How to Plan a Road Trip Across the Big Island: Tips for a Memorable Adventure

Planning a road trip across the Big Island may seem overwhelming, but it’s an amazing adventure anyone can enjoy.

With the right planning, you can see lush rainforests, volcanic craters, black sand beaches, and friendly towns all in one big loop.

Driving around the Big Island is the best way to experience the diversity of the Hawaiian Islands.

When I started mapping out my Hawaii road trip, I quickly realized how important it is to pick the right route and timing.

The Big Island offers unique sights, from lava trails in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to snorkeling spots near Kona and waterfalls by Hilo.

If you want a smooth and unforgettable trip, it helps to have a simple plan and a list of highlights.

A Big Island road trip gives you freedom to explore at your own pace.

Whether you want to drive the entire circle or focus on certain areas, I’ll share tips on where to go and what to bring.

You can check out this Big Island road trip itinerary for more details on organizing your journey.

Why Plan a Road Trip Across the Big Island?

The Big Island of Hawaii offers scenery and experiences you won’t find on any other Hawaiian island.

I discovered lush rainforests, rugged lava fields, colorful beaches, and welcoming small towns, all within a day’s drive.

Unparalleled Diversity of Landscapes

When I drive around the Big Island, the changing scenery keeps things interesting.

In a single day, I can hike through green rainforests near Hilo and then explore coffee farms and lava fields around Kona.

Along the way, the coastline shifts from sharp black lava cliffs to white sand beaches.

There are rare green sand beaches and volcanic craters.

Near Mauna Kea, I see dusty slopes and rolling hills where cattle graze.

Few road trips offer so many different landscapes on one island.

Access to Hidden Gems and Iconic Sights

With a car, I can reach places that are far apart or not served by public transportation.

I visited Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, watched steam rise from Kilauea, and hiked across old lava flows.

Some of my favorite memories come from quiet black sand beaches like Punaluu, which I found by driving back roads.

Many beautiful waterfalls, such as Akaka Falls, are a short drive from the main highway.

With my own transportation, I stop at local fruit stands, explore small towns like Waimea, and see unique coastal formations.

A road trip lets me set my own pace and link must-see spots with hidden corners.

I found a helpful Big Island road trip guide online for a sample route.

Opportunities for Exploration and Adventure

On the Big Island, I feel free to try new experiences.

I can hike through rainforest paths or climb cinder cones in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Whale watching, snorkeling with manta rays, or stargazing from Mauna Kea’s visitor center are all possible in one trip.

Each area offers something unique for adventure lovers.

If I’m feeling active, I can kayak along the Kona Coast or hike through ancient lava tubes.

With a car, I explore on my own schedule and seek out new places or activities I wouldn’t find if I stayed in one resort.

This sense of discovery and freedom makes driving across the Big Island special.

Deciding When to Visit

Picking the right time for a Big Island road trip depends on the weather, road conditions, and special events.

Each factor affects what you can see and do.

Understanding the Big Island Climate

The Big Island has many climates.

In one day, I can move from a humid coastline to cool mountain air.

The west side, like Kailua-Kona, stays dry and sunny.

The east side, such as Hilo, is wetter and a bit cooler.

Rain falls often from November through March, especially in Hilo and along the Hamakua Coast.

Summer months, from May to October, are warmer and drier in most areas.

Sea level temperatures usually stay between 70°F and 85°F all year.

At higher elevations like Mauna Kea, it gets much cooler.

When I drive around the island, I watch for sudden weather changes, especially at higher altitudes or when crossing climate zones.

This helps me pack the right clothes and plan safer drives.

Best Times of Year for Road Trips

From my experience and research, the best time for a road trip here is spring (April to June) and fall (September to mid-December).

These months have fewer tourists, less traffic, and lower hotel costs.

The weather is steady, with less rain on most parts of the island.

In summer, the weather is nice, but crowds are bigger as families visit.

Winter brings rain and even snow at the highest peaks, so driving can be tricky in those areas.

