The Ultimate Hawaii Big Island Travel Guide: Where I Stayed, Explored & Snorkeled

The Big Island of Hawaii is the kind of place that doesn’t just check off boxes it completely shifts your idea of what a tropical getaway can be. I came for volcanoes and black sand beaches, but ended up falling for hidden waterfalls, quiet coastal roads, and nights spent stargazing from a lava field.

If you’re planning your first trip here, this guide will walk you through everything I wish I knew from the best places to stay and what to pack, to the most breathtaking (and underrated) hikes, beaches, and snorkeling spots. I’ll also share highlights from my 5-day and 7-day itineraries, plus tips for navigating both coasts of the island.

Whether you’re here for the volcanoes or just dreaming of that turquoise Kona coastline, this ultimate Big Island travel guide is built for you. Let’s dive in.

How to Get Around the Big Island

• A rental car is a must – The Big Island is huge (literally big) and public transportation doesn’t go to most attractions. Driving gave me the flexibility to chase waterfalls, explore volcanoes, and stop at quiet beaches on my own schedule.
• 4WD isn’t essential, but nice for certain spots – Most places are accessible with a regular car, but a 4×4 helps if you’re heading to places like Mauna Kea or Green Sand Beach.
• Public buses exist, but they’re slow and infrequent – I wouldn’t recommend relying on them if you want to see more than just one town.
• Rideshares and taxis are limited – They’re mostly available in Kona and Hilo but can be hard to find elsewhere, especially at night.
• Some hotels and resorts offer airport shuttles – Helpful if you’re staying put in one area and not planning to explore far.
• Tours with transportation are a good option – If you don’t want to drive, many volcano and snorkeling tours include hotel pickup.

Where to Stay on the Big Island

One of the first decisions I had to make was where to base myself and it turns out, the Big Island is big. You’ll want to plan your stay based on the kind of experience you’re after: sunny beaches and snorkeling? Go west. Waterfalls and volcanoes? Head east.

Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay:

Kona (West Coast)

This is where I spent most of my beach days. Kona has reliably sunny weather, calm waters for snorkeling, and loads of cute cafés and poke spots. It’s also super convenient for exploring the coast and catching manta ray night snorkel tours.

• Great for: First-timers, beach lovers, foodies
• Where I stayed: A cozy Airbnb near Magic Sands Beach
• Don’t miss: Best Beaches in Kona, Things to Do in Kona

Hilo (East Coast)

Hilo feels like stepping into a lush, slower-paced Hawaii. Think rainforest drives, botanical gardens, and waterfall hikes. It rains more here, but the greenery is worth it.

• Great for: Waterfalls, Volcanoes NP, scenic drives
• My favorite part: How peaceful it felt even in town
• Link it with: Things to Do in Hilo, Wailuku River State Park

Volcano Village

If you want to wake up near Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, this is your spot. It’s cool (you might need a jacket!), surrounded by forest, and super close to lava tube hikes and crater overlooks.

• Great for: Nature lovers, photographers, hikers
• Must-do: Volcanoes National Park Hikes, Things to Do in Volcanoes National Park

Waikoloa (Northwest)

More of a resort zone, Waikoloa is dry, quiet, and has some of the best beaches on the island. I spent a lazy afternoon here and totally see the appeal if you’re looking to unwind in style.

• Great for: Couples, luxury travelers, families
• Pair with: Things to Do in Waikoloa, Big Island Beaches

Top Things to Do on the Big Island

From lava tubes and black sand beaches to snorkeling with sea turtles and sipping coffee grown on the slopes of a volcano Big Island packs a lot. I split my time between adventure days, beach lounging, and exploring towns like Kona and Hilo. Here’s everything I loved (and what I’d recommend you don’t skip):

Explore Volcanoes National Park

If there’s one place on the Big Island that made me feel like I’d landed on another planet, it was Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This park is massive and constantly evolving thanks to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. I easily spent an entire day here and still didn’t cover it all so if you love hiking, geology, or just seeing Earth in action, carve out real time for this.

