during our trip to Big Island. Gerald was an amazing guide and storyteller. The property/farm was also luscious and filled with other fun animals.” -Yumi, March 2023

36. Check out some lesser-known beaches

We already mentioned a few of the famous beaches on Big Island, Hawaii. From Papakōlea to Hapuna , there are plenty of notable beaches this island has to offer. But if you want to get off the beaten path a bit, we recommend heading to one of the lesser known beaches.

For starters, you can check out the beaches along the Kona coast: Magic Sands Beach Park, Kikaua Point Beach Park and Manini’owalu Beach at Kua Bay.

Mauna Kea Beach in the north is a beautiful public beach with white sand just off Kauna’oa Bay.

There are even some nice beaches on Coconut Island in Hilo Bay.

37. Sip a Mai Tai

There’s nothing that screams Hawaii vacation vibes more than sipping a Mai Tai. Hopefully with an ocean view!

This classic tiki drink is made with rum, orange liqueur, lime juice and orgeat syrup (made with almonds, sugar, and orange blossom water/rosewater).

I’ll be completely honest, when it comes to cocktails, Mai Tais aren’t at the top of my list. They tend to be a bit sweet for my taste. 

However, when in Hawaii, you’ve just gotta have one (or 5!). And you’d better believe we did!

Just about every restaurant claims their Mai Tai is “world famous” . 

We sampled lots around Big Island and I can unequivocally say the best one (by a long shot!) is at Merriman’s Restaurant in Waimea (you must have reservations for dinner ). It is topped with a lilikoi foam that I am still dreaming of. It was so good that I ordered two. (It was the only place I got a second Mai Tai!)  

Even if you don’t make it to Merriman’s, sample at least one of these fun and fruity cocktails during your trip to Hawaii (or a mocktail version!).

38. Shop for Hawaiian souvenirs

Whether you’re looking for a magnet to add to your collection or a t-shirt (go to an ABC store for a good selection!), or you’re searching for something more uniquely Hawaiian, there are so many souvenirs you can bring home as a reminder of your time in Hawaii.

Here are just a handful of ideas of some not-so-typical souvenirs :

• Local artwork
• Koa wood bowls or utensils
• Macadamia nuts*
• Lilikoi (passionfruit) jam*
• Jewelry 
• Kona coffee
• Hawaiian sea salt*

Trust me, you’ll want some wiggle room in your luggage! 

*we personally bought these items to bring home!

39. Drink a fresh coconut

There’s not much more refreshing on a hot day than a fresh, chilled coconut. Packed with electrolytes, fresh coconuts don’t only taste good – they can help you feel recharged.

You’ll see farm stands throughout the countryside, and it’s worth stopping for at least one on your Big Island road trip.

Farm stands will also often sell fresh pineapples (so much better than the ones on the mainland!) as well as other fruits, or even sugarcane.

Insider Tip: Pack a reusable straw so you can say no to single-use plastic .

40. Go scuba diving

From underwater lava caves to thriving coral reefs to night dives with manta rays and even a reef shark nursery, the diving around Big Island is incredibly diverse .

If you’re a scuba diver, research the best dive sites on Big Island in order to plan where you’ll fit it into your itinerary.

Personal Note: We absolutely love scuba diving and have gone on dives all over the world . Diving in Hawaii would be incredible, but being that we were traveling with a baby on this trip, it was just too difficult logistics-wise to make it happen. That said, when we return to Hawaii, scuba diving will be at the top of our list!

41. Take surf lessons

Join a native Hawaiian surfer for a safe and authentic surfing lesson in the crystal clear waters of the Big Island. 

“We had a blast during this surfing lesson and I would 100% recommend it. I had never surfed before and was quite nervous, but Kaleo coached me to standing comfortably on the board very quickly. Thank you so much for the experience!” – Claudia, January 2023

How many days do you need on Big Island?

The ideal amount of time to spend on Big Island is one week . If that sounds like a lot, keep in mind that this island is massive!

If you don’t have a full week to spare, five days is a great amount of time . This gives you enough time to experience many of the best things to do on Big Island, plus enjoy plenty of relaxation on the beach. 

For people who are island-hopping or simply don’t have much time, you could manage to hit the highlights in just three days . This might include the national park, a snorkeling or helicopter tour, a hike, and a few hours on the beach.

Best time to visit Big Island

The “shoulder season” months of April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Big Island. 

This allows you to skip peak summer tourist season (and temperatures!), as well as the rainier winter months, plus take advantage of off-season pricing on accommodation and rental cars. 

Want to know more? Find out the best time to visit Hawaii based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.

How to get to Big Island

Big Island has two international airports: Kona (KOA) and Hilo (ITO). Both are served by several major airlines, but Hilo is significantly smaller , with fewer options. 

Also, keep in mind that Hilo is fairly remote — 45 minutes from the national park and 1.5 hours from the island’s main resort area. If you find cheaper flights to ITO, before booking, consider how much drive time you’ll have to your destination. 

Depending on where you fly from, you’ll likely connect in Honolulu, Seattle, San Francisco, or Phoenix flying to either airport. 

You’ll be able to easily pick up a rental car at either airport, so choose the one closest to the part of the island you’re visiting . 

Major car rental companies often allow one-way rentals, so you may be able to fly into one airport and out of the other . This is an excellent way to hit all the best things to do on Big Island, splitting your time on both major coasts!

Related: We have a whole guide on how to get from Kona to Hilo based on your travel style.

Transportation on Big Island

No matter where you’re staying or what’s on your itinerary, renting a car is the most affordable and convenient transportation method. The island is tremendous and outside of the city centers, there’s often quite a bit of driving between places.

Uber and taxis are available at the airports and in both Kona and Hilo, but they’re spendy . Renting a car for several days is often more affordable than taking a taxi or rideshare just a few times !

There is also Hele-On bus service on Big Island, but it caters to local commuters, not tourists. Several routes only run Monday through Friday, and some tourist hot spots, like popular beaches, aren’t serviced at all. 

Discount Hawaii Car Rental

While searching for rentals, we were thrilled to find that Discount Hawaii Car Rental offered cheaper prices for the exact same rentals we found on other sites.

While the prices were in a similar ballpark, even saving a few hundred dollars is worth it, on top of supporting a local company!  

Where to eat on Big Island

We ate SO MUCH good food on the Big Island, and we can’t wait to share our recommendations with you. 

Be sure to save these to your Google Maps so you have them handy during your travels.

Restaurants in & around Kona

We put together a FULL list of all the best eateries in and around the Kona area of Big Island in our Kona article. Check the where to eat in Kona section for all the yummy details!

Elsewhere on Big Island

• Merriman’s (Waimea) : Upscale farm-to-table dining with excellent service. This was our favorite meal on the Big Island . Tip: Be sure to make reservations! 
• Tip: This makes a good lunch stop after visiting Papakolea Green Sand Beac h.
• Punalu’u Bake Shop (Naalehu) : southernmost bakery in the USA, known for their malasadas (doughnuts); lilikoi is the best flavor!
• Tip: The ginger turmeric lemonade was the perfect thing to wash it down with!
• Tip: The “Dark Side” and “The Force” cortados (yes, a Star Wars reference) are excellent 
• The Booch Bar (Hilo) : This Hilo brunch spot is popular with locals and well off the tourist route, but we’re letting you in on the secret! Sample kombucha flights and enjoy a unique breakfast and lunch menu highlighting ingredients that are house-fermented, like sourdough, kimchi, and hot sauce. 

Where to stay in Big Island

The three main tourist hubs are Kailua-Kona and Kohala (the Gold Coast) on Big Island’s west coast, and Hilo on the east coast. 

Although there are condos, vacation rentals, and some hotels scattered throughout the island, the vast majority of options, and nearly all the resorts, are concentrated on the west coast .

However, many tourist attractions (like some of the island’s best waterfalls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park) are closer to Hilo , and quite spread out. 

This is exactly why we recommend splitting your time on Big Island between both coasts!  

Big Island regions:

• Kailua-Kona: If cultural attractions, tours, hopping around town, or relaxing at your resort are priorities, stay a bit longer near the center of Kona. 
• South Kona: The areas just outside Kona, as you head towards Captain Cook are lovely if you’re looking for a quieter stay.
• South Kohala: This region is north of Kona and home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Accommodations here tend to be more upscale.
• Hilo: If you have a more adventurous itinerary or plan to spend more than one day in the national park, add more days in Hilo. 
• More places: If you want to get more off the beaten path, consider also staying in smaller towns around the island, like Hawi, Honoka’a, Volcano, and Pahoa.

Accommodation in & around Kona

Top choice: Downtown Airbnb

This is the Airbnb we personally stayed at in Kona and are obsessed! It is so thoughtfully designed and is the perfect location in downtown Kona. Plus, if you’re traveling with kids, this layout gives you separate sleeping spaces which is so nice.

Top choice: Tiny Home outside of Kona

We stayed at this tiny home while on Big Island and had a lovely stay! It’s just 15-minutes south of downtown Kona and is situated on a 5-acre coffee farm just a short drive from a charming little community. The firepit, grill and huge outdoor space make this property extra special. 

Splurge: Fairmont Orchid (South Kohala Coast)

Widely considered one of the most luxurious hotels on Big Island, with a private white sand beach , multiple restaurants and pools, and a divine outdoor “spa without walls .”

Budget option: Kona Seaside Hotel

Close to Kahaluu Beach Park, this boutique hotel is ideal for exploring the best things to do on Big Island on the west coast. Bonus: no resort fees (a rarity in Hawaii!)!

Accommodation in Hilo

Budget-friendly: Koi Suite

This reasonably priced Airbnb is just steps from the beach, is thoughtfully decorated and includes breakfast.

Cool property: The Inn at Kulaniapia

Located just outside of Hilo, staying at this inn is an experience in itself. Hotel guests can access the private onsite waterfall free of charge, and get discounts on activities, like a cooking class or waterfall rappelling. 

Feeling really adventurous? Check out their off-grid cabins, which were featured on Netflix’s “World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals” .

Unique stay: Forest Farm Stay

At this property, you’ll stay on an off-grid permaculture farm that is steps away from a bamboo grove and waterfall with a swimming hole. You’ll also have access to the properties organic eggs, chocolate, and fruits during your stay.

Tiny house: Eco-Friendly Shipping Container

Budget-friendly: Lotus Garden Botanica apartment

Bright studio in the heart of downtown, within a short walk of the best shops and restaurants . The kitchenette and additional daybed make it a flexible budget-friendly option!

What to pack for traveling to Big Island

While this is not a comprehensive list, these are some of the items you definitely don’t want to forget for your trip to the Big Island!

• Reef safe sunscreen
• Rash guard (if you plan to do  lot of snorkeling, this will minimize sunburn on your back)
• Quick-drying towel
• Snorkel gear
• Travel umbrella
• Reusable utensils 
• Reusable water bottle
• Reusable bag
• Comfortable and lightweight clothing
• Good to know: If you plan to go to Mauna Kea, you will definitely need some warmer layers as these volcanoes are at very high elevation and can get quite cold.
• National Park Pass (for visiting Volcanoes National Park)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Hawaii !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the best things to do on Big Island Hawaii

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Big Island so you can see everything in one place.

• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
• Pu’uhonua O Honaunau
• Kaumana Caves
• Pohoiki Hot Spring
• Beekeeping tour
• Local farmers market
• Try shave ice
• Airbnb stay
• Eat all the fruit
• Southernmost point in the USA
• Adopt a dog for the day
• Punalu’u donuts
• Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Center
• Waipiʻo Valley
• Hapuna Beach State Park
• Whale watching
• Photoshoot with a local photographer
• Ziplining over a waterfall
• Parrots in Paradise parrot sanctuary
• Lesser known beaches
• Sip a mai tai
• Hawaiian souvenirs
• Drink fresh coconut
• Scuba diving
• Surf lessons

Planning a trip to Hawaii?

We have lots of resources on travel in Hawaii and destinations around the islands. Check out our  Hawaii Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Hawaii travel articles here:

• Exciting Things to Do in Kona, Hawaii (+tips!)
• Papakōlea Beach: Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Green Sand Beach
• Seriously Fun Things to Do in Hilo, Hawaii (+ tips!)
• Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide

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10 essential experiences on Hawai‘i's Big Island

Dec 9, 2021 • 5 min read

Explore some of the newest-formed earth throughout Hawai‘i's Big Island © MNStudio / Getty

Island fever may happen elsewhere, but it’s almost unheard of on Hawaii . The aptly named Big Island is fantastically diverse, with miles of highways and – better yet – byways to explore.

From age-old fishing villages to modern mega resorts, from snow-capped peaks to sandy beaches, you’ll experience tropical splendor backed by an epic history. Hawai‘i's Big Island is twice as big as the other Hawaiian islands combined, and its dramatic terrain will surprise you and take you to extremes. Where to start? Try these 10 can’t miss Big Island experiences. 

1. Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay

It’s all true – from the teeming, technicolor fish in knee-deep water, to the spinner dolphins lazily circling your kayak or catamaran. Tourist brochures hype Kealakekua Bay as the best snorkeling in the state and, in this case, you can believe it. Even new rules regulating kayak use can’t tarnish the luster of this must-see spot. If kayaking doesn’t float your boat, hike down to this historically significant and naturally brilliant bay. Hard-core environmentalists might consider other less-trafficked bays – this one is almost too popular for its own good.

How to be a reef-safe traveler

2. Mauna Kea star party

It is breathless and breath-taking in the rarefied air of Mauna Kea , Hawai’i’s most sacred location. Once the sun goes down, the stars come out, and with them telescopes for your viewing pleasure. The world’s clearest stargazing is here – what you see through those telescopes, you won’t soon forget. For a real trophy experience, head here for both the sun and moonrise.

3. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

The eerie gray expanse of a formerly glowing lava lake, secluded palm-fringed beaches, ancient petroglyphs pecked into hardened lava and miles of hiking trails through craters, rainforest and desert – what’s not to love about Hawai‘i's No.1 site? This is one of the island’s top places to experience Hawaiian culture, including hula on the crater rim, annual festivals and a lecture series. All this and more are found in Hawai ‘i Volcanoes National Park .

4 unbelievable lava tubes left behind by ancient volcanoes

4. Waipi’o Valley

Legends begin here, where the road ends overlooking this magical valley . You can linger at the scenic viewpoint, however the waterfalls, wild horses and wilder black-sand beaches tend to beckon explorers. Choose from hiking, horseback or even a mule-drawn wagon to get you there. The very experienced can kayak in when conditions are just right. The most spectacular views, of course, are from the most grueling switchbacks of the Muliwai Trail – head up, up and up some more for the perfect shot.

Hawai‘i’s Big Island: how to make the most of a short trip

5. Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Dotted with ancient temples, and hangouts watched by menacing teeth-baring idols, a visit to this Puʻuhonua o Honaunau known as the Place of Refuge, makes a memorable introduction to traditional Hawaiian culture. In fact, there’s no better place to gain an understanding of the kapu system that governed ancient Hawai‘i. Look for heads of honu (sea turtles) bobbing in the bay; foreshadowing the underwater wonders to come at the nearby snorkeling haven of Two-Step.

The best things to do in Hawaii you probably didn't know about

6. Kona (& Ka‘u) coffee farms

When Christian missionaries planted Kona's first coffee trees, they were only a floral fad. Eventually, thanks to ideal conditions along South Kona's rain-kissed ‘coffee belt', Kona coffee became a successful gourmet crop. Today rural byways wind past small, often family-owned plantations, some of which let visitors drop by. Since the late 2000s, Ka‘u coffee growers have won awards in major contests, becoming the Cinderella story of Hawai‘i coffee. Look for 100 percent locally grown labeling on bags of beans and menus.

The 10 best hikes in Hawaii serve up stunning island views

7. Hapuna Beach

Rock up to this half-mile of powdery white-sand beach with a rented umbrella and boogie board, and one of Hawai‘i's most iconic beaches becomes your playground. Whether you are armed with a surfboard, lounge chair or water wings – this beach has something for the whole family. While the basic A-frame cabins here are not for the finicky, the island’s best beach is your front yard – pretty hallucinatory.

How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

8. Merrie Monarch Festival

If you really want to see how a hula, halau (school) invokes the gods and legends through chant and dance you need to make time visit this state-wide hula competition. Book early; people fly in from all over the globe for this one. Unless you’re an intense hula fan, you are likely to enjoy the inaugural invitational more than the structured head-to-head competitions of subsequent days.

9. Manta ray night dive

Diving at night is a thrill in itself, but once you turn on your lights and attract a corps de ballet of Pacific manta rays, with wing spans of 10ft or more and tails like javelins, your life becomes segmented: before diving with mantas and after. Snorkeling with them can be even better because you’re closer, but it’s so popular don’t be surprised when you get head-whacked by someone’s fins. Bring your own dive light and swim into center stage with these graceful animals.

Hawaii's Big Island: how to make the most of a short trip

10. ʻAkaka Falls State Park

This 420ft waterfall crashing through the rainforest, emanating fragrant ginger and giant philodendrons, is no less spectacular for its easy access. Drive up, stroll a half-mile through what feels like Hollywood Hawai‘i and there you are. Like all waterfalls on this part of the coast,  ʻAkaka Falls are most impressive during seasonal rains, when they spill violently over the verdant cliffs. Don’t miss poking around the little town of Honomu once you’re done ogling these towering falls.

You might also like:  Exploring the volcanic wonders of Hawaii's Big Island How Hawaiians are using traditional practices to promote sustainability How to visit Hawaii without totally destroying it

This article was first published August 2019 and updated December 2021

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Top Things to See & Do on Big Island Hawaii

Hawaii island's best attractions, activities, & more....

With so many activities, attractions, and things to do, the Big Island is a Hawaii vacationer's dream. That said, we understand it can be difficult to choose the best sights and experiences. That's why we've placed our favorites on this  Big Island of Hawaii Must See and Do  page. Here you will find our picks for the top natural wonders and more. Wondering about the best things to do? Then check out our Best Big Island of Hawaii Vacation Activities article and let the fun begin. 

Big Island of Hawaii definitely has more than its fair share of flora, fauna, and fun! Plus, you'll want to check out our handpicked  Big Island Tours   section, where you can plan, book, and go to Big Island all in one convenient place. Mahalo! 

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Big Island's Top Attractions

Hawaii has a myriad of breathtaking sights and deciding which ones to see can be a challenge. In a perfect world, you'd be able to see them all in one trip, but that's hardly realistic. That's why we're including our picks for the best Big Island attractions here. Each has its own qualities that make it uniquely fascinating. First, head to the hottest spot on the island (pun intended) and tour Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You'll need to cool off after all that fire, so head to some of the best waterfalls... or the beach, of course. And if you want the chance to do it all: hike, walk a black sand beach, kayak, and enjoy stunning views, the Waipio Valley awaits. Whether you have a favorite Big Island attraction or are looking forward to choosing one first hand, let us introduce you to some of our favorites here. 

Big Island Bucket List Adventures

If you're visiting the Big Island, chances are you're already fulfilling a bucket list adventure. That said, there are some experiences that go beyond the "must do" category and land square into the bucket list category. Why? Because they stand out as being truly extraordinary. Your bucket list adventure might take place under the sea as you swim with curious Hawaiian green sea turtles or mesmerizing manta rays. Of course, you can go a little (um, a lot) higher up and glide along on a thrilling zipline adventure and admire the trees and waterfalls from above. You can even add a hike and swim to that if you want. And that's the recipe for the perfect bucket list adventure. You have the recipe, now book your adventure and get cookin' on your own Big Island bucket list experience! 

Big Island Eco-Adventures

What is an eco-adventure, you ask? As its name implies, it is the sweet spot we love here at Hawaii Guide: the place where outdoor adventure and environmental responsibility come together for extraordinary fun. And if it's eco-adventure you're after, look no further than the Big Island. Grab the reins and spend some time as a Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) on your trusty steed. Or, grab the binoculars instead and spot some of the world's rarest plants and animals on a birdwatching excursion. And no trip to the Big Island would be complete without a stargazing trip on Mauna Kea. After all, the world's tallest mountain from base to summit is home to the best star show on the planet! No matter which Big Island eco-adventure you book, we know you'll love our selections! 

Big Island Evening Entertainment

Planning a night out on the Big Island is easy, as there are so many ways to sit back, relax, and have the perfect date night or family night. Of course, who wouldn't love an evening at sea enjoying a delicious dinner and toasting the Hawaiian sunset? Or, change gears and get ready to laugh your okole  off at Hawaii's best comedy and magic show. Oh, and don't forget to attend a Big Island Luau, as no trip to the islands is complete without appreciating the traditional dance, dress, delicious meal, and Aloha spirit offered up at these can't-miss events. Book your Big Island evening entertainment today and soon you'll be having a night to remember! 

Best Big Island Land Adventures & Tours

It's no secret that Big Island has more land mass than any of its Hawaiian Island neighbors; plus, it's growing every day thanks to Kilauea. So, needless to say, its landscapes are ripe for exploring. And one of the best ways to do so is by renting the car of your dreams- whether it's a luxury car or a cute sub-compact- and cruising to the best sights and attractions on Hawaii. Rather get a little (or a lot) of exercise while exploring? Then lace up your hiking boots and get ready for some of the best views on the island on Hawaii's most coveted hiking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to see why Hawaii is many visitor's favorite island. Book your Big Island land adventure soon. 

Best Big Island Water & Ocean Adventures

A big part of Hawaii's charm is her colorful beaches, stunning coastlines, and underwater wonderlands. Ready to hit the sand? Great! Just choose your color- green, black, or white- grab your sunscreen, and get ready for fun; whether that means lounging, swimming, or snorkeling. And speaking of snorkeling, make sure book an open sea snorkeling adventure... you'll likely see sea turtles, colorful coral reefs, manta rays, and more colorful fish than you could ever count. You can even take a submarine tour. How cool is that! These are our picks for the Big Island's cant-miss ocean adventures. Check out our selections, choose the best one(s) for you, and plan, book, and go with Hawaii Guide! 

Best Big Island Air Tours

Because the Big Island is, well, so very big, an aerial tour is a wonderful way to take in a large number of sights across the island. Not only that, taking an air tour means you'll travel in comfort and  also enjoy the best possible views. Hop into a helicopter and zoom over volcanoes and watch the lava shape the island. Afterward, head to the lush Hamakua Coast for some greenery and waterfalls. And while the Big Island has more attractions than you could ever see on just one vacation, you may want to enjoy a change of scenery and grab a flight over to a neighboring island for a day. How about a trip to Oahu to tour the top sights? If that's not enough adrenaline for you, then allow us to suggest parasailing; it's always a big hit with visitors. Choose your Big Island air tour, book today, and get ready to soar soon!  

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The 25 Best Things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island

The Big Island offers a long list of unique places to explore, including some of Hawaii ’s most incredible natural wonders. From whale watching excursions to swimming with manta rays, the adventures on this island are endless! 

No other island in Hawaii lets you get up close to a fiery volcano. Other highlights for nature lovers include a collection of beautiful black-sand beaches and larger-than-life waterfalls. It’s an island where you can enjoy a cultural immersion into Hawaii’s heritage and snorkel past schools of tropical fish on the same day. 

You can discover otherworldly landscapes in the famed Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or explore the spectacularly lush viewpoints in Waipo Valley. Afterward, sample the local cuisine at an authentic luau or go coffee tasting in the renowned Kona District. 

Hawaii’s Big Island has so many epic adventures to choose from you might not know where to begin. So, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. Our Big Island bucket list features some of the must-see natural wonders, the best outdoor adventures, and top cultural attractions you should add to your itinerary. If you’re looking for incredible scenery, you’ll find it on the Big Island! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The Best Things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Cool and Unique Things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island

1. see active volcanoes in hawaii volcanoes national park .

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is often at the top of every traveler’s Big Island bucket list – and there’s a good reason! This fascinating destination is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world and offers the chance to see the wonder of Hawaii’s mesmerizing nature in action. 

Encompassing over 300,000 acres, there is a long list of things to do in this national park. A drive on the 11-mile Crater Rim Drive is considered a must-do activity for visitors of all ages. Along the way, you’ll come across a series of scenic stops along the way where you can marvel at captivating views of the famed caldera. 

Other popular attractions in Volcanoes National Park include the Jaggar Museum with its picture-perfect views of Halemaumau Crater and fascinating displays of equipment used by scientists. You can also add the Thurston Lava Tubes to your itinerary, as well as the four-mile Kilauea Iki loop trail that leads to a former lava lake. 

Most adventure-seekers come to this park wanting to get a glimpse of the volcanic lava flows up close. If this thrilling experience appeals to you, you’ll need to visit the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area which is located about an hour away from the National Park entrance, closer to Hilo. 

Book a Tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

2. Hike to a Unique Lava Tube

One of the highlights of exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a visit to the Thurston Lava Tube . Located along the park’s famous Crater Rim Drive, it’s one of the most accessible lava tubes in Hawaii.  

Thurston offers a wonderful chance for you to learn about Hawaii’s unique geological features while embarking on a memorable hike. After a 20-minute walk through a beautiful fern forest, you’ll reach a large 500-year-old cave that was the result of a lava flow. 

Step inside the lava tube and look up to discover 20-foot-high ceilings and lighting that illuminates the tunnel that reaches 600 feet in length. Take your time to admire the interior, which includes fascinating formations of once-liquid lava that has created a series of unique shapes. 

Another popular lava tube on the Big Island is at Kaumana Caves. Here, you’ll descend the caves on a ladder into the 25-mile-long lava tube, which was formed by an 1881 flow from Mauna Loa. However, only about two miles of the lava tube are accessible to the public. 

