Our Guide to Visiting Hawaii | The Big Island (Island of Hawaii)

Hawaii (The Big Island)

Do you have a vacation spot that you absolutely love to return to again and again? For Arturo and me, that spot is Hawaii!! This little bit of paradise holds such a special place in our hearts, and is somewhere we think about almost every day of our lives. Hawaii Island, also known as The Big Island, is our all-time favorite of the main islands to visit! We’ve spent more time here than any other Hawaiian island, and dream of living there someday. I went to Hawaii for the first time when I was in high school to visit family that lives there; it’s the only place I’ve ever been to for vacation and wasn’t ready to leave at the end of our trip (and that feeling still rings true for me today!). In 2014, Arturo and I went to Hawaii for the first time together, and then honeymooned there later that year because we loved it so much! We’ve now shared six vacations to Hawaii Island together, and it’s become such a big and important part of our lives. Arturo and I get asked a lot about our travels there by our friends and family who are visiting for the first time, so we wanted to create a list of our favorite places to stay, visit, eat, explore, and more to share with you!

Where to Stay on The Big Island

Kona
Kona is located on the western side of Hawaii and is also home to one of the two main airports on the island (the other being in Hilo). Arturo and I always fly into Kona since we enjoy staying on the western side of the island during our visit. The sunsets here are absolutely SPECTACULAR, though we may be biased since we live in New England and don’t see sunsets like our west coast friends! I’m sure the sunrises in Hilo on the eastern side of the island are equally as beautiful! When staying in Kona, we’ve stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel twice, as well as the Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort. The Courtyard is right on the water at Kailua Bay and is also located at the start of Alii Drive, one of the main strips in Kona filled with restaurants, shopping, and more. The Wyndham is also located on Alii Drive, just past the busy area. Take note that this part of Alii Drive is one of the most touristy areas of Kona, but if you want to easily walk to breakfast, lunch, or dinner from your hotel, this is the place to stay (in our opinion!).

Waikoloa
Waikoloa is a town 30-40 minutes north of Kona, and also located on the western side of the island. When staying here in the past, Arturo and I have stayed in Waikoloa Beach Resort, an area made up of several hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, shopping plazas, and more. If I had to choose between staying in Waikoloa or Kona, Waikoloa would definitely be my choice! While I love being close to so many of our favorite restaurants in Kona, I don’t find Waikoloa to be as touristy. On our honeymoon, we stayed at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. When I visited Hawaii in high school with my family, we stayed in one of the apartment vacation rentals complexes that are located within Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Places to Visit on The Big Island

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park - Hōnaunau
I can’t believe it took us so long to visit this park! Arturo and I enjoyed walking along the black lava rock shoreline and learning more about the importance of this area that was sacred to ancient Hawaiians and still remains that to this day. Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau is a 180-acre national historic park that immerses you in Hawaiian culture. You can take a self-guided walking tour while exploring some of the wonderfully restored structures within the park. Since it is a historical and sacred place, explore with respect and care.

South Point & Papakolea Beach - Naalehu
If you want to say you’ve been to the southernmost point of the United States, be sure to stop at South Point Park! While you’re there, you can also visit the lookout point and green sand beach, though you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get there. Get ready, because it’s a bumpy ride! The beach is famous for its unique olive-green sand and is one of four green sand beaches in the world. A hike is required to get down to the actual beach and there aren’t any facilities around, so be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach - located between Pahala & Naalehu
If you’re going to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, be sure to visit this beach and head to Punalu’u Bake Shop for a sweet treat since all three are within about 30 or so minutes of each other. If you’re lucky, you may be able to see a honu (green sea turtle) sunbathing on the beach by the water! Be sure to keep your distance though as they’re protected under the Endangered Species Act, making it illegal to touch or even get too close to the turtles.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Volcano
There is so much to do and see in this incredible national park, that you could truly spend a few days here! The Big Island is also home to Kilauea, the active volcano located within the park. Endless hiking trails, jaw-dropping sights, and beautiful drives all await you. The hike through Thurston Lava Tube and the drive down Chain of Craters Road are just two of our favorite things to do at the park!

Rainbow Falls - Hilo
If you’ll be spending time in Hilo, be sure to stop and see Rainbow Falls. It’s 80 feet tall and almost 100 feet wide. You may even catch a rainbow over the falls on a sunny day!

'Akaka Falls State Park - Honomu
Located roughly 11 miles north of Hilo, ‘Akaka Falls is another stop you’ll want to make if you want to see an incredible waterfall! There’s a hiking trail loop that’s just under 1/2 a mile long through lush, tropical terrain. ‘Akaka Falls is 442 feet tall, and definitely one of my favorite waterfalls to visit on the Big Island.

Waipio Valley Lookout - Hamakua Coast
Since I visited Hawaii for the first time in high school, Waipio has always been one of my favorite lookout points on the Big Island! While the only ways to get into the valley are by foot (a pretty intense hike!) or a four-wheel-drive vehicle, the sights down in Waipio are breathtaking! You’ll find a black sand beach, beautiful cliffs, waterfalls, and of course, wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. If you can’t make it into Waipio Valley, don’t worry— the lookout is just as fun to experience!

Explore Waimea
Waimea (also known as Kamuela) is a beautiful little country town with plenty of local restaurants, shops, boutiques, and galleries. It’s a historic area full of rolling green pastures and is still home to cattle, paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys), and ranches. If you’re in town on Saturday mornings, be sure to check out the various farmer’s markets for fresh, local foods and treats!

