Ultimate Big Island, Hawaii Guide
Curated By
Taylor Morris
SHARE
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-copy-url.9b3e4dc0.svg?w=16&q=90){kind=icon}
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-check.1bfe605d.svg?w=15&q=90){kind=icon}
Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel
Nature Escapes
Digital Nomad Travel
Food & Wine
Hawai'i
Romantic
Island
Outdoors
Curator’s statement
If you want to see the adventurous side of Hawaii, head to the Big Island. It is nicknamed as such because it is the largest of the Hawaiian islands and contains eight of the Earth's thirteen climate zones. There is no shortage of things to see. Whether you spend a few days hanging on the beach with the local Honu (turtles), hiking around Kilauea, an active volcano or stargazing atop Mauna Kea, there is something for everyone on my favorite Hawaiian island.
The Fora Difference
Book with Taylor to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-travel-perks.9512b274.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-recommendations.3b21b22c.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-inside-knowledge.1cb7ecbe.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Hawaii
Unlock perks by contacting Taylor to book your trip.
Things to do in Hawaii
If you're looking to tackle all the adventure the Big Island has to offer, I recommend renting a jeep to circumnavigate the island, stopping for lodging along the way.
South Point Park Overlook
This is the southernmost point in the US and a beautiful place to watch the waves crash against the cliffs. You can drive, if you dare, or hike 2.5 miles into the green sand beach.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
You could spend the afternoon or a few days here. Check out the Jaggar Museum, smell the sulfur dioxide at the Steam Vents, and walk through the Thurston Lava tube if you're short on time. For a longer adventure, I recommend the Kilauea Iki trail. If you're lucky enough to visit during an active eruption, take a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian.
Volcano Winery
Unique winery producing some full grape varietals and some fruit-blended varietals.
Poihiki (Issac Hale) Beach Park
Established in 2018 by the eruption of Kilauea, Hawaii's newest black sand beach! Here you can see different stages of the lava being pulverized by the ocean into sand.
Hilo's Waterfalls
These can easily be seen in an afternoon. Akaka Falls & Kahuna Falls can be accessed from an easy 0.5mi loop. Umauma Falls has drive-up access. Rainbow Falls & the Boiling Pots drive-up access can be found at Wailuku River State Park. These are best seen during the rainy season; November - April.
Kaumana Caves
Descend into a lava tube formed in 1881 by Mauna Loa.
Mauna Kea
If it gets too hot by the beaches, head to the tallest peak in the state for stargazing. Remember to dress warm! The average night temperature hovers around freezing!
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park
The City of Refuge, a place of spiritual sanctuary, is best viewed at sunset.
Snorkeling at Two-Step
Best snorkeling with a natural stepped entry into the ocean.
St. Benedict Catholic Painted Church
In 1842 industrious Belgian priest, Father Jean, painted the interior of the church with lifelike depictions from the bible and the lives of the saints.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
By far one of the coolest snorkel tours. A must do!
Hawaii Nautical Sailing Charter
There's nothing better than seeing the coastline from the sea. You can opt for a day or sunset sail, small group or private. I saw tons of fish snorkeling and hundreds of Spinner dolphins swimming alongside our boat!
Makalawena Beach
This is a popular spot, for good reason! After following the trail for a hot 1.4mi hike over the lava field, you are rewarded with a gorgeous white sand beach.
Kiholo Bay (Queen's Bath)
One of the best places to see Green Sea Turtles. Swimming with a turtle with no other people around is a magical experience to say the least!
Waipi'o Valley
Take a tour with Waipi'o on Horseback to explore the beautiful taro fields and waterfalls. You can also hike to the beautiful black sand beach seen from the overlook.
Places to eat & drink in Hawaii
Kona
Basik Cafe: their acai bowls are the perfect start to your day
The Coffee Shack: 100% Kona coffee grown on-site with incomparable views of Kealakekua Bay and delicious breakfast, yes please! Get there early, this is a popular watering hole for locals and tourists alike.
Umekes: For Kona's best poke
Super J's: hole-in-the-wall Hawaiian specialties
Huggo's & On the Rocks: Upscale seafood restaurant with beachfront bar next door
Gertrude's Jazz Bar: The hippest bar in Kona, check it out!
Don's Mai Tai Bar: Birthplace of the Mai Tai with a good view of the Royal Kona Luau.
Hilo
Nori's Saimin & Snacks
Kawamoto Store: Family-owned spot serving up delicious Japanese, Hawaiian, Filipino and Chinese take-out. Perfect for taking to the beach
Two Ladies' Kitchen: Fresh Mochi.
Makani's Magic Pineapple Shack: Insta-worthy ice cream cones, smoothies and acai bowls.
Waimea
Hawaiian Style Cafe: Best banana macadamia nut pancakes.
Tex Drive-In: Longtime diner joint known for their malasadas.
Big Island Toyko Table: Great sushi from a food court.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Michelle & Justin Salzer guide, Beach-Lover's Guide to Oahu, Hawai'i.
Travel Advisor
Taylor Morris
Get in touch with Taylor
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Taylor within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawaii.