The Big Island Hawaii: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, you can’t miss visiting The Big Island. Known for its diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage, and endless adventures, this island has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more to help you make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions
The Big Island is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to The Big Island. The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. You can take a hike through the park’s lava fields, see the steam vents, and even witness the glowing lava at night.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
If you’re a nature lover, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is the perfect place to visit. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of plants and flowers, including rare and endangered species. You can take a guided tour or explore the garden on your own.
Hidden Gems
While The Big Island has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few:
Papakolea Beach
Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is a unique and secluded beach located at the southern tip of The Big Island. The sand is green due to the presence of olivine crystals. You can hike to the beach or take a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Waipi’o Valley
Waipi’o Valley is a lush and remote valley located on the northern coast of The Big Island. It’s only accessible by hiking, horseback riding, or a four-wheel drive vehicle. The valley is home to waterfalls, taro fields, and black sand beaches.
Food Scene
The Big Island has a diverse food scene with something for everyone. Here are some of the must-try dishes:
Poke
Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, vegetables, and rice. You can find poke bowls at many restaurants and food trucks around The Big Island.
Loco Moco
Loco Moco is a hearty dish made with rice, hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg. It’s a popular breakfast dish in Hawaii and can be found at many local restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Hawaii can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Stay in a Hostel
Hostels are a great option for budget travelers. You can find hostels on The Big Island for as low as $30 per night.
Cook Your Own Meals
Eating out can add up quickly, so consider cooking your own meals. Many hostels and vacation rentals have kitchens where you can prepare your own food.
Outdoor Adventures
The Big Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures:
Snorkeling
The Big Island has some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. You can see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
Ziplining
Ziplining is a fun and exciting way to see The Big Island’s lush landscape. There are several zipline tours available on the island.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Big Island has plenty of activities that are fun for the whole family. Here are a few:
Hawaiian Ocean Sports
Hawaiian Ocean Sports offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including snorkeling, whale watching, and sunset cruises.
Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo
The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. It’s home to over 60 species of animals, including tigers, monkeys, and sloths.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences on The Big Island, here are a few off-the-beaten-path options:
Makalawena Beach
Makalawena Beach is a hidden gem located on the Kona coast. It’s only accessible by hiking or a four-wheel drive vehicle. The beach is secluded and has crystal-clear water.
Kahuku Unit
The Kahuku Unit is a lesser-known section of Volcanoes National Park. It’s home to a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and cultural demonstrations.
Natural Wonders
The Big Island is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Here are a few:
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is the highest mountain in Hawaii and is considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing. You can take a guided tour or drive to the summit yourself.
Waipio Valley Lookout
The Waipio Valley Lookout offers stunning views of the lush valley and black sand beach below. You can hike down to the beach or take a guided tour.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Big Island may be known for its natural beauty, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Here are a few options:
Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse is a popular spot for craft beer and live music. They have over 70 beers on tap and live music most nights of the week.
Kona Brewing Company
The Kona Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers tours and tastings. They also have a restaurant with a full menu and live music.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or locally-made products, The Big Island has plenty of markets to choose from. Here are a few:
Hilo Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market is the largest farmers market on The Big Island. You can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local snacks.
Kona Farmers Market
The Kona Farmers Market is a popular spot for fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. They also have live music and food vendors.
Beaches and Mountains
The Big Island has some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in the world. Here are a few:
Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is known for its white sand and crystal-clear water.
Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is the largest volcano on earth and is located on The Big Island. You can take a hike through the lava fields and see the volcano’s summit.
Cultural Immersion
The Big Island has a rich cultural heritage and offers many opportunities for cultural immersion. Here are a few:
Hula Lessons
You can take hula lessons on The Big Island and learn about the history and culture of this traditional Hawaiian dance.
Hawaiian Cultural Center
The Hawaiian Cultural Center offers classes and workshops on Hawaiian culture, including weaving, lei making, and hula dancing.
Art and Music Scene
The Big Island has a thriving art and music scene. Here are a few places to check out:
Volcano Art Center
The Volcano Art Center is located in Volcanoes National Park and features works by local artists. You can also take classes and workshops here.
Palace Theater
The Palace Theater is a historic theater in Hilo that hosts live music, plays, and movies.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore The Big Island’s towns and cities. Here are a few options:
Hilo Historic Walk
The Hilo Historic Walk takes you through the town’s historic buildings and landmarks, including the Palace Theater and Wailoa River State Park.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
The Kona Coffee Living History Farm offers tours that take you through the history of coffee farming in Hawaii.
Architectural Marvels
The Big Island has some impressive architectural marvels. Here are a few:
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
The Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a sacred site that was once a