The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Big Island of Hawaii
Fairmont Orchid - Pauoa Bay
Why Visit the Big Island?
The Big Island of Hawaii is an adventure-seeker’s paradise, offering diverse landscapes, active volcanoes, breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and some of the best snorkeling in the world. As the youngest Hawaiian island, it continues to grow each year with lava flows from Kīlauea, adding new land to the island. Whether you're looking for hiking, exploring coffee farms, or snorkeling with manta rays, the Big Island has something for every traveler. We find the Big Island to be one of the most diverse islands and one of our favorites for snorkeling!
Best Time to Visit the Big Island
The best time to visit depends on your priorities:
Winter (December–March): Ideal for whale watching and having a nice winter escape. Although this time period is considered the wettest months, it is unlikely to disrupt your travel plans. You can still enjoy plenty of sun or you can easily move to another area of the island for the afternoon. If you want to see snow in Hawaii, this is the time to go! Although along the coast, the weather will be beautiful 70 degree beach weather, up on Mauna Loa snow can cover the peak, giving you the opportunity to see snow and lay at the beach in the same day.
Spring (April–June): Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and a great time for exploring the outdoors.
Summer (July–September): Hot and dry during this time of year. These months offer excellent snorkeling conditions due to calmer waters, best visibility, and warmer water temperatures. Can be busier due to school vacations and also be a little windier this time of year (though it’s welcome when you’re laying out at the beach or hiking under the hot sun). We visited in August twice and it was a great time to explore.
Fall (October–November): Similar to spring with fewer tourists and mild weather. November is one of the rainier months on the island. When we visited in October, we found it less crowded than when we went in August with perfect weather and sunny conditions.
Things to Know Before You Go
Island Size: The Big Island is massive—about the size of Connecticut. Although the infrastructure is good, it can take 6-8 hours to drive around the entire island. Plan your itinerary accordingly to minimize long drives going back and forth in between sites.
Micro-climates: Expect different weather conditions depending on where you are. The west side (Kona) is dry and sunny, while the east side (Hilo) is lush and known to have a good bit of rain. Areas in the coffee belt can be cool and misty and then down the road be sunny and hot.
Packing Tips: Bring a lightweight rain jacket, reef-safe sunscreen, hiking shoes, and layers for higher elevations like Mauna Kea.
Respect the Land: Avoid touching coral reefs while snorkeling, taking shells or sand, or getting too close to the sea turtles. Be respectful of the land and at sacred sites.
How long do I need? 5-6 days will give you a good taste of the island though with 7-10 days you’ll be able to experience much more of what the island has to offer.
Renting a Car
A rental car is essential for exploring the Big Island. Consider a 4WD vehicle (like an SUV or Jeep) if planning to visit Mauna Kea or Green Sand Beach. These sites specifically require you to take dirt, bumpy roads. Many of the best sites, such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and waterfalls along the Hamakua Coast, require driving long distances. You can take day tours to certain sites around the island though renting a car will give you much more flexibility and you’ll be able to check out areas you otherwise wouldn’t be able to.
Where to Stay on the Big Island
Each region of the Big Island has its own unique vibe and accommodations:
Kailua-Kona: Best for first-time visitors, sunny weather, and easy access to beaches & restaurants. Great for snorkeling and historical sites.
Stay at: Aston Kona By the Sea (mid-range) or Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (luxury)
Hilo: Lush rainforest vibe, waterfalls, and easy access to Volcanoes National Park & the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Gardens. More local feel with plenty of different types of restaurants. The town of Hilo is also developed with plenty of restaurants and breweries.
Stay at: SCP Hilo Hotel (budget friendly) or Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (mid-range)
Waimea: There are two very different areas of Waimea. There are the rolling green pastures, paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture, farmers markets, great hiking trails, and a little cooler temperatures on the interior of Waimea due to the higher altitude. Waimea also extends to the Kohala Coast known as the “Gold Coast”, offering beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, upscale resorts, as well as a few historical sites. This is our personal favorite area!
For coastal options, stay at: Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts Collection or the Fairmont Orchid. We stay at the Fairmont Orchid each time we go for the wonderful beach, snorkeling, & great food options (photos above!)
For budget friendly options and a more country feel, opt for the Castle Waimea Country Lodge or Waimea Gardens for cottage rentals or an Airbnb.
Volcano Village: Best for exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and seeing lava at night to avoid the long drive back to your accommodation after dark.