Having a car is almost required for a road trip.

Some local tips suggest checking windshield wipers before hitting the road, since tropical showers can appear quickly.

You can find more advice in this Big Island road trip guide.

Seasonal Events and Local Festivals

I check the calendar for local events when planning my trip.

Every July, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival offers tastings, farm tours, and music.

In June, the King Kamehameha Day Parade honors Hawaii’s royal history with floats and hula.

Winter months feature events like the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival in February.

Towns like Hilo and Kona host farmers’ markets and community gatherings all year.

Attending these events is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture, food, and music.

Festivals can make certain areas busier, so I plan my route around the biggest celebrations.

For more information, I use resources like this one-week Big Island itinerary.

Choosing the Right Transportation

To get the most out of a Big Island road trip, I need a reliable way to get around.

The island’s size, mixed road conditions, and distant gas stations all affect what kind of vehicle I should pick.

Car Rental Options and 4-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Most visitors, including me, rent a car to explore the Big Island.

Major car rental agencies operate at Kona and Hilo airports.

I often see smaller vehicles and SUVs, but not all vehicles are suitable for every road.

If I want to visit places like Mauna Kea or the Green Sand Beach, I choose a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

These roads can be rough and steep, so a standard sedan might not be safe.

Choosing a 4WD gives me more freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path places.

Rental agreements may restrict where I can drive, especially on rough, unpaved roads.

I check with the rental company before booking to avoid fees or problems.

For a complete look at options, I read guides like this one on Big Island transportation.

Road Conditions and Driving Tips

The Big Island has a mix of paved highways, sharp curves, and single-lane bridges.

Some mountain roads get wet and slippery after rain.

There are steep climbs, especially going up to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea.

I drive slowly on winding coastal roads and stay alert for animals or sudden weather changes.

Night driving can be tricky since streetlights are limited outside towns.

Cell phone coverage may drop in remote areas, so I download offline maps in advance.

Local drivers are usually patient, but I use turnouts to let faster cars pass.

Following speed limits keeps me safe and helps me avoid tickets.

Fueling Up and EV Charging Stations

Gas stations are mostly found in Kona, Hilo, and villages along main highways.

Long stretches like the Saddle Road have no fuel stations for miles.

I refill my tank when it gets to half.

For electric vehicles, charging stations are available in major towns but rare in remote areas.

Planning is important if I rent an EV, as driving ranges may be limited.

Checking station locations ahead of time saves stress.

A simple habit, like watching the fuel gauge, makes my road trip easier.

Mapping Your Big Island Itinerary

To make the most of your adventure, focus on how long to stay, your route, and the island’s top stops.

My guide breaks down what to focus on so you can spend more time exploring.

How Many Days to Spend

For a full experience, I recommend spending 5 to 7 days on the Big Island.

Seven days lets me see volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, and historic sites without feeling rushed.

If I have only three days, I focus on a few regions instead of driving the whole island.

Sample Trips:

A longer stay means I enjoy relaxed mornings, more stops, and less stress about missing out.

Short trips require making tough choices, so picking must-sees is important if time is limited.

Suggested Routes for Every Timeline

Getting around the Big Island is easiest by car. Different routes work best based on how much time I have.

For a 7-day Big Island itinerary, I usually start in Kona. I follow the coast to the south, stopping at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, then head to Hilo before looping back along the north coast.

If I have less time, I split the island east-west. In three days, I stick to either Kona’s sunny beaches and coffee farms or explore Hilo’s lush waterfalls and national parks.

Five-day trips let me add side trips without feeling rushed.

Pro Tip: The Saddle Road offers a fast inland route between Kona and Hilo. This well-paved road cuts drive time nearly in half, making it easy to reach must-see places on a tight schedule.

Big Island Highlights Not to Miss

The Big Island has unique sites I always include in my itinerary. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a must for lava fields, craters, and sometimes even glimpses of lava.