3. Check Out Sea Turtles at Punaluu Black Sand Beach

Black sand beaches are popular in Hawaii. Not only do they offer unique landscapes but you’ll have the opportunity to see local wildlife like sea turtles! For the most well-known black sand beach in the world, head to Punaluu Black Sand Beach. 

It’s one of the top things to do on the Big Island for sun-seekers and is home to large honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles) that can be seen basking on the beach. Located between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu in Kau, it’s beloved for its black sand – made of small fragments of lava – and its backdrop of coconut palms and lush tropical vegetation.

You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and coastal hikes at this remote beach, while a freshwater tide pool is available for cooling off. There are also picnic facilities where you can enjoy lunch with a view of endangered hawksbills and green turtles hanging out.

If visiting black sand beaches is on your Big Island bucket list, you can also add Kaimu Beach Park, Richardson Beach Park, Waipo Valley, and Pololu Valley to your list. Pohoiki Black Sand Beach is another alternative with its beautiful coastline and warm thermal ponds. 

4. Hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach

The Big Island is full of beautiful beaches, but one of its most unique is Papakolea Green Sand Beach. Located on the southwest coast, it’s one of only four beaches in the world with green sand.

The rare sand was created by an eruption 49,000 years ago that resulted in a cinder cone next to the beach. This created billions of green crystals called “olivine” that give this remote beach its name. 

The green crystal sand is mixed with black (lava) and white (coral/shells) sand, giving it a fascinating landscape. Swimming in the bay is possible, although the surf can be rough and there are no lifeguards here. 

It takes a bit of effort to reach this natural wonder, as the hike here is about five miles round trip. You’ll be in full view of the sun the entire way, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. 

The best time to visit Papakolea Green Sand Beach is early in the day. If you want the beach to yourself, come on a weekday instead of a weekend. Also, be aware that it is against the law in Hawaii to remove any sand from the beach. 

5. Visit the Southernmost Point of the USA

If you want to experience one of the coolest things to do on the Big Island, add Kalae ( South Point ) to your vacation itinerary. From here, you can gaze out into the endless Pacific Ocean at the southernmost point in the United States. 

History buffs will love learning about the area’s rich history, as it’s said that this is the first place Polynesians came ashore. Many believed they reached the Hawaiian Islands somewhere between 400 and 800 AD. You can still see the canoe mooring holes carved through the rocks in the area that local fishermen still use today!

The entire southern tip is registered as a National Historic Landmark. The area is home to the ruins of heiau (temples), fishing shrines, and other cultural vestiges. While this area is known as an excellent fishing spot, swimming is not advised due to the steep, rocky cliffs and deep waters. 

To reach South Point and its rocky shoreline, you’ll need to follow South Point Road for 12 miles. It’s a scenic drive past open ranch lands that are dotted with white windmills. If you get hungry, make a pit stop at Hana Hou Restaurant or Punalu’u Bake Shop , which is the southernmost bakery in the US!

6. Learn About Island Traditions at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park

A popular destination for history lovers, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park is a place of refuge and royal grounds on the Big Island. Once the home for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers, it’s a sacred site in Hawaii and a great place to learn about island traditions. 

The 180-acre national historic park has exhibits that will take you through Hawaii’s rich history. You can learn about kapu (sacred laws), which were important to Hawaiian culture, as well as puuhonua (sacred places of refuge) that Hawaiians once escaped to in order to evade death. Once here, they would be forgiven by an area priest. 

It’s a beautifully restored site where you can follow a self-guided walking tour of the grounds. Make sure to see the Great Wall, which stands 12 feet high, and the kii (wooden images of the gods) that guard the sacred temple that housed the bones of chiefs. 

Other notable sites are at the nearby Royal Grounds, including the Keoneele Cove, which was the royal canoe landing. Get up close to the Keoua Stone, a favorite resting place of the high chief, and walk around a sacred temple that is one of the oldest structures in the park. 

7. Snorkel or Kayak Kealakekua Bay

If you’re up for a water-based adventure on the Big Island, the shimmering Kealakekua Bay is one of the best places to explore. Featuring crystal clear waters full of coral reefs and vibrant schools of fish, it’s also a hotspot for snorkeling adventures. 

Many say that the remote bay is one of the best places to snorkel in North America. You’ll be able to glimpse beautiful tropical fish and sea turtles in the calm, shallow waters. Some of the most popular tours of Kealakekua Bay are Fair Wind , Sea Paradise , Dolphin Discoveries , and Aloha Kayak Co . 

Snorkeling tours and kayaks rentals are available depending on what type of outdoor excursion you’re after. If you arrive early in the morning, you might get lucky and spot spinner dolphins frolicking in the waters!

There are a few ways to reach this top snorkeling destination on the Big Island. Hiking is a popular alternative to boat tours. However, be aware that it’s a 3.8-mile round-trip trek with a 1,300 feet elevation gain on your way back and no option for shade. 

This destination is also a historical landmark, as it’s the site where the first westerner, Captain James Cook, landed on the island of Hawaii. There’s a white obelisk on the shore of Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park memorializing his death. 

8. Go Snorkeling at Kahalu‘u Bay

Snorkeling is one of the coolest things to do on the Big Island, as it’s a family-friendly excursion with a chance to see colorful underwater treasures. Kahalu‘u Bay is like a real-life aquarium, located on the Kona coast a few miles south of Kailua-Kona’s town center.

Kahalu‘u Bay offers some of the best and most easily accessible snorkeling on the Big Island. Beneath its brilliant aquamarine waters, you’ll discover an underwater world home to honu (green sea turtles) and brightly colored tropical fish. It’s a popular spot for beginners because there’s a lifeguard on duty and it features shallow, sheltered waters. In addition to tide pools, its coral reef is home to octopus, sea urchins, eels, and a variety of fish such as bullethead parrotfish, orangespine unicornfish, and Hawaiian spotted boxfish. 

Nonprofit organization The Kohala Center , which administers the on-site ReefTeach education program at the bay, encourages visitors to respect Kahalu‘u Bay as a cherished cultural and historic place and understand that its vibrant coral reef ecosystem is extremely fragile. The Center encourages visitors to bring and use mineral-based sunscreens and to avoid any direct contact with coral, rocks, turtles, and marine life so that future visitors will also be able to enjoy the bay.

When you arrive, the south side of the bay is the perfect access point for snorkeling adventures. Wearing water shoes is common here, as you’ll have to navigate yourself over slippery lava rock. Experienced swimmers can head toward the middle of the bay to discover larger coral heads. Again, please remember to stay afloat and avoid standing or stepping on coral reefs and rocks.

If you need some snorkeling gear, Kahalu‘u Surf and Sea offers gear for rent. 

9. Explore the Artist-Friendly Town of Holualoa

Holualoa is a charming stop on your Big Island route. The quaint city is located on the western coast, just 20 minutes south of Kona International Airport. It’s said to be the center of coffee, art, and farming on the island and is home to the beautiful Magic Sands Beach Park. 

This funky artist-friendly town is beloved for its small-town charm. The two-lane main road is dotted with art galleries and coffee shops. Its colorful plantation-style buildings are picture-perfect and are found along the road that takes you to the Kona coastline. 

Only a 10-minute drive from Kailua-Kona, this adorable little village offers the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. You can visit an art gallery such as M. Fields Gallery or Holualoa Gallery . After that, stop for lunch at a local cafe or go shopping at the town’s electric boutiques. 

It’s also a great home base for world-class Kona coffee tastings, with coffee farms found along the slopes of Hualalai Mountain. The plantation tours and tastings are popular at Hula Daddy , a coffee lover’s paradise known for its award-winning gourmet Kona coffee. Alternately, opt for a cup of joe at UCC Hawaii , which overlooks a picturesque coffee farm. 

10. Snorkel or Dive with Manta Rays at Night

Groups of large manta rays hunt for plankton to eat just off the coast of Kona. Reaching up to 20 feet in length, these gentle giants can be seen up close on a night diving or snorkeling tour that is considered one of the most memorable activities in Hawaii. 

It’s a top thing to do on the Big Island if you’re an animal lover, designed for the truly adventurous who want to get up close and personal with these immense fish. On these thrilling tours, you can jump in the water at night and watch the manta rays feed. 

Your tour will start with a sunset trip along the Big Island’s gorgeous coastline. When the sun sets, the adventure begins! You’ll be given a light source to see deep down into the ocean floor (often attached to the bottom of your floatation device) and attract millions of microscopic plankton. 

After patiently waiting, the manta rays will arrive and float, swim, and somersault under you, ready to swoop in and feed on the plankton. Don’t worry if you’re a little nervous, as manta rays are unlike their barbed cousins and are completely harmless. 

If you’re ready to sign up for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Jack’s Diving Locker and Fair Wind are two popular tour companies. Both tours include snorkeling equipment and professional guides that will assist you in the water. 

Book a Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Experience

11. Attend an Authentic Luau

For a fun and exciting way to experience Hawaii’s food and culture, attend an authentic luau. It’s a top thing to do on the Big Island, with the Voyagers of the Pacific in Royal Kona Resort offering one of the best in Hawaii. To begin the luau, you’ll receive a welcome lei as you enter and be greeted with hula lessons!

With an oceanfront setting on Kailua Bay, you can enjoy a night of food, music, and entertainment at this luau. You can feast on the delicious all-you-can-eat dinner filled with tons of traditional island foods while enjoying the spectacular sunset views overlooking the shimmering bay. There’s also a full bar available. 

Roasted pig is unearthed from the imu (underground oven), while other cuisines on the menu include honey soy-braised beef and fresh-catch fish. You’ll also want to try the coconut rolls, Lomi Lomi salmon salad, and decadent pineapple upside-down cake. Wash it all down with a classic Mai Tai. 

The live show is a spectacle of traditional song and dance performances that include fire features. You’ll also have the chance to witness the Samoan fire knife ritual, which is Polynesia’s most dangerous dance. However, the luau is family-friendly and welcomes kids. 

Book a stay at Royal Kona Resort

12. Enjoy Coffee Tasting in Kona

You can’t leave Hawaii’s Big Island without getting your caffeine fix in Kona. The area’s rich volcanic soil created an ideal environment for harvesting this unique Hawaiian coffee bean. And it’s now one of the world’s most famous coffee towns. 

While there are about 600 coffee farms to choose from in the Kona area, one of the most famous is Greenwell Farms . Dating back to 1850, this coffee farm boasts free guided tours through its coffee fields and processing facilities. 

You’ll get an understanding of how the coffee is produced, from seed to cup. Learn about the history, farming, and processing before sampling some of the 100% Kona coffee. With its rich aroma and flavorful taste, it will be easy to see why the coffee here is so highly valued.

Some of the other popular coffee farms in Kona are Kona Coffee Living History Farm , Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation , Hula Daddy Coffee , and Hilo Coffee Mill . You can find boutique, award-winning farms in Kau, Puna, and Hilo. If you visit the Big Island in November, you can also attend the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in Historic Kailua Village. 

13. Stroll the Waterfront at Kailua-Kona

Often referred to as Kona by locals, Kailua-Kona is a beautiful seaside town in the heart of the Kona district. Set on the western coast of the Big Island, it’s a sunny spot with white-sand beaches where you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

Once a sleepy fishing village, this sun-soaked part of the island is only a few miles south of Kona International Airport. One of the best ways to experience this area and its spectacular island views is by taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront.

Cruise the downtown area along the famous Ali’i Drive, ending your walk at the Kailua pier or any of the local restaurants nestled along the seaside. Stop and take a break in order to capture the stunning sunset views, which perfectly pairs with a Mai Tai or some freshly caught ahi (tuna). 

Kailua-Kona is also a great spot to pick up souvenirs, with shops along Ali’i Drive selling everything from locally made artwork to jewelry to T-shirts. If you wake up early, you can also add a sunrise snorkel excursion at the family-friendly King Kam Beach to your itinerary, as it’s located downtown right on Ali’i Drive. 

14. Lounge on the Soft Sands at Hapuna Beach

Translated as the “spring of life” in Hawaiian, Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is one of the best beaches on the Big Island. Sun-seekers flock to the gorgeous shoreline on the South Kohala Coast in order to tick a lazy day of basking in the sunshine off their Big Island bucket list. 

Also loved for its brilliant aquamarine waters and photogenic sunsets, this is the largest of the island’s collection of beautiful white-sand beaches. There are excellent facilities here for enjoying a family beach getaway, featuring ample parking, food vendors, picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguards.  

While sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling are the most popular activities at Hapuna Beach, there are also miles of hiking trails nearby. These scenic trails offer incredible views along the volcanic western coastline of the Kohala Coast. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a popular 2.2-mile trail connecting Hapuna Beach to Mauna Kea Beach.

Winter is not the most ideal time for swimming since the tide is usually rough. However, it’s possible to spot migrating whales from the shore during this time. 

15. Paddleboard the Calm Waters at Anaehoomalu Beach

Commonly referred to as “A-Bay,” Anaehoomalu Beach is a popular destination for ocean activities. It’s one of the top things to do on the Big Island for families, as this is one of the most scenic spots on the Kohala Coast. 

