The Big Island of Hawaii, the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is a geological marvel. From Kona to Hilo, Waimea and beyond, if you’re an active traveler like me, this island paradise will fascinate you. From the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea to the black sand beaches of Punalu’u, you will find breathtaking landscapes. The vibrant coral reefs of Kona add to the Big Island’s beauty. The lush rainforests of Hilo make the experience unique, and the trees of Waimea are unforgettable.
The Big Island is a paradise for nature and outdoor lovers. Experience the awe-inspiring power of volcanoes at the National Park. Hike through vibrant flora and fauna. Snorkel with manta rays or sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Stargaze beneath dark Pacific skies.
If you rent a Jeep like I did, you can take a few scenic road trips. These trips will take you around most of the island in a few days. Here are a few great ideas worth exploring.
Exploring the Kona Coast
Kailua-Kona, often called “Kona Town,” is the vibrant heart of the Kona District on the Big Island of Hawaii. Many people and much, though not all, of the tourism is in this area.
Kona is a paradise for water enthusiasts. In many areas, you can wade into the ocean for world-class snorkeling and diving. These areas feature vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. You’ll also find nighttime tours for swimming with manta rays.
Surfer’s Church (St. Peter’s by the Sea Catholic Church)
Surfing is the most popular water sport, and many people of all skill levels try it. In Kahaluʻu Bay, surfers arrive with the sun near the “surfer’s church.” Ancient Hawaiians, particularly royalty, were skilled wave riders, using long wooden boards called “olo” or “Alaia.” An ancient temple once stood at the church site, and the royals would pray there before hitting the waves.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
This small National Historical Park is near Kahaluʻu Bay on the Kona Coast. Visitors can explore reconstructed villages and pay respects at the Hale o Keawe temple, where the bones of revered chiefs were once kept. The park offers a unique chance to learn about the site’s spiritual significance. You can also see fishponds and petroglyphs, which provide insights into ancient Hawaiian society.
Macadamia Nut Farms
The Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its macadamia nut farms. They thrive in the fertile volcanic soil and tropical climate. Visitors can tour working farms, learn about the cultivation process, and sample a variety of delicious macadamia nut products, from roasted nuts and candies to chocolates and ice cream
Fun fact: Some places call chocolate-covered macadamia nuts “donkey balls.” They’re delicious. The bigger, the better.
Kona Coffee
The Kona coffee region on the Big Island is world-renowned for producing some of the finest coffee in the world. The unique microclimate, rich volcanic soil, abundant rainfall, and constant trade winds create ideal conditions for cultivating coffee beans. Kona coffee is known for its smooth flavor with hints of chocolate, caramel, and nuts.
Visitors can tour coffee farms, learn about the cultivation and roasting process, and taste samples.
Hawaiian Coffee facts:
- It’s expensive! Even though it’s grown on the island, prices are still premium. Expect to pay from $25 to $100 a pound.
- “Peaberry” is a term you’ll hear often. Hawaiian Peaberry coffee is rare. Only about 5-10% of coffee cherries produce one rounded peaberry. This is instead of the usual two oval beans per cherry. Peaberries have a more complex, smooth and sweet flavor than regular Kona coffee beans.
- While Kona coffee is the most famous, other Hawaiian islands, such as Kauai and Maui, also produce high-quality coffee.
Read more about coffee in Hawaii here.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, on the southeastern coast of the Big Island, has jet-black sands formed from lava. This picturesque beach is known for its endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles, often seen basking in the sun.
The day I visited was when the research and conservation teams tagged turtles. They do this once a year. I watched them take rafts to the sea and haul these gentle creatures back in on rafts.
Green Sand Beach
I didn’t visit this beach, but others said Papakōlea Beach, often called Green Sand Beach, is a unique and stunning natural wonder. This beach is on the southern tip of the Big Island. The green color comes from the presence of olivine crystals. It was created from the volcanic rock of the nearby Puʻu Mahana cinder cone. Reaching the beach requires a moderate, desolate hike.
Adventures in Hilo
Hilo is situated on the lush eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. It is a vibrant town known for its tropical rainforest climate. It also boasts stunning waterfalls like Rainbow Falls. The town is close to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Hilo has a rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm and shopping.