Stay at: Volcano House (in the park) or Kilauea Lodge (just outside of the park) — both mid-range options.
The Kona Coffee Belt
The Kona region is home to some of the best coffee in the world, thanks to its rich volcanic soil & ample rainfall. This micro-climate is perfect for coffee growing and is a small region about 30 miles long and a 1/2 mile wide. Only coffee grown here in this specific location can be labeled as 100% Kona Coffee. The coffee from here is smooth, slightly nutty, and in high demand. All Kona coffee is 100% handpicked due to the rocky terrain and to ensure superior quality. This is labor intensive and time consuming which contributes to the high price tag of the coffee (as well as limited supply and high demand). Many of the coffee farms will offer free sampling of their coffees so you try before you buy. If you are a coffee lover, you have to check out the Kona Coffee belt and visit some of the coffee plantations.
Here are some top coffee farms to visit:
Buddha’s Cup Coffee & Tea Farm: Unique experience with not just coffee, but also tea & snacks to try. Animals such as peacocks, cats, and other wildlife on the property. It’s fun to stroll around after a tasting to check out this farm.
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation: Tours, free samples, and an on-site lava tube! This is our favorite coffee plantation to visit on the island. It’s in a cool micro-climate so the drive leading to the property is very lush with tropical plants and flowers and the area is often misty. Pro Tip: Pack a lunch and grab a free coffee sample to have a picnic on site. There is a Nature Trail Walk ($10 per family) highlighting native vegetation, the coffee plantation, an observation deck, and lava tubes. You can find their observation deck just past the lava tube. This area has nice views of the island and the Pacific. Be sure to check out their gift shop on the way out to bring home coffee or snag some coffee gifts. Our favorite coffee variety here is the Peaberry.
Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee: This is consistently one of the top rated farm tours with wonderful scenic views, and cool experiences offered like Paint and Sip classes and how to Brew Your Best Cup.
Hala Tree Coffee: This is our favorite Medium Roast coffee we’ve tried on the island and they do sell bags for cold brew and tea as well!
If you are limited on time, we recommend checking out our two personal favorites: Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation and Hala Tree Coffee. If you don’t have a car, consider taking a tour to check out a coffee farm and some other sites on the island!
Best Hikes & Waterfalls
Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden: A must-see lush paradise. This is a nature lover’s and photographer’s dream. The work to create the large gardens were done by hand to avoid disturbing wildlife or any root systems. There is a three tiered waterfall on site (said to be of the most beautiful in Hawaii), a wonderful orchid garden, lily lake, the twin rocks in the bay (check out the story on the placard), and much more. We spent a solid hour here but easily could have spent more time taking in the serenity of this paradise.
‘Akaka Falls State Park: Descend into the jungle to see the 442-foot waterfall with an easy half mile paved loop. The parking area is rocky and uneven so drive with care. There is a fee to park and a small fee to enter paid by credit card. This is a nice serene stroll taking you through a forest where you can enjoy the native plant-life, beautiful flowers, and of course the falls (there are actually two!).
Rainbow Falls: Just a short walk from the free parking lot, you can take in these stunning waterfalls filtering into a large pool below. Tip: Go in the morning to see the rainbows reflecting off of the mist on a sunny day. Take the steps up to check out the wonderful banyan tree on site estimated to be 600+ years old.
Boiling Pots: A few minutes drive from Rainbow Falls, this is another scenic area full of tropical plants and a short walk (wheelchair accessible) to the viewpoint. The tiered river has cascading water. In the river there are “pots” which have hallowed out, which are areas where lava eroded. When the river water level is high, the water over the “pots” appears to boil. Avoid getting into the water here - swimming is not safe due to the currents. Free parking and restrooms.
Wai’ale Falls: Hiking area with swimming holes and a beautiful waterfall. You can park just past the bridge. Easy hike to the waterfall.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach Hike: If you don’t mind a moderately challenging hike, waking up early, and are interested in witnessing a rare site, then definitely add this one to your itinerary! One of only four green sand beaches in the world, the sand gets its color from olivine crystals that have eroded out of cinder cones formed during the 1868 lava flow of Mauna Loa. This is a 5.5 mile round-trip out and back hike. Do not be fooled by the heat of the sun. We were foolish and started this hike late morning (around 10:30am) and finished the hike feeling rough (as were others) from the heat of the day. Thankfully we were able to cool off in the water halfway through and felt better. The green sand beach is such a unique site to witness and definitely worth it but please, please, please start in the early morning (8am or earlier if possible) to avoid heatstroke or sun poisoning. There is zero shade on this hike. Wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. The hike itself only has a little bit of elevation gain though it is uneven and very sandy/dusty so you’ll feel a good sense of accomplishment upon finishing.