Here are my favorite experiences:

Hike the Kīlauea Iki Trail

This 4-mile loop hike takes you across the solidified floor of a volcanic crater that last erupted in 1959. One minute you’re in a lush rainforest, and the next you’re walking across a steaming, cracked lava field. It’s surreal and humbling and my favorite hike in the park.

Full details: Volcanoes National Park Hikes

Tip: Start this trail counter-clockwise for a gentler descent and better photo spots on the climb out.

Walk Through Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)

This short but fascinating walk takes you through a lava tunnel formed centuries ago. You’ll feel like you’re underground, but it’s an easy, well-lit path surrounded by dense jungle. It’s great for families or anyone who doesn’t want to do a long hike but still wants that “volcano moment.”

Sunset at Jaggar Museum Overlook (Currently Closed, But Nearby Spots Are Open)

Although the Jaggar Museum is currently closed due to seismic damage, the nearby overlook remains one of the best places to view Halemaʻumaʻu Crater especially at dusk. When I visited, the crater glowed red as night fell, with smoke plumes curling into the sky. It gave me chills.

Alternative viewing spots: Kūpina‘i Pali and Kīlauea Overlook

Where to Stay:

To make the most of your visit, spend a night or two in Volcano Village. It’s a cozy, artsy town just minutes from the park entrance. The cool, misty forest setting was a welcome contrast to the beach towns on the west side.

Beach-Hop Between Black, White, and Green Sand

One of the things that surprised me most about the Big Island? The beaches aren’t all golden and soft in fact, they come in almost every color. Some are calm and swimmable, while others are rugged, dramatic, and best for a quick photo stop. Here are a few that stood out from my trip:

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

This is probably the most iconic black sand beach on the island and yes, I saw turtles lounging right on the shore. The sand is made from volcanic basalt and sparkles under the sun. You can swim here, but the water is often rough, so I mostly stayed on shore and just soaked up the scene.

More black sand beaches: Big Island Black Sand Beaches

Tip: Bring water shoes the sand can get hot, and the shoreline is a bit rocky.

Hapuna Beach

If you’re looking for a classic white-sand beach with calm, swimmable waters, this is your spot. Hapuna is on the west side near Waikoloa and has everything: soft sand, restrooms, shade pavilions, and even food vendors on busy days. I spent a lazy afternoon here reading and snorkeling right off the shore.

Related: Big Island Beaches

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

This one is for adventurers only. The sand is olive green thanks to the mineral olivine, and it’s one of only four green sand beaches in the world. Getting there requires a 2.5-mile hike each way or hopping on a rough 4WD shuttle (locals run them for a small fee).

Tip: Pack water, wear closed-toe shoes, and go early it gets hot and there’s no shade. Swimming can be risky due to strong currents.

Snorkeling & Underwater Adventures

Snorkeling on the Big Island ended up being one of the most unforgettable parts of my trip. The island’s west coast is home to calm bays, vibrant coral reefs, and rare marine experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaii. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or bringing your own gear, the visibility and marine life here are next-level.

Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay)

Two Step quickly became my go-to spot for casual snorkeling. The entry is from natural rock steps into clear, calm water, and within minutes I was surrounded by colorful fish and even spotted a sea turtle cruising by. The reef is healthy, the current is gentle, and there’s plenty to see just a few feet from shore.

• Parking can fill up quickly go early or late
• Bring reef shoes for the rocky entry
• Restrooms and picnic areas available at nearby Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)

If you’re up for an adventure, this is the snorkel spot. The marine preserve here offers some of the clearest water I’ve seen visibility easily reached 80+ feet. Most people reach it by kayak or guided boat tour, though there’s also a strenuous hike down (and back up!) if you’re feeling ambitious.

• Expect to see vibrant coral shelves, yellow tang, parrotfish, and the occasional eel
• You can rent kayaks or book a guided zodiac tour from Kona
• It’s a great place to combine history and nature the bay marks where Captain Cook landed (and died)

Tip: Book a morning tour for calmest seas and best light for underwater photos.