For beaches, I make time for the green sand of Papakōlea and the black sand at Punaluʻu. Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls near Hilo are breathtaking and easy to access.

The historic town of Kailua-Kona is perfect for coffee tastings and walking along the waterfront. I also recommend Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park for a look at island culture.

For adventure, I enjoy snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay and swimming with manta rays at night. All these spots help create a memorable Big Island road trip, whether I have three days or a full week.

North and West: Exploring Kona, Waikoloa, and Kohala

The north and west regions of the Big Island have many things I love to see and do. These areas offer some of the best coffee, history, snorkeling, and beaches on the island.

Kona Coffee and Historic Kailua-Kona

When I’m in Kona, I always start with a visit to a coffee farm. Kona coffee grows on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa.

I tour small family farms or larger plantations, watch beans get roasted, and taste the rich, smooth coffee. Kailua-Kona is a lively coastal town.

I enjoy walking along Ali‘i Drive for its shops, restaurants, and historic spots like Hulihe‘e Palace. Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, sits right across the street.

Watching the sunset at Kailua Pier with a local shave ice is one of my favorite simple pleasures. Art galleries and farmer’s markets are nearby, making it easy to spend a relaxing day.

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument

Kealakekua Bay is one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving on the Big Island. When I snorkel here, I see clear blue water, colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes spinner dolphins.

Most tours leave from Kailua-Kona or nearby harbors. I recommend booking a small boat or kayak trip to reach the Captain Cook Monument on the bay’s far side.

This area protects the reef, so it stays very healthy. The Captain Cook Monument marks where the British explorer died in 1779, and you can reach it only by boat or a steep hike.

I arrive early to avoid crowds and bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life. Don’t forget your waterproof camera—some of my best underwater photos come from this bay.

Beaches: Hapuna, Beach 69, Mauna Kea Beach

The west coast has some of the island’s best white sand beaches. Hapuna Beach is my top pick for soft sand, clear water, and plenty of space.

Lifeguards, showers, and picnic tables make it perfect for families. Nearby, I love relaxing at Beach 69 (Waialea Bay).

The beach gets its nickname from the old utility pole numbered 69 near the parking lot. It’s a little quieter and has shade from trees along the shore.

Swimming and snorkeling are great here when the ocean is calm. Mauna Kea Beach is part of a resort, but the public can visit and park for free until the lot fills up.

I always aim to arrive early for a spot. The water is usually gentle, and the beach is ideal for swimming and paddle boarding.

Kohala Coast and Hawi

As I drive north, the scenery changes along the Kohala Coast. I see rolling green pastures, lava fields, and sweeping ocean views.

Along the way, I often stop in Waikoloa for good restaurants, shops, and resorts if I want a break. At the end of the road is Hawi, a small, peaceful town.

In Hawi, I explore art galleries, gift shops, and small cafes. Scenic lookouts are nearby, such as the Pololu Valley, where I hike down to see black sand beaches and steep green cliffs.

Driving north on Highway 270 is one of the best scenic drives on the Big Island. I watch the landscape shift from black lava to lush green hills.

South Kona and Kaʻū: Coastal Vistas and Local Flavors

South Kona and Kaʻū have incredible coastal views, rare beaches, and delicious local foods. This area is less crowded, making it easy for me to slow down and explore.

Green Sand Beach and South Point Adventure

Driving down to South Point, the southernmost spot in the United States, is one of my favorite road trip experiences. The area is windy and rugged, with panoramic ocean views.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach sits here, famous for its unique olive-green sand made from olivine crystals. Getting to the green sand beach is an adventure.

I park at the end of South Point Road and hike about 2.5 miles each way. Some local drivers offer rides in their trucks, but I like to walk and take in the coastal scenery.

Along the trail, I look for seabirds and wild goats. If I decide to swim, I stay careful because the surf can be strong.

Whether I swim or not, standing on this rare green sand feels special. For more trip details, I use this guide to South Point and nearby sights.

