Whenever I visit the Big Island, I’m amazed by how much there is to see and do. You can watch lava bubble at an active volcano, cool off under stunning waterfalls, or snorkel with manta rays after the sun goes down.
If you want an unforgettable trip to the Island of Hawaii, these are the top 10 things I think everyone should try.
From hiking up Mauna Kea to relaxing on bright white beaches, every day feels like a new adventure. The Big Island is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, and it’s the perfect place to explore nature and learn about culture.
Whether you love outdoor thrills or just want to soak in beautiful sights, you’ll find something here that stands out.
Curious which activities made my list? Keep reading—I’ve put together the must-see spots and top experiences that you shouldn’t miss on your next Island of Hawaii getaway.
Marvel at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
When I visit the Big Island, I always make time to see lava landscapes, fumaroles, and unique hiking trails. This park is home to some of Hawaii’s most famous volcanoes and sights you can’t see anywhere else.
Exploring Active Volcanoes
I can see active volcanoes up close at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The main draw is Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Sometimes, I even see lava glow or steam vents right from the rim, depending on current volcanic activity. There are lookout points along the crater rim where I take in panoramic views.
If I’m lucky, I might spot areas with fresh lava flows or steam rising from the earth. I follow clear safety paths and signs, and I always keep a safe distance from hazardous spots.
The park also features the massive Mauna Loa volcano. Both mountains attract visitors with their incredible scale and power.
Kīlauea Iki Crater Adventure
One of my favorite hikes is the Kīlauea Iki Trail. This adventure takes me across a solidified lava lake that formed after a big eruption in 1959.
The route is about 4 miles round trip and leads through lush rainforest before dropping down to the crater floor. As I walk, I see steam hissing up from cracks and feel rough, black rock under my shoes.
The hike gives me a close look at volcanic features without any special gear. Along the way, I spot wild ʻōhiʻa trees and native birds that have adapted to the unique landscape.
I experience the power of volcanoes up close on this hike. The dramatic change from green forest to stark lava is unique to this part of Volcanoes National Park.
Lava Tubes and Scenic Drives
I always look forward to visiting the Thurston Lava Tube. Flowing lava formed this walkable cave long ago.
It’s a short, easy path surrounded by ferns and tall trees. I enjoy the cool, damp air inside the tunnel.
When I want a scenic drive, I take the Chain of Craters Road. This road winds past old lava flows, craters, and dramatic viewpoints.
There are pull-offs where I stop, take photos, and walk up to the edge of volcanic features. The drive ends near the sea, where hardened lava meets crashing waves.
This route shows how volcanoes have shaped the Big Island. It’s one of the best things to do in the park.
Experience Unforgettable Snorkeling
The Big Island lets me spot colorful fish, swim above coral reefs, and get close to rare marine life. Some of my favorite places offer the chance to see dolphins, vibrant coral, and even glide with gentle manta rays after dark.
Kealakekua Bay Marine Life
When I visit Kealakekua Bay, I always bring my snorkel gear. The clear water makes it easy to watch schools of tropical fish.
Bright yellow tangs, butterflyfish, and parrotfish swim right below me. Sometimes, I even see spinner dolphins that come into the bay early in the morning.
This bay has a rich history, marked by the Captain Cook Monument across the water. The water is usually calm, which is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to relax and float.
The coral here is healthy, so I’m careful to keep my fins up and not step on the reef. Kealakekua Bay is one of the Big Island’s most popular snorkeling locations because of its peaceful setting and diverse marine life.
If I don’t want to swim far on my own, I can join a guided tour or take a kayak to the best spots. For tips and visitor info, I check reviews for Kealakekua Bay.
Honokōhau Harbor to Encounter Manta Rays
Snorkeling with manta rays is one of the most unique experiences on the Big Island. After sunset, I join a boat tour leaving from Honokōhau Harbor.
These gentle giants glide in the water just below me, feeding on plankton attracted by underwater lights. Tours provide wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, so I only need my swimsuit and a sense of adventure.
The water usually stays calm at night, and I can float at the surface while manta rays swoop and swirl below. The guides teach me to stay still and avoid touching the rays, since they’re harmless and protected.
Watching these huge creatures move so close makes me appreciate Hawaii’s delicate wildlife. For more about these nighttime adventures, I visit night snorkeling with manta rays.
