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Curator’s statement
The Island of Hawai'i — the Big Island — is a special place to visit. As the largest island in size and the least populated, it offers diverse microclimates and breathtaking natural beauty. For me, it is a place where the calming waves, clear blue water and whale watching give me the ultimate recharge from the hustle and bustle of my busy life. This is my happy place. Experience it for yourself with my recommendations in this Island of Hawai'i travel guide.
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Insider knowledge
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Where to stay on the Island of Hawai'i
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Things to do on the Island of Hawai'i
To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to plan day trips and allocate five to seven days for exploration. The Big Island of Hawai'i can be broken down into two parts: the Eastern Portion and the Western Portion. Both sides are filled with adventure and fun.
Western Portion
Beaches: On the western side of the island, you'll find a paradise of beautiful beaches. Spencer's Beach, Hapuna Beach, Waikoloa Beach and Kiholo Bay are just a few of the stunning options. Each beach may have its own parking and entrance fees, so it's best to do some research beforehand.
Hiking and Activities: Along the Kohala Coast on the Western portion of the Big Island, you'll find opportunities for petroglyph hikes, bike trails, championship golf courses and more. Don't forget to visit Kailua Kona town for unique treasures to commemorate your stay! A coffee tour of the famous Kona Coffee farms is highly recommended. At night, head to the Mauna Kea Visitor Center for stargazing, where enthusiasts can guide you through the dazzling night sky.
From November to April, keep an eye out for humpback whales, which make their annual visit to the waters of Hawai'i. For an unforgettable excursion, consider a boat tour with Captain Ikaika on Mauna Lani's boat, Kalama Kai. Whether you prefer an offshore island tour, sport fishing, whale watching or snorkeling, the choice is yours!
Eastern Portion
On the eastern side of the island, near Hilo, you'll find a more tropical setting. Explore the Hawai'i Volcano National Park, where you can witness the power of nature. Kalopa State Park, Akaka Falls State Park and Kilauea Cavern offer amazing hiking opportunities and stunning natural wonders. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, be sure to visit the Hilo Farmers Market, where you can find locally crafted goods and delicious food to enjoy during your stay. And don't forget to make a stop at the world-famous Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory Tour, where you can purchase unique macadamia nut flavors and get a quick glimpse of where your favorite nuts come from!
Places to eat & drink on the Island of Hawai'i
At Mauna Lani, indulge in a delicious, more upscale evening dinner at CanoeHouse. The outdoor setting is the perfect place to see the sun set and would make the perfect romantic evening for two.
In Kailua Kona town, don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious, shaved ice treats at Ululani's Hawaiian Shaved Ice or Gecko Girlz. For seafood lovers, Quinn's Almost by the Sea is a must-visit. And if you're a fan of poke, you can't miss Da Poke Shack!
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine is the only open-air restaurant in Hilo. If you're craving fresh-caught fish straight from the line, this is the place to be! Don't forget to try their delicious Mai-Tai cocktails.
Need to Know
Travel Advisor
Erica Villarreal
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to the Big Island. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Anna Ingoglia's guide, The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches on the Big Island.