Black Sand Beaches and Wildlife Encounters

Kaʻū is home to some of the island’s best black sand beaches, including Punaluʻu Beach. The pitch-black sand here comes from eroded lava rock and looks striking beside bright blue waves.

When I visit, I usually spot honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) sunning themselves on the shore. I always give the turtles their space and never touch them.

Along with turtles, I sometimes see native birds like the Hawaiian stilt near the water. The beach is great for walks and photos.

The water can be cold and rough, so I swim close to shore when I go in. See more scenic drives that include beach stops at Love Big Island’s list.

Visiting Coffee Plantations and Tasting Malasadas

South Kona is famous for its coffee plantations that grow Kona coffee. When I drive through the region, I often stop for a tour or tasting at a local farm.

The tours show me how beans are picked, roasted, and brewed. Sometimes I even get to try samples straight from the source.

After a cup of Kona coffee, I look for malasadas, Portuguese-style donuts popular in Hawaiʻi. Local bakeries and roadside stands sell them fresh, covered in sugar, and sometimes filled with tropical creams or jams.

Walking through a coffee plantation and biting into a warm malasada is a simple pleasure unique to this part of the island. If I need help planning my food stops, I check out the 7-day Big Island road trip suggestions for great ideas.

Hilo and the East Coast: Waterfalls and Lush Landscapes

I find Hilo and the east coast of the Big Island filled with waterfalls, tropical gardens, and views of both old Hawaii and wild nature. Historic sites, scenic bays, and lush plant life offer something unique in every spot.

Exploring Downtown Hilo and Hilo Bay

When I visit Hilo, I notice it combines a relaxed town feel with lots of local culture. Downtown Hilo, with its small shops and eateries, feels welcoming and easy to explore on foot.

I walk through the Hilo Farmers Market, where vendors sell fresh fruit, flowers, and Hawaiian treats. Hilo Bay is not far from downtown and has wide views of the ocean and Mauna Kea in the distance.

At Liliuokalani Gardens, I enjoy peaceful Japanese-style paths and bridges. The park is free and makes a nice spot for a picnic or to watch the sunrise by the water.

Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls

Two of the most famous waterfalls near Hilo are Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls. Akaka Falls State Park is about a 20-minute drive from Hilo, up the coast near the village of Honomu.

At the park, I walk an easy paved loop trail through green jungle and bamboo stands to the overlook for Akaka Falls, a breathtaking 442-foot drop. There is a $5 per person entry fee and $10 parking, but the views are worth it.

Not far away, in Hilo itself, Rainbow Falls is a tall waterfall with mist that often forms a rainbow, especially in the morning. I follow a short path to the viewpoint, making it easy to visit even with little time.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and Exotic Plants

About seven miles north of Hilo, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden sits in a lush valley by the coast. I pay a small admission fee and walk on raised boardwalks and gravel paths past hundreds of exotic plants and flowers from around the world.

The garden has a peaceful setting with ocean views, streams, and even a small waterfall. I am surprised by the variety of orchids, palms, and bright blossoms.

For plant lovers, this is a can’t-miss stop for photos, learning, and enjoying rare greenery in a natural setting.

Hamākua Coast and Waimea: Scenic Drives and Local Heritage

I explored the northern Big Island and saw dramatic cliffs, rolling pastures, and a rich history. The routes here showcase green coastlines, old ranch lands, and beautiful valleys that make this part of Hawaii unique.

Hamākua Heritage Corridor Road Trip

As I drove along the Hamākua Coast, I passed green rainforests, tall waterfalls, and rugged cliffs above the ocean. The Hamākua Heritage Corridor follows Highway 19 from near Hilo northward, passing Akaka Falls State Park and small plantation towns.

The drive features the Pepe‘ekeo Scenic Drive, a quiet four-mile stretch with thick jungle and old bridges, much less busy than the main highway (learn more about the route). I often stopped to admire the ocean views and visit small parks.

The road leads to Waipiʻo Valley, also known as the Valley of the Kings. The valley is deep and lush, with taro fields below.

