Top 10 Things to Do in Hawaii Island Attractions
Planning a trip to Hawaii Island and not sure where to start? Look no further. In this article, you’ll discover the top 10 things to do on the Big Island, from exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a beach bum, Hawaii Island has something for everyone.
With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Hawaii Island is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable vacation. From Hawaii attractions to the best activities in Hawaii Island, we’ve got you covered.
Exploring Hawaii Island
When planning your Hawaii Island vacation, it’s important to know the best places to visit. From stunning landscapes to vibrant culture, the island has it all. Here is a guide to the top destinations to explore during your stay on the Big Island.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Located on the southeastern side of the island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature. Take a hike through the lava fields and explore lava tubes as you get up close to some of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
Kona and Hilo
On the west coast of the island, Kona offers beautiful beaches and great cultural sites such as the historic Kailua Village and the Tea House in the Cloud Forest at the Botanical Garden. Meanwhile, on the east side, Hilo boasts a bustling downtown, beautiful natural scenery, and a great farmer’s market.
Pololu Valley and Waipio Valley
The Pololu Valley and the Waipio Valley are must-see natural wonders of Hawaii Island. Visit the Pololu Valley lookout to see the dramatic landscape and lush valley in all its majesty. The Waipio Valley, also known as the “Valley of the Kings,” offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean.
Mauna Kea Observatory
Mauna Kea Observatory is located on the top of the Big Island’s highest peak. Visitors can explore the groundbreaking research conducted here and experience stargazing under some of the clearest skies on Earth.
Hilo Farmer’s Market
This destination is definitely for those who love eating. You won’t want to miss the Hilo Farmer’s Market! This market features farmers selling their local produce, along with a wide range of food, like poke bowls, Hawaiian sweets, and malasadas pastries.
Hamakua Coast
This scenic rocky beachfront is the perfect place to escape the busyness of city life and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean. Explore local shops, farm stands, and weekly Farmer’s Markets with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Parker Ranch
Experience the native Hawaiian culture by visiting the Parker Ranch. Led by family members for three generations, this place has become a must-visit attraction in Waimea. Here you can learn the sustainable agriculture practices employed since the 18th century.
Hawaii Island Waterfalls
If you’re looking for a magical and awe-inspiring experience, Hawaii Island has some of the most beautiful waterfalls to offer. From cascading falls to towering drops, the island’s natural beauty is highlighted in these stunning landmarks. Here are just a few must-visit waterfalls while exploring the island:
| Waterfall | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Akaka Falls | Honomu, Hilo |  Akaka Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls on the island, and for good reason. The 422-foot drop is a majestic sight to see. The lush surroundings and scenery are just icing on the cake. |
| Rainbow Falls | Hilo |  Rainbow Falls is another stunning waterfall in Hilo. The falls are named after the rainbows that often appear in the mists that surround them. The waterfall plunges 80 feet into a stunning turquoise pool. |
| Kulaniapia Falls | Hilo | Kulaniapia Falls offers visitors an exclusive experience. To see the falls, guests must book a stay at the Kulaniapia Bed & Breakfast, located on the property. You can swim under the 120-foot falls or take a zip line over the pool. |
Exploring these waterfalls in Hawaii Island can be a fun and refreshing outdoor activity, especially on a hot day. These are just a few examples of the stunning beauty you can experience while on the island.
Hawaii Island Beaches
When it comes to beautiful beaches, Hawaii Island has no shortage of options. With crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes, it’s the perfect destination for beach lovers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Big Island:
| Beach Name | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hapuna Beach | Kohala Coast | A white sand beach that stretches for half a mile, Hapuna Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. |
| Punaluu Beach | Ka’u | The black sand beach of Punaluu is one of the most famous in Hawaii, and it’s also a popular spot for sea turtle sightings. |
| Kahaluu Beach | Kailua-Kona | This beach is a favorite among snorkelers and surfers due to the crystal clear waters and the opportunity to see an array of marine life. |
| Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) | North Kona | The stunning turquoise waters of Kua Bay make it an idyllic spot for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also a great place to catch a beautiful sunset. |
Whether you’re looking for a secluded retreat or a lively beach day, Hawaii Island offers a variety of options. Make sure you add these Big Island tourist spots to your Hawaii vacation guide for an unforgettable experience.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most unique attractions on Hawaii Island and a must-visit for those exploring the island. This national park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, as well as a diverse range of volcanic landscapes.
