The Big Island of Hawaii is different from the other islands in Hawaii. It has its own unique personality. When you explore the Big Island, you’ll see a wide variety of landscapes in just one day. You can drive from snowy mountain tops to black sand beaches, ancient lava fields to lush green valleys. This is the most natural and genuine side of Hawaii.
Why is Big Island so Special?
There are several reasons why things to do on Big Island are so fascinating:
- Volcanic Activity: You’re standing on the youngest landmass in the Hawaiian chain, where volcanoes still actively shape the earth beneath your feet.
- Diverse Climate Zones: The island spans 11 distinct climate zones, creating ecosystems you won’t find anywhere else on the planet.
- Unique Regions: From the resort areas of Waikoloa to the rugged coastlines of Kohala, each region offers its own character and adventures.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best experiences waiting for you on the Big Island—from witnessing molten lava flows and swimming with manta rays to savoring world-renowned Kona coffee and connecting with Hawaiian culture through traditional luaus. You’ll discover why this island captivates travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity.
1. Discover the Majestic Volcanoes
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can witness the power of nature shaping the land. Here, you’ll be close to two of the most active volcanoes on Earth—Kīlauea and Mauna Loa—and learn about their history over millions of years.
Explore Kīlauea’s Wonders
The Kīlauea Iki Trail is one of the best hiking trails on the island, offering a unique opportunity to walk across a lava lake that solidified in 1959. This 4-mile loop trail takes you through:
- Native rainforest
- The crater floor with steaming vents
- An unforgettable contrast between lush greenery and barren lava
Challenge Yourself with Mauna Loa
For experienced hikers looking for an adventure, the Mauna Loa Trail presents a multi-day backcountry trek to Red Hill Cabin. This challenging route rewards you with breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes stretching as far as you can see.
Scenic Drives for All
If you prefer to explore by car, Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road offer stunning viewpoints without requiring much physical effort. On Chain of Craters Road, you’ll descend 3,700 feet over 19 miles, passing ancient petroglyphs and dramatic coastal cliffs where lava once flowed into the ocean. There are several overlooks along the way where you can stop and capture photos of:
- Steaming vents
- Collapsed craters
- Vast lava fields showcasing nature’s destructive and creative forces working together
2. Relax on Unique Beaches
The Big Island breaks away from Hawaii’s typical white sand stereotype with beaches that showcase nature’s artistic palette in unexpected ways.
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach stands out as one of the island’s most photographed coastal destinations. The jet-black sands create a dramatic contrast against the turquoise waters and white foam of breaking waves. You’ll find this beach on the southeastern coast, where volcanic activity has ground lava rock into fine, dark particles over thousands of years. The real highlight? Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) frequently bask on the warm black sands. You can observe these protected creatures from a respectful distance—remember to maintain at least 10 feet between you and the turtles. The beach offers picnic areas, restrooms, and easy parking, making it accessible for families.
- Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Papakolea Green Sand Beach presents a more adventurous experience. Located near South Point, this rare beach gets its olive-green hue from olivine crystals—a mineral found in the surrounding volcanic cinder cone. The 2.5-mile hike to reach Papakolea takes you through rugged terrain with minimal shade, so you’ll want to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear. The journey rewards you with one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The beach sits in a protected cove, and the descent requires careful footing on loose volcanic rock.
For the best experience at these unique hawaii destinations beaches, visit during early morning hours to avoid crowds and intense midday heat.
3. Experience Thrilling Adventures on the Kona Coast
The Kona Coast delivers some of the most exhilarating things to do on Big Island, with experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaii. This sun-drenched western shoreline combines adventure with natural beauty in ways that will leave you breathless.
Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays
Swimming alongside giant manta rays in the dark ocean ranks among the most unforgettable Kona Coast activities. These gentle creatures, with wingspans reaching up to 12 feet, glide gracefully through the water as they feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights. You’ll float on the surface holding onto a board equipped with bright lights while these magnificent animals perform acrobatic loops just inches below you. The experience feels surreal as multiple mantas circle beneath you in a choreographed dance. Tour operators provide all necessary equipment including wetsuits, and you don’t need extensive snorkeling experience to participate in this bucket-list adventure.
