The Best Big Island Itinerary: Spending 3, 5, 7, or 10 Days on the Big Island [2024]

LOOKING TO PUT TOGETHER THE PERFECT BIG ISLAND ITINERARY?

Because of the large, geographical size of the Big Island, creating the perfect itinerary can seem like a daunting task. We have traveled to Hawaii many times over the last few years and spent a decent amount of time on the Big Island – one of my favorite Hawaiian islands.

The Big Island in Hawaii has something for everyone, and you’ll have no problem finding many ways to enjoy your time on the beautiful island in Hawaii. In fact, you’ll be wishing you had more time to explore the diverse ecosystems and beaches of the Big Island. From the black sand beaches to photo-worthy Akaka Falls, to world-famous snorkeling, here are the best things to include in your Big Island itinerary.

Big Island Itinerary

Big Island Itinerary: 3 Days

Day 1: Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay, Magic Sands Beach Park, and Evening Luau

Day 2: Beach day at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Manta Ray Night Dive

Day 3: Shopping on Ali’i Drive, Kahalu’u Beach Park, and Star Gazing at Mauna Kea Summit

Big Island Itinerary: 5 Days

Day 1: Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay, Magic Sands Beach Park, and Evening Luau

Day 2: Beach day at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Manta Ray Night Dive

Day 3: Shopping on Ali’i Drive, Kahalu’u Beach Park, and Star Gazing at Mauna Kea Summit

Day 4: Day Trip to Volcanoes National Park and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Day 5: Kona Coast Helicopter Tour, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, and snorkeling at Two-Step

Big Island Itinerary: 7 Days

Day 1: Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay, Magic Sands Beach Park, and Evening Luau

Day 2: Beach day at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Manta Ray Night Dive

Day 3: Shopping on Ali’i Drive, Kahalu’u Beach Park, and Star Gazing at Mauna Kea Summit

Day 4: Kona Coast Helicopter Tour, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, and snorkeling at Two-Step

Day 5: Volcanoes National Park and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Day 6: Hilo Waterfalls, Ziplining Experience, and Onekahakaha Beach Park

Day 7: Hamakua Coast, Waipi’o Valley Lookout, Tex Drive-In, and Onomea (Pepe’ekeo) Scenic Drive

Big Island Itinerary: 10 Days

Day 1: Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay, Magic Sands Beach Park, and Evening Luau

Day 2: Beach day at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Manta Ray Night Dive

Day 3: Shopping on Ali’i Drive, Kahalu’u Beach Park, and Star Gazing at Mauna Kea Summit

Day 4: Kona Coast Helicopter Tour, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, and snorkeling at Two-Step

Day 5: ATV Tour and Maniniowali Beach

Day 6: Hamakua Coast, Waipi’o Valley Lookout, Tex Drive-In, and Onomea (Pepe’ekeo) Scenic Drive

Day 7: Hilo Waterfalls, Ziplining Experience, and Onekahakaha Beach Park

Day 8: Volcanoes National Park and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Day 9: Volcanoes National Park

Day 10: Kaumana Caves and Papakolea Green Sand Beach

Unique Things to Do on the Big Island in Hawaii

The large size of the Big Island makes it one of the most diverse Hawaiian Islands. There are many unique things to do on the Big Island that you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaii.  Here are our top recommendations for unique things to do:

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Mauna Kea Summit
• Manta Ray Night Dive/Snorkel
• See Red-Hot Lava (When the Volcano is active)

Quick Overview for Planning Your Big Island Itinerary

If you’re short on time for planning your trip to the Big Island, here are the highlights of the best tours to go on while you are there and the best places to stay.

Best Tours and Activities:

• Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island
• Best Mauna Kea Summit Tour
• Afternoon Sail and Snorkle to The Captain Cook Monument
• Whale Watching on The Big Island
• Polynesian ATV Tour Or Big Island Southside ATV Tours
• Island Breeze Luau on The Big Island
• Kona Coast Helicopter Tour
• Zip Line Experience on The Big Island Hawaii
• Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History

Best Hotels Near Kona:

• Four Seasons Resort Hualalai 
• Hilton Waikoloa Village
• Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
• Holualoa Inn

Best Hotels Near Hilo:

• Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
• The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
• SCP Hilo Hotel
• Mahana House Country Inn

Things to Include in your Big Island Itinerary – Kona

There are two main areas on the Big Island in Hawaii. Kona is on the west side of the island, and Hilo is on the east side of the island. These two cities are great bases for exploring the rest of the island. Here are the best things to do on the Kona side of the island.

1. Scuba Diving with Manta Ray

One of the most popular and unique things to include in your Big Island itinerary is the manta ray night dive. This highly reviewed and recommended tour will take you out to the manta site, where you can enjoy the sunset before snorkeling with the manta rays.

During the snorkeling trips, the friendly manta rays will swim around your group while they feed on plankton. If you are PADI certified, you can book a tour and scuba dive.

