things to do in big island hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for travelers, offering a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and activities. Here are some things to do in Big Island Hawaii:
Natural Wonders:
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Explore the Kilauea volcano, lava tubes, and steam vents.
- Mauna Kea Summit: Witness the sunrise or stargaze at one of the world’s best observatories.
- Akaka Falls State Park: Hike to the 442-foot Akaka Falls and 100-foot Kahuna Falls.
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Visit the only black sand beach in Hawaii.
- Waipio Valley: Hike, horseback ride, or take a helicopter tour through this lush valley.
Beaches:
- Hapuna Beach: Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on this white-sand beach.
- Mauna Kea Beach: Relax on this secluded beach with crystal-clear waters.
- Kailua-Kona Beach: Stroll along the beachfront promenade and enjoy water sports.
- Punalu’u Beach: Watch sea turtles and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
- Kehena Beach: Explore the black sand beach and snorkel in the nearby lava tubes.
Cultural Experiences:
- Hilo Farmers Market: Sample local produce, crafts, and cuisine.
- Pacific Tsunami Museum: Learn about the island’s history and tsunami resilience.
- Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: Explore the lush gardens and learn about Hawaiian flora.
- Imiloa Astronomy Center: Discover the night sky and learn about Hawaiian astronomy.
- Kona Coffee Farm: Visit a coffee farm and taste some of the world’s best coffee.
Outdoor Activities:
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the island’s coral reefs and marine life.
- Surfing and Paddleboarding: Catch waves at one of the island’s many surf spots.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the island’s countryside on horseback.
- Ziplining and Canopy Tours: Fly through the island’s lush forests.
- Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to spot humpback whales (seasonal).
Food and Drink:
- Try Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke, laulau, and kalua pig.
- Visit a Coffee Farm: Taste some of the world’s best coffee and learn about the production process.
- Visit a Rum Distillery: Sample local rum and learn about the production process.
- Go on a Food Tour: Explore the island’s culinary scene and sample local specialties.
- Visit a Farmers Market: Sample local produce, crafts, and cuisine.
Other Activities:
- Visit a Volcano: Explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and witness the Kilauea volcano’s activity.
- Take a Helicopter Tour: Explore the island’s landscapes and witness its natural wonders.
- Go on a Stargazing Tour: Witness the night sky and learn about astronomy.
- Visit a Luau: Experience traditional Hawaiian culture and cuisine.
- Take a Road Trip: Explore the island’s scenic routes and discover its hidden gems.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Big Island Hawaii. With its diverse landscapes, cultures, and activities, the Big Island is a paradise for travelers.