Hike: From the parking lot, you’ll walk south and notice the paved road turn to a dusty road/trail. From here, you’ll head the direction towards the ocean. You’ll hug the Pacific with it on your right for a little over 2 miles until the cove comes into view. Note: There are different paths that split off that you can take to get there but they all go in the same direction - some are closer to the coast, some are higher up. You’ll likely see people walking to the left and right of you on different paths. We tried to hug the coast as long as we could to take advantage of the ocean breeze. Once you make it to the cinder cone, you’ll walk around the rim and find the path down to the beach with the metal staircase. You can definitely cool off in the water at the beach but use caution if wanting to swim due to the strong currents and no lifeguard on duty. You will return the same way that you came.
You will see an option to jump in the back of a truck shuttle for $20-$30 per person to take you to the beach &/or back. Please know that this does erode the area and it is technically illegal. The road itself is so bad that you’ll likely have to see a chiropractor afterwards so we’d recommend starting hiking early and strongly advise against this; however, if it is later in the day, you can of course take a jeep back to avoid potential heat stroke.
It is unlawful to take any of the beautiful sand from the beach so please leave it for future generations to enjoy.
Pro Tip: While in the area, take the short drive to the Southernmost Point of The United States. You can also stop off at South Point Cliff Dive and see some daredevils plunge into the water below. Ka Lae (South Point) is believed to be one of the earliest landing sites for Polynesian settlers who traveled across the Pacific in canoes.
Humu’ula Trail Mauna Kea Summit: This is a very difficult hike that has an elevation gain of 4,800 ft and it starts at the visitor center. Elevation at the top is 13,796 ft so be aware of altitude sickness. The trail is 12.6 miles round trip taking an average of 7-8hrs to complete for someone physically fit. You will need to come prepared with food and drinks and be aware that there is no shade on this hike. Check out Lake Waiau at 13,000 ft - one of the highest lakes in America. This is the highest mountain in Hawaii and the highest mountain in the world when measured from the sea floor. On clear days you can see the volcano Mauna Loa and potentially other Hawaiian Islands: Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. This hike is free and though you do not need a reservation to hike, you will have to register on site. You’ll fill out a form at the visitor center and leave it in the drop box before you leave, then check in when you get back. This way they know you’re okay.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Halema’uma’u Crater
This national park is home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes in the world. This is a national park that keeps us coming back for more. There are so many hikes and view points to explore and you can have a completely different experience when Kilauea is erupting when visiting during the day vs at night to see the lava glow. Areas we keep coming back to visit time after time are the Kilauea Overlook, Halema’uma’u Trail, Thurston Lava Tube, & the Chain of Craters Road down to the coast. When the lava glow is visible, the hike to Keanakako’i Overlook is a must see!
Click here to read more on our must-see viewpoints and hikes if planning a trip to the park!
Best Snorkeling Spots
One of our favorite places to snorkel is the Big Island of Hawai’i. There are so many great bays and beaches where you can snorkel immediately off the shore. There are tons of tropical fish, sea turtles, and mantas to enjoy!
Two Step Beach: This area is directly next to Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park so you can check out this wonderful cultural park first thing when they open and then go for a snorkel (or scuba!) immediately after. This snorkel spot has crystal-clear waters with abundant sea life. Please note that the area is lava rock so be sure to wear water shoes.
Fairmont Orchid Beach: This area is great for beginners with its calm waters. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu), frequent the waters here along with some beautiful tropical fish including the state fish, Humuhumunukunukuapua’a. There is a beach bar serving food and drinks and plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas. We stay here each time we visit the island and it makes snorkeling extremely convenient.
49 Black Sand Beach (Honoka’ope Bay Beach): Excellent early-morning snorkeling. You’ll need to arrive first thing because the number of beach passes is limited from the guard shack. If the parking is full, you can try again later in the afternoon once the crowds typically clear out and check back to see if there’s room. It is $20 to enter no matter if you stay for an hour or two or for the full day. Please note there are no in and out privileges. There are restrooms and a shower just back from the beach to rinse off. Do bring an umbrella for shade and some water shoes - the black sand gets very hot and there is no shade on this beach. Water shoes are helpful as the lava rock can be slippery and hard on your feet when entering the water. You will find sea turtles resting on the beach here. Please note that they are a protected species and it is illegal to touch or disturb them. Please enjoy them from a distance.
