The Big Island of Hawaii, aptly named for its vast size and variety of attractions, invites you into a world of diverse landscapes and climates. With its stunning landscapes ranging from lush, jungle-like environments to rugged lava fields, the Big Island hosts all but four of the world’s different climate zones. Isn’t it incredible that such a small landmass can offer such a diverse range of experiences?

The Big Island Guide

Discover the diverse beauty and experiences of Hawaii’s Big Island, which is one of the Hawaiian Islands combined, and is divided into six main regions, each with its unique features:

Volcanoes National Park

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, also known as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, offers a thrilling opportunity to walk on an active volcano, showcasing Mother Nature’s power in an unparalleled way. Spanning an impressive 333,000 acres, the park is located just 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. Its global significance as an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a National Historic Park is a testament to its unique geological features found within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Visitors can embark on popular activities like exploring the Thurston Lava Tube area and the Kīlauea Iki Trail. Imagine the excitement of possibly witnessing a live lava flow during your visit! After a day of exploration, you can unwind at the beautiful beaches of the Big Island. To fully experience the wonders of the park, plan to spend at least two whole days here. And remember, the adventure doesn’t stop there.

After exploring the park, you can visit Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain when measured from its base on the ocean floor.

Kohala Coast

Head to the Kohala Coast on the east side of the Big Island to experience stunning natural beauty intertwined with luxury. Luxurious resorts dot this sun-soaked region, making it a haven for relaxation. Enjoy breathtaking scenic views as you lounge by the pool at one of these resorts, and when you’re ready to explore, prepare to be captivated by some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii.

One such gem is Hapuna Beach, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear blue water. Another must-visit is Kua Bay, which offers a delightful beach experience with amenities like restrooms, showers, water, barbecues, and picnic tables. Remember, some beaches can have strong currents and waves during winter, so it’s best to swim when the water is calm. For a tranquil experience, visit Kua Bay on weekdays.

After a refreshing time at the beach, you can try your hand at golf at one of the renowned golf courses in the area.

Hamakua Coast

The Hamakua Coast, located on the Hawaiian island, invites you to immerse yourself in its lush, tropical beauty marked by dramatic cliffs, magnificent waterfalls, and captivating scenery. The lush greenery, deep cliffs, and significant valleys like the Waipi’o and Pololu Valleys make it a paradise for nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian Islands.

Among the many attractions, the Big Island offers:

A wide range of accommodation options on the Big Island makes finding the perfect place to stay a breeze. From luxurious five-star resorts to charming hotels and unique vacation rentals, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preference. Most accommodations are conveniently located in Kailua-Kona, making it easy to access the main attractions. However, if you wish to explore the lush, jungle-like environment of Hilo, you’ll find a variety of options that offer a memorable experience.

Big Island Best Accommodations

When choosing your accommodation, there are a few things to consider. The location, convenience, amenities, and budget are some of the key factors that can guide your choice. Some fantastic options recommended by the author include:

So, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay on the Big Island.

Kona (West Region) Accommodations

Offering a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options, the sun-soaked paradise of the Kona region caters to all. Here, you’ll find top-rated accommodations like Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Royal Kona Resort, and Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa. For those on a budget, Kona West offers clean facilities and stunning ocean views.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, in particular, is a luxurious accommodation that offers incredible food, numerous pool options, and the enchanting sound of the ocean at night. After a day of exploring the attractions of the Big Island, there’s nothing like unwinding in the comfort of your luxurious resort. Around Kailua-Kona, you’ll find a diverse range of ocean-side restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and activity huts offering a variety of water activities, all conveniently located near the beautiful Kailua Bay.

Hilo (East Region) Accommodations

The Hilo region is another great place to stay on the Big Island, especially for those who love nature. Here, you’ll find top-rated hotels like SCP Hilo Hotel, The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls, Dolphin Bay, and Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. For a unique and memorable stay, you can explore places such as Volcano Eco Retreat by Heart Core Hotels, At the Craters Edge, Orchid Tree B&B, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, and The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls.

For sustainability-conscious travelers, there are fantastic eco-friendly accommodations available, such as SCP Hilo Hotel, Eco Retreat Hawaii, and Rainbow Hale Unit 1. These accommodations are dedicated to sustainable practices and offer unique lodging options. And the best part? They provide easy access to the Big Island’s eastern natural wonders.

After a day of exploring, you can return to the comfort of your accommodation and relax in the midst of nature, just like you would at botanical gardens.

Hosting some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the Big Island is a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you prefer the unique black sand beaches, the family-friendly white sand beaches, or the rugged and remote beaches, you’ll find a beach that suits your preferences on the Big Island. Discover the best Big Island beaches, including top ones like Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hāpuna Beach, and Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay).

