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The Big Island of Hawaii is, as its name implies, big! I’m sharing my Hawaii Big Island Itinerary to help you maximize your time on the island (also referred to as Hawaii Island).
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To give you a lay of the land, on the west coast of the Big Island is Kailua-Kona, a beachy resort-centric area. On the east coast, you’ll find the town of Hilo and Volcanoes National Park. In between is a fair bit of driving and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano with excellent stargazing. The sun-drenched black sand beaches of Punalu’u are a must-see, showcasing the unique and picturesque nature of black sand beaches on the Big Island. Additionally, visiting Papakōlea Green Sand Beach offers a unique experience with its rare green sand, acces
The Hawaiian Island chain is a mesmerizing group of eight main islands located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, stretching over 1,500 miles. These islands are volcanic in origin, each with its own unique charm and beauty. The Big Island, being the youngest and largest, stands out with its dramatic landscapes and active volcanoes. The Hawaiian Islands are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife, making them a dream destination for travelers from around the globe.
The Big Island of Hawaii, the largest in the Hawaiian Island chain, is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, climates, and ecosystems. Imagine standing on the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea, then driving down to the sun-drenched black sand beaches of Punalu’u—all in one day. This island is a nature lover’s paradise, offering everything from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to arid deserts and volcanic craters. The Big Island is not just about its stunning natural beauty; it’s also steeped in rich cultural heritage and history, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.
The Big Island boasts a rich and diverse history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 AD. It was here that King Kamehameha I, one of Hawaii’s most revered figures, was born and later united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule in the late 18th century. The island’s history is deeply intertwined with the Kingdom of Hawaii, which eventually became part of the United States. Today, the Big Island attracts visitors from around the world, drawn by its unique landscapes, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities that offer a glimpse into its storied past.
As is true of many places, the shoulder seasons are the best time to visit the Big Island. For the Big Island, this is April through May and September through October. The weather is warm on the Big Island year-round, though it can be cooler at night when you’re at higher elevations, like atop Mauna Kea. Crowds spike during the summer months and the Christmas holidays, meaning increased hotel prices. Check the dates of the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which can mean increased crowds in Hilo, and the Ironman World Championship, which can mean increased crowds (and prices) in Kailua-Kona.
The Big Island of Hawaii has two airports: Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO).
Visitors from the mainland typically fly into Kona, which is located on the west side of the island but many also fly into Oahu’s Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and then take a short flight to Hilo, which is located on the east side of the island.
From the Big Island to Kauai and everywhere in between, plan your perfect trip!
Since the Big Island is so, well, big, I’d suggest planning your trip so that you fly into one airport, spend time on that side of the island, then drive across and spend time on the other side of the island before departing from that airport.
Hawaiian Airlines flies between all the major Hawaiian islands, but you can also fly to the Big Island on American Airlines, Delta, and United.
Unless you want to fly to Kona and spend your whole trip chilling at your high-end resort, which, no judgment because that’s a totally valid vacation option, you absolutely need a car on the Big Island. As mentioned, the Big Island is big and it’s about a 90-minute drive from Kona to Hilo. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is sprawling and requires a car to fully explore (unless you book a tour that comes with a driver) so renting a car is your best option to enjoy the Big Island.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park contains the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Due to the changing nature of volcanoes, lava-viewing opportunities vary and areas of the park may close for safety reasons during eruptions. Up-to-date information can be found at the park’s website. If lava is flowing and it is deemed safe, you may be able to hike out to a lava flow or take a boat tour to witness flowing lava along the coast.
In addition to the interesting geological features, this UNESCO World Heritage Site contains a variety of interesting Hawaiian cultural sites and is considered sacred ground to the Hawaiian people. Hawaiian culture is deeply embedded in the park, with historical sites and spiritual traditions such as those related to the goddess Pele. National parks like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park play a crucial role in preserving both the natural beauty and the cultural heritage of the area. Petroglyphs, rock carvings that depict motifs or imagery, and fossilized footprints are just some of the culturally significant things found in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Volcanoes National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that showcase the park’s unique and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the best hikes you shouldn’t miss:
Mauna Loa Observatory Trail: For the more adventurous, this 6.5-mile out-and-back trail leads to the summit of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano. The trail offers panoramic views and a chance to experience the stark beauty of the volcanic landscape.