The postcard-perfect crescent-shaped beach is backed by swaying palm trees and offers something for everyone in the family. In addition to exciting sea turtle sightings, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. 

Paddleboards and kayaks offer panoramic views of the beach and surrounding mountains. If you float near some of the shallow parts of the bay, you might even spot some sea life on the reef right below the waters. Pick up beach toy rentals at the A-bay Beach Hut . 

If you’re up for an adventure or want a different perspective of A-Bay, follow the coastal hiking paths nearby. The short but scenic King’s Trail is a part of the Ala Khaki National Historic Trail and passes small inlets and tide pools. 

The area is also known for its historic fishponds and features several historic points and signs along a walkway. Named Ku’uali’i and Kahapapa, these ancient Hawaiian fishponds were once used by Hawaiian royals. 

16. Go Whale Watching in Winter

Considered a must thing to do on the Big Island from December through May, whale watching is a bucket list activity in Hawaii. Without a doubt, seeing one of the 40-ton, 40-foot-long humpback whales breach the waters is truly an unforgettable sight.

Every year, these gentle giants migrate to the warm waters of this island and guided tours offer a chance to get close to the action. You’ll be taken to the best spots to observe them in their natural habitat with a chance to observe them playfully surfacing, slapping their tails, and blowing spouts in the air. 

In addition to whale sightings, you might even spot dolphins, turtles, or whale sharks along the way – so make sure to bring your camera for the adventure. Captain Zodiac, Ali’i Ocean Tours , and Body Glove are popular tour options, with most whale-watching tours on the Big Island available along the Kona coast. 

If you’re not keen on a whale-watching boat tour, it’s also possible to spot them from the shore. If you decide to go this route, find a good place to relax at popular spots like Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site , Lapakahi State Historical Park , and Kapa’a Beach Park.

Book a Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

17. Glimpse the Majestic Kaluahine Falls in Waipio Valley 

​​Kaluahine Falls is a must-see attraction in Waipo Valley. The only problem is that it’s a hidden treasure only captured in rainy seasons. It’s worth the trek to visit this natural wonder, however, as Waipo Valley is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Hawaii. 

After exploring this stunning region and its 2,500-foot-tall cliffs, you can reach Kaluahine Falls after a short walk along the coastal boulders on the black sand Waipio Beach. You can hike down to the beach from the parking lot, but it’s advised that you traverse the narrow road with a 4WD car. 

If you’re up for an easier adventure, you can enjoy the dramatic views of the valleys along Kohala Mountain on a road trip adventure through Waipo Valley. The Waipo Valley Lookout is a popular viewpoint for those not looking for a strenuous adventure. It offers gorgeous views over the valley and high sea cliffs that stretch out into the ocean. 

One of the other popular waterfalls in Waipo Valley is Hiilawe Falls, which stands between 1,200 and 1,600 feet tall. Formed by the lava flow from Mauna Kea, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. 

Note : The county of Hawaii issued a traffic emergency zone declaration to Waipio Valley Road. It was closed to visitors on February 25, 2022, due to a geotechnical assessment indicating the imminent threat of slope and roadway failure threats to visitors. The traffic emergency zone declaration will take effect until February 25, 2025, unless the issue is restored before the date or extended due to additional work. However, the Waipio Valley Overlook remains open.

18. Go Stargazing on Mauna Kea Volcano

If you’re fascinated by celestial wonders, Mauna Kea is a popular natural attraction on the Big Island for stargazing. Housing some of the largest telescopes on earth and the best platform for astronomic observation, this is Hawaii’s highest mountain.

Because it boasts low humidity, clear skies, and almost no light pollution, the Mauna Kea Observatory is a popular excursion for astronomy lovers. From its position at over 13,000 feet, you can watch a spectacular sunset followed by a stargazing session with unobstructed views of the night sky through one of the high-powered space telescopes. 

If you’re lucky, you can see all of the northern hemisphere stars and a large portion of the southern hemisphere stars too. Dress warm though, as the cold weather atop this mountain is a sharp contrast to the tropical heat below. 

You can drive to the summit yourself, but it requires a 4WD car and excellent driving skills. 

Most travelers opt for a stargazing tour to get the full experience. Mauna Kea Summit Adventures and Hawaii Forest & Trail are two popular options. 

19. Admire the Cascading Akaka and Kahuna Waterfalls

Waterfall lovers should add a visit to Akaka Falls State Park to their adventure itinerary. One of the coolest things to do on the Big Island, it’s here that you’ll discover two of Hawaii’s most beautiful and easily accessible cascades. 

Located along the northeastern Hilo coast, this park is home to Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. Towering at 442 feet, Akaka Falls is the tallest waterfall in Hawaii and is surrounded by a lush landscape of tropical ferns, bamboo, and orchids. Kahuna Falls is smaller at 100 feet tall but just as picturesque. 

You’ll have to follow a trail to reach the two falls. It’s steep but conveniently paved and includes a section of steps. Less than a half-mile in length, the trail leads you past Kahuna Falls to the top of Akaka Falls and offers easy-to-reach viewing spots above the gorge for getting that perfect souvenir photo. 

The pleasant trail is kid-friendly, with most hikers making the loop in around 30 minutes. To view the Akaka Falls only, you can take the path to the left (south) from the first junction, where you’ll discover waterfall views just a short walk down the path. 

20. Tour the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

Nestled just off Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is often acclaimed as the most beautiful attraction in Hawaii. It’s a popular thing to do on the Big Island for nature lovers, as it features over 2,500 species of tropical plants from around the world. 

It’s home to easy-to-navigate nature trails that wind through its tropical rainforest. The trails are dotted with several photogenic waterfalls and viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The 20-acre slice of paradise also features an orchid garden, macaw aviary, and various picnic spots. 

You’ll have plenty of places to take in your surroundings in the garden’s natural habitat. On your self-guided walking tour, stop to see some of the biggest highlights, including the Twin Rocks Vista, Monkeypod Trees, Orchid Garden, Palm Jungle, and Founders Birdhouse. 

Bring snacks and take a break at one of the picnic areas, and make sure to bring your camera to snap a photo of the picturesque Onomea waterfalls. The garden’s round-trip hike is about one mile in length and takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete. 

Other popular botanical gardens on the Big Island include the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Hilo and the Lyon Arboretum at the University of Hawaii. Botanical World Adventures is another favorite, offering zip-lining tours.  

21. Follow the Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive

Road trip enthusiasts itching for a short but spectacular drive on Hawaii’s Big Island can follow the (Onomea) Pep’eekeo Scenic Drive. Located off Highway 19 less than 10 miles north of Hilo, it’s known as the “Four Mile Scenic Drive.”  

It’s one of the area’s most beautiful drives that stretches north from the beach and passes by beachside mansions and rows of enchanting tree tunnels. You’ll pass glimpses of the beautiful Onomea Bay along the curvy drive, featuring several rustic one-lane bridges that separate the jungle landscapes and stretch over rushing streams. 

You’ll find several pullouts along the way for taking in the views of the coast framed by green tropical foliage. You can even park your car and follow the one-mile Onomea Bay Trail. To get here, the scenic drive starting point is between mile markers 7 and 8. 

Some other popular scenic routes on the Big Island include the Chain of Craters Road within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Macadamia Road through nut orchards, and Mauna Kea Beach Drive. Along Queen Kaahumanu Highway, you can enjoy ocean views along almost its entire 33-mile stretch.  

22. Hike to Rainbow Falls

After Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls is the most popular waterfall on Hawaii’s Big Island. Located within Hilo town, it’s considered the most easily accessible waterfall viewing you’ll find on the Big Island. 

Set on the Wailuku River, this waterfall is best seen in the morning when your back is toward the sun. Because the sun rises in the east, during this time it’s possible to capture views of colorful rainbows in the spray of the powerful cascade. 

According to legends, this 80-foot waterfall is home to the ancient Hawaiian goddess Hina, the goddess of the moon. It’s an ideal waterfall destination for beginner hikers, with a chance to see it directly from the parking lot or from the top of the falls after a short hike. 

It’s well worth the effort to reach its summit, as you’ll be surrounded by lush green foliage and towering banyan trees along the way. After just a few minutes, you’ll be treated to picture-perfect views of Rainbow Falls. 

If you want to add more adventure to your day, keep walking 1.5 miles upstream to reach Pe’epe’e Falls. These smaller falls are also on the Wailuku River and feature Boiling Pots (that are not advisable for swimming). 

23. Explore the Funky Town of Pahoa

Get off the beaten path and explore the small hippie town of Pahoa, which is located on the Hilo side of the Big Island. It has a peaceful and quiet atmosphere and boasts the largest collection of historic buildings in Hawaii. Its streets are filled with a quirky collection of boutiques, restaurants, craft stores, and galleries. 

Stroll the town’s 100-year-old boardwalk and admire the Wild West-style buildings that date back to the 1900s. See the island’s oldest movie theater and the Painted Church, then browse the vendors in The Pahoa Marketplace. 

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful coastline in Isaac Hale Beach Park. The black sand beach was the result of the 2018 volcanic activity of Kilauea. Afterward, you can take a break for a coffee or meal in one of the charming cafes and eateries or dig into a platter of fish and chips at Pahoa Fresh Fish. 

Pele’s Kitchen is a popular breakfast eatery in Pahoa, while the Tin Shack Bakery serves up dessert favorites and island-inspired dishes. For a unique experience, La Hike Ola Kava Bar features the locally grown and non-addictive Polynesian beverage kava, as well as a variety of kombucha flavors and live music. 

24. Soak in the Pohoiki Warm Springs in Isaac Hale Beach Park

Further exploration of Isaac Hale Beach Park in the Puna District offers access to warm spring ponds that are perfect for soaking. Called the Pohoiki Warm Springs, it is actually a collapsed lava tube heated by volcanic energy. 

The process starts when it rains, as the water flows into the earth instead of the ocean and is heated by magma. The water then makes its way back to the surface and is mixed with the incoming tide, making it cool enough for bathers to take advantage of its healing properties. 

Isaac Hale Beach Park features the Pohoiki Warm Spring in addition to four natural ocean thermal ponds. The pools are located just a short walk down from the coastline from the boat ramp, about 80 yards inland. Surrounded by the black sand beach, jungle foliage, and towering palm trees, the waters here generally stay around 75 and 85 degrees and offers a soothing experience for nature lovers. 

After you enjoy a soak, the beach is a great spot for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and boating. Shoreline fishermen can often be seen reeling in a catch, while the picture-perfect scenery is also ideal for an afternoon picnic. 

Important: Pay attention to any warning signs issued by the Department of Health as these ponds may not be disinfected and there is a risk of bacterial infections. Visitors should not enter these ponds if they have open wounds. Enter these ponds at your own risk. For more information about Hawaii’s water quality advisories, visit the Clean Water Branch System site .

25. Visit the Hilo Farmers Market

Visiting a farmers market on the Big Island is a fun way to explore and sample unique Hawaiian dishes. The Hilo Farmers Market is the largest and most popular, featuring over 200 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and tropical flowers to locally made crafts and handmade jewelry. 

Located downtown, the colorful market is the most easily accessible on the island and operates seven days a week. The tables here are sprawling with tasty eats and local fruits, such as fresh papaya, mango, apple banana, and star fruit. 

You can also try other local seasonal delicacies, such as giant butter avocados, beetle nuts, cacao pods, and furry rambutans, or pick up freshly baked goods and island jams and jellies. If you want to try something exotic, be on the lookout for rollinia fruit, strawberry papayas, chocolate sapote, and mangosteen. 

The food selection is just one element that makes Hilo Farmers Market a must-see, as it’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs. Browse the stalls to find treasures such as wind chimes, etched glass, and koa wood pieces, as well as buckets of orchids and anthuriums. 

There you have it! 25 of the best things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Aloha State?

Planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is often at the top of every traveler’s Big Island bucket list – and there’s a good reason! This fascinating destination is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world and offers the chance to see the wonder of Hawaii’s mesmerizing nature in action. Most adventure-seekers come to this park wanting to get a glimpse of the volcanic lava flows up close.

One of the highlights of exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a visit to the Thurston Lava Tube. Located along the park’s famous Crater Rim Drive, it’s one of the most accessible lava tubes in Hawaii. After a 20-minute walk through a beautiful fern forest, you’ll reach a large 500-year-old cave that was the result of a lava flow. Step inside the lava tube and look up to discover 20-foot-high ceilings and lighting that illuminates the tunnel that reaches 600 feet in length.

If you’re up for a water-based adventure on the Big Island, the shimmering Kealakekua Bay is one of the best places to explore. Featuring crystal clear waters full of coral reefs and vibrant schools of fish, it’s also a hotspot for snorkeling adventures. Many say that the remote bay is one of the best places to snorkel in North America. You’ll be able to glimpse beautiful tropical fish and sea turtles in the calm, shallow waters.

You can’t leave Hawaii’s Big Island without getting your caffeine fix in Kona. The area’s rich volcanic soil created an ideal environment for harvesting this unique Hawaiian coffee bean. And it’s now one of the world’s most famous coffee towns. While there are about 600 coffee farms to choose from in the Kona area, one of the most famous is Greenwell Farms. Dating back to 1850, this coffee farm boasts free guided tours through its coffee fields and processing facilities.

Kaluahine Falls is a must-see attraction in Waipo Valley. The only problem is that it’s a hidden treasure only captured in rainy seasons. It’s worth the trek to visit this natural wonder, however, as Waipo Valley is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Hawaii. After exploring this stunning region and its 2,500-foot-tall cliffs, you can reach Kaluahine Falls after a short walk along the coastal boulders on the black sand Waipio Beach.

About the Author:

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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3 thoughts on “the 25 best things to do on hawaii’s big island”.

Nice tips, love your blog

I enjoyed looking through this sight and found interesting places to visit when I go to the Big Island in May of this year. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

You wrote “Other popular attractions in Volcanoes National Park include the Jaggar Museum …”

The Jagger Museum has been, and still is, permanently closed.

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One Week Big Island Itinerary: Guide to MY Favorite Hawaiian Road Trip

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: January 20, 2023  - Last updated: January 20, 2024

I’ve never been anywhere else on earth quite like the Big Island of Hawaii. After several visits we’ve got a great Big Island itinerary that includes lots of snorkeling, Kona coffee, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , waterfalls and more. Our plan for a Big Island of Hawaii road trip is best with six or 7 days, but you can trim it for however long you need.

Are you ready for an amazing trip experiencing a totally different side of Hawaii? The Big Island has some of the most unusual landscapes in the Hawaiian Islands. Also, we’ve been able to visit more Hawaiian cultural sites on the Big Island than Oahu or Kauai , which I think is so important to both understanding and respecting the Islands and their people. As you plan your Big Island itinerary, it’s important to leave no trace in your activities, and as you bring your tourism dollars to Hawaii, that you make thoughtful decisions that go back into the communities you visit.

Check out our Hawaii podcast episodes!

If you have suggestions to make this Big Island itinerary easier or to get in additional sights and activities to incorporate into the road trip around Hawaii Island, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more!

Planning a Visit to the Big Island of Hawaii

Planning a trip to Hawaii is a big feat to begin with, so once you’ve decided which island or islands you’re visiting, that’s when the fun of creating your travel plan starts. Our Big Island itinerary is ideal for somebody who’s either never been to Hawaii or has just never done the Big Island. There are so many things to do on the Big Island that the road trip to explore it can take any shape.

As you plan your visit to the Island of Hawaii, you’ll see that it’s much larger than Kauai, Maui or Oahu. A vacation here can cover a lot of ground, including several distinctly different regions: the Kona Coast, the Hilo / Hawaii Volcanoes area, and the north shore. Where you spend most of your time depends on what you’re most interested in.

The Kona Coast is where you’ll find the bulk of Hawaiian cultural sites on the Big Island, and also where you’ll have the most snorkeling opportunities. This is also where Kona Coffee culture is the most prevalent.

On the Eastern Shore, around Hilo and down into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park you’ll find tons of hiking, waterfalls and the more city-like part of the Big Island.

Heading to the North Shore, you get into the lush, green valleys and away from the massive lava flows. Agriculture, waterfalls and surfing are the way on the North Shore, making it much less visited than much of the Big Island.

Getting to the Big Island

When it comes to actually getting to the Big Island of Hawaii, you have two airports you can fly into: Kailua-Kona (KOA) and Hilo (ITO). From West Coast cities, either is an option, but there are many more direct flights into Kona than Hilo.

Flying into Kona (KOA)

If you choose to start your Big Island itinerary by flying into Kona, you’ll really have a treat as you approach the destination. I was stunned the first time I landed in Kailua-Kona as the whole area is just pure lava. The runway is surrounded by lava beds and the beaches match it. Flying into Kona is a great taste of the volcano-filled adventures that await you.

Flying into Hilo (ITO)

Hilo is a much less busy airport than Kona and if you’re coming from the mainland, your views will be nothing but ocean until you are on the ground. If the wind is right, you may get a view of Kilauea or Mauna Loa, but for the most part it’s a steady and un-thrilling approach.

The Hilo airport is where you’ll find a majority of the scenic flights and helicopter tours on the Big Island though, so don’t let me sell the scenery of the eastern side of Hawaii as lame, because it is far from it!

Where to Stay on the Big Island

If you’re following our Big Island itinerary, you’ll get to stay on both the Kona Coast and the Hilo side. I really like having the time split between the two sides as it allows you more time to relax or explore since you’re not having to drive great distances every day. Our advice for where to stay on the Big Island is tried and true after multiple trips, but you do you. And if you want to do a circle, a Big Island road trip, you can mix up our plan a bit to stay in three or four different areas, depending on your time.

Staying on the Kona Coast

The easiest place to find a hotel on the Kona Coast is in the town of Kailua-Kona. Here you’ll find a few national travel brand properties, like the Courtyard Marriott or Holiday Inn Express , but most other properties are either independently owned or Hawaiian owned. For example, the Kona Royal Hawaiian also owns the Kauai Shores Hotel on Kauai. And then there are properties like the Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort (where we’ve stayed before) that are a timeshare property.

Other accommodations on the Kona Coast include bed and breakfasts (lots of those!) and short term rentals, aka AirBNBs. You’ll find more small inns and B&Bs in the Captain Cook area of the Kona Coast than directly in Kailua-Kona.

We’ve also stayed at the Ka’awa Loa Plantation just south of Kailua-Kona. This bed and breakfast was wonderful, far from the busy waterfront of town and close to historic sites like Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm. I loved the setting and the hosts were wonderfully welcoming. And the breakfast was OMG.

Staying on the East Shore of the Big Island

Since the Hilo side of the Big Island is much less touristy than the Kona Coast, hotel and accommodation options are much more limited. There are very few hotels in Hilo, and what you’re more likely to book with ease are vacation rentals up and down the east shore, which can be conducive to planning a road trip instead of having home bases.

We’ve stayed at the SCP Hilo Hotel twice and really love it. This wonderful hotel is eco-conscious, is all about beautiful community spaces, and the staff is the perfect example of Aloha. We’ve taken advantage of borrowing both their bikes and stand up paddle boards, and each time it really does just put the icing on the cake of a visit to Hilo. Can you tell it’s our favorite?

If you’re looking for something quite different, we actually have a friend that works at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls and we got to visit her. Wow. What an astounding property. This large bed and breakfast is located on a beautiful, lush stream and has direct access to the privately owned Kulaniapia Falls. Garden paths lead you through bamboo groves and tropical flowers, and then finally along the stream and series of smaller falls until you get to Kulaniapia Falls. More on how to visit below, but if you want to book it for your stay on the Hilo side, DO IT !

How Many Days Do You Need on the Big Island of Hawaii?

When you’re planning your Big Island itinerary, committing to a certain number of days will be your guide. If you’re island hopping and visiting Kauai or Oahu , you may only want to have four days on the Big Island, but if you’re only doing this one island (my top recommendation), 6 or 7 days is perfect, and then add two more if you’re doing a road trip around the whole island. The Big Island of Hawaii is my favorite, so heck, spend 10 days and you still won’t see everything that this magical place has to offer.

When it comes to budgeting though, that’s where you’ll find a longer trip to be limited. Accommodations on the Big Island tend to be more expensive than you might expect. There are some exceptional deals you can find if you are staying in a small inn or bed and breakfast for several nights, but in general you should expect to pay no less than $220 USD per night. Besides airfare, lodging is the biggest cost for a Hawaii trip.

Big Island Itinerary: 6 Days of Coffee, Nature and History

Yay! Time to actually go through our Big Island itinerary. We’ve set this up as a 6 day plan because you’ll most likely need a day to chill and rest, or if you have late or early flights, you may need to take that into consideration. This trip schedule can easily be stretched to 9 days or trimmed to 5 day if needed, but I think 6 days is great. If you have any questions or need help figuring out logistics, please leave a comment or send us a note !

Tip : we have several options for activities noted for each day of the itinerary. You DO NOT need to do each one, because you’ll be stressed trying to fit it all in each day, but choose three or four of the activities and then gauge how the day flows if you need to cut one off or add another.

Day 1: Kona Coast Snorkeling and Hawaiian History

There is no shortage of beaches on the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The west side of the island is absolutely loaded with coves and lava shorelines that are absolutely teeming with life. From the Maui Strait at the northern end of the coast to the Captain Cook area, you’ll have lots of snorkeling opportunities.

For our first day of our Big Island itinerary, the plan is simply to go for a drive up the coast stopping wherever you like along the way back down to Kailua-Kona. Between gorgeously clear water for snorkeling and historic sites to learn about Hawaiian culture and history, you’ve got an amazing day ahead of you.

Kapa’a or Mahukona Beach Park

Heading to the northwest corner of the Big Island, start your day with a beautiful snorkel at either Kapa’a Beach Park or Mahukona Beach Park. Both are open to the public and each has some amazing wildlife and clear water. If the tide is rough, because Mahukona is a tight bay, the waves can fill the water with air bubbles, lessening visibility for snorkeling, but if it’s calm, it’s amazing. There is even a ladder into the water here.

The water at Kapa’a Beach Park is so beautiful. Entry into the cove is from the rocks, so again, if it’s a crazy swell or windy day, the experience will be impacted. If nothing else, this spot is gorgeous of a morning picnic or to just get your bearings and commune with the island.

Lapakahi State Historic Park or Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Something I really appreciate about the Big Island of Hawaii is how accessible historic and culture sites are. From points of interest explaining cultural significance to preserved or reconstructed communities, there is a wide range to visit. My two favorite places to learn about Hawaiian culture on the northern Kona Coast are Lapakahi State Historic Park or Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site . Both are free to visit and both offer insights into the unique practices of the Hawaiian people before colonization.

Tip : Spencer Beach Park is right next to Pu’ukohola Heiau NHS. There are picnic tables and one of the largest sandy beaches on the western side of the Big Island.

At Lapakahi State Historic Park you can follow the path through the historic structures and down to the cove where you can snorkel. The waves can be strong, but following the path to the water entrance point and only swimming when it’s calm enough makes for a great experience.

Plan to stop at Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site to see one of the largest reconstructed historic sites on the Big Island. Here you can see where Kamehameha I ruled and the Hawaiian people built some incredible structures. There’s even an underwater temple site if you go all the way down into the cove.

Hapuna State Recreation Area

Before your next stop, be sure to grab lunch, either dine-in or take away at the Kawaihae Marketplace. Both Kohala Burger & Taco and the fish counter within the Marketplace are awesome. Kohala Burger has the best fish tacos we’ve had on the Big Island and the Kawaihae Marketplace has some of the best poke options. So good!

Now for the beach. OMG, this is such a beautiful area. With several different beach access points and parking areas, Hapuna State Recreation Area is an easy and perfect spot to stop for snorkeling and even some hiking. Pick a beach for your snorkeling and enjoy, then pack up your gear and head to another beach without driving. Beaches 67 and 69 are two of the best, on Waialea Bay.

You’ll find that the snorkeling is really exceptional at Beach 69, as the lava flow extends into the water and the clarity is just remarkable. There is also a heavy concentration of tropic fish all through these waters, so you don’t even have to swim far out for a great experience. PS, there is also actual sand here.

Kiholo Bay – Jeep or Truck Required

Kiholo Bay is ALWAYS good, but it’s quite the adventure to get to from the highway. It’s not paved the whole way and the potholes and gullies in the road are NOT passable without a Jeep or high suspension vehicle. Amazing spot, but crazy road.

Once at the parking area, you’ll come to the beach which is such a wonder. A combination of chunky coral and lava rocks, this polka dot beach is very unique and offers some of the best snorkeling we’ve done on the Big Island. Kiholo State Park Reserve is great if you have time in your Big Island itinerary.

Sunset Snorkeling with Manta Rays

There aren’t a ton of tours that we’ve done multiple times when traveling, but we’ve done a sunset snorkel with manta rays twice, and it’s a must for your Big Island itinerary. When you see pictures of the manta rays, if you’re not familiar you might think that it’s just too adventurous of an activity for you or your kids, but I assure you, it’s one of the most amazing and peaceful experiences you can have.

Please check out our complete article on snorkeling with manta rays , as it’s such a phenomenal time and something to be on any wildlife lover’s bucket list! Book the exact tour we’ve done twice here!

Day 2: Kona Coffee and Historic Sites

I think it’s important to have a mix of time on the water and time on land when you’re planning your Big Island itinerary. For you second day on the Kona Coast, spend equal part in and out of the sun to make sure you don’t get burned at the start of your trip. And one great way to do that is to dig into Kona Coffee Culture. Add to that some more historic sites and you’ve got an awesome day ahead.

Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling

Start your day with a morning snorkeling trip to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument. There are a few ways to do this: cliff hiking to the bay or guided tour. If you want to hike to the Captain Cook Monument and then snorkel is these amazing water, it’s a 4 mile round trip hike and will take half the day. It’s a tough hike but worth it if your knees can handle it.

