The Big Island of Hawaii is vast, diverse, and filled with unforgettable experiences - and as its name suggests, it's BIG! One mistake visitors often make is underestimating the driving time it takes to get from place to place. If possible, we recommend you split your stay between Kona and Hilo and use them as home bases while you explore the rest of the island. There's so much to discover and experience, which is why we've put together a travel guide of the best things to do on Big Island Hawaii by region!
Kona (West Side – Dry & Sunny)
Known for its beaches, snorkeling, coffee, manta rays, and amazing sunsets!
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Night Snorkel or Dive with Manta Rays
A must-do! You can snorkel or scuba dive as you watch majestic manta rays glide inches away under the moonlight. -
Kealakekua Bay & Captain Cook Monument
Top-notch snorkeling spot with rich marine life and clear water. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins showing off! -
Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay)
Easy ocean entry and vibrant coral reefs make this perfect for snorkeling. -
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Step back in time at this sacred place of refuge filled with Hawaiian history. You'll learn so much about the formation of the island and gain a deeper appreciation for the culture. -
Kona Coffee Farm Tours
If you're a coffee lover, visit local farms to learn how this world-famous coffee is made (and taste it fresh)! -
Huliheʻe Palace (Kailua-Kona)
As you're walking through town, you'll likely notice the palace - a former royal retreat showcasing artifacts and period furniture. -
Magic Sands Beach & Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Great for sunbathing, swimming, and beginner snorkelers!
Hilo (East Side – Lush & Rainy)
Known for its waterfalls, rainforests, lava tubes, and local markets.
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Akaka Falls State Park
Take a short (and paved) jungle walk to one of Hawaii’s most dramatic waterfalls. -
Rainbow Falls & Boiling Pots
Easily accessible waterfall often with visible rainbows in the morning. There are also huge banyan trees nearby that are beautiful to walk around. -
Kaumana Caves
Explore a huge lava tube, and don't forget to bring a headlamp or flashlight! -
Liliʻuokalani Gardens & Coconut Island
Relax in the serene Japanese gardens with ocean views right in town. -
Hilo Farmers Market
The best place for tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and local eats!
Volcano (South/East Side)
Known for its lava fields, hiking, geology, and National Park exploration.
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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Home to the active Kīlauea volcano. Hike craters, see steam vents, and explore unique landscapes. If the lava is flowing, get ready for a mind-blowing experience witnessing the power of nature! Sometimes visitors can hike to the lava flow, other times it can be observed from the crater rim. -
Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)
A popular walkable lava cave nestled in the rainforest. Headlamps or flashlights will help with visibility! -
Chain of Craters Road
This scenic drive takes you through ancient lava flows ending at sea cliffs and the Hōlei Sea Arch. There are several stops along the way if you want to stretch your legs and explore the swirling metallic-colored lava rocks. -
Volcano Art Center
If you can't get enough of volcanoes, local artists showcase works inspired by Hawaii's dynamic landscape.
Waimea & North Kohala (North Side)
Known for its sweeping landscapes, valleys, cowboy culture, and scenic drives.
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Pololū Valley Lookout & Hike
A stunning viewpoint and a short (but steep) hike to a remote black sand beach. -
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
Breathtaking views of this sacred and fertile valley, with green cliffs jutting out of sapphire blue waters. Zoom in with your camera to look for the waterfall! -
Waimea & Parker Ranch
Experience paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture and rolling ranch lands.
South Point & Kaʻū (Southern Tip)
Known for its remote adventures and unique beaches!
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Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea)
There are only a few green sand beaches in the world, so don't miss a visit to this unique spot. It requires a 2.5-mile hike or local 4WD shuttle - the drive to get there and back is half the adventure (iykyk)! -
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
This famous beach has striking black sand and frequent turtle sightings. It's not the softest to walk on, but it sure makes for some great pictures! -
Southernmost Point in the U.S. (Ka Lae)
Here you'll find dramatic cliffs and the edge of the country - literally! The question is, do you have the guts to jump?!
Take TOBIQ
Oh boy, it's hard to stop at just one recommendation for the Big Island. With so many diverse adventures and lots of road tripping, you can't go wrong with our washable 60L, 45L, or 30L duffel bags to keep you sane and organized. Our splash pack is perfect for those wet and humid environments, and our hip packs keep essentials like sunglasses, phones, and money accessible. Don't want to deal with wet clothes while you're driving around? Bring along our roll top laundry bag to keep them stored away until you're ready to hang them up to dry. You'll thank us later!
As always, if you find yourself on the Big island of Hawaii, share your pics with us on Instagram! We'd love to see how and where you #takeTOBIQ!