When I first set foot on the Big Island, I didn’t know what to expect. I’d been to Maui and Oahu before, but something about Hawaiʻi Island (as locals call it) felt different—raw, wild, alive. One moment I was snorkeling with manta rays, the next I was hiking through a steaming volcanic crater. If you’re looking for an island that delivers contrast, adventure, and soul, this is it.
Here’s how I explored the Big Island, and the experiences that stood out the most. Whether you’re into lava tubes, waterfalls, beaches, or stars, there’s something magical waiting for you.
🌋 Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
This was hands-down the highlight of my trip. Walking through an active volcanic landscape is as surreal as it sounds. I spent hours exploring the Kīlauea Iki Trail, hiking across a crater that still smelled faintly of sulfur. The Thurston Lava Tube was also a must-see—especially early in the morning when it’s still misty and quiet.
Tip: If you’re lucky, you might catch lava glowing in the distance after sunset near the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater overlook.
🌌 Stargaze at Mauna Kea
Even after visiting observatories around the world, nothing compared to the stargazing I experienced atop Mauna Kea. At nearly 14,000 feet, it’s one of the best spots on Earth for seeing the stars. The clarity, the stillness, the way the Milky Way cut across the sky—it felt unreal.
Note: You can only drive to the summit with a 4WD, but stargazing from the visitor center is amazing too. Bring a jacket—it gets cold up there.
🐠 Night Snorkel with Manta Rays in Kona
This one’s for the bucket list. I joined a small group tour that took us just offshore from Kona at sunset. As darkness fell, floodlights in the water attracted plankton—and then came the giant manta rays. Gliding beneath me, their wingspans were over 10 feet wide. I’ve never felt so tiny, or so lucky.
Local tip: Book a tour with a marine-conscious operator. Manta Ray Advocates has some good info on choosing ethical tours.
🌴 Relax at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
This beach felt like something out of a dream: jet-black sand, tall coconut palms, and sea turtles napping right on the shore. It’s easy to access and a great place to take a break between adventures. I brought lunch here and stayed way longer than I meant to.
What makes it special: It’s one of the few places where you can see hawaiian green sea turtles up close—just don’t touch or disturb them.
🚗 Drive the Hamakua Coast
This road trip quickly became one of my favorite days on the island. The drive from Hilo to Waipiʻo Valley is packed with lush jungle, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping ocean views. I stopped at Akaka Falls and Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve, both worth lingering at.
Route tip: Start early and take your time—there are roadside fruit stands, hidden viewpoints, and even a few rope swings if you’re feeling brave.
🌺 Explore Hilo Town
Hilo has an old-school Hawaiian charm I didn’t expect. The pace is slower, the shops are quirky, and the food is incredible. I browsed the Hilo Farmers Market, tried fresh poke from Suisan, and walked around Liliʻuokalani Gardens, which felt like a quiet little secret.
Don’t miss: Two Ladies Kitchen for mochi—it lives up to the hype.
🧖♀️ Soak in the Ahalanui Warm Pools (if open)
These geothermally heated pools used to be one of the Big Island’s hidden gems, though access can be limited post-2018 lava flow. If they’re open again when you go, it’s worth checking out. Imagine a natural ocean-fed hot tub, surrounded by palm trees.
🌊 Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
Accessible by kayak, hike, or boat, this bay near Captain Cook is one of the clearest snorkeling spots on the island. I saw so many fish I didn’t know where to look—and the coral was healthy and colorful. It’s also where Captain Cook first landed, so there’s history here too.
Pro tip: Go in the morning before the winds pick up. You’ll thank yourself later.
🐴 Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
This valley feels almost mythical: steep cliffs, waterfalls, and a wild black sand beach down below. You can only hike or drive down if you have a permit (or go with a tour), but the lookout itself is a destination in its own right.
It was cloudy when I went, and somehow that made it feel even more dramatic.
🛍 Sample Local Coffee in Kona
I’ll admit—I didn’t know what real Kona coffee tasted like until I tried it straight from the source. I visited a small farm called Hala Tree, where I learned about the entire bean-to-cup process. The views were great, and yes, I brought home way too many bags.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering whether the Big Island is worth the trip—my answer is a big yes. It’s unlike any of the other Hawaiian islands: more rugged, more diverse, and more down-to-earth. Whether you’re chasing stars, lava, or sea turtles, the experiences here stay with you long after you’ve left.
FAQs
What is the Big Island best known for?
The Big Island is best known for its active volcanoes, diverse climates, and stargazing on Mauna Kea.
How many days do you need on the Big Island?
Plan for at least 5–7 days to explore both the Kona and Hilo sides, plus extra time for activities like hiking, snorkeling, and road-tripping.
Can you see lava on the Big Island?
Yes, depending on volcanic activity. Check the National Park Service website for up-to-date eruption alerts.
Is it safe to visit Mauna Kea summit?
It’s safe if you’re acclimated and have a 4WD vehicle. Altitude sickness is a risk—take it seriously and consult guides before going.