Visitors can hike through lava fields, witness volcanic steam vents, and explore lava tubes that were formed by past eruptions. The park also offers scenic drives, ranger-led tours, and educational exhibits for those interested in learning more about the geological wonders of Hawaii Island.
When visiting the park, be sure to stop by the Kilauea Visitor Center to get the latest updates on volcanic conditions and to learn about the park’s history and culture. The Jagger Museum is also a must-see, offering stunning views of Kilauea Caldera and eruptions.
If you’re planning your Hawaii Island vacation, be sure to add Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to your itinerary for an unforgettable exploration of the island’s natural beauty.
The volcano is a constantly grumbling, testy beast, and there’s a lot of mythology surrounding its behavior – anything from a disruption to complete devastation. But everything here is framed with this incredible beauty that really takes your breath away.
Mauna Kea Observatory
If you are an astronomy enthusiast, you should not miss visiting the Mauna Kea Observatory, located on the summit of the highest volcano on the Big Island. At an elevation of 4,200 meters, the observatory offers an unparalleled stargazing experience under some of the clearest skies in the world.
The Mauna Kea Observatory houses some of the most advanced astronomical tools, including the Subaru Telescope and the W.M. Keck Observatory, which is home to some of the largest and most advanced optical and infrared telescopes worldwide.
Along with tours of the facility, visitors can attend stargazing programs hosted by knowledgeable guides who share engaging insights into the cosmos.
The Mauna Kea Observatory is truly one of the best places to visit in the Big Island for those interested in astronomy and discovering the wonders of the universe.
Snorkeling and Diving in Hawaii Island
As a must-visit attraction in Hawaii, Hawaii Island offers some of the best activities for nature lovers. Snorkeling and diving are no exception, with an array of marine life and beautiful coral reefs to explore.
Kealakekua Bay, located on the west coast of the island, is one of the top spots for snorkeling and diving. The clear turquoise waters are home to a diverse range of marine species, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. For those interested in historical sites, the underwater Captain Cook Monument is a popular destination for divers.
Another great location for snorkeling and diving is Honaunau Bay Marine Preserve. This protected bay is located on the south Kona coast and offers a unique experience with its underwater lava tubes and coral gardens. Visitors can also observe a variety of marine species, including reef sharks, tropical fish, and eels.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler or diver, Hawaii Island has something for everyone. Book a tour or go solo to explore the vibrant underwater world and make unforgettable memories in Hawaii’s warm waters.
Pololu Valley and Waipio Valley
The Big Island is known for its breathtaking natural wonders, and two of the most stunning areas are Pololu Valley and Waipio Valley. Located on the northern coast of the island, Pololu Valley offers dramatic views of the rugged coastline, lush vegetation, and black sand beach. The valley is accessible via a short hike down a steep trail that offers panoramic views of the ocean and the valley.
Waipio Valley, on the other hand, is located on the northeastern coast of the island and is often called the “Valley of the Kings.” It offers a stunning contrast to the lava fields and coastline found elsewhere on the island, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and a mile-long black sand beach. To access the valley, visitors can take a scenic drive or hike down the steep trail.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, or just soaking up the natural beauty of Hawaii, a visit to Pololu Valley and Waipio Valley is a must on your Hawaii Island itinerary.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve explored the top 10 things to do in Hawaii Island (Big Island), you’ve likely realized the incredible experiences this destination has to offer. From the stunning beaches and waterfalls to the active volcanoes and observatories, Hawaii Island has something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, Hawaii Island should be at the top of your travel list. With its diverse natural beauty, rich culture, and endless activities, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, swimsuit, and sense of adventure!
