Have you ever experienced any Island before in your backpacking journey, if yes, then you shouldn’t miss out on Big Island of Hawaii this time? We insist that you must visit Big Island of Hawaii, not just because it is bigger than other Hawaiian islands, but because it is listed as one of the least visited ones.
Due to its tremendous unpopularity and underrated things, many visitors are even unaware about this brilliant natural beauty. Big Island of Hawaii is filled with world’s unique landscapes like a mix of rocky black lava, lush rainforests and epic multi-colored sand beaches. Each time while you walk its soil surely you’ll appreciate that the island is really a travel gem.
However, Big Island’s beauty will not stop just its sandy beaches or colored lavas. Moreover even today the island welcomes visitors from its iconic active volcanos, tallest mountain peaks, kona coffee and interesting cool black lava beds. Every attraction and things you are doing in Big Island, Hawaii has something and tries to open up different travel experiences. Let’s discuss one by one what are the best things to do in Big Island, Hawaii that will make your trip more exciting and memorable?
Things to Do in Big Island, Hawaii
1. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a great place to start your Big Island Hawaii journey. National Park welcomes those who are looking to see active volcanoes in their lifetimes. Even today the park is home to the most active volcano named Kilauea in the world that you can actually see from its several designated overlooks or trails along Crater Rim Drive.
Besides unpredictable volcanic activities, parks are a hotspot to the unique geological formations, where backpackers hike through lava fields and have easy access to the natural wonders such as Thurston Lava Tube and sulphur banks. Try to hike through the Devastation trail where you’ll have more probability to spot volcano eruptions so often.
Since the place has deep historical backgrounds, surely native peoples are living in good numbers. They lived alongside Hawaii and they considered this place the most sacred and revered one to them. Visit their places and see how they are lead their life.
If you plan to visit with your family/kids, then you made a good decision. Yes, a national park is one of the ultimate destinations to keep your kids amuse and entertain. Visit Steam Vents, where hot air is coming out from the ground level, spot to wildlife like Hawaiian geese including other 40 endangered species and book a trip to take Helicopter tours.
2. Sleep at Black Sand Beach
Spending time at Black Sand Beach could be the most interesting thing to do in Big Island Hawaii. Walking or sleeping at white color sandy beaches is the most common activity every traveler does, but spending time with this nature’s unique creations is surely a different travel experience.
Due to the nearest active volcano on the island, major black sand formation positively inherited from there. Formed by the molten lava flowing into the cold Pacific Ocean. Later volcano lava is turned cool due to basalt fragments and freeze of ocean waves. Then it slowly turns black color. This process has been done over hundreds of years ago.
This Black Sand Beach is available at “Punaluu Black Sand Beach”, located in Ka’u district on the southern tip of the island just 35 minutes away from the volcano. Spending time like seaside picnics is a really great idea to enjoy beautiful formations, colors and relax/sleep on the sand with your family or partner.
Spotting Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and hawksbill turtles is the most renowned activity. Shattered through the black sand beach, usually comes out when sand receives extreme heat.
Make sure that the beach is not an ideal place to swim or snorkelling due to its rock and current. But if you’re a photographer then this place is surely a paradise to you. Take a perfect capture of this stark shimmering jet black sand against bright turquoise water during sunset. However, photos of green coconut palms and ocean waves could be beautiful, just try it.
3. Discover Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is a most sought after and gorgeous waterfall among most of the Hawaii Island waterfalls. Akaka Falls offers jaw-dropping waterfall views from 442 feet amidst lush rainforest settings. Since its eye catching water, scenic views making it one of the most epic and easy access waterfalls in the world.
Hiking in Akaka Falls is the most demanding thing to do. Offers rental 0.4 miles of loop trail which directly take you to the Akaka Falls viewpoints. It is easy and filled with natural beauties compared to other Big Island Waterfalls such as wild orchids, bamboo groves and draping ferns.
While you walk its trails you’re much blessed to see bamboo grove areas and bridge areas. Climb back up to another viewing platform to Kahuna falls. Kahuna falls is located downhill from Akaka falls which drops waters from 300 feet amidst lush jungles and canopy of trees.
Rainbow Falls is another gorgeous waterfall located nearby to Akaka Falls known for its own rainbow effects in the morning. Hikers have to pay $ 1 per person ($ 5 as total) entry fees except Hawaii residents.
4. Drinks Kona Coffee
Experiencing Kona Coffee is not just exciting and popular thing to do in Big Island, Hawaii, one of the best things to do in Kona too. Since coffee is the most prominent agri product in the region where visitors taste different varieties of coffees including popular Kona. Thanks to hill side geographical conditions and climate.