The other option is to do a guided tour via boat to Kealakekua Bay. There are lots of options for this going out of Kailua-Kona, but our top pick is the zodiac tour with Kona Coastline Tours. They are such great guides and the experience of skimming across the water on a zodiac is so fun. This specific tour is a small group vs a giant catamaran so it’s much more mellow and more personal. Such a fun and beautiful experience.

Book this tour here! ( or the two stop tour here with Kona Coastline Tours)

Kona Coffee Culture

It’s kind of wild how many coffee farms and shops you’ll find up and down the Kona Coast. Some of them are open to the public both to wander through and to purchase coffee, and some are only available to visit with a scheduled tour. As you head south on the Mamalahoa Highway you’ll pass lots of coffee stops, but you don’t need to hit each one.

Top Picks for experiencing the many facets of Kona Coffee culture directly around Kailua-Kona include:

• Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation – here you can try a variety of coffees and actually see the whole process of Kona Coffee production from the tree to the sorter to the roaster. And it’s up in the cloud forest of Kona, which makes it extra cool.
• Buddha’s Cup – up and away from the Mamalahoa Highway, this holistic coffee farm has gardens, coffee groves, animals and a beautiful, eclectic tasting room. They also incorporate sound and light into their growing techniques.
• Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm – if you’re looking for a coffee bar or Kona Coffee cupping in the sky, Heavenly Coffee is the place. Tours are recommended and need to be booked in advance.
• Kona Coffee Living History Farm – this is such a fun and interesting spot to learn about Kona Coffee and its history, including people who actually grew up in the Kona Coffee culture since childhood. It’s the perfect learning experience.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

There are very few places where you can see Hawaiian ki’i, or tiki carvings, and Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is one of them. This National Park site is incredible, both because of the collection of carvings and the remarkable setting. Huts and palm trees give way to the Place of Refuge structures, similar to what you saw up at Pu’ukohola Heiau NHS.

In addition to the historic elements of Pu’uhonua O Honaunau there is also an incredible expanse of tide pools full of tropical fish. While you cannot swim here out of respect to the historical and religious significance of the site, you can still explore the rocks and pools. It’s beautiful, and when you put the whole place together it’s one of my favorite places to visit on the Big Island.

Kaloko-Honokōhau NPS for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

You last stop of the day (or you can start here) is Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Site. This beach area is just north of the main town are of Kailua-Kona and is easy to get to and get the whole experience. Park your vehicle at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor and walk through the gate to the beach where you’ll find countless honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in the tidepools and on the beach.

Spend time watching the turtles or you can even swim here, as long as you keep your distance. 20 feet is how far you need to stay from the honu. If you’re watching a turtle for too long or get too close, they’ll get anxious, which is dangerous for them. Enjoy your visit, but remember that safety for yourself and the animals is paramount.

Day 3: Big Island South Shore

This is the day of the Big Island itinerary that you can trim up as needed depending on what you really feel is important to do. As I said before, Hawaii Island is worth 10 days of a trip, so know that you will need to pick and choose what you fill your time with. For this day as you transition from the Kona Coast to the Hilo side of the island, make the stops that you really are into and save the rest for another trip.

Start at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark

If you’re staying directly in Kailua-Kona and haven’t been to the cove at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark yet, start your day here. This is directly in the heart of the main waterfront area and is beautiful. You’ll find a perfect beach and cove for a morning swim, and then a reconstructed cultural site. Here, you’ll see the Ahu’ena Heiau, the restored personal temple of Kamehameha I. It’s surrounded by ki’i (tiki carvings) and is a beautiful setting. You cannot approach the heiau on land, but can swim up to it and observe from the water. The perfect start to a Big Island day!

Hiking at Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes NP

When most people plan their time in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park they just intend on visiting Kilauea, especially if there’s an active volcanic eruption and lava flow. On your drive from the Kona Coast to the Hilo side, your road trip will take you past the entrance to the Kahuku Unit of the park. Only open Thursday through Sunday, if you’re driving past on one of those days, stop in for a short and jawdroppingly beautiful hike.

Hiking to the red cinder cone crater in the Kahuku unit isn’t only about an hour’s stop, so it’s easy to add to your Big Island itinerary. The hills have the most lush, juicy green grass I’ve ever seen and the contrast with the brilliant red crater you can hike into is amazing. It’s absolutely worth stopping into!

Tip: lay in the grass. I’ve never felt grass like this and I’m pretty sure this is what heaven feels like.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

What if I told you that one of the most fun experiences you can have on the Big Island is riding in the back of an old truck through five foot deep ruts in the bluffs of the South Shore. It’s true, and it’s an awesome thing to do. Add a visit to the Green Sand Beach to your Big Island road trip, but let somebody else do the driving. The 2.5 miles from the parking area to the beach is the roughest road I’ve ever been on, so it was totally worth paying the $20/person for a local to taxi us to the Papakolea cliffs.

Note: you can also hike to the Green Sand Beach, but if you’re pressed for time, do the local 4×4 shuttle. If you do hike, you’ll be amazing at the views, and you will probably see humpback whales or spinner dolphins off-shore.

Once at the Green Sand Beach, you’ll need to traverse the cliff path down to the sand. Made up of olivine crystals, the green sand beach is really beautiful and unique. The dark sandstone all around is very unusual and the rock formations are just the coolest. The cove is perfect for swimming and relaxing. Plan two hours at least if you’re doing the shuttle to the beach, and four hours if you’re hiking to Papakolea Beach.

Punalu’u Bakery for Malasadas

Whether you stop here at the Punalu’u Bake Shop or you stop at a roadside stand, no Big Island road trip is complete without Hawaiian malasadas. They’re basically fluffy donut balls, either rolled in sugar or glazed or stuffed. Punalu’u Bake Shop makes the BEST lilikoi malasada with the most delicious frosting on earth. They also may a mean taro and guava malasada. Grab a few for the road or even a loaf of fluffy pink or purple bread for snacking. You’ll be glad you did.

Tip for Kauai : if you’re also planning a trip to Kauai , the Passion Bakery in Kapa’a makes an even better lilikoi malasada that you MUST try.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Wow. I didn’t know what to expect of the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, but I can say it was better than I imagined. I’ve been several times and each time it’s a different experience. The black sand is HOT on your feet if you visit in the heat of the day, but then when the waves wash over is, the sand becomes strangely cold. It’s the magic of Hawaii.

Besides the beautiful black sand and extraordinary lava rock tidepools, the big attraction to visiting Punalu’u Beach is the number of honu (green sea turtles) that haul out here. Whether you’re observing then sleeping on the black sand or if you’re watching them struggle to get into the protected tidepool area, watching the sea turtles here is one of the most peaceful experiences you’ll have on your Big Island itinerary. And don’t forget to keep 20 feet back!

Agritourism on the South Shore

I know there’s already been a lot on today’s part of the Big Island road trip, but if you have the time and energy, there are quite a few agritourism stops you can make on your drive to Hilo. Our top picks for farm stops between Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and Hilo are:

• Ka’u Coffee Mill – I love their tasting room and the surrounding coffee tree orchard/grove.
• Volcano Winery – yes, it’s very unique to grow wine grapes in Hawaii, but they do. The flavor profiles may not be what you’re used to, but give it a try!
• Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm – stop into the visitor center to learn about the macadamia nut industry, to samples all sorts of products and then to purchase nearly any flavor of nut. There is also a nice mixed fruit orchard that you’re welcome to explore and pick from.

There are lots of agritourism opportunities when you do your Big Island road trip, so add as many stops as you can to your itinerary. Supporting the smaller, local farmers is always something we aim to do when we travel anywhere, and getting to do so in Hawaii is special.

Day 4: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

I love talking about and writing about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . It’s one of my favorite places on earth and getting to explore it in depth has been such a privilege. Whether you’re hardcore into geology or just love to see nature at work, Hawaii Volcanoes is wonderfully unique and a good portion of your Big Island road trip itinerary needs to include time in the park. We’ve dedicated an entire day to hiking and sightseeing in the park, ending with lava glow (when there’s an active eruption). This just may be your favorite day in the Big Island itinerary.

Get my E-Book for Kindle: Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Kilauea Crater Rim Road

Head into the park early to start your day by getting a feel for the Halemaumau Crater within Kilauea (the actual volcano). You’ll be able to see just how active it is, see lava fountains if they’re going and get a bit picture of what’s in store within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Go to the very end of Crater Rim Drive and stop at each viewpoint, or split up your Big Island road trip crew and have some of you hike the whole Rim Trail while the others drive the cars back to the start by the Visitor Center.

Besides the viewpoints, on Crater Rim Drive you’ll also find the Steaming Bluffs, steam vents and the Sulfur Banks trail. Stop at them all, because they don’t take much time and each is unique. I love the flowers and other vegetation that grows in this part of the park. So pretty!

Hiking at the Thurston Lava Tube

Visiting the Thurston Lava Tube is a very easy and beautiful stop to make. Located about ten minutes from the Visitor Center, this trail is paved and leads through one of the most lush, Jurassic Park type areas of the Big Island. Giant ferns and dripping rock walls lead the way to the 700 foot long lava tube. It is dimly lit in the tube, so you can see enough to make it to the staircase at the other end. While it’s not as thrilling as rappelling into one of the lava fissures, it’s pretty cool.

Holei Sea Arch

At the end of Chain of Craters Road is the Holei Sea Arch hike. Here is where the lava flows meet the Pacific Ocean. Park your car and walk down the old road, exploring the many lava mounds and side trails. The Holei Sea Arch comes into view a few minutes down the trail, and if you catch it in the afternoon light, the sun streams through it with waves crashing all around… Gorgeous.

As you hike at the Holei Sea Arch, pay attention to the colorful pahoehoe lava. This is the swirly lava that looks like burned marshmallow fluff. From shiny black billows to rainbow shaped multicolor flows, you’ll see it all here. The collection of lava flows really showcases the volcanic activity over the years.

Notable Stops on Chain of Craters Road

As if the views as you drive along Chain of Craters Road weren’t enough, there are some great stops to make along the way as well. There are lots of hikes to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park but since our Big Island itinerary only has one full day dedicated to the park, we’re taking the approach of sightseeing. So, on Chain of Craters Road, make all the awesome viewpoint stops you want, and if you’ve brought lunch supplies, have a picnic at Kealakomo Lookout.

Notable stops to make besides all the viewpoints include:

• Alanui Kahiko – where the lava flowed across the road, cool photo spot
• Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs – 1.5 mile walk across the lava to carvings in the lava
• Pu’u Huluhulu Trail – can be as long of a walk as you like, going be craters and cones
• Devil’s Throat Crater – deep and cool to see from above
• Puhimau Crater – easy pull off from the road and pretty cool for an extinct crater

Mauna Loa Hiking

Driving up Mauna Loa is kind of a bonus if you have the time. Currently (2023) the trail to the lookout and down into the most recently active areas is closed, but there are still some beautiful views on the drive up Mauna Loa Lookout Road. The big highlight of this part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the wildlife. If you’re into bird THIS is the spot to go. Pheasants, francolins and colorful songbirds are everywhere. For the best birding experience, do the “Bird Trail” near the start of Mauna Loa Lookout Road, called Kipuka Puaulu Trail.

ERUPTION TIME: Lava Glow and Night in HVNP

OMG, my favorite part! I love Hawaii Volcanoes at night , and since this is something that happens after most of the tourist activities everywhere shut down, it’s easy to make sure this is a part of your Big Island itinerary. What I prefer to do is to have dinner at the Rim Restaurant at Volcano House (the National Park lodge) and then visit the various viewpoints around the Halemaumau Crater of Kilauea.

The best view of the lava lake and its fountains is from the Byron’s Ledge Trail or the Keanakako’i Overlook. The overlook is actually just off the closed portion of Crater Rim Drive, so you park at the Devastation Trail and then walk on the old road. It’s incredible! The lava glow lights up the steamy clouds and the flowing lava below is breathtaking.

If there isn’t an active lava flow during your visit, this is still an amazing hike in the dark for seeing the stars. Dark sky photography here at Kilauea is epic!

Check out our complete guide to Lava Glow and Photography in Hawaii Volcanoes!

Day 5: Exploring Hilo

After spending so much time in nature over the last few days, it might be nice to have some time in the small city of Hilo. I love Hilo. It doesn’t feel like a tourist destination, but an actual live-in city. It’s full of restaurants and parks, regular city things and it’s so mellow. There are some wonderful things to do Hilo and it’ll be a nice mix-up to the rest of your Big Island itinerary.

Liliuokalani Gardens

Located on Hilo Bay, the Liliuokalani Gardens make for a great morning walk. With the Japanese garden area, incredible banyan trees and a path along the waterfront, it’s a great view of Hilo life. Also just off of the Liliuokalani Gardens is Coconut Island. Here you’ll find beach access, a reconstructed cultural site and picnic areas.

