Big Island Hawaii Topographic Map

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures, Big Island Hawaii should be on top of your travel bucket list. This island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and offers a myriad of experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. From exploring volcanic craters to snorkeling with manta rays, there is something for everyone in Big Island Hawaii.

Top Attractions

One of the most popular attractions on Big Island Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Visitors can hike through the park, explore volcanic craters, and witness lava flows. Another must-visit attraction is Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor. Visitors can take a scenic drive to the summit and stargaze at the world-renowned observatories.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, head to Waipio Valley, a lush valley with black sand beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails. You can also visit Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve to see ancient rock carvings, or take a dip in the Kapoho Tide Pools, a network of natural swimming pools fed by ocean tides.

Food Scene

Big Island Hawaii boasts a diverse food scene with influences from Hawaiian, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisines. Must-try dishes include poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish and seasonings, and loco moco, a hearty breakfast dish with rice, hamburger patty, egg, and gravy. For a unique dining experience, visit a luau and sample traditional Hawaiian dishes while watching hula performances.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling to Big Island Hawaii doesn’t have to break the bank. You can save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or vacation rentals. You can also save on food by visiting local markets and grocery stores instead of eating out for every meal. Lastly, many attractions on the island are free or low-cost, such as hiking trails and scenic drives.

Outdoor Adventures

Big Island Hawaii is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to surfing, there are endless activities to choose from. You can hike to waterfalls, zipline through the forest, or go on a manta ray night snorkel. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, head to one of the island’s many beaches and soak up the sun.

Historical Landmarks

Big Island Hawaii has a rich history and is home to many historical landmarks. One of the most notable is the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site where ancient Hawaiians would come to seek forgiveness for their sins. Another important site is the Hulihee Palace, a former vacation home for Hawaiian royalty that now serves as a museum.

Family-Friendly Activities

Big Island Hawaii is a great destination for families with children. You can take a helicopter tour to see the island from above, visit a coffee farm to learn about the island’s famous Kona coffee, or take a sunset sail. For a more educational experience, visit the Pacific Tsunami Museum or the Imiloa Astronomy Center.

Natural Wonders

Big Island Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. You can visit Akaka Falls State Park to see a 442-foot waterfall, or hike through the Waipio Valley to see black sand beaches and lush vegetation. You can also take a scenic drive on the Hamakua Coast to see dramatic sea cliffs and rolling hills.

Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re looking for a night out, there are plenty of options on Big Island Hawaii. You can dance the night away at one of the island’s many nightclubs or bars, or catch a show at the Palace Theatre. For a more laid-back experience, head to a beachside bar and watch the sunset while sipping on a tropical cocktail.

Local Markets

Big Island Hawaii is home to many local markets where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. The Hilo Farmers Market is one of the largest and most popular markets on the island, offering fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods. The Kona Farmers Market is another great option, with over 100 vendors selling everything from jewelry to clothing.

Beaches and Mountains

Big Island Hawaii has it all, from pristine beaches to towering mountains. You can spend the day lounging on the white sand beaches of Hapuna Beach State Park or exploring the rugged coastline of Pololu Valley. You can also hike to the summit of Mauna Kea for panoramic views of the island or take a scenic drive through the lush valleys of Kohala.

Cultural Immersion

To truly immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, you can attend a traditional Hawaiian ceremony or participate in a hula performance. You can also visit the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a sacred site where ancient Hawaiians worshipped their gods. For a more modern cultural experience, head to the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture and dance.

Art and Music Scene

Big Island Hawaii has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries and venues showcasing local talent. You can visit the Volcano Art Center to see works by local artists, or catch a concert at the Kahilu Theatre. For a more intimate experience, head to one of the island’s many coffee shops or bars to hear live music by local musicians.

Walking Tours

To get a closer look at the island’s history and culture, you can take a walking tour. The Kona Historical Society offers walking tours of historic Kailua Village, while the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association offers tours of downtown Hilo. You can also take a self-guided tour of the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture.

Architectural Marvels

Big Island Hawaii is home to many architectural marvels, from historic churches to modern homes. One of the most notable is the St. Benedict’s Painted Church, a small church with vibrant murals painted by a Belgian priest in the 19th century. You can also visit the Hulihee Palace to see a beautiful example of Hawaiian architecture, or take a drive through the gated communities of Kukio and Hualalai to see stunning modern homes.

Historical Sites

Big Island Hawaii is steeped in history, and there are many historical sites to explore. You can visit the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site to see ancient temples and learn about Hawaiian history, or take a tour of the Parker Ranch, one of the largest and oldest cattle ranches in the United States. For a more somber experience, visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial and pay your respects to those who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Biking Routes

Big Island Hawaii is a great destination for biking enthusiasts. You can bike the scenic Kohala Coast, a 42-mile route that takes you through lush valleys and along the coast. You can also bike the Waikoloa Beach Resort area, a 12-mile route that offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains. For a more challenging ride, you can bike to the summit of Mauna Kea, a 13,796-foot climb that is not for the faint of heart.

Wellness Retreats

Big Island Hawaii is the perfect destination for a wellness retreat. You can attend a yoga retreat at one of the island’s many yoga studios or resorts, or book a massage at a spa overlooking the ocean. You can also take a dip in one of the island’s many natural hot springs, such as Ahalanui Park or Kapoho Tide Pools.

Adventure Sports

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Big Island Hawaii has plenty of adventure sports to offer. You can go skydiving over the island, take a helicopter tour of the volcanoes, or go on a deep-sea fishing excursion. For a more unique experience, you can try stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay or go on an ATV tour through the rugged terrain of Kohala.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Big Island Hawaii has something for everyone. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and endless activities, this island is truly a tropical paradise.