The Big Island of Hawaii, also called Hawai’i Island, is a place full of amazing contrasts and natural beauty. From beautiful rainforests and active volcanoes to stunning beaches and incredible starry nights from high peaks, there’s so much to explore and enjoy. If you’re thinking about visiting, you’ll want to check out these exciting activities that the Big Island has to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the top things you can do that will leave you in awe.
1. Explore Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
One of the best places to go on the Big Island is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. This incredible site is recognized by UNESCO for its unique natural features, including two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. At the park, you can walk through fascinating lava tubes, see steam rising from vents in the ground, and hike around impressive volcanic craters. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of glowing lava at night, which is one of the most exciting experiences you can have here.
2. Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is a beautiful paradise that invites snorkelers to enjoy its clear waters, filled with a vibrant mix of colorful fish swimming among lively coral reefs. This bay isn’t just a natural wonder; it’s also a place with historical importance, as it’s where Captain James Cook first arrived in Hawaii, marking an important moment in the island’s history. When you explore this fascinating underwater world, you’ll be surrounded by a variety of marine life, creating an unforgettable experience. To enhance your adventure, think about taking a kayak tour to glide over the calm waters and take in the stunning views of the bay from a different angle. This is one of the top activities to experience on the Big Island of Hawaii!
3. Witness the Beauty of Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that drops 442 feet and is surrounded by a beautiful rainforest. You can easily get to it by following a short hiking path that takes you through the lush greenery. Along the way, you can also see the smaller Kahuna Falls, making it a great double experience. This visit is a must-do while you’re on the Big Island, and it’s perfect for taking amazing photos that look like postcards!
4. Stargaze at Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain on the island, is famous for its incredibly clear skies, making it a perfect spot for stargazing. At the top, you’ll find some amazing observatories, and at the Visitor Information Station, which is located at 9,200 feet, you can join stargazing programs and use telescopes. Watching the Milky Way light up the night sky is one of the most memorable experiences you can have on the Big Island, especially if you love astronomy!
5. Relax at Hapuna Beach
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach to enjoy some sun and sand, Hapuna Beach is a must-visit on the Big Island. This gorgeous beach, located along the Kohala Coast, features soft white sand and is great for swimming, sunbathing, and even bodyboarding. The clear, blue waters and breathtaking sunsets make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
6. Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Step back in time to this sacred site, which served as a place of refuge in ancient Hawaii. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian culture and history, with restored temples, carved wooden figures, and traditional fishponds. Exploring this cultural gem is one of the Big Island Hawaii things to do for history buffs.
7. Take a Helicopter Tour
A helicopter tour is one of the coolest things to do on the Big Island, offering a unique perspective of the island’s dramatic landscapes. Fly over cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, and get a bird’s-eye view of the iconic Waipi’o Valley. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the island’s incredible beauty.
8. Explore Waipi’o Valley
Waipi’o Valley, often called the “Valley of the Kings,” is a beautiful, hidden gem full of tall cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and unique black sand beaches. To get to the valley, you need a four-wheel-drive vehicle or can join a guided tour, but the trip is definitely worth it. If you love nature and adventure, exploring Waipi’o Valley is a must-do when visiting the Big Island.
9. Discover Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea)
Green Sand Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world and is a must-see spot on the Big Island of Hawaii. This beautiful beach gets its unique color from tiny crystals found in the sand, which sparkle and shine in the sunlight. The vibrant green sand stands out against the clear, bright blue water, creating a stunning view.
To reach this hidden treasure, visitors must either hike for about 2.5 miles over rugged terrain or take an exciting ride in a 4WD vehicle that can handle the rough road. The journey is filled with amazing volcanic scenes, and every step brings you closer to the peaceful beauty of the beach, making it all worth the effort. Whether you choose to hike or ride, you’re in for a special experience at this remarkable location..
10. Savor Kona Coffee
A visit to the Big Island isn’t finished until you’ve tried its famous Kona coffee. Head to a coffee farm in the Kona area to see how the coffee is grown and made. Many farms provide tours and tastings, allowing you to enjoy and understand this special coffee even more. For anyone who loves coffee, experiencing this is definitely one of the best activities on the Big Island.
Your Big Island Adventure Awaits
The Big Island of Hawaii is a fantastic place that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal spot for all kinds of travelers. You can explore stunning volcanoes, unwind on beautiful beaches, or gaze at the stars from the top of Mauna Kea. There’s so much to do on the Big Island that it truly has something for everyone.
From historic sites to breathtaking natural sights, the activities on the Big Island promise an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to discover all the amazing things the island has to offer, and you’ll leave with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Hawaii.