Light refreshments and snorkeling gear are provided with the tour. These tours often sell out, so it is a good idea to book this tour ahead of time.

Book Your Manta Ray Night Dive Here

2. Seahorse Farm

I have always been fascinated with seahorses, and there’s no better place to see them than at the Seahorse Farm in Kona. The farm is just north of Kona and offers tours of their farm where you can see and hold seahorses.

At the farm, you can see about 36 species of seahorses, as well as an interactive tide pool and a place where kids can feed the fish. You can also see pregnant male baby seahorses and weedy sea dragons. All the tours are led by a certified biologist.

Just down the road, there is an octopus farm as well.

Tours are available during the week at 10 am, noon, and 2 pm. Tour times can vary during the busy and low seasons, so it is a good idea to verify tour times before visiting if you plan to include this in your Big Island itinerary.

3. Mauna Kea Summit Stargazing

Stargazing is one of the best things to include in your Big Island itinerary. The island is home to some of the world’s largest telescopes, making it a great place to stargaze. You can stargaze from just about anywhere, but the best place on the island is the summit of Mauna Kea.

The first stop at the top is the Mauna Kea Visitor Center. The visitor center is about halfway up the volcano, and any car can drive here. There are free stargazing programs at the VIS and telescopes you can use. These programs are available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday between 6:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

From the visitors center, you can continue on to the summit. You can drive to the summit, but only during daylight, and you have to have 4WD. The road is off-limits for half an hour after sunset. There is some serious elevation gain going up to the summit, so it is a good idea to stop for at least half an hour at the visitor center to acclimate.

Tips for Visiting Mauna Kea

✔ The weather at the top of the summit can be chilly, so it is a good idea to dress warmly. Low temperatures can reach 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit.

✔ Make sure you have a full tank of gas before heading up to the visitors’ center and summit. There are no gas stations at the visitors’ center or along the ascent up the mountain. Keep your headlights on.

✔ Parking can present some problems. Once parking is full, cars are turned away. Parking can get crowded, so some patience might be required.

✔ The best time to visit Mauna Kea is just before sunset. You will want to get there before sunset, so make sure you have enough time there. After the sun goes down, you will have to head back down the mountain.

Mauna Kea Tour

The easiest and least stressful way to visit the summit of Mauna Kea is with a guided tour from Hawaiian Eyes Tour. This highly recommended tour offers pickup and will take you up to the summit of Mauna Kea.

The tour is about eight hours long and departs from Kona. The tour will stop at the Visitor Station for an early dinner and altitude acclimatization.

Winter clothes are provided for the tour, as well as a photo for you with the sunset and stars at no extra charge. This is a great activity to include in your Big Island itinerary.

Book Your Mauna Kea Tour Here

4. Captain Cook Memorial and Kealakekua Bay

One of the best places to go snorkeling on the Big Island, and even in Hawaii, is Kealakekua Bay. There is a beautiful coral reef there, plus it is a fascinating historical site.

The center of the bay is pretty deep, so it is common to find a pod of dolphins resting in the bay. We weren’t lucky enough to spot the dolphins, but they visit often.

There are lots of different colors of fish swarming the reef. Keep an eye out for the different kinds of reefs as they do change as the reef slopes steeply away from the shore.

The bay’s northeastern side is one of the best places for snorkeling in the bay because of the calm waters. We had such a fun time snorkeling with our kids in this part of the bay. We also got to see lots of different coral growths in this part of the bay.

Another spot we enjoyed is in front of the Ka’awaloa Flats near the Captain Cook Monument. This was one of our favorite things we did during our Big Island itinerary. It is very family-friendly and a great experience.

Kealakekua Bay is where Captain James Cook landed for the first time on the Hawaiian islands in 1778. One year later, in 1779, James Cook was killed here during his third visit to the islands. Today, there is a 27-foot-tall monument you can easily see from the ocean. It is a tall, white obelisk.

The monument is not accessible by car. You can either hike to the monument, swim in, kayak in, or join a snorkeling tour. The hike to get to the monument is 3.8 miles with about 1,300 feet in elevation.

Snorkeling Tour to Kealakekua Bay

By far, the easiest way to visit Kealakekua Bay is by joining a snorkeling tour. The tour companies know the best places to snorkel in the bay. The boat ride over to the bay passes beautiful areas of the coast, and you can keep an eye out for whales, especially in the winter. 

We went on our tour with Fair Wind departing out of Keauhou Bay. Our family had a great time on our tour, and they were very family-friendly. We had about a 45-minute boat ride before we got to the bay and enjoyed a delicious tropical breakfast along the way.

The staff had all the snorkeling gear we needed, including prescription goggles for Coltin and snorkeling boards for Rowen and Raven. The girls were able to use the boards to see the fish underwater, and we loved hearing each squeal about seeing another fish.

We had about 2.5 hours to snorkel and enjoy the amenities on the boat, like the high dive, water slides, and lunch.