Kona coffee is primarily cultivated within its region, often called “Kona Coffee Belt”. Compared to the rest of the coffee varieties, Kona is very rich in flavour, bitterness, smooth and mild body. It is possible due to volcanic terrain system, rich volcanic soil, and rich porous minerals.
Today around 600 farms produce Kona Coffees. If you want to know more about the process visit nearby plantations. Where coffee beans are picked from coffee trees and removed from their skins and later exposed to the beans. Later dried up in the sun for a week before being hulled, roasted and cooled. Kona coffee is made from arabica beans which evolved from Guatemalan Variety of Beans.
Since it is grown in limited areas, Kona coffees have more demand and are extremely limited compared to the rest of the varieties. Visit nearby Hawaiian Coffee farms, Kona mountain coffee or Greenwell farms to taste and buy Kona coffee. Usually Kona Coffee price could range from $40 to $70 per pound.
5. Take a Walk in Hilo Farmers Market
Looking to spend some time with local peoples, daily lifes and indulge in local vibes, then probably you head on to Hilo Farmers Market. Located in downtown Hilo where more than 200 shops and stalls sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, homemade crafts goods and unique artworks.
Baked Goods are a more prominent food option in Hilo Farmers Market. There are several food vendors that are busy selling items like butter mochi, kulolo and bana nut bread. However, try Thai and Japanese cuisines from Dragon Kitchen along with some Peruvian tamales.
Flowers stalls are the most interesting and eye-catching things that shatter every part of the market. Varieties such as mini bonsai plants, orchids and tropical flowers are exhibited more in numbers. Buy fruits like papaya, pineapple, breadfruit or vegetables such as bok choy, eggplant, and leaf greens. If you’re a big fan of mango, lychee, rambutan or avocado then this market is for you.
The market will not disappoint you if you’re a lifestyle lover. Yes, home to numbers of attires shops lined one by one ranging from locally made apparel to tropical themed clothes. Family visitors even expect jewellery, Sarongs Hawai’i and some mural paintings stuffs to buy.
Opened in 1988 with 4 local farmers who are coming and selling their products. But later grew into one of the largest outdoor markets in Hawaii. But today the market has something for everyone from mouth-watering cuisines to locally made artistic works, visitors will get everything at one place.
6. Enter Thurston Lava Tube
Thurston Lava Tube is the most exciting thing to do in Big Island Hawaii which is known as the region’s most massive underground cave. Thurston Lava Tube is a 500 year old river of molten lava that makes visitors walk its surreal and stunning geological formations.
Lava Tube formed by the 2,000 degree Fahrenheit lava flows. Visitors need to enter through its circular hole in the ground, don’t worry about lava, which is cooled and cleared to explore. Inside is full of paved flat rock paths, handrails and soft electric lighting which makes your walking more interesting and offers something to appreciate the island’s beauty.
However, Lava Tube is filled with massive lava drip formations which are raised up to 20 feet high in some places often called dripstones. These rocks froze in place once cooled. The tube’s minerals are great and it features shades of dark black and gray coloured. It turns dark black and gray after cooling temperatures of the volcanic rocks minerals.
Its 600 foot long tunnel is another interesting factor which helps us to understand Kilauea’s volcanic activities through educational and real time visual effects. The world’s most accessible lava tube, Thurston is an easy place to spot some cultural evidence like burial sites, ceremonial of their sacred spaces and shelters of Native Hawaiians.
Don’t miss to see the beauty of native birdlife and lava tubes inside lightings. Every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM this lighting process takes place, when lights are completely off to show up the cave’s natural environments and unique geological formations.
7. Swim with Dolphins
If you’re looking for the best fun things to do in Big Island Hawaii with your family, then this activity is for you. Thanks to “The Hilton Waikoloa Village” where numbers of dolphin habitats are available to visitors not just to see even for interactions. Place witnessing numbers of interactive educations and sessions with bottlenose dolphins in natural saltwater lagoon settings.
Dolphin Quest is another interesting place to spot dolphins. Dolphin Quest is a place which allows us to swim with its spinner dolphins or take boat tours to observe wild dolphins. This quest is an even perfect place for all aged backpackers including kids to spend the time with native Hawaiian bottlenose dolphins at its structured shallow waters.
If you are looking to see spinner dolphins, probably The Kona Coast of Hawaii is the perfect place to head on. Kona coast provides stunning blue waters and tropical vibes that help visitors to catch spinner dolphins in a more fascinating way. Dolphins are dancing through waves making it the perfect spot to take photos with dolphins.
Today Big Island Hawaii is home to numbers of different dolphin species such as Spinner Dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spotted Dolphins and Rough Toothed Dolphins. Visitors even see and make close interactions with these dolphins making it an ideal thing to touch and interact with. Each one is unique and found around Hawaii’ island.
