With six major islands to choose from, choosing a Hawaiian island to visit can be a difficult task; the best way to describe the ‘personality’ of the Big Island is laid-back, adventurous, and creative. The largest of all islands in the state of Hawaii (twice the size of all others…combined!), the Big Island is also home to extremely diverse terrain – from pristine sandy beaches, to tropical forests, to dazzling mountain peaks, and endless fields of black volcanic rock. It’s also home to the world’s largest active volcano (Kilauea). If you’re looking for a perfect getaway that allows for both relaxation time as well as adventure, then look no further than the Big Island. Here are my tips for planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.
How Long to Stay on the Big Island
Personally, I think the ideal time to stay on the Big Island is around a week. You’ll want to visit both the western and eastern sides of the island while you’re there, and it takes at least 3-4 hours driving time to get from one side to the other. Plus, you’re in Hawaii so why not take it at a leisurely pace? There’s so much to see and do (and eat!).
How to Get Around the Big Island
There’s no getting around it – you should rent a car when visiting the Big Island. Public transportation is limited, and the sheer size of the island makes it extremely difficult to see any sites without investing in a car rental.
Where to Stay on the Big Island
There are six regions on the Big Island of Hawaii: (1) Kona, (2) Kohala, (3) Hamakua Coast, (4) Hilo, (5) Puna, and (6) Kau. We chose to base ourselves in two locations in the ten days we were there – Hilo (Eastern side, where the volcano is) and Kona (Western side, where the traditional sandy beaches are). Most flights fly into the Kona International Airport.
You’ll find a large variety of lodging options near Kona, as this tends to be the more ‘touristy’ area of the Big Island. If you’re looking for a more ‘resort-like’ vacation, there’s no shortage of brand name options (such as the Four Seasons, Hilton, and Westin) – the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is gorgeous and is near one of the most well-rated sandy beaches in the entire country.
Since we were there for a longer period of time, we chose to rent an AirBnB in Kona as it was much more affordable. Our AirBnB was amazing – super clean, spacious, close to all the tourist attractions, and best of all….it had a beautiful private lanai with an ocean view where we got to work from and eat a leisurely breakfast. You can check it out here.
There aren’t a ton of lodging or resort options in Hilo, so I’d highly recommend booking an AirBnB. We stayed at the most darling bamboo bungalow which you can find here. Our AirBnB even offered fresh fruit, herbed ice cubes, and fresh avocado toast in the mornings!
The rest of the sections (where to eat, and what to do) are organized based on proximity to each of the two base locations, for your convenience.
Where to Eat on the Big Island
Closer to Hilo
There are so many good food options on this side of the island. A great option for breakfast (or just an afternoon pick-me-up) is Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack. One of the best acai bowls I’ve ever had.
You have to have poke (marinated chnks of raw fish, topped over rice and salads) while in Hawaii! Two great options are the Suisan Fish Market or Poke Market LLC. Most poke places give you the option of assembling your bowl from scratch – the key to the perfect poke bowl is to make sure you have the right balance of textures and flavors so don’t feel like you need to stick with one type of protein (traditionally tuna), or one sauce. Mix it up!
For dinner, check out Pineapples or Jackie Reys for some island-inspired cuisine (don’t skip the pineapple drink at Pineapples!).
Finally, a ‘must-stop’ place in Hilo is Two Ladies Kitchen. There’s always a line out the door so go early if possible! This tiny Japanese confectionary is extremely famous, and locals will drive hours just to pick up a box of plump mochi to go. They’re most famous for their strawberry mochi (full strawberries topped with azuki bean paste, and wrapped in a pillow of sweet, chewy rice dough), but we also loved the ube and peanut butter flavors.
Closer to Kona
There are really great coffee options in Kona. Our favorite coffee shop was Kona Coffee & Tea – seriously some of the best coffee I’ve ever had. This local coffee shop specializes in 100% Kona coffee, which is grown on the slopes of Hualalai, then milled, roasted, brewed, and served all within a 10-mile radius from the farm. HiCO Hawaiian Coffee is also a great option if you’re looking for coffee AND a snack – try the spicy spam musubi!