Tide Pools and Coral Reefs
When I want something different, I head to tide pools and shallow reefs along the west coast. Spots like Kahaluu Beach Park have calm water and plenty of things to see.
The tide pools fill with urchins, tiny fish, and sometimes even octopuses hiding in cracks. These spots are great for young kids or anyone nervous about deep water.
I always wear water shoes to protect my feet and avoid slipping on rocks. In the reef zones, I spot clusters of coral in pink, purple, and orange.
While exploring, I look for signs reminding me not to step on the coral or chase sea turtles. Respecting marine life helps these habitats stay healthy for everyone.
More about the best places for snorkeling and tide pools is at top Big Island snorkeling spots.
Chase Breathtaking Waterfalls
Exploring waterfalls is one of my favorite things to do on the Big Island. Two places stand out for their natural beauty and the chance to see powerful falls surrounded by lush rainforest scenery.
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park is one of the top attractions on the Big Island. I love that the park is easy to find, just a short drive from Hilo.
The walk through the rainforest is manageable for most people. A paved loop trail takes me past huge ferns, orchids, and tall bamboo.
After about half a mile, I reach the overlook for Akaka Falls, which drops 442 feet into a deep gorge. The waterfall is amazing, especially after it rains.
Kahuna Falls is also on the same trail, adding another spot to admire. Some parts of the trail can be slippery, so I wear good shoes and bring a rain jacket if the skies look gray.
For more details, I often refer to guides like this one on the best Big Island waterfalls.
Rainbow Falls Exploration
Rainbow Falls is just minutes from downtown Hilo, which makes it easy to fit into any day. The falls are about 80 feet tall and are best known for the rainbows that form in the morning when sunlight hits the mist.
I like visiting early when the light is perfect and the crowds are smaller. The viewing area is close to the parking lot, so it’s accessible if I want a quick stop.
The area around the falls is full of green plants and large banyan trees, which adds to the peaceful setting. I like to take my time and notice all the details, including the rock cave behind the waterfall, which has local legends attached to it.
I find more ideas about things to see and do on the Big Island helpful, especially for planning my visit.
Witness Majestic Stargazing at Mauna Kea
Stargazing at Mauna Kea is an experience I never want to miss. The summit sits above the clouds, offering views of the night sky that are among the clearest on Earth.
Sunset from the Summit
Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain on the Big Island, and even in Hawaii, it stands out. When I reach the summit, I am above 13,000 feet.
It gets cold, and I can see several climate zones along the drive up. The sky shifts from bright blue to deep orange as the sun drops below the clouds.
I love watching the sunset from Mauna Kea because the view feels almost unreal. The sky often becomes a mix of bold colors, and the clouds sit far below me.
Many tours, like those listed on Mauna Kea Summit Adventures, offer a warm meal and guidance, which makes the trip easier. Those tours help explain how to stay safe at high altitudes and what to expect with the cooler temperatures.
After sunset, stargazing starts right away. The sky grows dark quickly, making it perfect for spotting stars, planets, and sometimes meteors.
I bring a jacket, since temperatures can get below freezing, even though the Big Island is usually warm.
Mauna Kea Observatories
Mauna Kea’s summit hosts some of the world’s leading research telescopes. I can’t just walk into the observatories, but I know scientists make groundbreaking discoveries above me.
The height of Mauna Kea and the dry, stable air create some of the best conditions for astronomy.
When I join a stargazing tour, guides set up powerful portable telescopes nearby. They point out planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies.
I quickly see why scientists from around the globe want to work here.
At night, the Milky Way shines brightly overhead. Tours include time to look through telescopes, answer questions, and help me spot constellations.
For anyone wanting an unforgettable view of the night sky, stargazing at Mauna Kea is a highlight of the Big Island.
Embark on Exciting Helicopter Tours
Taking a helicopter tour lets me see hidden landscapes I can’t reach by car or foot. I experience the island’s famous volcanoes, rugged valleys, and stunning coastlines from above.
Aerial Views of Volcanoes
When I join a helicopter tour on the Big Island, I get to fly over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. I see Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, from the sky.
Lava flows, craters, and steaming vents come into view. Sometimes, I spot an orange glow or see new lava oozing from the ground.
The helicopter hovers over areas that are off-limits to hikers, letting me view volcanic landscapes safely. Guides point out highlights like Devastation Trail or the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which look even more impressive from the air.
On some tours, I see Mauna Kea’s snow-capped summit, which surprises me in Hawaii.