Most rental car companies do not allow driving into the valley because the road is very steep. However, everyone can visit the lookout from above (get details here).

Parker Ranch and Waimea Town

Waimea feels different from the coast. The air is cool and clear, and green grasslands stretch for miles.

In the center of town, Parker Ranch stands as one of the largest and oldest ranches in the United States. I toured historic homes, saw cowboy gear, and learned about the paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, who shaped the island’s history.

Downtown Waimea offers small shops, local restaurants, and farmers’ markets. I enjoyed Hawaiian snacks and browsed handmade crafts.

The town feels relaxed and friendly, blending local culture and ranch traditions.

Pololū Valley and Lookout

At the northern tip of the island, I finished my trip at the Pololū Valley Lookout. The view is stunning—green cliffs, a black sand beach, and the endless blue ocean.

A short, steep trail leads down into Pololū Valley for those ready for a workout. At sunrise and sunset, the lookout feels peaceful and quiet.

I could see far along the Hamākua coastline, where the land meets rough surf. The spot is simple, with a small parking area and a few benches, but the natural beauty stands out (details about the lookout).

Volcanoes National Park: Geological Wonders

I love visiting Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park during a Big Island road trip. This park features dramatic volcanic landscapes, active craters, and historic lodges.

Exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

The park covers over 300,000 acres and contains some of the world’s most active volcanoes. When I arrive, I first stop at the Kīlauea Visitor Center.

Here, I pick up maps, check volcanic activity, and plan my route. Some top spots include the Sulphur Banks Trail and the Steam Vents, where I can feel heat rising from underground.

The Thurston Lava Tube is a favorite walk, letting me go inside a tunnel made by flowing lava. Entry costs $30 per vehicle and is valid for 7 days.

Plenty of parking, restrooms, and picnic areas make it easy to spend a whole day here. Find more details at the official park website.

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa Volcanoes

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are the main volcanoes in the park. Kīlauea erupts often and is one of the most studied volcanoes on Earth.

I like to look into the huge Halema‘uma‘u Crater, which sometimes glows at night from lava deep below. Mauna Loa is the largest volcano by volume in the world.

Its summit can be chilly, so I bring a jacket if I plan to hike. Kīlauea sometimes puts on lava shows, but activity changes often, so I always check for updates before visiting.

Both volcanoes shape the land and offer great photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Volcano Village, Volcano House, and Kilauea Lodge

After exploring craters and lava tubes, I unwind in nearby Volcano Village. This small community has cozy cafes, art galleries, and friendly locals.

It’s a quiet place to stay, away from crowds. Volcano House sits right on the crater rim and offers amazing views.

The historic hotel has a restaurant where I can eat while watching the mist rise from Kīlauea Caldera. Kilauea Lodge is another inviting place to stay or dine, known for its rustic feel and local menu.

If I want something different, I visit Volcano Winery to sample tropical wines and teas grown in volcanic soil.

Chain of Craters Road and Holei Sea Arch

I love driving down Chain of Craters Road. This scenic 19-mile drive winds from high rainforests to the coastline, passing old lava flows and overlooks.

There are stops along the way where I can walk on old lava, see pit craters, and view the effects of past eruptions. At the end, I reach the Hōlei Sea Arch, a natural stone arch carved by surf where lava meets the ocean.

I always bring water and a full tank of gas, since there are no services on this route. Watching waves crash against black lava cliffs is unforgettable.

Most park itineraries include Chain of Craters Road, making it a must for geology or photography fans.

Puna District: Hidden Sights and Natural Beauty

Puna is a special area with unique attractions. This Big Island district is known for lush greenery, dramatic lava fields, local charm, and scenic coastal views.

Scenic Drives and Mackenzie State Park

When I drive through Puna, my favorite road is the Red Road, also called Kapoho Kalapana Road. This highway hugs the coast, passing coconut trees, small communities, and overlooks with great ocean views.