Hilo Farmers Market

I love love love the Hilo Farmers Market. Even if you miss stopping into the market on this day of the Big Island itinerary, you can stop here before you depart Hilo for some of the best road trip snack you’ll find in Hawaii. What makes the Hilo Farmers Market so great is the amount of beautiful, fresh produce. It’s loud and fun and delicious. Right next to the main market area are more shops and stalls, as well as the best Hawaiian shave ice in Hilo, from Kula Shave Ice .

Visiting Mauna Kea, the Tallest Mountain on Earth

Yes, I know, you’re thinking that Mt Everest is the tallest mountain on earth, and you’re right if you’re measuring what’s above sea level, but Mauna Kea goes to the seafloor. Anyways, Mauna Kea is tall enough that sometimes it even has snow on it. If you want to visit Mauna Kea, it’s totally doable and shows you a very different side of Hawaii.

To visit Mauna Kea, you’ll need to drive up a 17% grade to the visitor center. Here you can learn about the many observatories on the mountain, as well as see the silversword plants up on the mountainside. If you want to go to the summit trail or any of the observatory trails you’ll need 4 wheel drive. The rangers don’t let you past on the road if your car can’t handle it.

If you are planning on driving the Saddle Road back to Kailua-Kona from Hilo, you can add your visit to Mauna Kea to that part of the Big Island road trip. If you’re flying out of Hilo at the end of your trip though, day 5 is the perfect spot in the itinerary to add Mauna Kea.

Tour: because this is such an unusual place, we do recommend a guided tour , especially if you’re interested in stargazing atop Mauna Kea.

SUP on Reeds Bay

We’ve paddled on Reeds Bay in Hilo a few times and it’s always beautiful. Rent boards from Hilo Ocean Adventures or if you’ve picked the SCP Hilo Hotel for your stay, you can just borrow them from the hotel. Because there is a big jetty in the bay the waves come into the area as soft rollers which is so easy to paddle with. There are small coves and even a brackish pond full of tropical fish and honus. It’s delightful.

Tip: bring your waterproof phone case or GoPro, or bring your snorkel for exploring below the surface of Reeds Bay. There is some amazing wildlife and the snorkeling is great. If you’re snorkeling in the fresh water ponds, be prepared for some heavy distortion in the water though, as the salt water and fresh water don’t mix well and you can outright see the salt swirling before your eyes.

Biking Around Hilo

Hilo is a very bikeable city. There are bike lanes, bike paths and lots of wonderful things to see. From the rainbow bridge over the Wailuku River to the spring fed lagoon beach at Leleiwi Beach Park, you’ll have lots to see. You can ride down Banyan Way and through downtown. You can make stops wherever you want, and even just ride to a wonderful beach afternoon at Hilo Bayfront Beach Park.

Day 6: Eastern Shore of the Big Island

Today is the last day of fully scheduled fun. As with any day in our Big Island itinerary you can add beach time or lounging around your accommodations whenever you need, but this last big day has some wonderful things to do that really are the icing on the Big Island road trip cake. The eastern shore of Hawaii is where you’ll find cacao and waterfalls!

Our activities for this day stretch from Hilo to the North Shore. Lavaloha Farms and Kulaniapia Falls are right next to each other, then Akaka Falls a bit furth north, and the Waipio Valley is the furtest away, so keep location in mind as you schedule your activities.

As you’re planning your time, consider the farthest reaches of the east and north shores of the Big Island as a bonus. If you have extra days, add the adventures noted for this day across two days, as the drive to Waipio Valley and hiking and beaches there could easily be their own day.

Cacao Farms and Agritourism

The Big Island of Hawaii is such a diverse place when you consider what is grown here. From wine grapes to coffee and cacao, there are so many opportunities for agritourism. Oh the Hilo side you’ll find quite a few “chocolate farms” that you can visit. Because education is something we strive to include with every trip we take, plan a tour at a cacao farm to gain a new appreciation for the work and love that goes into growing the source of the chocolate you love.

We really enjoyed our visit to Lavaloaha Farm. Here they have thousands of cacao trees, coffee trees, other fruits and some of the best views in Hilo. Book the Tree-to-Chocolate tour to get an in-depth experience around the farm. You get to pick cacao from the tree, eat the raw cacao flesh and beans, see the drying process, sample chocolate throughout the process and try lost of samples in the Chocolate Lounge. It’s actually way more fun and fascinating than I expected.

There are more chocolate farms on the Big Island, especially as you continue your road trip up the coast, bute Lavaloha was really incredible. More cacao farm options include:

• Lavaloha Farms – Book it here!
• Hamakua Chocolate Farm
• Puna Chocolate Co

Akaka Falls State Park

You cannot visit Hawaii without having some sort of waterfall experience. While the waterfalls on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast are famous for their epic drops and mystical setting, the Big Island of Hawaii has some gorgeous falls too. At the top of that list is Akaka Falls, located just north of Hilo. For our Big Island road trip plan, Akaka Falls fits perfectly into the morning, whether you plan to continue all the way to the Waipio Valley or not.

The hike at Akaka Falls is pretty easy, being a half mile loop through some of the most beautiful Hawaiian jungle you’ve ever seen. The tropical flowers and wild growing fruits spill onto the path as you approach the waterfall. At 442 feet tall, it’s impressive and absolutely dreamy. This is the perfect start to your day of exploring.

Swimming at Kulaniapia Falls

One of my favorite things to do in Hawaii, no matter what island I’m on, is to swim in the splash pool of a waterfall. It’s not an easy thing to plan in every Hawaiian destination, but if you’re on the east shore of the Big Island, you can make a whole day of it. Kulaniapia Falls is located on private property just outside of downtown Hilo.

You either need to be staying at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls as a guest (it’s beautiful!) or you can book a day pass ( go to their website and choose DAY PAS S). If you do the day pass option, plan to bring a picnic and spend a half day there. The gardens leading down to the stream and splash pool are dreamy, and the area all around the falls is perfect for relaxing. You can swim to the base of the waterfall, you can SUP in the pond, or you can bring a yoga mat and just zen out. It’s a wonderful way to chill out and have the perfect Hawaii moment.

BONUS DAY: Exploring the Lesser Visited North Shore

While it’s not terribly far from Hilo, getting to the North Shore of the Big Island isn’t something many visitors make time for. It takes a little over an hour to get from Hilo to the Waipio Valley (the farthest you’ll be traveling). The

Waipio Valley

And now, if you have additional days or find that you have a half day extra in your Big Island travel plan, add a visit to the North Shore and the Waipio Valley to your itinerary. This is one of those places that is gorgeous and rarely visited. If you’re planning a trip here, BE RESPECTFUL of private property and do not go making your own trails. There are designated hiking areas, public beach access points, and several guided tours that will help you experience the Waipio Valley and its beauty.

North Shore Sightseeing

Another stop to add to your North Shore day is Kalopa State Recreation Area . Here you can hike through dense rainforest and breathe deeply to take in the tropical wildflowers. Make stops at the vanilla farm, Hawaiian Vanilla Co , more cacao farms, the Hamakua Farmers Market (Sundays), and beaches. A highlight if you’re into all the agritourism on the Big Island will be stopping into Big Island Farms . A farm tour here includes coffee, tea, tropical fruits, spices and more.

As you drive back towards Hilo, watch for the Scenic Drive sign on the highway. This will bring you back into town via the Old Mamalahoa Highways. This winding road will take you past fruit stands, over one lane bridges and to the trail for Onomea Bay, which is rugged and so pretty. You’ll love this drive!

Wow! So that’s an amazing Big Island itinerary to experience the best of Hawaii Island. You’ll love doing this road trip so much, and once you’ve seen this side of Hawaii, the Big Island will, no doubt, become your favorite.

If you have any questions about planning a trip to the Big Island or need help finding the right accommodations, please let us know. Leave a comment or send us a note . We’re happy to help others create unforgettable experiences!

The Perfect 5 to 7-Day Big Island Itinerary

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As the largest of the Hawaiian islands in the archipelago, the Big Island of Hawaii is loaded with countless things to see and do. From lush forests and valleys to sipping mai tais on a soft-sand beach, a Big Island itinerary isn’t complete without a mix of exploration and leisure.

In 5 to 7 days in the Big Island, you can hit the highlights with plenty of time for lounging around the pool or at the beach. Detailed below are itineraries for both amounts of time depending on the length of your trip. Check it out. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days on the Big Island?

After settling on visiting the Big Island vs Maui , Oahu, Kauai or any of the smaller islands, you then need to figure out how many days to budget for your itinerary.

If it’s your first visit, 7 days on the Big Island is ideal. This amount of time provides plenty of space for exploring the incredible natural wonders interspersed with laying on the beaches. With a 7-day Big Island itinerary, you’ll circle the island and hit the main highlights. You can also opt to stay on one side of the island for a more leisurely vacation. 

If you have only 5 days in the Big Island, you can still see much of what it has to offer. You will most likely skip a couple of the sites in the center of the island in favor of circling the entire Big Island.

However, it’s important to remember that you can structure your time in any way you please. Regardless, we recommend spending the first day getting acclimated. 

Getting To & Around the Big Island

You’ll most likely fly into Kona which is located on the west side of the island. Hilo is located on the opposite side of the island, but most flights there tend to be slightly more expensive.

There are some direct flights to Kailua-Kona airport from cities on the mainland like San Francisco and Los Angeles , however, you will most likely have to connect in Honolulu on Oahu.

Hilo sits squarely in the middle of the wet side of the island, so most visitors like making Kona their start and end point, with a visit to Hilo in between despite there being a lot to see on the drive from Kona to Hilo.  This prevents you from having to choose between Kona and Hilo as a base.

That said, you’ll want a car. Renting a car in Hawaii is by far the most popular way to get around. The island is easy to navigate and there are several rental car agencies available. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across the major car hire companies available.

If you plan to follow our itinerary below, a car is absolutely necessary. There are guided tours such as this full-day tour or this small-group tour from Kona or this half-day tour from Hilo, but we recommend visiting the island’s sites on your own time during your trip to the Big Island. 

5 to 7-Day Big Island Itinerary

Whether you’re spending 5 days on the Big Island or 7 days on the Big Island, you’re in for an incredible experience.

Your Big Island road trip will cover the highlights as well as some lesser-known recommendations. Without further ado, here’s our suggested itinerary for visiting Hawaii’s Big Island. 

Day 1 – Kona

Start your Big Island itinerary by getting acclimated. You’ll arrive in Kona, where you can find restaurants, bars, beaches, and much more.

Hapuna Beach and Waikoloa Beach are two of the most popular beaches nearby on the Kona coast, although there is no shortage of stunning beaches to relax on. 

Take your time wandering Kona. Check out the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm, Hulihe’e Palace, and a walk along the main street. Don’t forget to leave without getting a shave ice and an acai bowl. 

One of the best experiences to have while you’re near Kona is swimming with manta rays. It’s the only place in Hawaii where you can hop in the water with these gentle giants. Sign up for a guided night tour —manta rays are most active at night. You can snorkel or scuba dive.

If you’d rather not swim with mantas, but would still like to see them, the Mauna Kea Hotel sets up a light over a feeding station near a viewing platform on land. 

You’ll spend your first night on the Big Island in Kona before heading out.

Where to Stay in Kona

Kona Tiki Hotel – This mid-range hotel is the perfect option for those looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Kona. They have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, a great location and a great swimming pool to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Aston Kona By the Sea – Those looking for a bit more of a luxury option in Kona will love this centrally located hotel. They have an array of delightful rooms to choose from, a gorgeous on-site swimming pool and private beach area and plenty of other amenities, as well. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – If you’re looking for your own apartment or house during your trip to Hawaii, there are lots of options – such as this fully-furnished condo – available in Kona. Click here to browse Kona private rentals

My Hawaii Hostel – Budget and solo travelers will love this highly-rated hostel in Kona. Centrally located, they offer both private rooms and dorms (with female-only and mixed options!) along with easy access to the beach and good common areas. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Kona hotels!

Day 2 – Pololu Valley & Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve 

You’ll get to see a few black sand beaches on the Big Island during your visit. One of the most famous is at Pololu Valley.

The valley is part of the Kohala region on the northern edge of the Big Island. From the parking lot, you’ll catch impressive views of the lush green valley and river that leads to the black sand beach and ocean.

However, the valley is best experienced up close. Take the short hike down to the beach and explore the area. Be wary of the trail as it’s a steep and uneven trek to the bottom. It’s a great spot to watch the sunrise if you can get there early enough.

After visiting the beach, continue circling the island and head to Pu’u O Umi Natural Area Reserve. This stretch of protected land covers 10,000 acres along the slopes of the Kohala Mountains.

It’s important to note that you won’t find many maintained trails here and there are very few legal access points, but it’s worth it to pause a few places and take in the views. It’s one of the lesser-visited parts of the island, making it a great stop if you’re looking to get away from the crowds during your stay on the Big Island.

For tonight, continue to base yourself in Kona or consider finding an Airbnb at one of the smaller towns a bit further inland.

