The Big Island of Hawaii is a land of contrasts, featuring black sand beaches, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. Its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination. From snorkeling to stargazing, the island offers endless adventures. A guidebook is essential to uncover its hidden gems and plan an unforgettable journey.
Top Destinations to Explore
The Big Island offers diverse attractions, from the vibrant towns of Kailua-Kona and Hilo to the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Explore Waimea’s cowboy culture, stunning black sand beaches, and the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea, each destination showcasing the island’s unique charm and natural beauty.
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a vibrant coastal town on the western side of the Big Island. Known for its stunning sunsets, warm weather, and lively atmosphere, Kona is a hub for both relaxation and adventure. The town is home to beautiful beaches like Kahalu’u Beach Park, where visitors can snorkel, swim, or simply bask in the sun. The historic Kailua Pier is a popular spot for boat tours, including whale watching and snorkeling excursions to nearby Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary and the site of Captain Cook’s monument. For shopping and dining, the Kona Inn Shopping Village and Ali’i Drive offer a variety of local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and Hawaiian cuisine.
Kona is also famous for its coffee farms, with the surrounding Kona Coffee Belt producing some of the world’s best coffee. Visitors can tour these farms to learn about the coffee-making process and sample the unique flavors. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or a relaxing getaway, Kailua-Kona has something for everyone.
Hilo
Hilo, located on the eastern coast of the Big Island, is a charming town surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and scenic waterfalls. Known as the “City of Refuge,” Hilo offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town is home to the iconic Liliʻuokalani Gardens, one of the largest Japanese gardens outside of Japan, where visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds and enjoy peaceful ponds and walking paths. Hilo’s downtown area is filled with historic buildings, boutique shops, and local eateries serving traditional Hawaiian dishes.
The Hilo Farmers Market, held every weekend, is a must-visit for sampling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. The nearby Akaka Falls State Park is another highlight, featuring stunning waterfalls and hiking trails through lush rainforests. Hilo is also a gateway to exploring the eastern side of the island, including the Hamakua Coast and Mauna Kea, where stargazing opportunities are unparalleled. With its warm community, vibrant culture, and access to nature, Hilo is a quintessential Hawaiian town that captivates visitors and leaves lasting memories.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique natural wonders on the Big Island. Home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, the park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness volcanic landscapes and geological formations. Kilauea, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, has been erupting intermittently since 1983, shaping the island’s landscape with flowing lava and volcanic gases.
Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from the stark beauty of volcanic deserts to the lush rainforests of the Kilauea Caldera. The Thurston Lava Tube, a 500-year-old lava cave, is a popular attraction, allowing visitors to walk through a cooled and solidified lava flow. The park also features numerous hiking trails, including the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes adventurers through a volcanic crater and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Rangers and educational programs provide insights into the park’s geology, history, and cultural significance. Stargazing in the park’s dark skies is another highlight, offering a chance to see celestial wonders in a pristine environment. Whether you’re fascinated by geology, nature, or adventure, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit destination on the Big Island.
Waimea
Waimea, often referred to as Kamuela, is a charming town on the Big Island of Hawaii that seamlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of the island, Waimea is known for its rolling green pastures, cooler climate, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area is home to Parker Ranch, one of the largest and most historic ranches in Hawaii, which offers a glimpse into the island’s cowboy culture and traditions.
Visitors can explore the Waimea Valley, a lush botanical garden featuring a variety of tropical plants, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. The town also hosts the annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating Japanese culture with vibrant displays of blooming cherry blossoms. For outdoor enthusiasts, Waimea offers opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and exploring the nearby Mauna Kea summit, a world-renowned stargazing destination.
With its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, Waimea is a captivating destination that provides a tranquil retreat from the island’s bustling coastal areas. It is a place where visitors can experience the authentic spirit of the Big Island and connect with its deep-rooted traditions.
Top Activities for Visitors
Discover the Big Island’s diverse activities, from snorkeling in vibrant waters to hiking through lush landscapes. Stargaze atop Mauna Kea, explore by helicopter, or experience manta ray snorkeling. Cultural tours, luaus, and historical site visits offer a deeper connection to the island’s heritage and natural beauty.
Snorkeling and Swimming
The Big Island offers some of Hawaii’s most stunning snorkeling and swimming spots, with crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs. Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary, is renowned for its calm, turquoise waters and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish. Two Step, near Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, is another favorite, offering an easy entry point into a snorkeler’s paradise. For adventure-seekers, night snorkeling with manta rays is a must-try, as these gentle giants glide through the waters near Kona.
Swimmers will love the island’s black sand beaches, such as Punaluʻu Beach, where the dramatic landscape contrasts with the warm ocean. White sand beaches like Hapuna Beach provide perfect spots for relaxation and swimming in pristine conditions. With numerous beaches and snorkeling sites, the Big Island is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering unforgettable experiences for all skill levels.
Visitors can rent snorkeling gear or join guided tours to explore these incredible destinations. Whether you’re swimming in the ocean or discovering underwater wonders, the Big Island’s diverse aquatic environments promise an unforgettable adventure.
Hiking and Stargazing
The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most unique hiking trails and stargazing opportunities in the world. Hikers can explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts, with trails catering to all skill levels. One of the most popular hikes is the Waipiʻo Valley, a breathtaking gorge with stunning waterfalls and fertile valleys. Another must-visit is the trails within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can witness active volcanoes and otherworldly lava formations.
For stargazing, the Big Island is renowned for its exceptionally clear skies, particularly from Mauna Kea Summit. Often referred to as one of the best stargazing spots on Earth, Mauna Kea offers views of countless stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. Visitors can drive up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (VIS) for free stargazing events or book a guided tour to the summit for an unforgettable experience.
Whether hiking through the island’s natural wonders or gazing at the celestial beauty above, the Big Island provides an unparalleled connection to nature. Remember to bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, and a jacket for cooler evenings at high elevations. These experiences make the Big Island a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.