It feels quiet and hidden, perfect for escaping busy tourist areas. Locals enjoy how the road winds through rainforest and lava fields, offering sights you won’t find elsewhere.

One of the best stops is Mackenzie State Park. Here, I walk along rugged cliffs and listen to waves crashing below.

The park has picnic tables, tall ironwood trees, and a peaceful vibe. Trails lead to old lava tubes and dramatic lookouts.

It’s a nice spot for a simple lunch or to stretch my legs and enjoy the view.

Beaches, Tide Pools, and Lava Landscapes

Puna’s coast features unusual black sand beaches like Kehena Beach. Swimming can be difficult due to waves and strong currents, but the volcanic sand is beautiful.

Pohoiki Beach sits on new lava from recent eruptions—it’s rare to walk on land that didn’t exist a few years ago. Tide pools near Ahalanui Park let me watch tiny fish and explore warm, shallow water.

The Kalapana area has large old lava flows and paths out to the coast, where I can see where lava met the sea. For more on exploring Puna, check the travel guide.

Mauna Kea: Stargazing and Mountain Adventures

Mauna Kea is one of the most breathtaking places on the Big Island. Watching the stars above the clouds and relaxing on white sand beaches makes for unforgettable memories.

Summit Access and Mauna Kea Observatories

Reaching Mauna Kea’s summit is a real adventure. The drive climbs above 13,000 feet, and I always notice the change in air pressure and temperature.

If you plan to go to the top, you need a four-wheel drive vehicle after the visitor station since the road gets steep and rough. At about 9,200 feet, the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a good stop to adjust to the altitude and grab a warm drink.

I try to spend at least 30 minutes here before driving higher to avoid altitude sickness. The summit hosts world-famous observatories that use the clear, dry air for space research.

Visitors can’t go inside the domes, but the views from outside are amazing. If you like astronomy, learning about the Mauna Kea Observatories is a highlight.

Tips for the summit:

• Dress in warm layers (it can get very cold)
• Arrive in the afternoon for sunset
• Take it slow to avoid altitude sickness

Stargazing Tours and Sunset Views

Stargazing at Mauna Kea is famous for good reason. The night sky is clear and dark.

I love watching the Milky Way and spotting planets without any equipment. Guided stargazing tours leave from the visitor center or nearby and include telescopes, guides, and hot chocolate.

You don’t have to book a tour—I’ve joined star parties and used public telescopes at the visitor center. Sunset on Mauna Kea is stunning, with the sky glowing orange and pink before the stars appear.

Even just watching the sunset above the clouds is worth the trip.

To plan your visit:

• Tours usually provide gear and guides
• Arrive before sunset for a good spot
• Respect the cultural importance of the mountain

For more details on visiting or joining a group, check out Mauna Kea stargazing guides.

Mauna Kea Beach and Surroundings

Down at sea level, Mauna Kea Beach is one of my favorite spots to relax after a day on the mountain. The beach has soft white sand and clear blue water, making it perfect for swimming or just lying under the sun.

People also call it Kauna’oa Beach, and it sits in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. I like that I can reach the beach easily, with public parking available if I come early in the day.

The hotel area is nice for a meal or a quick snack. Sometimes, I spot turtles swimming close to shore.

The sunsets from this beach can be a perfect way to end a busy day.

Mauna Kea Beach tips:

• Get there early for parking (spots fill up fast)
• Bring a snorkel to see fish and turtles
• Relax at the hotel for food or drinks

Cultural Experiences and Local Cuisine

On the Big Island, I learned about ancient Hawaiian culture, tasted authentic island food, and visited famous historical buildings. These experiences helped me understand the island’s unique history and the stories of its people.

Ancient Hawaiian Culture and Historical Sites

As I drove along the coast, I found several places that let me step back in time. Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park stands out most.

This site once gave people who broke ancient laws a place of refuge. While I walked through the park, I saw wooden statues, sacred temples, and traditional fishponds.

Waimea showed me the life of Hawaiian cowboys called paniolo. In this old ranching town, I found small museums and tried local BBQ.

