When I first visited the Big Island of Hawaii, I wasn’t quite sure how to fit everything in just four days. From black sand beaches to steaming lava fields, it’s an island of contrasts—and surprises. If you’re planning a 4 day Big Island itinerary, this guide will help you balance adventure with downtime, road trips with rest stops, and tourist favorites with local gems.
Here’s exactly how I spent four magical days on the island—and what I’d tweak next time.
Day 1: Welcome to the Kona Coast
Most flights arrive in Kona, on the island’s dry, sunny west side. I recommend picking up your rental car at the airport—you’ll definitely want one.
What I did on Day 1:
- Lunch at Da Poke Shack: Nothing like fresh poke bowls to kick off an island trip.
- Check-in and beach time: I stayed in Kailua-Kona for easy access to dining and shopping. I spent the afternoon relaxing at Magic Sands Beach—the water was so clear and calm.
- Sunset dinner: Huggo’s on the Rocks offers toes-in-the-sand dining and oceanfront views that were made for golden hour.
Optional add-ons: If you arrive early, consider a visit to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park for scenic coastal trails and Hawaiian heritage sites.
Day 2: South Kona + Coffee Country + Volcanoes
This was a road trip day—and one of my favorites.
Morning:
I drove south through coffee country, stopping at a couple of local Kona coffee farms for free tastings and ocean views. Greenwell Farms was friendly and scenic.
Midday:
A must-stop: Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. I saw three sea turtles basking on the sand! Bring reef-safe sunscreen and your camera.
Afternoon:
We reached Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park around 2 PM. The park is massive—give yourself at least 4–5 hours to explore.
What I loved here:
- Kīlauea Visitor Center for maps and updates
- Steam Vents Trail for a surreal walk through otherworldly landscapes
- Chain of Craters Road drive for ocean cliffs and lava fields
- Crater Rim Drive at sunset for glowing skies over Halemaʻumaʻu Crater
Where I stayed: A cozy volcano cabin in Volcano Village, just 5 minutes from the park entrance.
Day 3: Hilo and Waterfalls
This day was slower-paced but still packed with natural beauty.
Morning:
After breakfast in Volcano, I drove 45 minutes to Hilo. It’s lush, laid-back, and a little rainy—but so worth visiting.
Stops I recommend:
- Rainbow Falls: A quick, photogenic stop with free parking.
- Liliʻuokalani Gardens: Japanese-style gardens perfect for a midday walk.
- Hilo Farmers Market (if it’s Wednesday or Saturday): I stocked up on fruit, local snacks, and handmade souvenirs.
Afternoon:
I headed north along the Hāmākua Coast to see ʻAkaka Falls State Park. The walk through the tropical forest to the 442-foot waterfall felt like something out of a movie.
Evening:
I drove back across the Saddle Road to the Kona side. It’s a scenic, straight drive with epic views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa—bring snacks and fuel up beforehand.
Day 4: Snorkeling + Stargazing
I dedicated my last day to relaxing and a couple of bucket list experiences.
Morning:
I joined a morning snorkeling tour to Kealakekua Bay—it’s the best spot on the island. Crystal-clear water, vibrant coral, and spinner dolphins made it a highlight of the trip.
Lunch: Head to Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill for ono poke nachos and Hawaiian plates.
Afternoon:
I grabbed a shaved ice, did some souvenir shopping in Kona town, and relaxed at Kua Bay—my favorite beach on the island. Powdery white sand, turquoise water, and fewer crowds than nearby spots.
Evening:
We wrapped the trip with stargazing at Mauna Kea Visitor Center (note: check weather and vehicle restrictions). It was chilly, but seeing the Milky Way was unforgettable.
Where I Stayed
- Kailua-Kona (Day 1 & 4): Great base for west coast exploring, beaches, and restaurants
- Volcano Village (Day 2): Peaceful and just minutes from the park
- Optional: A night in Hilo if you want to break up the drive or catch a farmers market
Travel Tips for 4 Days on the Big Island
- Rent a car: Absolutely essential for getting around.
- Pack for all climates: Kona is hot and dry; Volcano is cool and misty.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Required for swimming and snorkeling.
- Download maps offline: Cell service can be spotty in Volcano and on Saddle Road.
- Book tours early: Snorkeling, manta ray dives, and observatory stargazing can fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Four days on the Big Island will leave you wanting more—but it’s still enough to experience beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, and a touch of Hawaiian culture. I left feeling awed by how much the island packed into such a short stay.
Got more time? Check out my 7 day Big Island itinerary or explore more things to do on the Big Island.
FAQs
Is 4 days enough for the Big Island?
It’s tight, but doable! You’ll get a taste of both Kona and Volcanoes National Park with this itinerary.
What’s the best side of the Big Island to stay on?
Kona is sunnier and better for beaches and snorkeling. Hilo is greener and closer to waterfalls and Volcanoes National Park.
Can you drive around the Big Island in one day?
Technically yes, but it’s better to break it up. The loop takes 6–8 hours without stops.
Do I need a 4WD for Saddle Road or Volcanoes?
Nope! A regular rental car is fine for this route and the national park.
