Hawaii is one of the most talked about locations in the USA. In fact, many would go so as to call it a dream vacation destination. Did you know that there are many beautiful islands in Hawaii. One of the popular ones is called Big island. It is a popular destination with people from all over the world and the USA heading there each year.
Are you planning your first trip to Big Island, Hawaii. Do you want to fill your itinerary with fun activities? There are tons of amazing things to do on Big Island, Hawaii which are aimed at all types of travelers.
The downside is that sometimes the flight to Hawaii can be super long so make sure to research a bit on all the things to do on a plane so you can keep yourself entertained.
This is especially true if you are traveling with kids. FYI: I highly recommend board games for travel. I even have a special set of board games for toddlers and preschoolers that I use when traveling myself.
It doesn’t matter whether you are on a Big Island honeymoon or are visiting with kids. You will find something on this list which will make you extra excited for your upcoming trip. Oh and if you haven’t started packing yet, I would recommend taking a look at this Hawaii packing list which covers all the essentials that you could need for that trip.
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Table of Contents
Everything You Need To Before Visiting Big Island, Hawaii
The Big Island has a few distinct regions. Since it’s the largest Hawaiian island, it’s a smart idea to group your activities based on location. It also helps to map out exactly what you want to do before you go so you can get accurate drive times.
Kailua-Kona
Most people visiting the Big Island of Hawaii stay in Kailua-Kona. It’s actually a pretty large area that is South of the Kona Airport. This is where you’ll find a lot of hotels/resorts as well as activities like snorkeling/boat tours and luaus.
Waikoloa
Waikoloa is North of the Kona Airport and about 30 minutes away from Ali’i Drive (which is the main area of downtown Kona). It’s mostly resorts and shopping centers.
Volcano
As you might guess, this is the town right next to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There’s a small community with restaurants and vacation rental homes. It’s about 40 minutes from Hilo and 2.5 hours from Kona.
Hilo
This is the least touristy area of the Big Island and it’s mostly Hawaii residents and local who live here. It’s the island’s rainy side, which means it’s full of tropical rainforests and waterfalls. It’s about 3 hours from Kona, depending on how you drive.
Big Island Travel Tips
There are loads of things to do on Big Island and depending on how long you are on the island, you will need to get your trip organized. Here are a few tips to help plan your perfect Big Island vacation.
1. Create An Itinerary
Many people think that everything on Big Island is near each other until they arrive and see how spread apart everything is. Before your trip, take some time to write out your itinerary and map out drive times to make sure it’s doable.
2. Explore Beyond Kona
While Kona is a fun place to visit, it’s just a small part of Big Island. Add in some time to head to the Hilo side of the island to visit waterfalls and do a scenic drive along the coast. There are also places to explore along the Kohala Coast and the town of Waimea is pretty adorable.
3. Try Local Food
There are tons of great places to eat on Big Island for all price points. Da Poke Shack in Kona is a great place for authentic Hawaiian poke. Cafe 100 in Hilo is where loco moco was first created. And Ka’aloa’s Super J’s is the best place to get authentic Hawaiian lau lau. The lau lau is one of the things that Hawaii is known for.
15 Incredible Things to do on Big Island of Hawaii
There are almost endless things to do on Big Island, that it can be overwhelming. Luckily for you we’ve narrowed down the options based on their popularity. These are 15 of the most popular things to do on Big Island and a couple of attractions that are worth a stop.
1. Visit A Kona Coffee Farm
Are you a coffee lover? Visiting a coffee farm is one of the popular things to do on Big Island, Hawaii.
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (5 Reviews) Price: $75 per person Duration: 1 hour 30 min 📍Meeting Point: 78-1348 Bishop Rd Details: Read more on Viator!
Did you know Hawaii is the only state that grows coffee commercially? That’s because it has the perfect environment.
The Big Island is famous for its Kona coffee, which grows along the slopes of a volcano. There are lots of Kona Coffee Farm tours available. It’s a great way to learn about growing coffee in Hawaii while tasting some of the best coffee in the world.
2. Snorkel With Manta Rays
Snorkeling with the Manta Rays ranks very high on most people’s things to do on Big Island, Hawaii.
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5 (435 Reviews) Price: $102.33 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Depends on the option booked. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
One of the most unique things to do on Big Island is snorkeling with Manta Rays.
These tours depart from Kona at night and you’ll get to swim with the Manta Rays for an unbelievable experience. The tour operators provide everything you need.
“Our guides were super awesome and funny! The vibe on the boat was so fun with music blasting, and seeing the manta rays was unreal! Highly recommend!”
Natalie (read more reviews now!)