Night Manta Ray Snorkeling Experience (Captain Cook area): This is one of the most amazing and unique experiences on the island. We had a great turnout and saw roughly 10 mantas swooping just below us. They feed on the phytoplankton which are attracted by the blue light emitted by the flotation device you hold on to while snorkeling/floating. Do not reach out to touch these graceful creatures as this can damage the protective coating on their body. These gentle giants are amazing to witness and pose no threat to humans — they do not have stingers like sting rays. Don’t forget to bring a GoPro or in the least a waterproof phone case to capture the Mantas on video. There were waterproof phone pouches to purchase prior to the snorkel at the meeting point.
Waialea Beach (Beach 69): This is considered one of the best snorkeling beaches on Big Island. Head here in the morning for the calmest water and best visibility. You can see many different tropical fish, eels, and sea turtles. There is a rocky entry to get into the water so water shoes will definitely help with this. We loved that this beach had shade and trees to hang our bags on. There is a parking fee so be sure to pay at the kiosk.
Scenic Areas & Sunset Spots
Pololū Valley Lookout: Beautiful views of the lush valley also offering breathtaking coastal views. There is also a moderately challenging trail here that descends into the valley to the black sand beach if you have an extra hour to enjoy some greenery and nature.
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (VIS) and Summit: The high altitude and unobstructed views makes this the perfect sunrise and sunset location. On a clear night, hang around for some epic stargazing. The drive to the VIS requires 4WD for the unpaved, steep climb up. The drive past the VIS to the summit is not for the weak of heart and has many rough sections. Plan on spending at least 1 hour at the VIS to acclimate to the high altitude.
If you’d like to visit and not worry about the drive, opt for a tour to the summit for the sunset and stargazing. You can book this tour with free pick-up and drop-off in 3 major areas: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset, & Stars.
If you have transportation to get to the slopes of Mauna Kea, you can book this shorter 2 hour tour for Stargazing with Free Photos
Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park: This area is rich in history and cultural significance. The park was once an area of royal grounds and next to it, a sanctuary for those who broke ancient Hawaiian laws. Those who reached the grounds (typically by swimming a long distance in shark filled waters) could avoid punishment and undergo rituals of absolution. Today it is still peaceful oceanfront setting where you can learn about the history and watch a wonderful sunset. We absolutely loved the historical area and visitation sites. The great part about the location is that it’s located directly next to the fantastic Two Step Beach to snorkel after you are finished exploring!
Waipio Valley Lookout: This lookout offers wonderful views of the historic and sacred valley. If you’ve heard about the trailhead here, please know that the road to the trailhead has been closed indefinitely to the public due to unstable sections. The lookout gives you a glimpse into this dramatic valley and lush area of the island. The valley is known as “Valley of the Kings” as it served as a sacred place for ancient Hawaiian rulers and warriors and was the childhood home of King Kamehameha I.
Top Beaches:
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area: This is one of Hawaii Island’s largest and most prized white sand beaches. Great for relaxing and sunbathing, some snorkeling, and body boarding. There is currently a $10 fee to park and a $5 entry fee. We loved relaxing here for a couple of hours and enjoyed seeing the nēnē (Hawaiian geese).
Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach: Stunning white sand beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and paddle boarding. Wonderful location for sunset views. They currently charge a $21 fee to park and access the beach so you may as well go for at least a few hours to get your moneys worth.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: One of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii, this one is located on the south side of the island. You can find both the Hawksbill and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle lounging on the beach or swimming in the bay. This beach is also great for snorkeling and its coastal hike.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach: 5.5 trail to see the 1 of 4 Green Sand Beaches in the world. The green sand grains are actually small olivine crystals. This is a beach to check out early in the morning due to the harsh sun and trail. See more information under “Best Hikes & Waterfalls” above for this green sand beach.
Unique Experiences on the Island:
Helicopter Tour of the island:
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has been in the business over 40 years. They offer tours with stunning views of the valleys, waterfalls, and coast.