If you’re looking for a more substantial breakfast, then check out either Island Lava Java or 808 Grindz. Island Lava Java has a beautiful waterfront location in the heart of Kailuea-Kona, specializing in local seafood, house-made bread and desserts, and freshly squeezed juices. Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you want beach view seating!
Alternatively, you can squeeze in with the locals at the hole-in-the-wall 808 Grindz. Tucked away in an assuming strip mall, this laid-back cafe serves hearty, comfort food…Hawaiian style! Whether it’s a meaty loco moco (hamburger patty served with fried eggs, rice, and gravy), or macadamia-nut pancakes, there’s sure to be something on the menu to fill up a hungry traveler!
If you missed the chance to visit one of the poke places mentioned in the Hilo section, then try stopping at Da Poke Shack in Kaileau-Kona. This famous poke stop is extremely popular, and they’re only open until 4pm everyday. Grab some take-out poke and salads and head to the nearby beaches for a sunny, tropical picnic.
If it’s hot and you’re looking for a nice treat to cool you down, check out the acai bowls and smoothies at Basik Cafe, or One Aloha Shaved Ice. We tried a LOT of shaved ice spots while we were on the Big Island and let me tell you, none of them can beat the quality or variety offered at One Aloha. These shaved ice offerings don’t taste artificially sweet because One Aloha only uses homemade organic syrups, and they feature a ton of local flavors (passion fruit, lychee, guava, mango, creamy coconut),
Great dinner options include Merriman’s (if you’re looking for something a bit more up-scale), Sushi Cocoro and Udon Noodle Tuna-Ichi (authentic Japanese sushi and noodle joint), or Teshima’s (authentic Japanese food featuring great-value bento boxes). For a romantic waterfront dining destination, try Huggo’s.
What to See on the Big Island
Closer to Hilo (East Side)
Ka Lae
If you’re making the drive from Kaileau-Kona to Hilo (or vice versa), make sure to stop by Ka Lae on the way, which is the southern-most point of the United States. Ka Lae means “the point” in Hawaiian, and it’s famous for it’s numerous diving locations (if you dare!). It’s also rumored to be the first landing spot where early Polynesian settlers settled, since it is the closest part of the island to Tahiti. Ka Lae is also very close to the parking location if you’re looking to also complete the five-mile hike to the nearby Green Sand Beach.
Green Sand Beach
The Papakolea Green Sand Beach is one of the few green sand beaches in the world. This green sand is created by a mineral found in volcanic lava called olivine. It took us around 3 hours to complete the five-mile hike (roundtrip); the terrain was mild (some navigating around sand ditches and along rocky cliffs), but the elevation gain was limited (275 feet) and the scenery was beautiful. To be honest, I didn’t think the sand really looked THAT green, but the hike was still worth it!
If you’re not interested in hiking but still want to see the beach, you can also hire one of the roadside 4WD truck services which take you from the parking lot to the Green Sand Beach. The drivers usually quote $20/person one way, and the ride is quite bumpy. Note – I’ve heard there is some backlash against these drivers as many locals feel like the constant back-and-forth of these 4WD vehicles are ruining the terrain.
TIP: There’s very little cover on the hike to Green Sand Beach so make sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Another unique sand beach that is fairly close to the Green Sand Beach (about a 30-40 minute drive) is the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. This beach is famous for the dark color of it’s sand, as well as the numerous Hawaiian green sea turtles who come to rest on it. We didn’t stay very long here as the weather was not very cooperative, but there are plenty of laying and picnic spots if you’re looking to lounge on a nicer day.