8. Hike to Mauna Kea Volcano
If you’re looking to do some daring activity here in Big Island Hawaii then hiking to Mauna Kea Volcano could be the best option for you. Mauna Kea Summit is a great place to watch the sunset from above clouds and an ideal place to enjoy some of the clearest night skies, making it a prime stargazing destination.
Once you reach its summit, you’ll see a high observatory desk called “The Mauna Kea Observatory”. It helps hikers to experience both sunset and stargazing in a very fantastic way. Its summit nestled about 33,000 feet from the sea level which helps us to see both these 2 attractions in very close views, especially sunset.
Besides just sunset or stargazing centric destinations, Mauna Kea even has a towering peak covered with erupting volcanoes. Mauna Kea has no active lava flows today, but scientists predict it will erupt in future days.
When you reach its summit surely visitors are going to understand especially from Mauna Kea Observatories, that 40% of earth’s atmospheres and water vapors exist within its limits. Technically the tallest peak in the world holds world’s premier astronomical observatories and has the most sacred status in Hawaiian culture.
Try to plan your hiking during the winter season which helps you to enjoy the sunset or stargazing when the summit is filled with snow. Since hiking trails are restricted to rental car services, hikers need to take permits for or valid guided tours to start hiking.
9. Enjoy Your Snorkeling in Kaila-Kona Coast
To know more about vibrant marine life in Big Island Hawaii, taking a snorkelling at Kaila Kona Coast is always a good decision. Yes, taking guided snorkelling tours at the island’s 2 major snorkelling destinations like Kealalekua Bay and Honanunanu Bay help to cover the island’s major underwater marine species.
Kealalekua Bay is the best place to start your snorkelling even if you’re a complete beginner. This premier snorkelling destination often known for its calm water located under the towering heights of 100 foot lava cliffs. Due to its clean water, remote locations, rich marine sanctuary and brilliant underwater state park, Kealalekua Bay is recognised as one of the best snorkelling destinations in Hawaii. The bay is a great place to spot flame angelfish, butterflyfish and lizardfish.
Honanunanu Bay is another renowned snorkelling destination at Kaila Kona Coast home to tropical reef fish and “Honu” native sea turtles. However, the most interesting features under Honaunau Bay are underwater landscapes, featuring lava rock formations and colorful coral structures. It’s clear warm water makes your snorkelling more visible to find sea species like parrotfish, trigger fish and some moray eels.
Besides above 2 options, there are many places in Kaila Kona Coast that are snorkelling friendly. Each time you jump into the waters Hawaiian green sea turtles, dolphins and more than 200 fish species are waiting for you to explore. For more and better experience book any Kona Snorkeling Tours or Kona Ocean Adventures.
10. Enjoy Your Time at Hawaiian Luau
Spending time at Luau is one of the perfect things to do in Big Island Hawaii for first timers. Hawaiian Luau is a traditional Polynesian festival where people gather to taste traditional local dishes, dance to music and exhibit some cultural events.
This Hawaiian Luau is held in major public areas of Big Island and even sometimes held at private spaces like hotels, beaches and individual homes. Normally events are celebrated for multiple reasons either for getting married/having a first child or celebrating a wedding anniversary.
While performing traditional Luau guests are welcomed with fresh floral and creating friendly hospitality and ambiance called “Aloha”. However after the grand welcome organisers opened a wood fired oven’s layers of leaves and fabric to reveal the cooked pig. Additionally, chicken, Kalua pork, laulau, lomi lomi fish and haupia are major cuisines served during the Luau.
Not every Luau includes all these activities, some are only focused on food or some may be entertainment or party oriented. So choose which Luau you want to attend but at the end of the day don’t forget to learn rich cultural activities and Hawaiian arts and crafts. If you plan to stay at any premier resorts or hotels like Hilton, Hyatt, or Marriott they often organise these events. Just check it.
Big Island Hawaii Hotels
Staying at the right hotel/choosing friendly accommodations is as important as enjoying things to do in Big Island, Hawaii. There are good numbers of hotels out there, but not everything will cater according to your wish. To make it easy and convenient we will come with 3 best hotels in Big Island no matter whether you’re budget or elite traveller.
1. Kona Tiki Hotel- For Budget Friendly Travelers
Kona Tiki Hotel is a classic ocean front hotel often known for its friendly prices, free parking facilities and verities of cuisines at competitive prices making it a great place to stay for budget conscious backpackers.
Kona Tiki Hotel is not just a cost effective one, however the hotel is a perfect place for those who are ready to stay near Kailu-Kona, Ali’i Drive and Honl’s Beach. Located on the waterfront in Kailua-Kona, which is close to the local shops, restaurants and some snorkelling destinations.