If you are looking for a truly unique way to see the manta rays, I would recommend heading out on a night snorkel tour. That way you can see these enormous fish feeding and interreacting with other ocean life. Not only is it magical, it is one of those experiences that will stay with you through out your life.
There are so many great locations to go snorkeling on the Big island and manta rays aren’t the only attraction!
Just make sure that you book your tour online because they sell out fast during the peak season.
3. Check Out The Waterfalls
Chasing waterfalls is one of the fun things to do on Big Island, Hawaii.
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (429 Reviews) Price: $260.17 per person Duration: 10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up from all major hotels and resorts in Kona and Kohala Coast Details: Read more on Viator!
The Big Island has such a diverse climate. The Kona side of the island is pretty dry, but the Hilo side is quite lush. You’ll find tons of Big Island waterfalls on the Hilo side of the island.
A couple of top waterfalls on Big Island worth a stop include Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls.
If you aren’t up to renting a car and driving around the island, why not book a waterfall tour? These small group tours take you on an epic adventure that is filled with cascading water.
You can even swim at the Kulanipia private waterfalls which is pretty cool if you ask me.
Another great stop along the way is the Waipi’o valley. The views from here are pretty incredible and you will want your camera handy. Think of towering cliffs and the gorgeous views of the ocean. It really doesn’t get better than this!
The best part is that transport, lunch and snacks are covered by the tour company so you really don’t have to worry about anything!
“Most memorable parts of this Waterfalls Adventure were of course, the waterfall sites, tour guide Derek’s delightful narratives, the exciting and refreshing experience of swimming in the Kulaniapa waterfall pool (the final one of the tour)and the lovely walking tour of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens.
The van ride was very comfortable with excellent and generous seating and foot space. The tour included several opportunities to get out, walk, and take photos. Derek had ample water, snacks, sodas and a hearty delicious lunch box planned for us throughout the day.
The group was delightful to tour with as I was a single tourist, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting acquainted with the group as we enjoyed a perfect day of sunshine and Hawaiian hospitality on the big island of Hawaii Waterfalls Adventure. I heartily recommend this experience!”
Jeanne (read more reviews now!)
4. Ride an ATV
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5 (72 Reviews) Price: $220 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Off of Mamalahoa Hwy (Hwy 180)Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
The Big Island has plenty of exciting outdoor adventures. This is an epic Big Island adventure if you want to ride an ATV in the jungle and learn about Polynesian culture. You can even visit the coffee farms this way. Let’s not forget about the panoramic views of the city of Kona and the Kona shoreline.
“So much fun! So cool too to learn about the different cultures, the guide was very informative and kept it interesting the entire time! Thanks!”
Debbie (read more reviews now!)
There’s even an option to ride in a UTV for kids ages 5-15 (or for people who don’t want to drive themselves).
5. Hang at the Beach
If you love white sand then visit the iconic beaches. It is one of the things to do on Big Island that you can’t miss!
While the Big island doesn’t have some of the world-famous beaches you’ll find on other islands, there are many amazing Big Island beaches worth a stop. The Big Island is home to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hapuna Beach Park, and several other destination beaches.
6. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (893 Reviews) Price: $260.17 per person Duration: 12 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up from all major hotels and resorts in Kona and Kohala Coast Details: Read more on Viator!
One of the biggest reasons people visit the Big Island of Hawaii is because they want to see lava! Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is your best chance to see lava in Hawaii. Of course, you’ll need to check to see if the volcanoes are active.
You can also walk through an old lava tube, explore the Sulphur Banks, drive the Chain of Craters road, and do cultural programs with park rangers.
“Our guide Drew was phenomenal ✨️ his knowledge and sense of humour made what could of been a very long and arduous tour fun memorable even my 12 year old at the end of the day turned around and told us how much he loved it, there was so much great mana (energy) as well, I will highly recommend ❤️, Pau. Mahalo”
Angela (read more reviews now!)
There are so many ways to see the volcanoes. One of the best way to do this is via a volcano and star gazing tour. Not only will this take you up and close to the volcanic formations, you can enjoy the night sky alongside a great dinner spread. The best part is that this is all part of a small group so it is certainly more enjoyable.
7. Dinner At Volcano House
Have you ever wanted to eat dinner on top of a volcano? Make reservations for The Rim at Volcano House. You’ll be able to see the glow of the lava in the caldera while you enjoy a fine dining experience. This is one of the most romantic things to do on Big Island.
8. Learn How To Surf
Surfing is one of the top things to do on Big Island, Hawaii.
⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5 (76 Reviews) Price: $103.66 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point:
Meet at the surf shop Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Lots of people visit Hawaii and want to learn how to surf. Booking a small group surfing lesson is a great way to do that.
An instructor will help you get up on your board safely. Don’t worry about anything because they match the lesson to your skill levels.