Drive the Red Road
The Red Road (aka Route 137 or Kapoho Kalapana Road) is one of the most scenic drives along the Puna coast. Even though it’s only 15 miles long, budget at least an hour or two of travel time for this winding one-lane road. The road is no longer colored red (it used to be paved with red cinder but that has since been replaced with asphalt), but the locals still refer to the drive lovingly as the Red Road. It’s a beautiful drive, featuring a lot of diverse landscapes – from tropical rainforests, to rocky lava fields, to quaint residential neighborhoods, and rugged coastline.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
One of the two national parks in the state of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two out of the five volcanoes present on the Big Island: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This is definitely one of the most unique national parks in the U.S., and I would budget at least 1.5 days to park exploration to fully appreciate everything the park has to offer.
Within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, make sure to visit the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area to see the lava up close. Seeing the red glow of the lava requires some dedication though – it has to be pitch black outside for you to see much! We woke up around 4am to visit the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area, and it was worth the early morning wake-up call.
One of my favorite activities we did in the park was hike the Kilaueau Iki Trail. This 4-mile moderately difficult hiking loop is the most popular trail in the national park, and takes you around the crater rim before descending down into it. It was pretty misty when we visited, which only added to the magical ambience!
Kevin and I felt like we were on the set of a Lord of the Rings movie (you know, that part where Sam and Frodo get lost in a maze of volcanic rock). There are several starting points for the hike – you can either start at the Kilaueau Iki Overlook, the Visitor Center, or from Devastation Trailhead; starting from the Overlook option means you’ll have the shortest hike (basically cuts it down 1-2 miles), but parking can be extremely limited here during busy season.
If you’re looking for an easier hike, try Nahauku a.k.a. Thurston Lava Tube (1.5 mile roundtrip). Unfortunately, the Thurston Lava Tube was closed during our visit so I can’t speak much to it…however, it is one of the most popular attractions in the park! This 500-year old lava tube was formed by an ancient lava river, and is lit from 8am to 8pm every day.
Last but not least, you should definitely drive the famous Chain of Craters Road. This 18.8 mile road takes you from the top of the national park, towards the coastline (ending at the Holei Sea Arch). This scenic drive along the East Rift Zone of the volcano takes you past a variety of vast lava fields which show all of the aftermath of the lava flows from a volcano. Depending on when you visit, you may also get a chance to see active lava while you’re there. Make sure to check out the National Park Service’s lava updates closer to your visit date!
Hilo Farmer’s Market
This is the Big Island’s largest open-air market. While the market is open everyday, it’s best to visit on a Wednesday or Saturday when the majority of vendors (over 200) set-up to sell local produce, craft goods, and other treats.
Akaka Falls
One of my favorite things we did while in Hilo was visit the Akaka Falls State Park. This self-guided 0.4 mile walk takes you through scenic vista points and lush tropical vegetation to the beautiful 422-feet high Akaka waterfall. Note – there is a small entrance fee for non-residents to visit, and you can pay at the dedicated Akaka Falls parking lot.
Rainbow Falls
If you’re looking for an activity within Hilo town, visit Rainbow Falls (or Waianuenue). This small waterfall is famous for the reflecting rainbow that happens next to the falls when you visit early in the day (usually sometime before breakfast). You can take a short hike to the top of the falls to see some huge banyan trees as well.
Closer to Kailua-Kona (West Side)
If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island, you’ll likely find that your flight will land at Kona International Airport. The area of Kailua-Kona (only about 10-15 minute drive from the airport) is the most touristy part of the Big Island, but is a very convenient place to stay.
Kona Coffee Plantation Tour
While you’re visiting the Big Island, you definitely should do a Kona Coffee plantation tour. These tours are typically free and there are several to choose from. We chose to visit the Heavenly Hawaiian Farms which features complimentary coffee tours every day from 9:15am-4pm. The tours typically take about 30 minutes, but you get a ton of free coffee samples, and also get to learn about the history and splendor of authentic Kona Coffee and the harvesting process (requires intensive hand-picked labor). Once you try the silky-smooth brew of Kona Coffee, you’ll understand why Kona Coffee has such a prestigious reputation all over the world.
Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Cove
Another must-do activity on the Big Island is a visit to Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Cove. Kealakekua Bay is the spot where Captain Cook was killed by native Hawaiians, and is also close to the birth place of King Kamehameha III. It’s one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island! We did a snorkeling tour (this exact one) and could not recommend it enough! The tour we took came with all snorkeling gear, lunch, and light refreshments. The best part of the entire trip was when the crew spotted a friendly school of dolphins and let us jump into the water to play with them!
Pu’uhunoa Honaunau
Pu’uhunoa Honaunau National Historical Park is a fun location visit on the Kona side of the Big Island, and a great place to experience traditional Hawaiian culture. Featuring towering palm trees, beach huts, and tiki-style statutes, this park was once considered a ‘place of refuge’ for those who broke Kapu laws (punishable by death). You can do a self-guided 0.5 mile walk around the park, or you can also opt for a tour with a Park Ranger (starts at the Visitor’s Center); the foot trail takes you past the site of an abandoned fishing village, a canoe landing, and the Royal Grounds.
Kona Brewing Company
For a fun night out, check out the Kona Brewing Company; this microbrewery which features informal tours, live music on Sundays, and decent pub food. Kevin and I both tried different beer flights and had a blast!
TIP: It can get REALLLLY busy during dinner time, so go early to put your name on the waitlist.
Makalawena Beach
My favorite beach we visited while on the Big Island was Makalawena Beach. Located north of Kona at Kona Coast State Park, this beach requires that you take a 20-minute walk along a lava path. There are no amenities at this beach, so it’s more for those looking to get away from the crowds.
Hike at Pololu Valley
The Pololu Valley is located in the northern Kohala region of the Big Island (so not exactly in Kona, but you can drive there). There is limited parking space at the lookout point, but you’ll see many cars parking along the shoulder of the road near the valley entrance. The hike down into Pololu Valley from the lookout point is super fun – it’s short but steep (420 feet in 0.6 miles); expect it to take around 30 minutes to get down to the beach. Once you get to the bottom, you’ll find the black sand beach of Pololu Valley. Due to rocky boulders, high surf, and dangerous rip tides, this beach is not a great place to go swimming, but it’s definitely a beautiful place to relax!
Related Post: Wallace Falls Hiking Trail in Washington
Waipi’o Valley Lookout
The Waipi’o Valley is named after the river that runs through the valley. There’s a small lookout point near the parking area where you get a gorgeous view of the valley and sea cliffs. You can do the Waipi’o Valley hike which is a popular day hike (6.5 miles) down to the black sand beach in the area. Alternatively, you can also drive down to the black sand beach but a 4WD vehicle is required. Many car rental companies on the Big island explicitly mention in the rental agreement that drives down into the Waipi’o Valley are NOT allowed due to a high likelihood of accidents.
Stargaze at Mauna Kea
A popular activity on the Big Island is to stargaze at the Mauna Kea Summit. Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain on earth, except that more than half of it is actually under the sea. There are multiple ways to visit the Mauna Kea Summit – you can take a tour, or you can rent a 4WD vehicle and drive the winding ravel road to the Visitor Center. If you choose to take a tour, they will likely make a pit-stop at the visitor station to allow you time to acclimate to the high altitude (summit is 13,796 feet in elevation). Unfortunately, star gazing programs were closed when we were visiting the Big Island due to COVID restrictions, so we ended up skipping the summit altogether, but they are usually held four nights per week between 6pm and 10pm.
Hapuna Beach and mauna kea beach
Located along the Kohala Coast and known as one of the top ten beaches in the nation – Hapuna Beach is large, beautiful, and great for sun-bathing or swimming. This half-mile stretch of white sand is known for calmer swimming conditions (great for families!), and there are also dedicated lifeguards on duty, shaded picnic tables, and plenty of showers and restrooms. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort sits on one side of the beach which can be a great place for a tropical cocktail or snack. Another good beach option nearby is the Mauna Kea Beach, which is owned by the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel but open to the public.
And there you have it – my ultimate guide to planning a trip to the Big Island! Let me know if you have any questions or thoughts, and happy planning!
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