Big Island, Hawaii
Hawaii is an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean and part of the United States. The Big Island is the largest in the archipelago. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering abundant watersport activities from surfing, boating, snorkeling and more. One of the most visited islands is the Big Island. This incredible island has beautiful beaches, fantastic hiking, wonderful national parks and historic sites and tons of things to do! Here are some of the top tourist destinations around Big Island!
Getting around
This itinerary is a driving tour so renting a car is a must. If you do not want to rent a car there are other ways to get around such as shuttles, taxis, ride-shares. Many people when visiting Hawaii set up at a resort and can take day tours from their accommodations. I definitely prefer the flexibility to have a car.
Top things to do Big Island
Hiking
Big Island is full of incredible hiking. Hawai’i National Park has some great hikes including the Kīlauea Iki Hike, Hōlei Sea Arch Hike, Ha’akulamanu (Sulphur Banks), Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku), Devastation Trail and Puʻuloa Petroglyphs. Some of the other amazing hikes include the Pololū Valley Lookout which leaded down to black sand beach at the base of the sea cliffs. Green Sand Beach hike is about 5.6 miles down this green sand paradise- alternatively you can hire a ride down. The Akaka Falls Trail is a short 0.5 mile trail to the overlook of the falls. The Captain Cook Monument Trail is 4.1 miles and brings you to incredible snorkel spot. The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is another awesome trail to explore.
Beaches
Beaches are one of the big draws to Hawaii. There are so many wonderful beaches to explore and relax on during your vacation to the Big Island.
Some of the top beaches include Hapuna Beach which is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, Mauna Kea beach with excellent snorkeling, Carlsmith and Richardson Beach Parks near Hilo which offer incredible snorkeling, Waialea Beach (Beach 69) for its calm waters and so many more.
Breweries
There are several breweries located around Big Island. The iconic Kona Brewing Company is located in Kailua-Kona. It offers brewery tours and tastings as well as a restaurant and tasting room. Ola Brew Co is located in Kailua-Kona and Hilo and has vibrant restaurant and taproom in both locations. The Big Island Brewhaus is in Waimea and has award-winning craft beers in a laid-back setting. Hilo Brewing Co is in Hilo and has a tasting room.
enjoying sunsets
Watching the sunset is one of the best ways to wrap up your day on the island. No matter where you are you can catch the amazing sky. Some of our top places to watch the sunset included from our resort the Fairmont Orchid and on Coconut Island in Hilo.
Pololū Valley
Pololū Valley is located in the northeastern portion of Big Island. It is a great place to take in the overlook and hike down the beach. The hike down is 0.6 miles with an elevation change of 420 feet. The bottom is stunning with black sand beaches surrounded by the cliffs.
Hawai’i National Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is located on Big Island in Hawaii. It is known for its volcanic terrain, sunrises and sunsets, stargazing, hiking and more. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has an active volcano. If you are lucky you can see actual lava flowing and even when not actively erupting you will see steam and more. Some of the highlights of this park include the Hōlei Sea Arch, Ha’akulamanu (Sulphur Banks), Chain of Craters Road, Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku), Puʻuloa Petroglyphs and more.
National Historic Sites
The Big Island is also home to several National Historic Sites including Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. These protected areas are packed with cultural history, abundant wildlife and untouched natural beauty.
Snorkeling
The most iconic snorkel you must do on the Big Island is the night manta ray snorkel. This is such an amazing experience. It can book out in advance so make sure to make your reservations. Snorkeling is so wonderful around the island. One of the top places to snorkel is “Two Step” at Honaunau Bay. This snorkel spot is right near the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. Other top snorkel spots include Kealakekua Bay and at Carlsmith and Richardson Beach Parks near Hilo.
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout gives a stunning overlook of the valley below surrounded by cliffs. Tourists used to be able to hike down but now can only visit the overlook. It is well worth the stop. This is located about 30 minutes north of Hilo.
Waterfalls
The two top visited waterfalls on the Big Island are Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls. Rainbow Falls is a majestic cascade plunging 80 feet into a natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation. It is located in Hilo. Akaka Falls, a towering cascade plunging 442 feet into a lush gorge, is a crown jewel of Hawaii’s natural wonders.
Hilo
Hilo is located on the eastern side of Big Island and boasts so much to do. It has the iconic Hilo Farmer’s Market. You can also stroll the through serene Liliuokalani Gardens and explore Coconut Island. There are tons of dining options and excellent snorkeling.
Plan your trip
If you haven’t made it to Hawaii yet, consider this your inspiration to go. It is beyond beautiful and you will not be disappointed. We loved our week on the Big Island and I can say without a doubt we will be back. We only scratched the surface of all the incredible things this state has to offer!