Another great tour company that comes highly recommended is Sea Paradise. All ages are welcome, and they provide a snorkeling trip similar to Fair Winds. Reef-safe sunscreen, snorkeling gear, and snacks are included.

Book Your Snorkeling Tour Here

5. Two-Step (Honaunau Bay)

A great place to snorkel just steps away from parking is the beautiful turquoise bay known as Two-Step or Honaunau Bay. There are beautiful coral reefs here, and is a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.

Parking can be difficult here because of the small size of the parking lot. There is parking along the road if you can’t find a spot in the parking lot.

The best time to go snorkeling here is in the morning.

If you’re just coming here for a sandy beach, this is not the best beach to visit. There is a very small beach you can relax, but the main highlight of this spot is the snorkeling. Most of the shoreline is smooth lava rock. If you want to do some snorkeling, this is a great stop to add to your Big Island itinerary.

The north side of the bay has a sandy area where you can get comfortable with your snorkeling or scuba gear. The coral areas are close to the shore and a great place to see fish. You can even see them from the bank without getting in the water.

The depth is about 10 to 15 feet. On the south side of the bay is where the turtles are most commonly seen. The north side of the bay is deeper and has a sandy bottom. The north side has beautiful coral formations and tropical fish.

Two-Step is another common place to see dolphins on the island.

6. Kona Farmers Market

The Kona Farmers Market is filled with souvenirs, fresh produce, and local handmade goods. Be sure to wander off the main shopping roads to enjoy the ocean views. We spotted a turtle on the rocks along the shoreline.

We had a lot of fun walking through the booths to see the local produce and crafts. There are also beautiful flowers you can buy there.

The market is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 7 am to 4 pm.

7. Kailua Bay

Another great place for swimming and snorkeling in the heart of Kona is Kailua Bay. It is a small beach at the end of the seawall. There is protection from the pier, so if you’re looking for things to do on the Big Island in Hawaii with kids, this is a nice beach. It is one of the best swimming beaches in Kona.  

It is small but a nice place to relax and swim. There are no facilities at this beach, so come prepared with what you need, like sunscreen, water, and snacks.

Fun Fact – This beach is the start of the swimming course for the IRONMAN Triathlon.

8. Swim with Dolphins

Hawaii is home to a ton of dolphins. We love finding dolphins, like when we went on a dolphin tour in Fort Myers. Hawaii is a great place for a dolphin tour because of the high likelihood of seeing dolphins and the beautiful weather!

9. Ali’i Drive

Ali’i Drive is a fun street to explore for shopping, music, food, and amazing ocean views. The street runs along the ocean and is a perfect place for a walk along the ocean.

There are also lots of great restaurants and shops in this area of historic Kailua-Kona. The Kona Inn Shopping Village is a great place to start exploring Ali’i Drive. It is full of shops, specialty boutiques, and gift shops, making it a great place to pick up a souvenir and remember all the fun things you did during your Big Island itinerary.

You can park for free on Hualalai Road.

10. Whale Watching in the Winter

If you want to find whales in the ocean, the Big Island is a great place to go on a whale-watching tour with Hang Loose Boat Tours, especially in the wintertime. The Big Island is home to migrating humpback whales.

One thing that is really cool about this tour is their use of hydrophones. This allows you to hear the whales singing underwater. Your tour guide also provides narration about the animals and the Big Island.

11. ATV Ride

If you’re looking for an exciting adventure during your Big Island adventure, an ATV tour with Aloha Adventure Farms is one of the best things to do on the Big Island in Hawaii. Your ATV tour has a Polynesian cultural focus taking you through a series of villages replicating Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Hawaii.

It is a great way to learn more about these beautiful cultures while exploring the beautiful forest trails on the island.

12. Luau

A great way to end your day of fun Big Island activities is at the Legends of Hawai’i Luau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. This luau is one of the most popular on the island and tells the heroic stories of Hawaii and its people.

The buffet is filled with delicious Polynesian food, such as kalua pig and fresh island fish, along with fruits, salads, and desserts. After dinner, sit back and relax while enjoying a show filled with dancing, music, and fire.

We had a great time at the luau, and our kids loved getting to move up to the front to be able to see the performance better.

13. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

A really cool and interesting historical site to visit on the Big Island in Hawaii is the Pu’uhonau o Honauna National Historic Park.  

In the time of ancient Hawaii, Pu’uhonau was filled with spiritual powers from the 23 chiefs whose bodies were protected in the temple. The area was also a place of refuge for those who broke the laws and needed to avoid certain death. The offender would be forgiven by a priest and then allowed to leave.

When you get to the park, make sure to pick up a map and use the audio tour for a greater understanding of each landmark. It is a beautiful area to walk around and explore.

14. Helicopter Tour

One of the most unique and beautiful ways to see the Big Island of Hawaii is on a Kona Coast helicopter tour. Mauna Loa Helicopters Tours is the only private helicopter tour company in Hawaii and provides visitors with a great experience.