“All the staff were amazing! Especially Max and Rory! Very friendly and helpfully. The instructions demonstration were great and I felt confident going surfing for my first time!”
Megan (read more reviews now!)
Plus, it’s always more fun to do with friends/family. Or it’s an easy way to make new friends.
9. Swim With Dolphins
One of the things to do on Big Island that you can’t miss is swimming with the dolphins.
If swimming with dolphins is on your Hawaii bucket list, you’ll be happy to know that Big Island is one of the best places to do that. Head to the Hilton Waikoloa Village for your chance to interact with dolphins. They have programs for kids of all ages as well as adults.
Plus, there’s even a professional photographer who goes into the water to get the perfect shot.
10. Take A Road Trip
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (35 Reviews) Price: $14.99 per person Duration: Valid for a day Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
The Big Island is huge and the easiest way to see as much as you can is by doing a mini road trip. There are amazing audio tours that will tell you exactly where to go while sharing interesting information about Hawaiian history and culture along the way.
11. Visit Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park
One of the iconic things to do on Big Island is to visit the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park.
The Big Island is home to a lot of historic Hawaiian sites. One of the coolest places is Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. This is where you’ll find replica tiki statues, fishing structures, and cultural displays. It’s right next to Two-Step, which is a popular snorkeling beach. It’s also just down the hill from the Painted Church, so it’s a fun half-day adventure.
12. Stargazing At Mauna Kea
⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5 (136 Reviews) Price: $259 per person Duration: 7.5-8 hours 📍Meeting Point: Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Another incredible Big Island activity is stargazing at Mauna Kea. Several tours will take you to this mountain where you can see the stars without all the light pollution.
It’s a big elevation change, so this is only recommended for physically fit people.
“Super nice extraordinary experience that you can only recommend. For us one of the must-do’s on Big Island/hawai’i. Compliments to our tour guide and driver Danny for the souvenir picture with a starry sky.”
Simon (read more reviews now!)
13. Go Horseback Riding
Horse riding is another interesting thing to do on Big Island, Hawaii.
Did you know that the Big Island has a rich cowboy history? Hawaiian cowboys are called paniolos, and many run the plentiful ranches around the Big Island. So, it’s no surprise that you can find many Big Island horseback riding tours. This is a great way to see a different side of Hawaii while learning about what life was like for Hawaiian ranchers during plantation days.
14. Attend A Hawaiian Luau
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (325 Reviews) Price: $177.59 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Show your voucher at the check-in desk at the Royal Kona Resort Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Another top things to do on Big Island is attend a Hawaiian luau. It’s a fun evening event with music, dancing, and lots of food. Let’s not forget the thrilling Samoan fire-knife dancing.
One of the most popular Big Island luaus is the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort. You’ll get a beautiful ocean sunset view and the food is amazing!
“The luau was excellent! It was not overly crowded and check-in was fast and easy. The host was funny and the dancers were all amazing!! The food was delicious and drinks were ok. Nice location, staff were friendly everything was great!”
Veronica (read more reviews now!)
15. Zipline Near A Waterfall
⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5 (16 Reviews) Price: $198.95 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point:
Kohala Zipline Headquarters Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
One of the coolest Big Island adventures is going ziplining in the jungle. Head to the Hilo area for an incredible ziplining experience that will take you right past a gorgeous waterfall. This is perfect for adventurous couples or families.
FAQs About Big Island Hawaii
How Many Days Do I Need On The Big Island?
The Big Island of Hawaii is massive and it takes a long time to get anywhere on the island. Ideally, you’ll spend 7-10 days here. That will give you enough time to do fun activities in Kona, explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and spend time on the Hilo side of the island.
Do I Need To Rent A Car On The Big Island?
Absolutely! Unless you plan on staying close to your resort and doing a few tours with hotel pick-ups, you’ll definitely need to rent a car. Most Big Island tourist attractions are spread out and the public transportation isn’t geared for tourists.
Is The Big Island The Best Hawaiian Island?
Each island in Hawaii offers something unique. Oahu and Maui are the most visited islands and they have the largest number of resorts and tourist attractions/tours. Kauai and the Big Island are more rural and less commercialized.
By now, you should have all the information you need to figure out your Big Island itinerary. Whether you want to explore Kona, visit a national park, or check out epic waterfalls, this list has you covered! Bon voyage!
About The Author
Marcie Cheung is a Hawaii travel expert who runs Hawaii Travel with Kids and Hawaii Travel Spot. She’s visited Hawaii more than 40 times and studied hula for 20 years. She’s also written digital travel guides for Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
anukrati
Saturday 24th of September 2022
Ziplining in the jungle sounds total fun yaa.