Explore the diverse landscapes of Hawai'i's Big Island, from active volcanoes to serene beaches, lush rainforests, and historic sites. Dive into local cuisine, top attractions, and essential travel tips in this guide.
Island of Hawai'i (The Big Island) Travel Guide
The Island of Hawai'i, commonly known as the Big Island, is the largest in the Hawaiian archipelago. Its diverse landscapes range from snow-capped peaks to lush rainforests and stark volcanic deserts, encompassing a broad spectrum of climates and environments.
Where is The Big Island?
The Big Island, officially known as the Island of Hawai'i, is one of the eight main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. It's located in the central Pacific Ocean and is the southeastern-most and largest island in the state of Hawai'i, USA.
The Big Island lies about 2,500 miles southwest of the mainland United States (California) and around 3,800 miles southeast of Japan. The island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and is situated to the southeast of its neighboring Hawaiian islands like Maui, Moloka'i, and O'ahu.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Big Island largely depends on your preferences in terms of activities, weather, and crowd levels. However, there are general periods that are considered ideal for most travelers:
Mid-April to Early June (Late Spring):
The weather is typically mild and pleasant.
Crowds are smaller since it's the period between the winter high season and the summer vacation season.
Prices for accommodations might be slightly lower than peak times.
Ocean conditions are generally calm, making it good for water activities.
September to Mid-December (Fall):
This is another shoulder season, where you can benefit from fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.
The weather remains warm, but the likelihood of rain increases as December approaches.
The ocean is still relatively calm, especially in the earlier months.
Winter Months (especially January and February):
While this is the peak tourist season due to people escaping colder mainland weather, it's also the prime time for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters during these months.
Surf is higher on the north shores, making it great for experienced surfers.
There can be occasional rain, but it's generally warm.
Due to the influx of tourists, it's recommended to book accommodations and activities in advance.
June to August (Summer):
The weather is warmer and drier, especially in areas like Kona.
The summer vacation season means more families and tourists, leading to higher prices and more crowded attractions.
Ocean conditions on the north shore are calmer, making it great for snorkeling and swimming.
Factors to Consider:
Volcanic Activity: If you're interested in seeing volcanic activity, keep an eye on updates from Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Activity levels can vary, and certain areas might be closed due to safety concerns.
Festivals and Events: The Big Island hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. If you're interested in Hawaiian culture, consider timing your visit with an event like the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo.
Rainfall: The Big Island has varied microclimates. While the Kona side is drier, the Hilo side gets more rain. If you're looking for sun, the Kona coast is a safer bet year-round, but if you enjoy lush greenery and waterfalls, the Hilo region and the Hamakua Coast are wonderful.
In conclusion, while there's no single "best" time to visit the Big Island, aligning your trip with your preferences in weather, activities, and crowd comfort can ensure a memorable experience.
Getting to the Big Island
Getting to the Big Island (Island of Hawai'i) involves flying, as it's located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Here's a detailed guide on how to get there:
Air Travel:
Main Airports: The Big Island has two primary airports:
Kona International Airport (KOA): Located on the west side of the island in Kailua-Kona, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Hilo International Airport (ITO): Located on the east side in Hilo, this airport mostly serves domestic flights.
Direct Flights: Many major U.S. cities offer direct flights to the Big Island, especially to Kona. Some of these cities include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and Dallas.
Connecting Flights: If you're coming from a location that doesn't offer direct flights to the Big Island, you might have to fly into Honolulu on the island of O'ahu first and then take a short inter-island flight to either Kona or Hilo.
Airlines: Several airlines operate flights to the Big Island, including Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta, United, and American Airlines among others.
Cruise:
Some cruise lines include the Big Island in their Hawaiian or Pacific itineraries. Popular ports of call include Kailua-Kona and Hilo.
While cruising offers a unique way to experience Hawai'i, keep in mind that your time on the island might be limited, especially compared to an extended stay.
Upon Arrival:
Car Rentals: Renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to explore different parts of the island. Both airports have a variety of car rental agencies.
Public Transportation: The Big Island's public transportation system, called Hele-On Bus, can be used for getting around, but service may be limited in terms of frequency and areas covered.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available at the airports, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate on the island.
Geography & Regions:
Kona: The sunny western side of the Big Island is known for its world-famous Kona coffee, historic sites, and beautiful beaches.
Hilo: The eastern, rainier side of the island, it's the island's largest city and home to waterfalls, gardens, and local markets.
Kohala: Known for its luxury resorts and ancient Hawaiian historical sites.
Puna: A lush, off-the-beaten-path district with unique volcanic features and black sand beaches.