Waterfalls and Coastline from Above
Flying along the Big Island’s coastline, I see lush green cliffs, deep valleys, and hidden beaches. The waterfalls on the Kohala Coast look especially striking from the air.
Tall cascades like Hi‘ilawe Falls, one of the island’s tallest, come into view. Streams wind through the forest, then tumble down rocky cliffs.
The Pololū and Waipi‘o Valleys stretch beneath me, showing black sand beaches and sheer cliffs. The blue Pacific meets jagged lava rock below, creating a dramatic scene.
Some tours circle over secret waterfalls only visible from a helicopter. I also pass by coral reefs and waves crashing at remote coves.
For more details about these tours, I check out top-rated helicopter tours on the Big Island to see what each flight offers.
Adventure Into Lush Rainforests
Walking into the rainforests on the Big Island feels like entering a different world. Tall, green trees, clear streams, and unique wildlife surround me.
Exploring Waipiʻo Valley
When I visit Waipiʻo Valley, I see how green and wild everything looks. The valley has steep cliffs covered in thick rainforest.
I spot horses grazing in open fields and hear birds calling from high in the trees.
There are a few ways to explore Waipiʻo. I like hiking down the steep road, but some people travel by horseback or four-wheel drive since the path is rough.
At the bottom, I find black sand beaches where I can rest and enjoy the views.
The weather can change quickly, so I bring rain gear and sturdy shoes for the muddy trail. The valley is also home to taro farms and old Hawaiian temples, which I enjoy seeing up close.
You can learn more by visiting sites like Waipiʻo Valley hiking guides.
Pololū Valley Hikes
Pololū Valley sits on the north side of the Big Island. When I start hiking here, the trail leads through native trees with the sound of ocean waves nearby.
The hike into the valley is short but steep and slippery, so I watch my step.
At the bottom, I find a black sand beach and remains of ancient lava flows. Sometimes, I see wild goats climbing the cliffs or hear the wind in the ironwood trees.
The beach is a nice spot for a picnic, but the strong currents make swimming unsafe.
The hike back up is tough, but the views along the trail make it worth it. For those who want to go farther, other trails lead deeper into the rainforest and up to more lookouts.
It’s a favorite spot among hikers who want to see untouched rainforest beauty close to the main roads.
Enjoy Ocean Activities Beyond Snorkeling
The Big Island offers much more than excellent snorkeling. Exploring the ocean in new ways lets me spot incredible wildlife and enjoy active adventures on the water.
Kayaking with Dolphins
Taking a kayak out on the ocean early in the morning is a favorite way to start the day. I paddle along calm coastal waters, watching for spinner dolphins.
Seeing these animals leap near my kayak is exciting and unforgettable.
Kealakekua Bay is a top place to launch a kayak on the Big Island. Local tours guide me through protected areas where dolphins swim.
I always keep a respectful distance and never chase the dolphins.
Some kayak tours stop by hidden caves and lava rock cliffs. Wildlife safaris often include time to spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and sometimes even whales.
Kayaking here is about moving quietly, enjoying the views, and watching marine life in their natural home.
For more on kayaking adventures, I found this list of water activities on the Big Island helpful.
Paddleboarding and Water Sports
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is easy to learn, even for beginners like me. I rent a board at a local beach where the water is calm and clear.
SUP lets me see reef fish below and enjoy the warm Hawaiian sun.
I also try other water sports. Surf lessons are available at many Big Island beaches for both first-timers and experienced surfers.
I notice that less crowded spots are best for learning.
Families and solo travelers can rent gear for boogie boarding or try guided group activities. Some places, like Kailua Bay, offer equipment rentals and quick lessons.
These water sports help me stay active and appreciate the coast in new ways.
If you are curious about more options, check out this list of Big Island activities.
Experience Big Island’s Golf Courses
When I visit the Big Island, I can choose between world-class resort golfing and courses that run right along the ocean. Some spots offer challenging fairways with stunning scenery, while others focus on comfort and luxury amenities.
Resort Golf Experiences
The Big Island is home to several famous resort golf courses. Places like the Mauna Kea Resort Golf Course and Mauna Lani Resort feature courses designed by well-known architects.
They offer excellent service, beautiful landscaping, and challenging layouts.
Many resorts let me book a lesson or practice at their driving ranges. Some have club rentals and pro shops with the latest gear.