The tour will take you past Honokohau Bay, Kona, the Captain Cook Memorial and ends at Kawaihae before heading back to the airport. This tour is also a great way to see the whales if you don’t have time to head out on a boat.

Book Your Helicopter Tour Here

Things to do on The Big Island of Hawaii – Hilo

Hilo is on the opposite side of the island. The drive between Kona and Hilo is a really pretty drive. If you drive straight across the island, it is about an hour and 30-minute drive. If you have an extra hour to drive, I recommend taking the northern road through Waimea. It is a very scenic and beautiful drive.

15. Hilo Farmers Market

We love wandering through local markets, and the Hilo one is beautiful. It’s fun to go to the markets at the beginning of your stay so you can buy some fresh produce to enjoy.

The farmer’s market is held daily, but the big market days are Wednesday and Saturday, and it has over 200 local vendors. Take some time to enjoy the sights and smells of the local produce, the beauty of the artisan crafts, and delicious food vendors.

Hilo Waterfalls

One of the biggest highlights of Hilo is all of the beautiful waterfalls and rainforest ecosystems. You can easily visit all of these waterfalls in the morning because they are pretty close to each other.  

16. Akaka Falls

Within Akaka Falls State Park, there are two waterfalls that you can see. Akaka Falls is 442 feet tall, and Kahuna Falls is 100 feet tall. The loop is about half a mile and has a paved path and stairs.

The walk to the falls is beautiful. The lush rainforest has wild orchids, bamboo, and ferns.

The entrance fee is $5 per person, and Hawaii residents get in for free.

17. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is a beautiful waterfall because it is so wide. Parking is right next to the falls but make sure you take the steps up to the top of the waterfall. Here you will find views of lush vegetation, banyan trees, and a new perspective of the falls. 

My kids had a lot of fun climbing the steps and exploring the banyan trees at the top.

18. UmaUma Falls

Another great waterfall is UmaUma Falls. These falls are on private property, so you need to make sure you visit during their business hours.

It is part of the Umauma Falls ZipLine and Rappel Experience. You can drive right to the viewing point for the falls and enjoy a scenic drive around the property.

19. Pe’ePe’e Falls and the Boiling Pots

Just up the road from Rainbow Falls is Pe’epe’e Falls. This waterfall isn’t as popular as nearby Rainbow Falls but is an easy add-on since you’re already in the area. There is a lookout point just off the road, but it is a little bit away.

Boiling Pots is a lot closer to the lookout points. If it has rained a lot, the boiling pots appear as small pools where the water appears to be boiling. This is a result of the underground lava tubes.

If you want to get a closer look at Pe’epe’e Falls, there is a small trail to the right of the viewpoint that goes down to the pots. Avoid going down there if it has rained a lot because of the increase in water flow. To get to the waterfall, you will have to jump over some rocks.

20. Zipline over Waterfalls

A fun and unique way to see the Hilo waterfalls and rainforest is a zipline tour.  A 9-line zipline tour with Umauma Falls Zipline will give you a bird-eye perspective taking you over beautiful trees, waterfalls, and rivers. This is the most scenic zipline tour on the Big Island.

Make sure to bring closed-toe shoes for your zipline tour.

21. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

One of our favorite things to do on the Big Island in Hawaii is exploring Volcanoes National Park. We recommend starting your visit at the Kilauea Visitor Center. Since the 2018 lava flows, some of the park has been closed.

Rangers at the park can tell you what’s open and help you find activities suitable for your group.

After the visitor center, we drove around the Kilauea Caldera to see the Halema’uma’u Crater. We were able to view the spectacular crater as well as the steam vents and steaming bluff.

Next, we headed to the Devastation Trail. It is about a half-mile walk that takes you through the cinder outfall of the 1959 eruption of Kilauea Iki. The paved trail is stroller-friendly and a very easy walk through the park.

Our favorite part of the park was the Chain of Craters Drive. There are a variety of stops along the way, including craters, viewpoints, and hikes. The road ends at the Holei Sea Arch. The arch was beautiful and was a great place to let Rowen and Raven do some exploring on the lava rocks.

For more details about what we did in Volcano National Park, check out our Volcanoes National Park guide.

22. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

The eastern side of the Big Island is so green and luscious. We loved it! A great place to see all of the different plants and flowers growing on the Big Island is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. It is a 17-acre garden.

The entire property is so beautiful to explore and features streams, waterfalls, and an ocean boardwalk. There are over 2,000 plant species in the garden. Keep an eye out for the mango and coconut palm trees that are over 100 years old.

The Lilypad Lake and Bamboo Waterfall are also great places to explore! The Hawaiian Red Ginger is a fun and unique plant to Hawaii.

23. Big Island Candies

For a tasty treat during your vacation and for some to take home, head over to Big Island Candies. It is a delicious candy shop filled with chocolate-dipped cookies, candies, and gifts. They also have a viewing area where you can watch employees make the treats.

24. Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo

Our kids loved exploring the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo. It is the only zoo in the United States located in the rainforest. Although it is a small zoo, about 12 acres in size, admission is free, and it is a fun place to spend a couple of hours exploring.

The highlight of the zoo is the tigers. The zoo is home to a white Bengal tiger and a Bengal tiger. They also have a great playground area for kids.

25. Kaumana Caves

If you’re looking for a hidden gem or something off the beaten path, exploring the Kaumana Caves is a great option. The cave was created by a lava flow from the Mauna Loa volcano in the 1800s. The main tube runs for 25 miles underground.

From the parking lot, there is a small staircase across the road that leads down into the lava tube. From the entrance, you can explore to the left, which leads to a long dark portion of the tube. You will have to climb over some rocks here. This trail ends where part of the tube collapsed.

In the end, there is a really cool view from the inside of the tube, looking up at the roots and vegetation above the hole. You can either hike back through the tube, or there is a small path that leads back to the road.

The trail to the right has a larger opening and is about two miles long. There is no entrance fee to the cave, and there are restrooms and a picnic area. Make sure you bring a good flashlight and a backup to explore the cave.  

26. Onomea Bay Trail

The Onomea Trails are two short hikes just north of Hilo. Plus, the road to get to the trailhead is so scenic and beautiful.  

The first trailhead is just off of the Old Mamalahoa Highway between the 7- and 8-mile markers. You’ll drive along the Scenic Drive for about 2.5 miles if you’re coming from the south. Just north of the Botanical Gardens is a small dirt pull-off on the ocean side of the road where you can park. There is a brown trailhead sign to mark the start of the trail.

The second trailhead is just 0.5 miles south of the first trailhead. There is another trailhead sign saying “Onomea Trail.”

Even if you don’t hike down the trail, this is a really beautiful and scenic drive.

27. Waipi’o Valley Lookout

The Waipi’o Valley Lookout has one of the best views on the Big Island. Waipi’o means curved water in the Hawaiian language. There Waipi’o river is about a mile wide and a beautiful part of the valley. The valley meets the ocean at a beautiful black sand beach.

The best view of the valley is at the Waipi’o Valley Lookout. This is a great place to take pictures of the valley, and there are amenities like a picnic area, restrooms, and historical signs.

There is a very short walk from the parking area down to the official lookout point. You will find beautiful views of the valley, the ocean, and sea cliffs.

28. South Point Cliff Jump

One of the most popular things to do as you drive around the Big Island is the South Point cliff jump. South Point is the southernmost point in the United States. You can’t go any more south in the U.S. than at this point.

When jumping, you will want to make sure that you jump at the green wooden stand. This is a safe place to jump and has a ladder for you to climb back up. It’s a good idea to keep in mind that this jump is quite high. The jump is at least 35 to 40 feet high.

It’s a good idea to check the weather conditions before heading down to South Point. You don’t want to jump if there are high winds or large ocean waves. It can be a lot of fun but make sure to take the right safety precautions and remember your physical limitations.

Things to do on the Big ISland in Hawaii – Beaches

One of the best things to do on the Big Island in Hawaii is relaxing at the beach. The Big Island has so many beautiful beaches. Whether you want to spend a few hours at the beach or make an entire day out of it, there’s no doubt a beautiful beach nearby.

Without a doubt, the best beaches are on the western side of the island. Plus, you’ll have many more sunny days there compared to the Hilo side. There are some nice and unique beaches on the Hilo side, but they tend to be rockier and much smaller.

29. Kahalu’u Beach Park

Kahalu’u Beach Park is a beautiful area with lots of great amenities and snorkeling. It is a sheltered cove found in the town of Kailua-Kona. There is a large fish population there that can be viewed either by snorkeling or exploring the tide pools on foot.

We took Rowen and Raven out in the tide pools, and they got to see a variety of different fish. Also, the rocks can be slippery, so be careful.

The shoreline here has some small sand sections but is mostly lava rocks. If you’re wanting to play in the sand, this isn’t the best beach choice.

At the park, there are restrooms, showers, large pavilions, and, most importantly – shaved ice! Make sure you bring some cash with you for a refreshing treat once you’re done exploring. This is one of the great Big Island activities that will get you in the water.

30. Maniniowali Beach

Maniniowali Beach is a secluded and small white sand beach at Kua Bay. The view of the white sand in contrast to the black lava rock and blue ocean water is stunning. My girls loved getting to play in the sand, and the views were spectacular.

There is very little shade at this beach, so be prepared. There are bathroom facilities and showers available in the parking lot.

31. Magic Sands Beach

If you’re looking for a beach close to the downtown Kona area, Magic Sands Beach, also known as Disappearing Sands Beach, is a fun and convenient option.

It is a great beach for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. The beach gets its name because sand levels can vary depending on the time of year.

In the winter, the shoreline has more rocks exposed. The surf pulls the sand off the beach, exposing the lava rocks buried underneath the sand.

32. Hapuna Beach State Park

If you’re wanting to spend a day at the beach, Hapuna Beach State Park would be my vote.  It is consistently voted as one of the best beaches in the United States. It has beautiful white sand and clear, blue waters.

There are very few lava rocks on the beach, making it a perfect place to play on the beach. There are facilities at the beach, and a short walk from the parking area to the beach.

33. Onekahakah Beach Park

If you’re looking to spend some time at the beach on the Hilo side of the island, Onekahakah Beach Park is your best bet. It is a great place for families to play in the ocean with kid-friendly wading pools, picnic areas, and a playground.

They have used large boulders to block the ocean waves creating a swimming pool-like swim area. Outside the cove, there are a few tide pools, home to sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, and sea anemones. This is one of the Big Island activities your kids will love.

34. Papakolea Green Sand Beach

One of the most unique beaches on the Big Island is Papakolea Green Sand Beach. It is one of two green sand beaches in the United States so visiting is something you may only get to do once in your life. The beach is carved from a 49,000-year-old cinder cone that contains green crystals giving the beach its green color.

The beach is near the southern tip of the island. You do have to hike into this beach which is about a 5-mile round trip hike. The hike to the beach can be hot but isn’t very hard.

Make sure you’re prepared with enough food, water, and sun protection for the hike. There are not any services at the beach.

35. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

One of our favorite beaches on the Big Island is the Punalu’u black sands beach. It is just outside Volcanoes National Park so it’s a good idea to plan on visiting both on the same day.  It is the most beautiful black, sandy beach on the island, and it is home to lots of sea turtles.

You can also drive right to the beach, unlike some of the other black sand beaches. We were lucky enough to find a large group of turtles sunbathing on the black beach. The turtles can also be seen swimming out in the surf.

There are large rock formations that are fun to explore as well. This is one of the must-do Big Island activities.

36. Richardson Ocean Park

If you’re looking for a black sand beach closer to Hilo, you can visit Richardson Ocean Park.  It is the black sand beach closest to Hilo and, above all, is a great place for playing on the small beach and snorkeling. Finally, there are tide pools that seem like they are fun to explore.

There are picnic areas, showers, and restrooms at the park. This is one of the Big Island activities that is great for the whole family.

Things to do on the Big Island in Hawaii for Free

One of the best free things to do on the island is exploring! There are so many beautiful coastal and rainforest scenic drives on the island. We recommend reserving at least one day during your Big Island itinerary to explore the island outside of Kona.

37. Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive

One of the most famous and scenic drives on the Big Island in Hawaii is the Onomea (Pepe’ekeo) Scenic Drive. It is a short four-mile drive but is full of old bridges and beautiful tropical forests. The road starts between mile markers 7 and 8 on Highway 19. This is just north of Hilo.

Tip: Consider driving this during the morning because the dense foliage makes it darker in the afternoons.

38. Drive the Hamakua Coast

We recommend driving the Hamakua Coast on your way from Kona to Hilo or vice-versa. The drive is about an hour longer compared to driving straight across the island, but the views and stops along the way are worth it.

Along the way, stop at the Tex Drive-In for some world-famous malasadas, a highlight of any Big Island itinerary. The Kalua pork and cabbage Hawaiian plate was also delicious. Then head to the Waipi’o Valley Lookout for a spectacular view of the Hawaiian coast.

Make sure to leave enough time to drive during the daylight along the road so you can enjoy all of the beautiful views!

Here are some other great free things to include in your Big Island itinerary –

• Visit the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
• Take in the views of Rainbow Falls
• Visit the black sand beach
• Sample macadamia nuts at the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory
• Stargaze at Mauna Kea
• Marvel at the Waipi’o Valley coastline

Map of the Best Things to Do on the Big Island in Hawaii

How to Use This Map: Click on the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest.

If you click the star next to the title of the map, this will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps. Then click on the menu button, go to “Your Place,” and click on Maps. You will see this map added to your list.

Best Restaurants on the Big Island in Hawaii

Throughout the island, there are lots of yummy restaurants to enjoy. There are small, authentic Hawaiian hole-in-the-wall restaurants to fancy restaurants with coastal views. No matter the kind of restaurant you are looking for, you will find it.  

Here is a list of some fun restaurants to visit as well as some of the foods unique to Hawaii:

Loko Wraps

Loko Wraps is a great stop if you’re looking for a quick brunch or lunch or want to take some food with you to the beach. They serve island fusion foods such as their acai bowl filled with berries, granola, bee pollen, chia seeds, and coconut flakes.

We also enjoyed their hula girl and pau pau smoothies. If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, check out the island-style Mexican food.

Ocean Sushi

After a day of exploring the Hilo waterfalls or Volcanoes National Park, head into Hilo for dinner at Ocean Sushi. It is a reasonably priced sushi restaurant and also serves a variety of bento boxes and udon soup. The restaurant has a great atmosphere to relax in, or you can place an order to go.