Day 3 – Akaka Falls, Mauna Kea & Beach Day

Spend the third day of your week on the Big Island combining exploration and relaxing. Start by visiting Akaka Falls. Akaka Falls State Park is located directly between Pololu Valley and Hilo. You can do a short hike for an up-close view of this 442-foot waterfall. 

Head to your accommodation for a relaxing afternoon at the beach or pool before gearing up for your evening adventure: Mauna Kea. Watching the sunset and stargazing from Mauna Kea is one of the most unique experiences you can have while on the Big Island.

The best way to do this is through an organized tour. You’ll get picked up mid-afternoon, have dinner at the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, before driving up to the summit.

Here you’ll learn about the observatories and get unbeatable sunset views. If you have the budget you can enhance your experience by taking a helicopter tour or joining a stargazing tour.

Tonight, head into Hilo to stay for one or two nights. 

Where to Stay in Hilo

Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast – Located in the center of Hilo, this little bed and breakfast is perfect for a cosy and convivial place to stay on this side of the island. They have a range of great rooms to choose from along with breakfast available in the mornings. Click here to check availability

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls – Situated in the lush countryside just outside of Hilo, this hotel is the perfect option for those looking for a tranquil escape. They have a number of great rooms and cabins on offer along with breakfast served each morning. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – If you’re looking for a self-catering option on the eastern side of the island, there are plenty of options available in Hilo. For instance, this beach studio is one of countless options to choose from. Click here to browse Hilo private rentals

Big Island Hostel – This hostel is an excellent option for those who are after a great budget choice while staying in Hilo. They have a range of dorms available along with fantastic common areas and self-catering facilities. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hilo hotels!

Day 4 – Hamakua Coast & Hilo

As we mentioned above, Hilo is the other large coastal town on the Big Island. It’s located on the “wet” side of the island, and as soon as you reach this area you’ll see why.

This lush, green landscape is full of waterfalls, canyons, and beaches to explore. Plan to spend this day hiking and seeking out viewpoints. There are several shorter hikes that guide you toward these natural landmarks. In truth, you could spend several days in this area alone. 

Rainbow Falls and the Waipio Valley Overlook at two highlights. We also recommend stopping by the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and the Hilo Farmers Market and crossing the footbridge over to Coconut Island. You’ll either spend tonight in Hilo or in a town closer to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’re headed next. 

Day 5 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A visit to Volcanoes National Park is a must when you plan your trip to the Big Island. There is one main road that goes around the entire park with some offshoots here and there. You can drive here or take an organised tour such as this small-group tour .

You’ll start by visiting the Kilauea Visitor Center. Here you can get park updates, learn what roads are accessible, and volcano statuses before heading out. 

Just past the visitor’s center is a viewpoint over Kilauea, one of the park’s main attractions, and the steam vents.

Continue on the Crater Rim Drive to visit the Halemaumau Crater, where you might be able to spot lava, the Thurston Lava Tube, and sulphur banks. If the weather is in your favor, hike Devastation Trail over the hardened ash fields and lava rocks from the Kilauea explosion to get a close-up view of Halemaumau Crater. 

If you have some time to spare, drive out to the coastline to find the Holei Sea Arch. This 90-foot arch extending into the ocean was created from ancient lava flows. 

After wrapping up at Volcanoes National Park, drive back to Kona for your final evening on the Big Island before departure.

If you’re continuing your trip, it can be worth staying near the park. This grants you the entire day to explore the park and invites time for a nighttime tour of the volcanoes as this is the most impressive time to see lava. 

Day 6 – Punalu’u Black Sand Beach & Southernmost Point in the United States 

If you only have 5 days on the Big Island, consider stopping at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on your drive from Volcanoes National Park to Kona. If you have more time, it’s worth taking a leisurely visit to this beach.

It’s one of the more popular black sand beaches on the island, created due to the Big Island’s constant volcanic activity. It’s a common beach to spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. They will sit within a protected boundary that visitors aren’t permitted to cross.

You’ll want to wear shoes on this sand as black sand gets hot really fast. 

Continuing your drive back to Kona, take a brief detour to the Southernmost Point in the United States. The entire area is a registered historic landmark, and it’s not hard to see why when you arrive. Here you’ll find ruins, fishing shrines, and other cultural landmarks.

Each direction you look offers stunning views. You might find some daring individuals cliff-jumping into the ocean. Green Sand Beach nearby is one of the only safe swimming spots. After driving another hour and a half, you’ll arrive in Kona where you’ll spend the night. 

Day 7 – Visit a Coffee Plantation & Beach Day

There is no shortage of coffee plantations around the island, but most are clustered near Kona. Coffee lovers will enjoy an afternoon spent touring a few different coffee plantations near Kona and tasting some Kona coffee on your last day on the island.

Thunder Mountain Coffee Roasters is closest to Kona, but if you’re willing to drive 15 to 20 minutes outside of town, there are dozens of plantations to explore. Some require reservations while others run tours every hour for anyone who shows up. You can book an organised tour if you prefer to visit a guide.

Round out your 7 days on the Big Island by relaxing on the beach in Kona and watching the sunset. 

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend on the Big Island, consider scheduling more relaxing days on the beach. You can jump into a water activity like snorkelling, scuba diving, or surfing.

We’d also recommend spending more time exploring the natural area near Hilo. Sites like the Banyan Tree Drive, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Wailoa River State Park are great ways to spend your time.

You could attend a luau or visit Lava Tree State Park. Likewise, you could easily spend more than one full day hiking and seeing Volcanoes National Park. 

If you want to use Kona as your home base and take a day trip somewhere else on the island with your spare time, consider heading toward Waimea. The inland region was primarily known for cowboy culture and ranching lifestyle.

Visitors can get a taste of this lifestyle by visiting Kahua Ranch or Parker Ranch. You can go hiking or horseback riding. It’s an easy detour after visiting the Kohala region during your first couple of days. 

This itinerary can be used as is or reorganized to fit how you want to see Hawaii. No matter how you structure your Big Island itinerary, your visit to Hawaii is truly unique. From delicious seafood and Hawaiian BBQ to stunning landscapes that could only exist in volcanic regions, your visit will be one for the books. 

Are you planning to visit the Big Island? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

13 Best Stops on the Kona to Hilo Drive

Maui vs Big Island: Which Hawaiian Island to Visit?

Kona vs Hilo: Where to Stay on the Big Island?

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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6 of the Best Islands To Visit in Hawaii

H awaii is home to some of the most sought-after tropical waters in the world. The islands of Hawaii have lush rainforests, world-class beaches, and stunning volcanoes that attract millions of visitors every year . Marked by clear turquoise waters and vibrant green mountains, these islands provide picturesque views that are unparalleled.   

Along with the many environmental attractions and attributes of Hawaii, its culture is one of the most incredible features that travelers can experience. The Aloha Spirit, which many travelers get to experience as soon as they land, is a significant aspect of Hawaiian culture derived from Polynesian heritage. The term comes from the greeting “aloha,” which means the coordination of both the mind and heart (or compassion and harmony with mankind). This spirit exists across each of the islands of Hawaii. 

Hawaii’s many different islands offer unique features and gorgeous views. Travelers can have many different types of vacations, depending on their preferred island. While there are a total of eight main Hawaiian islands, only some of them are accessible to visitors. Check out these six Hawaiian islands that are the best to visit; whether a bustling tropical paradise or secluded getaway sounds ideal. 

Popular Tourist Islands 

These islands are tourist hot spots and provide convenient central locations. These locations come with top-notch hotels, delicious food spots, and metropolitan cities close to the water. The islands are a must-see for travelers aiming to get acquainted with the city and locals.  

The Big Island

The Big Island is full of hiking trails and beautiful parks and is known for its size. In fact, it has plenty of space for visitors with varying interests since it is the largest island in the United States (with over four thousand square miles of land). Beaches are one of the most beautiful spots to visit on the Big Island and a place for visitors to lounge, sunbathe, and have fun. A highly favored white sand beach is Mauna Kea, which is a half-mile long and extremely family-friendly. Mauna Kea is also the name of the nearby dormant volcano that is the world’s tallest mountain from (base to the summit), not to be confused with Mt. Everest (which is the tallest above sea level).

There are volcano sightseeing tours, stingray snorkel tours, and ship excursions on the Big Island. These activities, along with hiking, are the most popular. The Pololū Valley Trail is considered one of the most beautiful big island hikes since its overlook provides panoramic views of the nearby black sand beach. 

The best time to visit Hawaii’s big island is between September and November. This is technically due to the price changes for rooms, which change because of lower volumes of visitors. Since Hawaii has generally consistent weather, there is not too much to be worried about in terms of sunshine. Hawaii’s temperatures usually range from the 70s to the 80s. Surfers may want to visit between December and March, although this time period is when prices surge.

The island is beloved for its glorious coasts and unique experiences . Haleakala National Park has Maui’s highest peak, Haleakala, which is the largest dormant volcano in the world. Many visitors opt to book sunrise and sunset tours at the Haleakala National Park, which must be booked well ahead of time since they are so popular. There is even an adults only luxury resort in Maui. This island may be an ideal option for travelers who want to prioritize romance or quiet environments. 

Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours are another popular excursion that travelers can book to explore the island. With a helicopter tour of the island, travelers can get an aerial view of all the mountainsides and the scenic views of Maui. 

Travelers should visit Maui during the shoulder season, that is, during spring or fall. In spring (between April and May) and fall (from September and November), visitors can experience moderate weather while also avoiding the higher prices and crowds that visit during summer and winter. 

Oahu is well known since it is the site of Pearl Harbor and has one of the best shores for surfing. The tourism industry is thriving in Oahu, reflected in the quality of amenities and experiences it offers.  

Some of the most exciting things to do in Oahu include nature and historical landmarks. In fact, some of the most popular sights of Oahu are unique nature sites like China Walls or Electric Beach , which seem to exist miraculously. Of course, there are also historical sites that can be traced back to distinct events. There are Pearl Harbor tours that visit the museum, memorial and visitor’s center to provide more in-depth information regarding the events of Pearl Harbor. Many of these tours depart from Waikiki, which is a popular district of the city of Honolulu , Oahu.

Between April and June and September and December, attractions are less crowded, temperatures are moderate, and prices for travel decrease. The shoulder season is the best time to visit since the summer and surfing season crowds have not hit yet. 

Secluded Islands 

These islands of Hawaii are great options for those who want to reconnect with nature and have a sense of solitude. With more sprawling land than people, these locations will surely be the fix that tropical travelers need. 

Molokai 

Molokai is one of the four islands within Maui County and is one of the least visited of the major Hawaiian islands. The island is only 38 miles long and has a proudly undeveloped coastline. Molokai provides an off-the-beaten path and small-town feel, so large-scale tourism will not be found here. People planning to visit Molokai must be cognizant of the island’s people and resources since environmental and cultural preservation are local concerns. 

Molokai is a great place to have a relaxed and slow-going trip. Since the island is not commercially developed, there is a lot of wilderness. Enjoying the surrounding nature and the Aloha Spirit is the best way to spend time on Molokai. The most popular attractions are the Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Pāpōhaku Beach Park. The remote northern national park is a place of education and preservation and is actually only accessible by a mule ride, hiking tour or a small airplane. Pāpōhaku Beach Park (or three mile beach) has campsites, showers, and picnic facilities. Visitors will find that there is an abundance of space at the site since it is one of the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii. 

The best time to visit Molokai is during the dry season when there are moderate temperatures and less rain. Between April and June, visitors can expect temperatures between the high 70s and 80s. Generally, since Molokai has no crowds, travelers will not have trouble visiting the island throughout the year. 

Kauai is the northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain and is known as the garden island since it is covered by tropical rainforest. The island also has breathtaking cliffs on the sea and beautiful flora and fauna. This destination has plenty of natural beauty and is a tropical paradise welcoming smaller towns like Waimea.

Travelers who love adrenaline-surging activities will appreciate the expanded possibilities that a less populated island provides. Travelers of Kauai enjoy things like exciting zipline journeys through the jungle, ATV backroads tours or kayaking trips on the Wailua River.

Visiting Kauai is better during non-peak seasons even though there is not a high volume of visitors compared to trendy tourist islands. Between September and December or April to June, there are lower prices on excursions and local accommodations . 

Lanai offers a luxury and remote experience that many romantics enjoy. Lanai has a historic town named Lanai City with small restaurants and shops for travelers to explore. The city is technically more like a small village since the community is so small. This island is a popular day trip destination, allowing tourists to experience authentic island living. 

Although the island is mainly uninhabited, there is plenty for visitors to see. There are unique sites to see on Lanai, including a well-known shipwreck at Shipwreck Beach (or Kaiolohia) that travelers go to see often. The 1940s shipwreck is a testament to how Hawaii’s windy and rocky beaches can be dangerous. Even though the beach has incredible views, visitors are not advised to swim there. 

The best time to visit Lanai is between June and November since those months are the warmest and driest months. Lanai is a secluded island, so travelers do not have to be concerned with crowds and can spend their time relaxing.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse