What to do on the big island of Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii, affectionately known as the Big Island, offers a world of adventure within its shores.  You can go through fiery volcanic landscapes, relax on clean black sand beaches, and look up at a sky full of stars all in one trip. It’s a place with a lot of different things to see and do. The island has 8 of the world’s 13 climate zones, so there are always new natural wonders to see.

This guide is designed to help you discover the very best of what the Big Island has to offer.  We’ll look at famous landmarks and secret places that locals love. There are things to do here that will make memories that last, whether you’re going on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo trip. We’ll talk about things you have to do, interesting cultural experiences, and useful advice to help you get around this beautiful island easily.

Natural Wonders You Have to See

The Big Island is a great place for people who love nature. It has some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world.

1. Visit the national park of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see when you go to the Big Island. This is where you can see the whole process of making the earth. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are two of the most active volcanoes in the world, and they are both in the park. This landscape makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet, with huge lava fields, steaming vents, and rainforests that have taken over the volcanic rock.

What to Do:

• Kīlauea Overlook: Start your trip here to see the Halemaʻumaʻu crater from a stunning angle. In the evenings, you can often see the mesmerizing glow of the lava lake, a truly unforgettable sight. 
• Chain of Craters Road: This scenic 19-mile drive descends 3,700 feet to the coast, offering stunning vistas and numerous pull-offs for photo opportunities.  The road ends where a lava flow from 2003 crossed the pavement.This is a strong reminder of how powerful nature is.At the end of the Chain of Craters Road, a short walk takes you to the
• Hōlei Sea Arch: This huge 90-foot arch was carved out of old lava flows by the ocean’s constant force.
• Kīlauea Iki Trail: This 4-mile loop trail takes you across a solidified lava lake that used to be a molten sea in 1959. It’s a more immersive experience. It’s a moderately hard hike that lets you see volcanic rocks and the tough plants that grow on hardened lava up close.

Pro-Tip: Things can change quickly in the park. Always check the official National Park Service website for the latest updates on volcanic activity, trail closures, and air quality before you go. 

2. Look at the stars at Mauna Kea

The highest point in Hawaii is Mauna Kea, which is a dormant volcano. The top of the mountain is almost 14,000 feet above sea level and is above the clouds. It has some of the clearest skies on Earth for stargazing. The lack of light pollution and the high altitude make it one of the world’s premier astronomical observation sites, home to numerous international observatories. 

How to Enjoy It:

• Visitor Information Station (VIS): The VIS is the easiest place for most visitors to get to because it is 9,200 feet high. They have free stargazing events every night with powerful telescopes, where knowledgeable volunteers show people constellations, planets, and faraway galaxies. This is a great choice for families and people who don’t want to climb all the way up.
• Summit Tours: To reach the summit, you need a 4WD vehicle.  It’s best and safest to go with a tour company that offers guided trips. These tours give you warm clothes, food, and expert commentary on both astronomy and the cultural importance of Mauna Kea to Native Hawaiians.
• When to Go: The best time to see the stars is during the new moon phase, when the sky is darkest. September and October usually have stable, clear weather, which makes this a great time to do it.

3. Go snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay.

Kealakekua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District that protects marine life. It is known for its clear water and colorful coral reefs full of tropical fish. The bay is also an important historical site because it is where Captain James Cook first landed on the island and where he died. The famous white monument in his honor is on the beach.

How to Get There:

• Boat Tour or Kayak:The best way to get to the best snorkeling spot near the Captain Cook Monument is by boat or kayak. Several licensed tour companies offer snorkeling cruises every day from Keauhou Bay. This is the easiest choice, and they give you all the gear and help you need.
• Hiking: If you’re feeling brave, you can hike down a steep trail for 3.8 miles round trip to get to the bay. Bring a lot of water because the hike back up is hard, especially in the heat.

What You’ll See: You might swim with schools of yellow tang, see playful spinner dolphins that live in the bay, and maybe even see some honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Exciting outdoor activities

There are endless chances to hike, swim,and see the Big Island’s unique natural beauty beyond its main attractions.

4. Hike to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach 

Papakōlea is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. Its color comes from olivine crystals that have been worn away from a nearby volcanic cone. Getting to this far-off beach is an adventure in and of itself. It is a 5.5-mile round-trip hike through rough, windy terrain to get to South Point, which is the southernmost point of the United States. Some locals might give you a ride in a 4×4, but the hike is a great way to see the dramatic coastline. The prize is a beautiful, private cove that is unlike any other.

5. Take it easy on Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

There are many good reasons why Punaluʻu is the most famous black sand beach on the Big Island. The jet-black sand, which comes from lava flowing into the ocean and exploding into fine particles, looks great against the turquoise water and the green coconut palms. Honu also like to rest here. You should never touch these protected animals, but you should admire them from a distance. This is a fantastic spot for a picnic and is easily accessible, with no hiking required. 

6. Go after waterfalls on the Hāmākua Coast

The Hāmākua Coast is the northeastern part of the island. It is a lush, tropical paradise with beautiful waterfalls..

• ʻAkaka Falls State Park: A paved loop trail leads you through a thick rainforest to two beautiful waterfalls. You can see the 100-foot Kahūnā Falls from a distance, but the 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls is the main attraction. It drops into a deep gorge below. This is an easy, family-friendly walk. 
• Rainbow Falls: This waterfall is in Hilo and is famous for the rainbows that show up in its mist on sunny mornings. It’s easy to get to and a great place to stop for a quick break.

Real Cultural Experiences

To really enjoy the Big Island, you should learn about its interesting history and lively local culture.

7. Learn about Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Ancient Hawaiians who broke a kapu (sacred law) used to come here to hide. If they could reach this puʻuhonua, they would be absolved and could return to society safely.  You can now take a self-guided walking tour of the restored grounds, see impressive wooden statues (kiʻi) guarding the temple, and learn about early Hawaiian culture. It is a calm and strong place that lets you see the island’s past..

8. Go to a real Lūʻau

Food, music, and dance are all great ways to celebrate Hawaiian culture at a lūʻau. You will eat traditional foods like kalua pig, poi, and haupia while watching hula and fire dancing that will keep you interested. It’s a fun activity for the whole family that teaches you about other cultures and is fun at the same time.

9. Try the local food

People who love food will love the Big Island.

• Kona Coffee: Go to a coffee farm in the Kona or Kaʻū districts to see how this famous coffee is grown, picked, and roasted. You can usually take free tours and taste things at most farms.
• Farmers Markets: Go to a farmers market in your area, like the one in Hilo or Waimea, to try fresh tropical fruits, locally made goods, and tasty prepared foods. This is where people from the area go to shop and hang out.
• Shave Ice: You can’t go to Hawaii without getting shaved ice. Hawaiian shave ice is different from a snow cone because it has a fine, fluffy texture. Try it with a “snow cap” (a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk) for an extra treat. 

10. Visit the Lyman Museum 

The Lyman Museum and Mission House in Hilo is a great place to learn about Hawaii’s natural and cultural history. The museum features extensive exhibits on the island’s volcanic origins, diverse ecosystems, and the different immigrant groups that shaped modern Hawaii. The Mission House next door, built in 1839, is the oldest wooden frame building still standing on the island. It gives you a look at life in the 1800s.

Plan Your Big Island Trip 

A little planning can help make your trip to the Big Island go smoothly and be fun.

Where to Stay

• Kona (West Side): The sunny side of Kona is the main tourist area, with a wide range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. It’s easy to get to the beach, go snorkeling, or take a coffee farm tour..
• Hilo (East Side): The lush Hilo side has a more local, laid-back vibe.  It’s the best place to start your trip to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, and botanical gardens.
• Waimea (North): Known for its rolling green hills and paniolo (cowboy) culture, Waimea has a cooler climate and a different view of life on the island.

How to Get Around

You need to rent a car to see the Big Island. The island is big, and there aren’t many public transportation options. A 4WD vehicle is only necessary if you plan to go to the summit of Mauna Kea or to very remote beaches.  A regular car is fine for most attractions. If you’re going during peak season, make sure to book your rental car well in advance.

Your unforgettable trip to the Big Island is waiting for you.

The Big Island is a magical place where every turn in the road shows you a new view and a new chance to have fun. The island’s volcanoes have hot, fiery hearts, and its bays have calm, deep waters. It invites you to explore, learn, and connect with the powerful spirit of aloha.

Are you ready to plan the perfect Hawaiian vacation? Hawaii Guide Hub is an expert at making personalized travel plans that fit your interests and style of travel. Let us take care of the little things so you can make memories that will last a lifetime. Make an appointment with us today and start planning the trip of a lifetime.