We actually ended up eating here twice because we liked it so much. We got sushi in the restaurant one day and then ordered bento boxes to go.

Ken’s Pancake House

When you’re in Hilo, start your Big Island itinerary morning at Ken’s Pancake House for breakfast. This American-style, 24-hour diner serves up a variety of breakfast meals as well as the famous loco moco plates.

We loved the fresh banana pancakes, considered to be a ‘local style’ pancake, as well as our omelet. The servings are quite large. Our family of four shared these two entrees, and we had plenty of food for all of us.

Shaved Ice with Ice Cream in the Middle

Hawaii has its own yummy spin on shaved ice. They serve up shaved ice with ice cream in the middle. The shaved ice in Hawaii is more like powder snow, not granular or crunchy ice. We got shaved ice a few times during our time on the Big Island and loved it!

Kula Shave Ice in Hilo and Scandinavian Shave Ice in Kona are two of the best places to get shaved ice on the Big Island.

Poke Bowls

Poke (pronounced “po-kay”) is an authentic Hawaiian plate made of diced raw fish. It is most commonly served with sauces served over rice. Most of the poke bowls are made of ahi tuna. Poke is easy to find and is sold at grocery stores and a variety of restaurants.

Usually, the restaurants specializing in poke have the best bowls.  If you’re in Kona, check out Da Poke Shack. If you’re in Hilo and want to try poke, we recommend Suisan Fish Market or some booths at the Hilo Farmers Market.

Malasadas

If you’re driving around the northern side of the island, be sure to stop in at the Tex Drive-In for their famous malasadas. Malasadas are fried donuts coated in sugar. The middle is doughy.

You can try some different varieties of malasadas, by ordering them with different fillings like raspberry and coconut. We liked the originals the best, but it was fun to try the different flavors too.

If you aren’t going to be up along the Hamakua Coast, you can find malasadas at Manuela Malasada Company in Waimea and Punalu’u Bake Shop in Kau.   

Where to Stay Near Kona

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the Big Island of Hawaii, making it a perfect place to stay during your Big Island itinerary. It features an array of accommodations, amenities, and activities that provide guests with an unforgettable experience.

With beautiful beaches, golf courses, swimming pools, restaurants and bars, and a full-service spa, this Hawaiian getaway has everything you need for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

If you’re looking for a place to stay near Kona, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is an excellent choice.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Hilton Waikoloa Village

The Hilton Waikoloa Village is a sprawling resort complex located on the sunny west coast of the Big Island. With a variety of spacious accommodations and plenty of on-site amenities, this resort is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind in paradise.

Whether you’re enjoying a swim in one of their swimming pools, indulging in a massage at their full-service spa, or just relaxing on the beach, you’re sure to have a memorable stay at this tropical resort.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Hilton Waikoloa Village

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

If you’re looking for a more affordable option near Kona, the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is a great choice. This beachfront hotel offers comfortable accommodations and all of the modern amenities you need for an enjoyable stay.

Whether you’re soaking up some sun on their private beach, enjoying a round of golf at the on-site golf course, or indulging in a refreshing drink at their rooftop bar, you’ll find plenty to do and see at this charming Big Island hotel.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s

Holualoa Inn

For more intimate accommodations near Kona, the Holualoa Inn is an excellent choice. This charming inn offers cozy guest rooms, a full-service restaurant, and easy access to the beautiful beaches and charming towns of Kona.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, you’ll love the tranquil atmosphere at this quaint Big Island inn.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Holualoa Inn

Where to Stay Near Hilo and Volcanoes National Park

Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is a comfortable and convenient option for those looking to explore the wonders of Volcanoes National Park. This historic hotel offers modern amenities and easy access to all of the natural wonders of this iconic national park.

Whether you’re exploring the stunning landscape on foot or embarking on an adventurous helicopter tour, you’ll find plenty to see and do when you stay at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is a secluded lodge that offers stunning views of glistening waterfalls and hiking trails. With comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, and easy access to all of the exciting activities in this region, you’ll love your stay at this rustic and serene lodge.

Whether you’re exploring the park on foot or embarking on a helicopter tour over the volcano, you’ll find plenty of adventures near this welcoming Big Island hotel.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Inn at Kulaniapia Falls

SCP Hilo Hotel

The SCP Hilo Hotel is a great choice featuring comfortable accommodations and easy access to the city’s downtown area; this hotel is perfect for those looking for an affordable Big Island getaway. Whether you’re enjoying a hike through the national park or indulging in some shopping at one of the local boutiques, you’ll find plenty to see and do when you stay at the SCP Hilo Hotel.

With modern amenities and a convenient location, this hotel is the perfect choice for any traveler looking for an exciting vacation near Hilo and Volcanoes National Park.

▶ Check Rates & Book: SCP Hilo Hotel

Mahana House Country Inn

Mahana House Country Inn is nestled amongst native trees, in a tranquil setting with private beach access; it is the perfect place to sit back and relax and soak up the surroundings.