Kilauea Iki Trail: This 4-mile loop trail takes you through a lush rainforest and offers breathtaking views of the Kilauea caldera. The trail descends into the crater, where you can walk across a solidified lava lake, a testament to the island’s volcanic activity.
Sulphur Banks Trail: A 1.2-mile loop trail that meanders through a landscape dotted with sulphur deposits and steam vents. The vibrant colors and unique geological features make this an unforgettable hike.
Volcanoes National Park is home to some of the most unique and breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Here are some of the park’s most notable features:
While visiting Hawaii Volcanoes can either stay in Hilo (more on that below) or you can opt to stay at Volcano House, located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Comprised of 33 guest rooms, 10 cabins, and 16 campsites, Volcano House is perched on the rim of Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater. The historic property has existed in various forms and locations since 1846 and books out far in advance, so be sure to plan accordingly!
Located on the Big Island’s northeastern side, Hilo is lush and verdant, featuring waterfalls, gardens, and stunning rainforests. ʻAkaka Falls State Park features its namesake falls that soar to 442 feet and are viewable with just a short half-mile hike.
Named after Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarch, Liliʻuokalani Gardens, an authentic 24.67-acre Japanese garden. The garden features a teahouse, pagodas, rock gardens, and fishponds.
Hilo’s charming downtown, which is home to shops, restaurants, and art galleries, was once a commercial center for the sugar industry and a busy fishing and farming area.
Head to the Hilo Farmers Market and enjoy local produce, locally grown and roasted coffee, island jellies, and baked goods along with treasures like handmade jewelry, leis, tropical fashions, and Koa wood crafts.
Unlike the resort-focused Kona side of the island, Hilo has just a few more basic (and budget-friendly) hotels. AirBNB is a great option in Hilo, but if you prefer a hotel, consider the oceanfront Grand Naniloa Hotel, a Hilton Doubletree property. With an oceanfront pool, hula performances, and rooms boasting excellent views, it’s a solid choice in the Hilo area.
Located on the west side of the island, Kona is the Big Islands’ tourist hub and the primary place where most visitors to the island stay. While it is a popular spot, the area still manages to retain its Hawaiian small-town character.
Formerly known as Kailua, the town’s name was changed to Kailua-Kona to differentiate it from other towns named Kailua in Hawaii. Kona sits at the base of Hualalai, an active volcano that hasn’t erupted in 200+ years and is home to the best beaches on the Big Island. One of these is Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, known for its unique dark sand and the presence of Hawaiian sea turtles.
Beach bumming and snorkeling are popular activities in Kona and the nighttime snorkeling with Manta Rays is a unique activity that you won’t want to miss! When your day is done, head to Ali’i Drive for shopping and dining and enjoy local cuisine with ocean views.
Accommodations in Kona can be on the pricey side, but they’re often luxurious and worth the splurge. I was fortunate to stay at the Rosewood Kona Village Resort (before the renovation) and staying in the thatch roof hales among the lava field is a uniquely Hawaiian experience. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa has fantastic views, a top-notch pool, cultural tours, and plenty of guest activities for a reasonable rate.
Located on the summit of Mauna Kea (a now dormant volcano) at 13,796 ft above sea level is the world’s largest astronomical observatory where astronomers from 11 countries operate telescopes. The dry, cloud-free atmosphere and dark sky make Mauna Kea ideal for observing the cosmos. The visitor information station is open daily from 9 am-9 pm. If you wish to continue past the information station, you are required to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle due to the rough, steep, unpaved roads. My best suggestion is to take a Mauna Kea summit tour and leave the driving to someone else! As a bonus, you’ll enjoy a warm dinner (it gets chilly at that elevation!) and learn about the culture and history of Hawaii.
Since Mauna Kea is located in the middle of the Big Island, you can choose to stay in either Kailua-Kona for beachy vibes or Hilo for more historic charming vibes. Refer to the resorts listed above.
When preparing for your adventure on the Big Island, packing the right gear is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some essentials to include in your packing list:
Exploring the other Hawaiian islands? Check out our guide to the Best things to do in Hawaii!
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