Kaʻū: A vast, rural district with a rich history, coffee farms, and access to the southern part of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Top Attractions:
The Island of Hawai'i, commonly referred to as the Big Island, is known for its diverse landscapes and unique attractions. Here are some of the top attractions on the island:
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, this park offers lava viewing, crater hikes, and insights into volcanic geology.
Mauna Kea Summit & Observatories: At over 13,000 feet, Mauna Kea offers stargazing opportunities and is home to some of the world's most advanced observatories.
Akaka Falls State Park: A tropical rainforest featuring the stunning 442-foot Akaka Falls.
Waipi'o Valley Lookout: Offers breathtaking views of one of the Big Island's most scenic valleys with steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Pololū Valley: Accessible via a hike, this valley offers stunning vistas, black sand beaches, and verdant landscapes.
Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: An ancient Hawaiian place of refuge with significant cultural and historical sites.
Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea): One of the only four green sand beaches in the world, located near South Point.
Kealakekua Bay: A marine life conservation district, it's an excellent spot for snorkeling and is known as the site where Captain James Cook was killed.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area: One of the island's most famous white sand beaches, great for sunbathing and swimming.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm: Discover the history and process behind Kona's famous coffee.
Rainbow Falls: Located in Hilo, these falls are known for the rainbows that form in the mist from the morning sun.
Lava Tree State Monument: A forest park showcasing tree molds formed by a lava flow.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: Known for its jet-black sand and the possibility of spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Activities:
The Island of Hawai'i offers a diverse range of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, culture buffs, and beach lovers. Here are some of the top activities to consider on the Big Island:
Volcano Exploration:
Visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to see active volcanoes, lava tubes, and volcanic landscapes. The park offers various hiking trails, drives, and ranger-led programs.
Stargazing:
Head to the Mauna Kea Summit at night for a stargazing experience. The altitude and clear skies make it one of the best places in the world for observing the stars. The visitor center often hosts stargazing sessions.
Water Activities:
Snorkeling and Diving: Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay offer fantastic snorkeling. Night dives with manta rays near Kona are also popular.
Surfing: While the Big Island isn't as famous for surfing as O'ahu, spots like Honoli'i Beach Park near Hilo offer good waves.
Fishing: Deep-sea fishing excursions, especially out of Kona, can yield catches like marlin and tuna.
Beach Hopping:
Relax on unique beaches, from the black sands of Punalu'u Beach to the green sands of Papakōlea Beach. Hapuna Beach is renowned for its expansive white sands and clear waters.
Hiking:
Explore trails like those in Pololū Valley, Waipi'o Valley, or the various paths in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Akaka Falls State Park offers a short trail leading to a stunning waterfall.
Cultural Experiences:
Visit Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to learn about ancient Hawaiian traditions and history.
Attend a luau or local festival to experience Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine.
Horseback Riding:
Go horseback riding in Waipi'o Valley or the Parker Ranch in Waimea for a unique way to see the island's landscapes.
Helicopter Tours:
Get an aerial view of the island's diverse landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush valleys, and coastal cliffs.
Coffee Farm Tours:
Explore a Kona coffee farm, learn about the production process, and sample freshly brewed coffee.
Botanical Gardens:
Visit gardens like the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden near Hilo to see a plethora of tropical plants, flowers, and water features.
Whale Watching (Seasonal):
Between December and April, embark on a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales migrating to Hawai'i's warm waters.
Best Beaches on the island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawai'i boasts a unique collection of beaches with a variety of sand colors and scenic backdrops. Here are some of the best beaches on the island:
Hapuna Beach:
Located on the Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is one of the largest and most popular white sand beaches on the Big Island. It's excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and bodysurfing.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach:
Famous for its jet-black sand, Punalu'u is also known for regular visits by sea turtles that often rest on the beach. It's not the best for swimming due to currents but offers a unique landscape and great photo opportunities.
Papakōlea (Green Sand Beach):
One of the few green sand beaches in the world, Papakōlea is located near South Point. Reaching the beach requires a hike, but the unique olivine sand and scenic beauty make it worth the effort.
Kauna'oa (Mauna Kea Beach):
A crescent-shaped white sand beach that is great for swimming and snorkeling on calm days. It's adjacent to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay):
Located in Kekaha Kai State Park, this beach boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Makalawena Beach:
This secluded white sand beach requires a bit of a hike to access but offers tranquility and beautiful landscapes. It's part of Kekaha Kai State Park and is known for its dunes, lava formations, and clear waters.
Magic Sands Beach (La'aloa Bay):
Located in Kailua-Kona, this beach is popular for bodyboarding and surfing. The sand at this beach can disappear during certain times of the year due to ocean currents, only to return later, hence the "magic" name.