I learned about the native way of life by stopping at petroglyph fields, where ancient rock carvings still remain. You can find more tips for stops along the coast in this guide to Big Island culture and sights.

Luau and Local Food Traditions

Trying island food was one of my favorite parts of the trip. I went to a luau, where dancers performed hula and fire knife shows while I tasted dishes like kalua pork, poi, and lomi lomi salmon.

Maui luaus often include foods like poke, grilled fish, and sweet haupia for dessert. For a true local breakfast, I stopped at roadside diners and ordered Portuguese sausage with eggs and rice.

At small markets, I found fresh tropical fruit and malasadas (fluffy donuts rolled in sugar). I also tasted locally grown coffee in Kona and shaved ice in Hilo.

Learning about these foods and customs at small diners and food trucks helped me connect to island traditions. For details on can’t-miss foods, see this list of Big Island local and cultural food experiences.

Visit Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church

In Kailua-Kona, I visited Huliheʻe Palace, a former royal vacation home built in the 1800s. The palace displays old furniture, Hawaiian artifacts, and portraits of royal families.

I spent time looking at carved woodwork and learning about the lives of Hawaiian queens and kings. Just across the street, I walked into Mokuaikaua Church, Hawaiʻi’s oldest Christian church.

Its lava stone walls and wooden pews take you back to the days when missionaries first arrived. I noticed old photographs, church bells, and handmade quilts on display.

Both sites are easy to visit in a single stop. Each gives a different perspective on the island’s story.

Activities and Outdoor Adventure

The Big Island offers many ways to see amazing nature, enjoy the ocean, and watch incredible animals up close. It’s a place to try new things, relax, and connect with Hawaii’s wild side.

Hiking and Exploration Trails

When I think about adventure on the Big Island, hiking is at the top of my list. There are trails for every level of experience.

Easy walks let me see lush rainforests and waterfalls. Tougher hikes lead through lava fields and up volcanic slopes.

A favorite hike for many is in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Here, I trek across Kīlauea Iki Crater and pass by steam vents and old lava flows.

The Chain of Craters Road is a famous route for scenic stops and shorter trails. Some hikes let me walk on ground that was once molten lava.

I also recommend Akaka Falls State Park for an easy, scenic walk. The trail weaves through tropical plants and leads to a tall, stunning waterfall.

For longer, more challenging hikes, Mauna Kea’s slopes offer clear views and a high-altitude experience. I always check the weather and trail rules before heading out.

Popular Hiking Spots:

Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, and Manta Rays

The island’s clear water makes it perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. I often visit beaches like Hapuna or Kahaluu Beach Park for easy snorkelling.

Here, the reefs glow with colorful fish and gentle honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles). For scuba diving, the Kona Coast is popular for its sunny weather and calm seas.

Some dive shops offer nighttime trips to see huge manta rays glide through the water just offshore. Swimming with manta rays at night, with their wide wings and slow loops, is something I find unforgettable.

You can book these manta ray encounters with local guides. Even if I’m a beginner, tours for all skill levels are available.

Gear rentals are easy to find at tourist beaches. I always swim with a buddy, check tide charts, and respect the reefs to help protect local sea life.

Best Water Activities:

• Snorkel with honu at Kahaluu Beach
• Night dive with manta rays in Kona
• Scuba dive at Puako or Honaunau

Wildlife Watching: Honu, Humpback Whales, and Birds

Wildlife watching on the Big Island lets me see rare animals up close. During winter, I watch humpback whales from shore or on a boat tour.

These huge whales breach and slap their tails in the warm coastal waters. At Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, I often spot honu sunbathing on the sand.

These turtles need protection, so I keep my distance and use my camera’s zoom. For bird lovers, the forests of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge host native Hawaiian honeycreepers and other rare birds.

Many lookout points along the coast and in the mountains offer great spots for wildlife viewing. With my binoculars, I sometimes see wild goats, mongoose, or native bats as the sun sets.