You can also book a tour through GetYourGuide to see the island in a whole new way - checking out volcanoes, waterfalls, and the coastal areas.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel:
Guided snorkel experience in Captain Cook. You’ll take a short boat ride to the snorkel site just off shore and spend your time snorkeling by holding on to a floatation device emitting blue light. The light attracts plankton which the mantas feed on. This was one of our all time favorite experiences. The size of the mantas was extraordinary and it was wonderful seeing these gentle giants up close. This is the excursion that we booked and had a fabulous experience! Get there a little early to find parking.
Lava Viewing & Stargazing at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: If Kīlauea is actively erupting, a night visit to see the glowing lava are a must. Witnessing the bright lava glowing in the dark of the night with the milky way all in view is one of our top experiences. Keanakako’i Overlook and Halema’uma’u Trail are great areas for viewing. Check out our Hawai’i Volcanoes post with more info on the national park including hiking and tips. You can click here to see if Kilauea is erupting and if there is a night time lava glow.
Floating Lantern Festival: Each year in late summer or early fall, the Fairmont Orchid hosts a sunset lantern release into Pauoa Bay honoring loved ones who have passed. Attendance is free but there is a fee if you would like to decorate and release a lantern. The lanterns are contained in the bay by natural lava rock and by those on kayaks, and are collected at the end of the event to use the bases again for future use. We participated in the community event our first time to Big Island to honor our grandparents and cousin who recently passed. It was an incredibly moving memorial seeing hundreds of glowing lanterns in the bay signifying remembrance and hope.
Best Restaurants by Region
Kailua-Kona:
Kona Coffee & Tea: Farm to cup coffee, Hawaiian tea, acai bowls, and sandwiches
Kona Brewing Co: Bar and Restaurant offering pub style food. All of the beers on tap are brewed in Hawaii. There are roughly 10 varieties brewed at any given time. Check out some samples and try a few!
IKKYU Ramen: Noodle, fried rice, and ramen spot
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill: Open for lunch and dinner serving fresh poke bowls and Hawaiian favorites like loco moco.
Hilo:
Pineapples: Vibrant restaurant offering American cuisine and a variety of beverages including their Pineapple Pow cocktail served in a whole Maui Gold Pineapple.
Ola Brew: We love stopping here for lunch. They have a good variety of beer and some delicious iced teas. Great spot for some small bites to tie you over until dinner.
Moon & Turtle: Asian fusion seafood restaurant with a rotating menu. Fresh ingredients, delicious risotto, fish, and cocktails. Open for dinner only.
Suisan Fish Market: Fresh seafood market offering poke bowls and small plates.
Waimea:
Merriman’s Big Island: Locally sourced menu, regional dishes. Examples are Kalua Pig & Sweet Onion Quesadilla, Spicy Kona Lobster Ravioli, and Pineapple Macadamia Nut Bread Pudding.
Knead & Bake: Delicious pizzas that are great for when you’ve had an adventurous day or long day in the sun. You can eat it there or bring it back to your hotel room while you unwind for the day.
Juice 101: Cute spot for juices, coffee, sandwiches, and my favorite spot for acai bowls in the area.
Canoe House: Upscale restaurant for a nice dinner. Come hungry — there are so many great appetizers and sides to add on to your meal to try. Dessert is scrumptious too!
Kuleana Rum Shack: Variety of their rum cocktails and Hawaiian plates like sesame seared ahi, coconut curry, and pork nachos (which were delicious).
Volcano Village:
Tuk Tuk Thai Food: This is our favorite place to stop for a bite to eat before heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. They serve massive portions in to-go containers. We love popping the trunk of our SUV and eating from the back of our vehicle. Thai specialties from curries, stir-fries, and noddle dishes.
Bonus Stop: Volcano Winery: Okay, so it’s not exactly a restaurant (thought they do sell snacks which we snagged for our visit to the National Park) but it’s definitely worth a stop to check out the wine or do a tasting. Small vineyard on the property and cute storefront.
Captain Cook:
Black Rock Pizza: Yummy filling pizzas & good local beer selection. Their patio is a great spot to watch the sunset.
Shaka Tacoz: Food truck serving tacos and burritos and a covered patio to bring your food to dine in.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island of Hawaii is a dream destination for adventurers, nature lovers, and those looking to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture. With its unique landscapes, diverse activities, and warm aloha spirit, it offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re hiking to a lava flow, snorkeling with manta rays, or enjoying world-class coffee, this island will have something for you!