The volcanic slopes above the Kona Coast produce some of the world’s most sought-after coffee. You can visit working farms where guides walk you through the entire cultivation process, from cherry picking to roasting. Many tours include tastings where you’ll sample different roast profiles and learn what gives Kona coffee its distinctive smooth flavor and low acidity. The farms themselves offer stunning views of the coastline below, making the experience as scenic as it is educational.
4. Immerse Yourself in Hawaiian Culture Through Local Experiences
The Big Island offers you authentic opportunities to connect with Hawaiian traditions that have been preserved for generations.
Experience a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
A traditional Hawaiian luau stands as the quintessential cultural experience, where you’ll feast on kalua pig slow-roasted in an underground imu oven, sample poi made from pounded taro root, and savor fresh ahi poke. The evening comes alive with hula dancers telling stories through graceful movements, their hands painting narratives of ancient legends while live musicians strum ukuleles and chant traditional mele.
Explore Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
You can deepen your understanding of Hawaiian history at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a sacred place of refuge where ancient Hawaiians sought sanctuary. Knowledgeable guides share stories of the kapu system, royal grounds, and the spiritual significance of these coastal temples. Walking among the reconstructed thatched structures and massive stone walls, you’ll gain insights into the complex social structures and beliefs that shaped Hawaiian society.
https://www.nps.gov/puho/index.htm
Discover Local Artisans and Crafts
The cultural immersion extends beyond scheduled events. You’ll find local artisans demonstrating traditional crafts like lei making, wood carving, and weaving lauhala. These hands-on experiences allow you to appreciate the skill and patience required to master these ancient arts while supporting the preservation of Hawaiian cultural practices for future generations.
5. Marvel at Stunning Sunsets and Starry Skies from Mauna Kea Summit
Standing at 13,796 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea offers you an astronomical experience unlike anywhere else on Earth. When you measure from its base on the ocean floor, this dormant volcano reaches an impressive 33,000 feet, making it the tallest mountain on the planet.
Mauna Kea summit tours stargazing Hawaii experiences begin in the late afternoon, allowing you to witness the sun dipping below a sea of clouds while standing above the world. The drive up takes you through multiple climate zones, and you’ll feel the temperature drop as you ascend into the alpine environment.
After sunset, the real magic begins. The summit’s high altitude places you above 40% of Earth’s atmosphere, creating exceptionally clear viewing conditions. You’ll find minimal light pollution at this remote location, which is precisely why some of the world’s most advanced astronomical observatories, like those operated by Subaru Telescope, call Mauna Kea home.
During stargazing sessions, tour guides set up powerful telescopes that reveal:
- Distant galaxies millions of light-years away
- Saturn’s rings in stunning detail
- Jupiter’s moons orbiting in real-time
- Nebulae and star clusters invisible to the naked eye
The thin air at this altitude means you’ll see stars with remarkable clarity. On a clear night, you can observe thousands of celestial objects that remain hidden from view at lower elevations. You’ll want to dress warmly—temperatures at the summit regularly drop below freezing, even when beaches below bask in tropical warmth.
6. Explore Waimea’s Ranching Heritage and Scenic Beauty
Located in the uplands of the Big Island, Waimea offers a striking contrast to the coastal areas you’ve visited. This charming town, also known as Kamuela, sits at a higher elevation, resulting in cooler temperatures and a landscape of rolling green pastures that resemble the American West or even the Scottish Highlands.
Paniolo Culture and Parker Ranch
Waimea’s identity is deeply rooted in its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage. The Parker Ranch Visitor Center is your gateway to understanding this unique cultural legacy. Here, you’ll discover the fascinating story of one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States, spanning over 130,000 acres. The exhibits showcase authentic paniolo artifacts, historic photographs, and interactive displays that bring ranching history to life.
Scenic Drives and Natural Vistas
After immersing yourself in ranching history, the drive from Waimea toward Pololu Valley Lookout rewards you with some of the most picturesque landscapes on the Big Island. You’ll wind through lush pastures dotted with cattle, pass rustic ranch fences, and navigate through eucalyptus groves. The route culminates at Pololu Valley Lookout, where dramatic coastal cliffs plunge into the Pacific Ocean, creating a breathtaking panorama that perfectly captures the island’s diverse beauty.
When searching for things to do in Waimea on the Big Island, you’ll find this region offers a refreshing change of pace from volcanic landscapes and beach activities.