Mahana House has been lovingly restored to provide a comfortable base from which you can explore this beautiful area. You will have access to your own private swimming beach, where you can go swimming or kayaking, or walk along the shore. The lake is a haven for water birds, and you are sure to see plenty of interesting species.

It is a great location for some day trips exploring waterfalls, gardens, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the MAUNA KEA summit and stargazing. There are many nearby activities and adventures the family will love.

Mahana House Country Inn is run by a friendly team who will ensure that you have everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. With spacious rooms, beautiful views, great food, and many activities on offer nearby.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Mahana House Country Inn

The Best Time to Visit the Big Island

There are a couple of times of the year that are ideal for planning your Big Island itinerary. These times take into consideration how many people there will be and the weather.

Spring and Fall are the best times to visit the island. April to May and September to October are the best times to visit the island because the weather is great and there are fewer crowds.

Getting Around the Big Island

While on the Big Island, there are a couple of ways you can get around, and depending on where on the island you want to visit can make a big difference. If you are staying in Kona at a resort, your transportation needs will be different than if you are staying in the more rural Hilo.

Renting a Car for your Big Island Itinerary

Renting a car is generally considered the best way to get around the island during your Big Island itinerary. If you have a rental car, your freedom to roam around the island and check out different places greatly increases.

If you have little kids that need car seats and boosters, renting a car is great because you don’t need to take them in and out as you would in an Uber or Lift, which are great alternatives. Your easiest way to get a rental car is by picking one up at the airport.

▶ BOOK a Rental Car Here

Uber or Lift

Uber and Lift run through the island but are more frequent and easiest to use in the Kona area. You can find an Uber, Lift or taxi from the airport to your resort or hotel fairly easily. If you are going to spend the majority of your time in Kona and the surrounding area using Uber or Lift to get around is a great option.

Tours That Include Transportation

We love going on different tours and adventures. They are a great way to learn about the island and enjoy great adventures. There are many tours that offer pick-up from your resort or hotel if you are staying at one of the larger resorts in the area.

Here are a few of the tours that offer hotel pick-up:

• Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, and History
• Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights
• Big Island Circle Tour and Volcano: Coffee, Wine, Waterfalls and Hamakua Coast

Big Island Itinerary Packing List

Beach Cover Up

If you are out in the sun a lot, you may want a little bit of cover for your skin or for a nice addition to something more than just a swimsuit.

👉 Click On Any Image Below to Shop Cover Ups 👈

Sun Hat

A sun hat is great for keeping the sun out of your face during your Big Island itinerary. Check for sun hats here, or look at some of the options below.

👉 Click On Any Image Below to Shop Sun Hats 👈

Beach Bag

A beach bag is a must for your Big Island destination. Make sure your beach bag is ready for your trip, or check out the adorable options before you go.

▶ SHOP Beach Bags

Swimming suit and beach Towels

Swimsuits and beach towels are something you will want to have during your Big Island itinerary. Many hotels offer towels, but they are typically small and not great for the beach.

👉 Click On Any Image Below to Shop Sun Hats 👈

Snorkeling gear

If you don’t want to rent your snorkel gear, you can check out some great options here.

▶ SHOP Snorkeling Gear

Reef Safe sunscreen

Make sure your sunscreen is reef safe. Beach Bum Sunscreen is a great option that won’t harm the coral reefs.

▶ SHOP Reef Safe Sunscreen

Dramamine

If you are going on a tour or just playing in the ocean during your Big Island itinerary, you may be like us and get a little seasick. Make sure you have some Dramamine in tow.

▶ SHOP Dramamine

Go Pro

For all of our adventures, we use a GoPro. They are waterproof and take amazing videos and pictures. We recommend purchasing one before you go and giving it a test run, so your pictures turn out great.

▶ SHOP Go Pros

FAQ: Big Island Itinerary

What is the Big Island famous for?

The Big Island is famous for its active volcanoes and the Volcanoes National Park. When visiting the area, you could have the opportunity to see active volcanoes and learn about how the islands were formed many years ago.

How long does it take to drive around the Big Island?

If you are going to be driving around the entire island, you should expect the drive to take about 8 hours. The Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and the speed limit is not overly fast.

What is the Big Island best known for?

The Big Island in Hawaii is known for its incredible and diverse landscapes and climates and the volcanoes that shape the landscape on the island. Driving around the island, you will find rich jungles, white sandy beaches, and volcanic landscapes.  

How many days should you spend on the Big Island?

The Big Island of Hawaii is very large and diverse. To really get a good picture of what the Big Island is like and to have time to explore the island, we planning on six to seven days in your Big Island itinerary.

Conclusion: Big Island Itinerary

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning out our Big Island itinerary. The island is quite large so make sure to take that into account when planning out your itinerary.

If you’re going to be on the island for more than five days, we recommend checking out both the Kona and Hilo sides. They are drastically different and offer visitors such a different experience.

Trying to decide which island to visit? Check out our favorite things to do on Oahu!