Richardson Ocean Park:
Near Hilo, this beach offers black and green sands, calm waters for snorkeling, and frequent turtle sightings.
Spencer Beach Park:
A family-friendly spot with calm waters, white sand, and facilities. It's located near the town of Waimea.
Kahalu'u Beach Park:
Located in Kailua-Kona, it's one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island. The bay is home to a variety of fish and is protected by a breakwater, offering calm conditions for beginner snorkelers.
Anaeho'omalu Bay (A-Bay):
Located in the Waikoloa Resort area, this beach has golden sands, coconut palms, and ancient fish ponds. It's great for water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
Local Cuisine:
The Big Island of Hawai'i, like the other islands in the archipelago, has a diverse and vibrant food scene that's deeply influenced by its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources. Here's a glimpse into the culinary landscape of Hawai'i Island:
Local Delicacies:
Traditional Hawaiian foods like poke (raw fish salad), laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves and steamed), and kalua pig (slow-cooked pork) are staples.
Luau Feasts:
These traditional Hawaiian parties offer a buffet-style meal featuring Hawaiian dishes like poi (taro paste), haupia (coconut dessert), and more, all accompanied by music and hula dancing.
Seafood:
Given its island nature, seafood is a highlight on the Big Island. Fresh fish such as ahi (tuna), ono (wahoo), and mahimahi (dolphin fish) are commonly served in restaurants.
Coffee:
Kona is world-renowned for its coffee. A visit to a Kona coffee farm where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of coffee beans, followed by a tasting session, is a must for coffee lovers.
Bakeries and Sweets:
Local bakeries often sell Portuguese-influenced treats like malasadas (fried dough balls), along with other sweet delicacies like shave ice – a local take on snow cones with tropical syrup flavors and sometimes a scoop of ice cream or azuki beans at the bottom.
Food Trucks & Shacks:
They offer everything from fresh poke bowls to plate lunches (rice, mac salad, and a choice of meat) and often provide a delicious and affordable option for meals.
International Influence:
The food scene is also influenced by various cultures, including Japanese (think sushi, ramen, and tempura), Filipino (like adobo and pancit), Korean (such as kalbi ribs), and Chinese (like manapua – steamed buns).
Accommodation:
When visiting the Big Island of Hawai'i, the best area to stay depends on your interests and activities you wish to pursue. Here's a breakdown of the primary regions and what they offer:
Kailua-Kona (West Coast):
Atmosphere: Touristy with a bustling vibe.
Highlights: Access to Kona coffee farms, snorkeling spots, shopping, and dining. Close to historical sites like Hulihe‘e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church.
Ideal For: First-time visitors, those looking for a mix of beach and cultural activities.
Kohala Coast (Northwest Coast):
Atmosphere: Resort area with luxury hotels and pristine beaches.
Highlights: Some of the island's best beaches, like Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach. Proximity to historical sites like the Pu'ukohola Heiau.
Ideal For: Travelers looking for resort amenities, beautiful beaches, and golfing.
Waimea (Inland, Central North):
Atmosphere: Upcountry town with a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) vibe.
Highlights: Rolling green hills, Parker Ranch, cooler climate, and local farmer's markets.
Ideal For: Those seeking a more local experience away from tourist crowds.
Hilo (East Coast):
Atmosphere: Lush, rainy, and authentically Hawaiian.
Highlights: Close to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and botanical gardens. Rich in cultural festivals and events.
Ideal For: Explorers wanting to be close to nature, waterfalls, and the Volcanoes National Park.
Puna (Southeast Coast):
Atmosphere: Laid-back, off-the-beaten-path, and lush.
Highlights: Natural hot ponds, Lava Tree State Monument, and unique local communities.
Ideal For: Adventurous travelers looking for a less touristy experience.
Hamakua Coast (Northeast Coast):
Atmosphere: Scenic coastline with cliffs and waterfalls.
Highlights: Waipio Valley, Akaka Falls, and old plantation towns.
Ideal For: Nature lovers and those looking to explore the scenic drives and waterfalls.
Volcano Village:
Atmosphere: Forested, cooler, and close to volcanic activity.
Highlights: Direct access to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
Ideal For: Visitors keen on exploring the national park, hiking, and witnessing volcanic landscapes.
South Point (Ka Lae):
Atmosphere: Remote and rugged.
Highlights: Southernmost point in the U.S., green sand beach, and wind-blown landscapes.
Ideal For: Adventurous souls looking for solitude and unique landscapes.
In summary, the Big Island offers a diverse range of experiences, from the fiery landscapes of active volcanoes to serene beaches and historic sites. Whether you're an adventurer, history buff, or relaxation-seeker, the island caters to all.
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