7. Explore Hilo’s Natural Wonders and Vibrant Local Scene
Hilo attractions Hawaii Island offers a refreshing contrast to the drier Kona side, with its lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls creating a tropical paradise you won’t want to miss.
Experience the Beauty of Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls stands as one of Hilo’s most photographed landmarks, and you’ll understand why the moment you arrive. Located just a short drive from downtown, this 80-foot waterfall plunges dramatically over ancient lava rock formations. Visit during morning hours when sunlight creates spectacular rainbows in the mist – the sight is absolutely mesmerizing. The rainy season transforms this already impressive waterfall into a thundering spectacle of nature’s raw power.
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture at Hilo Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market pulses with local energy every Wednesday and Saturday, though you’ll find vendors there daily. You can browse through stalls overflowing with exotic fruits like rambutan and dragon fruit, handcrafted jewelry, and aromatic tropical flowers. Don’t leave without trying fresh malasadas – these Portuguese doughnuts are a local obsession, and you’ll taste why after your first bite.
Savor Authentic Hawaiian Comfort Food at Hawaiian Style Café
When hunger strikes, Hawaiian Style Café delivers authentic island comfort food. Their plate lunches feature generous portions of kalua pork, loco moco, and other local favorites that fuel both residents and visitors. You’ll experience genuine Hawaiian hospitality alongside food that represents the island’s diverse culinary heritage.
https://hawaiianstylecafe.us/index.html
Practical Tips for Your Big Island Adventure!
Planning your trip to the Big Island requires understanding the island’s dramatic climate variations. You’ll encounter everything from snow-capped peaks to tropical beaches within a single day’s drive. Pack layers – temperatures can drop 30 degrees or more as you ascend from sea level to mountain summits. Bring a light rain jacket for Hilo’s wet side and sunscreen for Kona’s sunny coast. If you’re heading to Mauna Kea’s summit, warm clothing is essential even during summer months.
Weather Preparation Essentials:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers for hiking
- Waterproof jacket for rainforest areas
- Warm fleece or jacket for high-altitude visits
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+)
- Closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction
Respecting sacred sites is paramount during your visit. Mauna Kea holds deep spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians, who consider it the most sacred mountain in the Hawaiian Islands. Stay on designated paths, avoid stacking rocks (ahu), and never remove anything from these areas. You’re a guest in these culturally significant spaces.
When visiting Big Island, remember that things to do on Big Island extend beyond tourist activities – they include honoring the land and its people. Following visiting Big Island tips weather variations Hawaii island travel advice ensures you’re prepared for the island’s microclimates while maintaining respect for its cultural heritage. This approach creates meaningful experiences that benefit both you and the local community.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the must-see volcanic attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Popular activities include hiking trails like Kilauea Iki and Mauna Loa Trail to witness volcanic craters, steam vents, and lava fields, as well as scenic drives along Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road for stunning volcanic landscapes.
Where can I find unique beaches on the Big Island, and what makes them special?
Visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach to see striking black sands and frequent turtle sightings, or hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach known for its rare olivine green sands. These distinctive beaches offer a unique alternative to typical white sand shores for beachgoers seeking extraordinary coastal experiences.
What thrilling adventures are available on the Kona Coast of the Big Island?
Experience night snorkeling with giant manta rays in their natural habitat—a truly unforgettable activity. Additionally, take a Kona coffee tour to learn about the world-famous coffee grown in the region while sampling various coffee varieties, combining adventure with cultural immersion.
How can visitors immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture on the Big Island?
Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau featuring authentic local cuisine such as kalua pig and poi, alongside hula performances and live music. Also, explore cultural sites like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park where storytelling sessions provide insights into Hawaiian history led by knowledgeable guides.
What makes Mauna Kea Summit an ideal spot for sunset viewing and stargazing on the Big Island?
Guided tours take visitors to Mauna Kea’s summit for breathtaking sunsets above the clouds followed by stargazing sessions using powerful telescopes. The high-altitude location offers minimal light pollution, creating optimal conditions to marvel at stunning starry skies.
What practical tips should travelers know before visiting the Big Island of Hawaii?
Prepare for varied weather conditions across different elevation zones—from sunny beaches at sea level to cooler high-altitude hikes. Respect sacred sites such as Mauna Kea during your visit to honor cultural significance and help preserve these important places for future generations of both locals and travelers.
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