Volcanoes National Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore steaming lava vents. They can hike through ancient lava flows and visit significant cultural sites. Additionally, visitors can explore the visitors’ center to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Hawaiian people.
Read more about Volcanoes National Park here.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, known as Waiānuenue Falls, is a majestic 80-foot-tall waterfall near downtown Hilo. It’s one of the easiest to get to without any hiking required. The parking lot is only a few feet away.
Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls State Park, near Hilo, is a lush rainforest haven. It features the 442-foot Akaka Falls, a cascading waterfall, and Kahuna Falls, a 100-foot waterfall. The park has a short, easy-to-walk loop trail that winds through a rainforest and gets you to both waterfalls. Parking is limited, there are wait times, and it costs $10. In the small town, you’ll pass a few small shops and cafes.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a lush oasis showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants. The 4-mile scenic drive to the garden is a wonderful afternoon jaunt. If you have more time, walking through the meandering trails is an option. These trails wind through vibrant landscapes for $30 per person. The gardens include cascading waterfalls, vibrant blooms, rare orchids, and exotic palms.
Pro tip: Bring a raincoat or umbrella or wear quick-dry clothing. It’s often raining in Hilo, sometimes in short bursts. Being dry will make your adventures more pleasant.
Traveling to Waimea and Beyond
If you travel from the arid beach climate of Kona to the rainforest of Hilo, you’ll pass through the lava fields in the middle. You’ll also encounter lava fields at the edges of the island. You’ll be surprised to see the green and brown forests around Waimea. Big Islands’ geologic diversity becomes evident in this third of the journey. So does its history.
Waimea Town
Waimea Town is steeped in ranching history. Its relaxed atmosphere is evident in its quaint shops, art galleries, and delicious farm-to-table restaurants. This picturesque town offers a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas. It gives visitors a glimpse into authentic Hawaiian life. They also have a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hilo and Mauna Loa Forest Reserves
The Hilo Forest Reserve covers about 64,000 acres of public land on the northeastern slopes of the Big Island. It plays a vital role in watershed protection and has a diverse ecosystem, including lush rainforests and beautiful hardwood forests.
Mauna Loa Forest Reserve is situated on the slopes of Mauna Loa volcano. It covers a vast area and features unique high-altitude forests. These forests provide critical habitat for native flora and fauna.
The Kaulana Manu Nature Trail
Formerly known as Kīpuka 21, this popular hiking and birding destination is between Hilo and Mauna Kea. This trail winds through a “kipuka,” like an oasis between lava flows, creating a unique ecological haven. The trail offers excellent opportunities to spot native Hawaiian forest birds like the ʻakiapōlāʻau, ʻakepa, and ʻalawī. It has interpretive signs with information so you know what you’re looking it.
Lava Flows and Land Formation
Mark Twain once said, “Buy land, they’re not making it anymore,” but he obviously hadn’t been to Hawaii yet. Lava flows all over the Big Island, emanating from active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa, creating new land. They expand the coastline and transform the landscape.
The lava flows on the Big Island are often fissures, not eruptions from one central location. They’re like veins that vent and seep from a wide area. These flows splay out like fingers. They seek the ocean where they will cool and become land. Volcanic activity on the Big Island has created many hundreds of new acres of land – for the government.
Kekaha Kai State Park in Kona is a prime area to see this in action. The park encompasses many miles of lava earth, which extends to the sea and becomes stunning beaches. Mahai’ula Beach, for example, has calm waters that are perfect for swimming. Kua Bay is renowned for surfing and bodyboarding, and the secluded Makalawena Beach is accessible by a short hike.
Night Sky on Big Island
With minimal light pollution and high-altitude locations, the island offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the wonders of the cosmos. Night sky tours are a popular activity.
Pop quiz: What’s the what’s the brightest star in the sky?
Answer: If you’re from the Midwest like me you might have guessed the North Star. However, the answer is Sirius. It’s the brightest star. However, I can’t see Sirius on my side of the earth, so I forget. You’ll see many, many more stars on a night tour of the Big Island, no matter where you come from.
The Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From active volcanoes’ awe-inspiring power to lush rainforests’ serenity, the island boasts a diverse landscape that continually captivates and amazes.
I don’t revisit many places, but this is one that I look forward to exploring again.
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