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

This was hands-down the most surreal experience I had on the island. You float at night on a lighted raft while these enormous, graceful manta rays glide just inches below you, drawn to the plankton-rich glow. I did this off the coast of Keauhou and was completely awestruck.

• Tours depart from Kona harbor or Keauhou Bay
• Wet suits, snorkel gear, and floatation devices are provided
• It’s not physically demanding, but being comfortable in open water helps

Don’t miss this it’s one of the few places in the world where you can do it.

Plan around Kona: Best Beaches in Kona, Things to Do in Kona

Go Chasing Waterfalls & Rainforest Trails

The east side of the island felt like an entirely different world: lush, misty, and humming with birds and frogs. If you’re the kind of traveler who craves the sound of waterfalls, shaded trails, and wild tropical landscapes, Hilo and the Hamakua Coast are where you want to be. These were my favorite waterfall experiences and yes, some of them look straight out of Jurassic Park.

Akaka Falls State Park

This was my favorite waterfall for that cinematic “jungle meets drama” effect. The paved loop trail takes you through a bamboo forest and orchid-lined paths to an overlook of Akaka Falls, a jaw-dropping 442-foot plunge straight into a gorge.

• The entire loop trail is under a mile and stroller-friendly
• Go early to beat the tour buses and morning clouds
• $5 entry fee per person + parking

Full guide: Akaka Falls State Park

Rainbow Falls & Boiling Pots

Located just a few minutes from downtown Hilo, this stop is easy and beautiful. I saw Rainbow Falls on a sunny morning, and true to its name, there was a shimmering rainbow through the mist. Boiling Pots is just upstream, where volcanic rock formations cause bubbling, churning water super photogenic, especially after rain.

• Free, quick stop with restrooms
• Great for families or those short on time
• Best visited in the morning light

Pair with: Things to Do in Hilo

Wailuku River State Park

A lesser-known gem, the Wailuku State Park offers views of multiple waterfall segments and lava-carved basins. The scenery is wild, moody, and a great contrast to the sunny west side. Bring rain gear it’s almost always misty here.

• The falls and rock pools are especially powerful after rainfall
• Limited facilities wear good shoes as paths may be slick
• It’s close to Hilo and makes a great stop after visiting the Botanical Garden

Road Trips & Scenic Drives

One of my favorite things about the Big Island is that simply getting around is part of the experience. Every drive here feels like a postcard scene shifting before your eyes lava fields one moment, jungle cliffs the next, and maybe even a rainbow over the sea. These three scenic routes stood out as absolute must-dos on my trip.

Chain of Craters Road (Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park)

This otherworldly road begins deep inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and winds 18+ miles down to the coast. Along the way, you’ll pass massive lava flows from past eruptions, fields of hardened black rock, and roadside steam vents that make you feel like the ground is still alive.

What I loved most was how quiet it got the farther I went. The final stop Hōlei Sea Arch is a dramatic basalt arch carved by crashing waves, standing defiantly at the edge of the Pacific. There’s no food or gas along the route, so go prepared.

• Pull over at the Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail to see 23,000+ ancient carvings
• Great for: Lava-view photography, geology fans, and peaceful coastal views
• Pair it with: Volcanoes National Park Hikes

Saddle Road (Route 200 / Daniel K. Inouye Highway)

Driving Saddle Road feels like crossing into a different planet. It cuts through the island’s center, connecting Kona to Hilo, and climbs over 6,600 feet through vast, windswept lava plains. Fog often rolls across the road, and the landscape switches from black lava to golden grasslands to cloud forests within an hour.

This drive is especially breathtaking around sunrise or sunset when the light hits the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa peaks just right.

• Smooth, paved, and fast but fuel up beforehand as there are zero gas stations mid-route
• Stop at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station if you’re acclimated and weather allows
• Useful for: Anyone doing a split-stay between Kona and Hilo

Red Road (Kapoho-Kalapana Road in Puna)

This was one of the most surprising and peaceful drives of my trip. Known locally as the “Red Road” (for the old pavement color), this narrow, winding coastal road cuts through the jungle and hugs dramatic lava cliffs in Puna. I passed wild beaches, roadside fruit stands, small farms, and even a few lava-claimed areas that nature is slowly reclaiming.

What makes this drive magical is the vibe it’s slow, wild, and feels like old Hawaii.

• Look out for Ahalanui Warm Ponds (some were closed post-2018 lava, but check for updates)
• Ideal for: Slow mornings, quiet meditative drives, and connecting with nature
• End near Kalapana or connect to local retreat centers like Kalani
• Add-on: Big Island Botanical Garden

Cultural Spots, Coffee Farms & Food Finds

Beyond beaches and volcanoes, the Big Island offers so many ways to connect with Hawaiian culture through its food, farms, and people. I made it a point to visit locally run spots wherever possible, and those moments ended up being some of the most meaningful parts of my trip.

Kona Coffee Tour

Kona coffee isn’t just famous it’s seriously good. I visited a small, family-run coffee farm in the hills above Kailua-Kona and got a behind-the-scenes look at how coffee is grown, picked, roasted, and brewed. The view over the coastline while sipping freshly roasted beans? Unbeatable.

• Tours are usually free or donation-based with tastings included
• Look for smaller, organic farms for a more personal experience
• Great for: Coffee lovers, curious foodies, and sustainable travelers

Pair with: Things to Do in Kona

Chocolate & Vanilla Farm Tours (Puna)

In the lush, humid region of Puna, I toured a tropical farm that grew cacao, vanilla, turmeric, and other edible plants. I got to see how vanilla beans are hand-pollinated (wild!) and tasted raw cacao straight from the pod. If you’re into chocolate, botany, or just seeing where your favorite ingredients come from, this is a treat.

• Great for kids and adults alike
• Many farms are appointment-only, so book ahead
• Try the homemade chocolate some even use coconut milk for dairy-free options

Combine with: Red Road drive or a visit to a retreat center

Waimea Farmers Market

Held every Saturday morning, this market is a celebration of local flavors. I browsed stands offering everything from taro chips and tropical jams to island-grown produce, fresh pastries, and handmade crafts. Live music played in the background, and everyone from locals to visiting chefs seemed to be there.

• Go early for best selection
• Bring cash for small vendors
• Try: Lilikoi butter, fresh malasadas, macadamia nut granola

Related: Big Island State Parks often host cultural events and pop-ups on weekends

Big Island Travel Itineraries

Whether you’ve got just a long weekend or a full week to explore, having a game plan really helps on the Big Island. I’ve created several detailed itineraries based on my own travels here’s a quick look at each to help you choose what fits best.

3-Day Big Island Itinerary

If you’re short on time, this itinerary hits the highlights: black sand beaches, Volcanoes National Park, and Kona snorkeling.

• Ideal for: Long weekend escapes or first-timers
• Covers both coasts with minimal drive time
• Includes stops at Punaluʻu, Kona coffee farms & lava fields. Read the full 3-day itinerary.

4-Day Big Island Itinerary

This version adds a full Hilo day to explore waterfalls, rainforest trails, and botanical gardens.

• Great for: Nature lovers, waterfall chasers
• Includes Akaka Falls, Hilo town, and Wailuku River State Park. Explore the 4-day itinerary.

5-Day Big Island Itinerary

This was my original trip, and it gave me time to settle in. I visited both coasts, did two beach days, and saw lava glowing at night in the National Park.

• Balanced mix of adventure and chill
• Includes manta ray night snorkel, Volcanoes NP hikes, and scenic drives. See the 5-day itinerary.

7-Day Big Island Itinerary

If you’ve got a full week, this one is for you. I went slow, explored side roads, and even squeezed in a sunrise hike and local retreat stop.

• My complete Big Island adventure from coast to coast
• Includes hidden spots like Red Road, Puna farms, and less-touristy beaches. Check out the full 7-day itinerary.

What to Pack for the Big Island

Packing for Big Island was trickier than I expected. You’ll go from sunny beach days in Kona to chilly nights near Volcanoes National Park and maybe even get caught in Hilo’s famous rain. Here’s what I actually used, what I wish I had, and a few things you can leave behind.

