10 Irresistible Reasons You’ll Fall in Love with Hawaii’s Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii draws in all kinds of travelers. Its natural beauty and cultural sites offer something for everyone.
You’ll find plenty of unique features here that make the Big Island stand out. Whether you want to wander through wild landscapes or dig into local history, this place has a lot going for it.
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1. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see active volcanoes shaping the land. Walk on old lava flows and check out steam vents just steps away.
There are miles of trails winding through rainforests and craters. Keep an eye out for native plants and birds you won’t spot anywhere else.
At the visitor center, you can dive into volcano science and eruption history. The place feels alive with stories.
2. Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay is a treat—clear water, tons of fish, and a calm vibe that’s great for beginners. The bay feels peaceful, and it’s not unusual to see dolphins or sea turtles glide by.
The water stays pretty warm, and the scenery is just… wow. Bring your own snorkel gear or jump on a guided tour if you want someone else to handle the details.
Top Hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island
See current rates at the best hotels on the Big Island (Tripadvisor)
3. Relax on Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u Beach is famous for its black sand, formed from cooled lava. The sand feels cool and looks striking next to the blue water.
It’s a laid-back spot—palm trees offer shade, and the ocean sounds seem to slow everything down. Sometimes, you’ll spot sea turtles lounging on the shore. Please keep your distance and let them rest.
4. Hike Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park is an easy stop for a rainforest walk. The paved trail leads you to 442-foot Akaka Falls, and the mist in the air feels refreshing.
Along the way, you’ll pass smaller waterfalls and see all sorts of tropical plants. It’s a favorite for photos, and the park has parking, restrooms, and picnic tables if you want to linger.
5. Visit Mauna Kea Observatories
If you’re curious about the stars, Mauna Kea is the place. The observatories up top use the clear, high-altitude skies to peer deep into space.
Sometimes, you can join a guided program or catch a talk for visitors. Just bundle up—it gets cold up there, even if it’s sunny at the beach.
6. Tour Kona Coffee Farms
In the Kona district, you can tour working coffee farms. Many offer guided walks through the fields, showing you how coffee is grown and roasted.
Sample a cup of fresh Kona coffee and learn about its background. Supporting local farmers feels good, and you might come away with a new favorite brew.
7. Swim with Manta Rays at Night
Swimming with manta rays off the Kona coast is a wild experience. After sunset, tours use lights to draw in plankton, which then attract the giant rays.
Guides set you up with snorkeling gear and keep things safe. Watching manta rays glide by in the dark water—there’s nothing quite like it.
You don’t need to be an expert swimmer. Most people find the whole thing peaceful and oddly calming.
8. Discover Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park lets you step into ancient Hawaiian culture. This spot was once a place of refuge for those who broke the law.
Wander among sacred temples and wooden statues. Royal grounds and stone walls reveal the area’s deep history and tradition.
9. Experience Waipio Valley Lookout
The Waipio Valley Lookout gives you a sweeping view of one of Hawaii’s most beautiful valleys. Green hills, black sand beach, cliffs—it’s all there in one glance.
You might spot taro fields or waterfalls in the distance. The lookout is easy to reach by car, so you can swing by anytime.
Bring your camera, honestly. The peace and quiet up here is worth soaking in for a few minutes.
10. Attend the Merrie Monarch Festival
If you’re in Hilo during spring, the Merrie Monarch Festival is a must. It’s a celebration of hula with performances, competitions, and craft fairs.
Dancers from across Hawaii show off their skills, and the energy is contagious. There are also parades and art displays—so much to see and do.
Essential Travel Tips for the Big Island
Want a smoother trip? Time your visit, plan your transportation, and pack for the weather. It really helps you get the most out of the Big Island.
Best Times to Visit
The Big Island’s weather usually stays pleasant. April through October is driest, so that’s prime time for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.
Winter (November to March) brings more rain—especially on the Hilo side—but you’ll find fewer crowds and better hotel rates. Temperatures hover in the high 70s to mid-80s °F during the day, but it gets cooler at night in places like Volcano or Waimea.
Watch out for local holidays and festivals, since those times can get busy and pricey. Hurricane season runs June to November, but big storms don’t hit often.
Getting Around the Island
The Big Island is huge—bigger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. Public transit doesn’t really cover the island, so renting a car is the way to go.
Main roads are in good shape, but expect long drives between towns. Gas stations are easy to find along main routes.
Ride-shares and taxis work in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, but they won’t get you everywhere. If you skip the rental, most tours pick up from major hotels.
Recommended Packing List
Packing for the Big Island means thinking about different climates. Bring light, breathable clothes for the coast, but you’ll want a sweater or light jacket for cooler towns and Mauna Kea.
Don’t forget hiking shoes if you want to hit the parks, and swimsuits for the beaches and hot springs. Here’s a basic list:
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen (reef safe) | Protects skin and ocean life |
| Reusable water bottle | Tap water is clean and safe |
| Sunglasses and hat | Prevents sunburn and glare |
| Rain jacket or umbrella | Sudden showers, mainly Hilo side |
| Daypack | Carries snacks, gear, water, and maps |
Pack your camera and a power bank—outlets can be scarce in remote spots. Bring toiletries and any medicine you need; some towns have limited stores.
Cultural and Environmental Insights
The Big Island isn’t just about beaches and volcanoes. Culture, tradition, and nature shape daily life here in ways that feel real and meaningful.
Respecting Hawaiian Traditions
When you visit, you’re stepping into a place with deep roots and strong community values. Hawaiian customs show up everywhere—from the language to the food.
Go to a traditional luau or join a local festival to learn about music, dance, and legends like Pele. Many locals speak both Hawaiian and English, and words like aloha and mahalo carry weight.
Follow malama ‘aina—care for the land. Locals live by this, and visitors are encouraged to do the same. Respect kapu signs, greet people properly, and support local artists if you can.
Unique Big Island Ecosystems
The Big Island packs rainforests, deserts, snow-capped mountains, and black sand beaches into a surprisingly small area. You can drive from one landscape to another in under an hour.
It’s home to rare species like the Hawaiian nēnē goose and silversword plant. Mauna Kea’s summit offers world-class stargazing, while the coasts host sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and—if you’re lucky—humpback whales.
Many spots are protected as parks or reserves. Please stay on marked trails and don’t disturb plants or wildlife. Simple stuff like not touching coral or feeding animals makes a big difference.
Check local guidelines, especially in places like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, to visit responsibly. Here’s a quick list of what to do and what to avoid:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Stay on marked trails | Litter or leave trash |
| Use reef-safe sunscreen | Touch wildlife or plants |
| Learn native names | Ignore posted warnings |
Things to do on the Big Island
Check out the best tours and attractions the Big Island (Viator)
Things to Do
The Big Island has national parks, unique beaches, epic hikes, and top-notch snorkeling. You can also check out observatories, see lava flows, chase waterfalls, and spot local wildlife. There’s honestly a lot to love.
What are the top activities to experience on the Big Island?
Head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park if you want to see volcanic landscapes up close. Sometimes, you can even catch a glimpse of lava flows—pretty wild, right?
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay is a must if you’re into colorful fish and coral reefs. The water’s so clear, you’ll probably lose track of time just watching the marine life.
Take it easy at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. You might get lucky and spot sea turtles lounging on that striking black sand.
If hiking’s your thing, Akaka Falls State Park has lush rainforest trails. You’ll find tall waterfalls like Akaka Falls that are honestly worth the walk.
Check out the Mauna Kea Observatories for some unreal stargazing. Up at the summit, you can use powerful telescopes to see the night sky like nowhere else.
See current rates at the best hotels on the Big Island (Tripadvisor)