Each of these offers unique features and unforgettable experiences that will make your visit to the Big Island truly memorable.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a must-see destination on the Big Island. This top black sand beach in the state is a spectacle to behold, formed from basalt due to lava flows meeting the ocean. Its historical importance is highlighted by the construction of the Punalu’u restaurant in 1972-73, which features a mural showcasing ancient Hawaiian life at the beach.

Visitors to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach can expect to see a variety of incredible wildlife, including sea turtles such as the honu ea (hawksbill turtle), honu (green turtle), Hawaiian monk seal, native bees, orange-black damselfly, and other anchialine pool fauna. The beach also offers convenient facilities, including a picnic area, restroom facilities, a parking lot, tables, and easy access to the beach. Remember to respect wildlife by not touching or feeding turtles and keeping a minimum distance of 10 feet from them.

Swimming can also be thrilling due to powerful waves and the chance to avoid sharp rocks near the surface.

Hāpuna Beach

Another top-ranked beach on the Big Island is Hāpuna Beach. Known for its expansive and pristine white sands and excellent summer swimming conditions, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day under the sun. The beach also provides facilities such as covered pavilions for picnics and restrooms, and sometimes even has a lifeguard on duty. While the beach has limited shade and the sand can get hot, the water is generally calm in summer and a bit more adventurous in winter.

Hāpuna Beach also offers an exciting array of watersport activities, including swimming, bodyboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can also take advantage of equipment rentals and lessons to make the most of their experience. And remember, while enjoying the beach, it’s important to respect the environment by leaving no trace and disposing of garbage properly.

With a wide range of interests catered to by its brimming attractions and activities, the Big Island promises a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, you’ll find something to keep you engaged and entertained.
From hiking to helicopter tours, the Big Island offers a wealth of experiences that promise to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Big Island Hiking Trails

Exploring the Big Island on foot is one of the best ways to take in its beauty. The island offers a plethora of hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging treks. Some of the most popular trails include:

Each trail offers a unique and breathtaking hiking experience with stunning views.
Guided hiking tours are also available for those who prefer a more structured experience.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you can learn about the island’s unique flora and fauna, geology, and cultural history. Hawaii Forest & Trail is just one of the providers that offer daily volcano tours, sunset & stargazing tours, and waterfall tours.

Big Island Helicopter Tours

Consider a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the Big Island’s unique landscapes and volcanic activity. These tours offer a unique perspective and are a great way to see the island’s vast expanses of lava fields, lush rainforests, and stunning coastline. Some of the top-rated helicopter tour companies on the Big Island are Paradise Helicopters and Mauna Loa helicopter tours. Safari Helicopters is also highly reputable.

Rest assured, safety is a top priority for these helicopter tour operators. They follow stringent FAA regulations, including flying at least 1,500 feet above the surface, unless they have authorization to fly lower. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you soar above the Big Island’s breathtaking landscapes.

Taste the Big Island’s unique flavors by sampling traditional Hawaiian dishes like:

A variety of transportation options available on the Big Island make navigating it a breeze. While renting a car offers the greatest convenience and flexibility, there are also options like:

For those who prefer different modes of transportation. Car rentals are recommended for exploring the island’s vast and varied attractions at your own pace.

The Big Island has two main airports: Kona airport on the west side and Hilo International Airport on the east side. If you’re staying in the Kona or Kohala coast areas, Kona Airport would be the most convenient for you. If you prefer public transport, the bus system on the island can be convenient with some planning and flexibility. For a comprehensive tour of the island, the Big Island Circle Tour is a fantastic guided tour option that offers hotel pick-up.

There are a few essentials that are integral to your packing list for your Big Island adventure. For clothing, pack:

If you’re planning on hiking, don’t forget to pack essentials like dry bags, navigation tools such as a trail map or GPS, and emergency supplies like a whistle and flashlight. For sun protection and mosquito prevention, pack a reef-safe sunscreen and an EPA-registered mosquito repellent containing 20-30% DEET. These essentials will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to the Big Island.

Maximize your Big Island vacation by following insider tips from locals and exploring the road less traveled. For an eco-friendly and safe visit, use reef-safe sunscreen and bring along reef shoes for exploring the beaches. Locals also love to visit lesser-known gems like Papakōlea Beach with its green sands, the dramatic cliffs of Pololū Valley, Keawiki, Beach 69, the Golden Pools of Keawaiki, and the culturally significant Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Park.

Supporting the local community is another way to have an authentic Hawaiian experience. Here are some ways you can do this:

This not only boosts the island’s economy but also helps preserve the unique culture and traditions of the Big Island.

Embracing sustainable travel means respecting and preserving the natural and cultural environment of your travel destinations. On the Big Island, you can engage in sustainable practices by:

Supporting local businesses is another way to practice sustainable tourism. When you shop at local stores, dine in local restaurants, and choose local services, you’re helping to boost the island’s economy and preserve its unique culture and traditions. For your stay, consider eco-friendly accommodations like SCP Hilo Hotel, Eco Retreat Hawaii, and Rainbow Hale Unit 1, which are committed to sustainability.