Essentials I Used Daily

• Reef-safe sunscreen – You’ll need this even when it’s cloudy
• Water shoes – For rocky beach entries like Two Step and lava tide pools
• Light rain jacket – Saved me in Hilo and Volcano
• Daypack or sling bag – For hikes and long scenic drives
• Quick-dry towel – Great for spontaneous beach stops

For Hiking & Adventure

• Sturdy hiking sandals or trail shoes – Lava terrain can be sharp
• Headlamp or flashlight – Essential if you plan to visit Volcanoes NP after dark
• Refillable water bottle – Many state parks have no concessions
• Electrolyte tablets or snacks – Some trails can be hot and remote

For the Beach & Water

• Snorkel gear (optional) – Many rentals available, but I liked having my own
• Cover-up or rash guard – For sun protection while snorkeling
• Dry bag – To keep things safe during boat tours or at wet beaches

What I Didn’t Need

• Heels or dressy clothes – Big Island is super casual everywhere
• Umbrella – A rain jacket was much more practical
• Bug spray – I barely encountered any mosquitoes
  

Related: This list pairs well with my tips in the 5-Day Itinerary where weather shifts a lot between coasts.

Big Island Travel Tips: What I Learned the Hard Way

There’s a reason they call it the Big Island distances here are real. You’ll need a car, a flexible mindset, and a mix of beachwear and rain gear. Here are the tips I wish someone told me before my trip.

You Need a Car (Seriously)

This isn’t an island where you can rely on Uber or shuttles. Many of the best beaches, scenic drives, and hikes are far from towns and honestly, the freedom to road trip is part of the magic.

• I rented a compact SUV for better clearance on gravel roads (like Green Sand Beach access)
• Gas stations are sparse on long routes like Saddle Road fill up early

East vs. West: Two Islands in One

• West side (Kona, Waikoloa) = dry, sunny, beachy
• East side (Hilo, Volcano) = lush, rainy, full of waterfalls

Plan your itinerary around this weather split. My tip? Base on the west and take 1–2 nights on the east for Volcanoes NP.

Related: Visit Big Island, Things to Do in Hilo

Drive Times Are Longer Than They Look

Google Maps might say 90 minutes, but Big Island roads are often winding or single-lane. Add buffer time for:

• Volcano to Kona: ~2.5 hours
• Kona to Hilo (via Saddle Road): ~1.5 hours
• Scenic detours like Waipiʻo Lookout or coffee farms

Helpful for planning: 4-Day Itinerary, 7-Day Itinerary

Plan for Entry Fees + Reservation Sites

Some places, like Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, require entrance fees or timed entry (especially post-COVID). Book tours like manta ray snorkeling in advance they fill up fast.

Tip: Check the Volcanoes National Park Itinerary for fee info and tips.

Budget Expectations

The Big Island can be more affordable than O‘ahu or Maui but it adds up. Here’s what I averaged per day:

• Car rental: $65–$85 (compact SUV)
• Gas: $45 – $70 per fill-up
• Food trucks: $15–$25 per meal
• Sit-down dinner: $30–$45
• Tours (e.g., snorkeling, lava tours): $100–$250

 Money-Saving Tips

• Book early: Car rentals are significantly cheaper when reserved in advance.
• Fuel smart: Gas up in Kona or Hilo where prices tend to be lower than remote areas.
• Eat locally: Food trucks offer fresh, tasty meals at better value than resort spots.
• Bundle tours: Look for combo deals (e.g., snorkeling + manta night) to stretch your budget.

FAQs About Visiting the Big Island

Conclusion

The Big Island wasn’t what I expected it was better. Between the fiery craters, calm Kona waters, and those misty Hilo mornings, every day felt like a new chapter in the same story. If you’re planning your first trip, I hope this guide helps you build a trip that’s as wild, relaxing, and memorable as mine.

If you’re stuck choosing between Kona and Hilo or need help planning your route, just drop a comment I’m happy to share what worked (and what didn’t) from my trip!