Top 10 things to do on the Big Island, Hawaii

The Island of Hawai’i is often overlooked when it comes to vacationing in the Aloha State. For those interested in active lava flows, excellent scuba diving, and rugged landscapes, however, the Big Island is a great choice for your next island destination. Below, in no particular order, are our top 10 things to do on the Big Island. Enjoy and get exploring!

1. Tour Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Home to 5 volcanoes, both active and dormant, no trip to the Big Island is complete without exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Available activities include the Crater Rim Drive, Chain of Craters Road, backcountry hikes, biking, camping, day hikes, the chance to see active lava flows, and special events and presentations.

10 things to do on Big Island - Volcano National Park — Red Orange vibrant Molten Lava flowing onto grey lava field and glossy rocky land near Hawaiian volcano with vog on background

2. Hike to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

One of only four green sand beaches in the world, Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is located within a former cinder cone at the southern tip of the island. Only accessible by a 2.5 mile, one-way hike, rest assured that the beauty is worth the journey.

3. Swim with Manta Rays

Kona is home to a large population of manta rays, who feed off the plankton that gathers around the surrounding underwater lights. The Big Island offers a unique opportunity to scuba dive or snorkels with these magnificent creatures, whose wingspan can reach over 15 feet!

4. Visit Akaka Falls State Park

One of the most beautiful hiking trails on the island, Akaka Falls is a half-mile, uphill hike through bamboo groves, ferns, and lush plant life. Two waterfalls are visible along the hike, including Kahuna Falls and the impressive, 440 foot, cascading Akaka Falls. This is one of the better places to polish up on your photography. You can read more about our experience at Akaka Falls here.

5. Tour Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Known as the Place of Refuge, this 180-acre historical park was once home to royal grounds and a refuge for ancient Hawaiians who broke the law. Once they arrived, a ceremony of absolution was held before they were permitted to return to society. Today, visitors can take a self-guided walking tour, exploring sites like the Great Wall, Hale o Keawe Heiau, Keoneele Cove, Keōua Stone, ancient hālau, and more. It is also an excellent site for snorkeling.

6. Explore Waipio Valley

Another one of our top 10 things to do on the Big Island is Waipio Valley. An area rich in legends and sacred sites, Waipio Valley is located on the northeastern coast of the Big Island. Explore the valley by hiking, horseback, mule-drawn wagon, or kayak, and keep in mind that the most rewarding views are Muliwai Trail.

The view from Waipi’o Valley Lookout on Big Island, Hawaii.

7. Hang out on your hammock at Punaluu Black Sand Beach

Punaluu Black Sand Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the Big Island and for good reasons. Not only that it is easily accessible, but it is also expansive and a place for a quick swim, snorkel, or picnic. Its shore of jet black sand is lined with long rows of coconut trees. This makes this a perfect place to swing your day away on your hammock.

8. Go Stargazing on Mauna Kea

Hawaii’s Mauna Kea Volcano, reaching 9,300 feet above sea level, is one of the world’s premier stargazing destinations. The Visitor Information Station offers free stargazing opportunities every night from 6 pm to 10 pm. Remember to bring warm clothes, as temperatures are often near freezing at the summit!

9. Relax on Hapuna Beach

Located on the Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is the largest white sand beach on the Big Island, not to mention one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Head here for a relaxed day of fun in the sun, and enjoy activities like snorkeling, bodyboarding, surfing, and swimming.

10. Take an Aerial Tour

One of the best ways to see the Big Island is to view it from above. There are many options for your Big Island helicopter flight, taking you to the biggest and most stunning attractions, including Kilauea Volcano, sea cliffs of the Kohala Coast, black sand beaches, Madame Pele’s lava, and volcanic badlands, Hamakua Coast rainforest, cascading waterfalls, ancient Hawaiian settlements and more.