Big Island (Hawaii) Travel Guide

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Learn about the Big Island of Hawaii and plan your upcoming trip using our website. We share our favorite things to do, activities, itineraries, beaches, restaurants, and everything else you need to know for your vacation. We are a sustainable travel guide for the Big Island written by people with a passion for Hawaii.

Start planning your trip to the Big Island:

We have made a step-by-step guide for our visitors that are still planning their trip to the Big Island. In it, we cover things like when the best time is to go (price and weather-wise), how to best structure your time on the Big Island, and what we think are the unmissable activities. Take your time because we are thorough in our advice! See planning your vacation to the Big Island for the guide.

Getting around the Big Island, itineraries, and activities

If you have already decided on the basics and want to start filling in your vacation you should have a look at our 16 Big Island highlights to find out more about the four most popular destinations: Kailua Kona, Hilo, Volcano Village and Waimea. Explore the local options for accommodation, restaurants, and activities.

Itineraries

Itinerary of the big island - illustration

Our itineraries are a good place to start planning your vacation to the Big Island. We have made sample itineraries for a 1-, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 7-day visit, that we hope will help you make the most out of your time. Have a look at our itineraries

Activities

lava boat tour sees lava flowing into the ocean at the Big Island of Hawaii

Do you want to see a tropical coral reef while snorkeling and throw snowballs on the summit of Mauna Kea, both on the same day? And how about seeing flowing, red-hot lava? Read more about our favorite activities for the Big Island.

Getting around

mauna kea, hilo, road, big island

“What are the most important things to think about when I book my inter-island flight?” “How can I find the best (cheapest?) rental car?” We answer your questions and help you plan your trip with concise and handy tips. Read more in our guide to getting around on the Big Island

Accommodation

Should you spend your time in a luxurious resort, in a hotel or bed and breakfast, or in the intimacy of a vacation rental? We help you make your choice. See also the accommodation options in Hilo, Kona, Volcano Village and Waimea.

Our favorite things to do on the Big Island:

These are the 4 things that we think are the Big Island essentials. Don’t visit the Big Island without at least seriously considering them!

  1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Spend the night in the enchanting rainforests of Volcano Village, see the active volcano in the Hawaii volcanoes national park, and try to see the flowing lava.
  2. Manta ray night dive Dive or snorkel with these gentle giants in the open ocean during the night. This is one of the most memorable activities on the Big Island.
  3. Stargazing The Big Island is home to some of the best telescopes in the world. Don’t miss your chance to see them at the summit of MaunaKea.
  4. Farmers markets You will find the tastiest local Hawaiian snacks in local shops and farmers markets. Support the Big Island community: buy local!