I find the Mauna Kea Resort Golf Course stands out for its ocean views and tricky bunkers. The Waikoloa Beach Resort also offers two championship courses in a setting filled with black lava rock.
Here’s a quick list of popular golf resorts:
- Mauna Kea Resort Golf Course
- Mauna Lani Resort (South Course and North Course)
- Waikoloa Beach Resort King’s Course
If I want both luxury and a memorable round, a resort golf course on the Big Island is a solid pick. I can check out the best courses here.
Scenic Oceanfront Courses
Some of my favorite Big Island golf moments come with the view. Several courses hug the coastline, offering holes right by the Pacific Ocean.
The Kona Country Club, for example, has five holes along the shore, letting me enjoy ocean breezes and even spot dolphins from the greens.
Makani Golf Club and Hapuna Golf Course are other options where I get to play with volcanic mountains on one side and the ocean on the other. Bunkers here are sometimes made from black lava sand or bordered by palm trees.
These scenic courses offer natural beauty and unique playing conditions. I can plan my visit and see a full list of oceanfront courses to find one that fits my style and budget.
Discover Unique Hawaiian Culture
Learning about Hawaiian traditions made my trip to the Big Island more meaningful. I got to see how leis are made and tasted cocktails using local ingredients that I hadn’t seen anywhere else.
Lei Making and Hula
Joining a lei making workshop gave me a deeper respect for these beautiful flower garlands. People make leis from flowers, shells, or kukui nuts and give them during greetings, celebrations, and special events.
On the Big Island, I could book a class at local cultural centers or even some hotels.
The instructors showed me how to weave flower stems and tie each piece. I enjoyed picking my favorite flowers.
While working, I learned the meanings behind the colors and types of leis. Certain leis are used for graduations, birthdays, or to say goodbye.
After making leis, I joined a hula dance class. Hula is more than a dance—it tells stories through movements and music.
Even as a beginner, I enjoyed learning about the history and trying out the graceful steps. Attending a hula show with live musicians gave me a deeper feeling for the spirit of Hawaii.
For more immersive ideas, check out unique activities on the Big Island.
Sampling Local Cocktails
The Big Island’s tropical drinks offer much more than basic mai tais.
Many bars and restaurants use local rum, vodka, or gin made from island-grown sugarcane and botanicals to create unique cocktails.
Fresh fruit adds bright flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit), pineapple, and guava.
Some bars blend locally grown coffee or chocolate into their cocktails for a special twist.
At farmer’s markets, I tried non-alcoholic drinks with house-made syrups, such as hibiscus or ginger.
These drinks tasted both refreshing and distinctly Hawaiian.
Here’s a simple list of cocktails I tried:
Mai Tai: Local rum and fresh lime.
Lava Flow: Coconut, pineapple, and strawberry blended together.
Pineapple Mule: Hawaiian vodka, ginger beer, and pineapple.
If you love discovering new flavors, you’ll find something fresh in every glass on the Big Island.
For a list of tasty events, check out the Hilo Chocolate Festival to learn about local chocolate drinks and more.
Explore Diverse Climate Zones
When I visit the Big Island, I notice dramatic changes in weather and scenery, even on short drives.
The island’s unique geography creates contrasting regions, from dry lava deserts to lush rainforests.
From Desert to Rainforest
Driving across the Big Island, I see how quickly the landscape shifts.
On the west side near Kailua-Kona, the coast feels dry with black lava fields and hardy kiawe trees.
These areas look almost like a desert, with little rain and lots of sunshine.
It’s a great place for sunny days at the beach or exploring ancient lava flows.
As I head inland or east, everything changes fast.
The area around Hilo gets much more rain and is filled with green rainforest.
Hiking trails wind through tall ferns and waterfalls.
I enjoy exploring places like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where I can walk through misty forests and visit volcanic landscapes.
Microclimates on the Island
The number of microclimates on the Big Island surprises me. Scientists identify at least eight climate zones here.
Even on the same day, I can drive from a cool mountain top to a humid coast. The highlands near Waimea stay cool and foggy, while Puna’s lowlands feel hot and steamy.
If I like hiking, these differences make each trail feel new. I might start my day in the warm south, then reach cooler, wetter forests as I climb higher.
I always pack layers so I can adjust to changing weather. These microclimates let me enjoy many outdoor adventures, from rainforest hikes to desert walks, all on one island.