When it comes to amenities Kona Tiki Hotel boasts 16 oceanfront rooms which offer easy, breezy experiences. Each room offers kitchenettes, allowing guests to prepare their own meals during their stay time, try to reduce dining costs. With its iconic swimming pool, communal barbecue areas and friendly welcoming atmospheres, Kona Tiki Hotel will be a great choice for those who wish to enjoy a homey feeling in Big Island Hawaii.
2. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa- For Mid-Range Stay Options
If you’re looking to stay near Waikoloa village, Kohala Coast beaches and Lava fields of Big Island within your friendly budget then you need to hear about Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.
Located on the Kohala Coast where guests easily enjoy the views of islands, stunning ocean views and surrounding beach areas within their room’s windows. Along with guests even easy reach nearby shopping, singing and stunning beach areas.
The hotel boasts 297 numbers of modern guest rooms that are designed according to guest comfortability and luxury. Additionally, the hotel’s renovated properties such as a large outdoor pool, spa, multiple dining options, designed lobby and easy access to Anaehoomalu Bay beach areas makes it easy to catch under backpacker’s Big Island travel journey.
A hotel is an ideal choice if you want to stay with your family or partner at a mid-range budget then this hotel is for you. To know about booking and amenities visit its official website and book your stay today.
3. Four Seasons resort Hualalai- for Luxury Retreats
Best stay option for visitors who wish to enjoy snorkelling, visit island attractions like Kona Coffee farms, and Lava tubes. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai located on the Hualalai coast welcomes visitors from its most elegant and premier services and amenities.
Top notch guest experience offered by the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai with its elite seaside dining options, swimming pools, golf course, and private villages, picturesque beachfront, ocean vistas and open air wedding services. Each 249 rooms (196 standard rooms and 53 are villas/suites) filled with private outdoor spaces such as patios, lanais and outdoor gardens.
If you wish to spend at most relaxing, romantic world class hotels then choose to stay at Four Seasons resort Hualalai. Which is often well known for its world class services, amenities, breathtaking settings and family friendly vacation options.
When to Visit Big Island Hawaii
If you’re a little confused which season I should step into the Land of Big Island or which months will help to make my activity and things more fun and joyful? The answer is very simple. As an enthusiastic backpacker we recommend you to visit this island between Septembers to November.
There are plenty of reasons why we recommend you to head on during this season. Firstly, the island boasts friendly temperatures high 70℃ or low 80℃, this makes your water activities (such as whale watching, snorkelling or beach access), hiking and sightseeing more visible without expecting huge travel crowds.
However, the season witnessed low hotel prices and room rents, less beach crowds and easy to watch whales. Try to focus on visiting amidst these months and surely your island trip will be more fun and memorable without draining your pocket.
How to Get to Big Island Hawaii
Getting to Big Island Hawaii is not too much of a tedious task, in fact it is super easy. In fact Big Island is well connected by the Air routes and even water ways. Let’s dig about this;
1. By Air
Most common and fastest option to reach any destination including Big Island Hawaii. Visitors either directly book their tickets to Kailua- Kona International Airport or Hilo International Airport.
Kailua Kona International Airport is the main airport of the Big Island serving western side of the island. The airport welcomes major direct flights from mainland of the U.S cities such as United, Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest and American Airlines. After stepping into this airport there are plenty of rental car services and taxi options available to take you to island destinations.
Hilo International Airport is located on the eastern side of the island which helps those who are exclusively visiting to explore Hawaii Volcano National Park, Hamakua Coast or Black Sand Beach. Similar to Kailua- Kona International Airport there are numbers of direct flights and several airlines are operating from the mainland of the US.
Take any taxis or rental cars to reach Volcanoes National Park (located just 30 miles) and Downtown Hilo (3 miles) away from the airport.
2. By Cruise
Cruise is a great reaching option for those who prefer more leisure travel experience instead of quick and instance travel. A cruise to Big Island is a fantastic way to see multiple Hawaiian Islands in a single trip.
Several Cruises such as Azamara Cruises or Celebrity Cruises are running from the mainland of the US and additionally it includes stops in major destinations/ports like Hilo or Kailua-Kona.
Cruises allow visitors to enjoy the island’s breathtaking beauties and surrounding natural attrarction such as volcanic landscapes and marine life while riding on it.
Read More about Hawaii Related Articles:
Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Queen Emma Summer Palace, Hawaii.
For Additional References;
Where to Stay in Big Island, Hawaii?
Best 3 Days Big Island, Hawaii Itinerary.
Where to Eat in Big Island, Hawaii?