Visit Hawi
If you’ll be visiting Waimea, be sure to head north to Hawi as well! This quaint little town is home to a handful of charming art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants set in colorful and historical buildings. Hawi is also best known as the bicycle turnaround for the annual IRONMAN World Championship held every October. If you’re coming from Waimea, take Kohala Mountain Road for some incredible views as you twist and turn your way up the mountain before getting to Hawi. On a clear day, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Haleakala, a volcano on Maui!

Pololu Valley Lookout - North Kohala
While the views at this lookout are spectacular, the hike into the valley is even better! It’s a steep, gravel path so take your time making your way down and bring PLENTY of water and good hiking shoes. However, the payoff, once you’re in the valley, is something you won’t be disappointed by! A black sand beach awaits you at the bottom of Pololu, so be sure to bring a bathing suit and towel so you can cool down before making your way back up. Arturo and I found that because the path is so steep, it took us longer to hike down than up because we were so careful trying to keep our balance!

Hapuna Beach State Park - Kohala Coast
If you want a fantastic beach to watch the sunset from, look no further than Hapuna! Spend the day here with your toes in the silky soft sand, and then stay to watch the sunset. Arturo and I shared our 5th wedding anniversary vow renewal here, so it has an extra special place in our hearts!

Kii at Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Things to Do on The Big Island

Walk along Alii Drive - Kona
Though Alii Drive is filled with tourists, it’s a great spot to visit if it’s your first time on the island! Its busier area is lined with restaurants and shops and also borders Kailua Bay.

Parasailing
I’ve parasailed twice in Hawaii, once tandem and once solo. Both times were unforgettable! We booked with UFO Parasail in Kona (located inside King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel).

Whale Watching
If you’ll be on the Big Island anytime between mid-December to March, book yourself a trip to do some whale watching. Arturo and I did this on our first visit there together in January 2014 and it was incredible to see the humpback whales so close to our boat!

Snorkeling
There are endless places on the Big Island to snorkel (just Google “best snorkeling spots Big Island Hawaii”)! If you don’t own a snorkel set don’t worry, there are plenty of local shops you can rent from with daily and weekly rates. Snorkeling cruises are also great because food and all snorkeling gear are included in the price, along with a great boat ride! For these excursions, we like Body Glove in Kona.

Dinner Cruises
Dinner, sunset, Hawaiian coastal views, and a boat ride? What more could you ask for?! We’ve done these a couple of times during our Hawaii visits, also with Body Glove. On the way to the dinner site, you’ll learn some history from a local historian and on the way back you’ll be serenaded by a local musician (our favorite part!). I’m telling you, it’s pretty romantic!

Night Snorkel with Manta Rays
Before you get nervous, manta rays DO NOT sting, so snorkeling with them is perfectly safe! We did this as an excursion during our 2015 trip to the Big Island and what an experience it was! Aside from diving with mantas, snorkeling with them is one of the best ways to see these beautiful creatures up close.

Hulihee Palace - Kona
I can’t speak much on this since Arturo and I haven’t actually visited the palace, however, we’ve walked by it plenty of times during our morning strolls on Alii Drive. Its architecture is beautiful, as well as its perfectly manicured grounds. You can catch a photo of it at the top of this blog post!

Drive from Kona to Volcano
There aren’t words to describe the views on the drive from Kona to Volcano! The best time to do this drive is when you plan to head to Volcanoes National Park. As you travel along Hawaii Belt Road / Mamalahoa Highway, you’ll pass the mountainside coffee farms with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. As you get farther south, you’ll notice the landscape change from lush green forest to dry desert, but still beautiful nonetheless!

Kona Coffee Belt
I’m not a coffee drinker, so this almost didn’t make the list, but I know most people might want to learn more about Kona coffee! Arturo and I visited a coffee farm and went for a short walking tour during our 2019 trip to the Big Island. There are various farms that offer Kona coffee tours and tastings on-site, and a quick Google search will help you find dates and times for each!

Drive the Saddle Road
State Route 200, also known as the Saddle Road, is one of my favorite scenic drives on Hawaii Island. It runs between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. I’ve lost track of how many times Arturo and I have done this drive, but it’s one I can’t imagine I’ll ever get sick of!

Helicopter Tours
When I visited Hawaii in high school, my dad, sister, and I went on a helicopter ride that left out of Hilo. In 2016, Arturo and I did the same tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters near the active volcano where lava was flowing into the ocean and creating new land! Even if you’re not keen on flying (like me!), this is one excursion you’ll want to check off your Hawaii bucket list.

Shopping
The Big Island is home to some of my all-time favorite shops and boutiques! I love to shop for home decor, and being that we love pineapples so much, there’s no shortage of that on the island! On one of our recent trips to Hawaii, Arturo and I discovered a beautifully curated shop called SoHa Living, located in the Queen’s Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort. The King’s Shops, also located in Waikoloa, is home to additional boutiques, and restaurants. There are also fun shops and galleries to explore in Kona, Hilo, and Hawi, just to name a few!

Luau
I’m not going to lie, I tend to think a luau is one of the most touristy things you can do in Hawaii, however, I also think it’s one of those things you need to do if it’s your first time visiting! You learn plenty about the history and culture of Hawaii and other Polynesian islands, while also having the chance to enjoy some Hawaiian specialties.

Book a Photo Session with Wilde Sparrow Photography Co.
Whether your visit to Hawaii Island is a romantic one or a family trip, do yourself a favor and book a portrait session with Aislinn of Wilde Sparrow! You’re somewhere that is unlike anywhere else on the planet, so why not take this opportunity to capture your family (or the two of you) in such a beautiful place? Arturo and I booked a session with Aislinn for our 5th wedding anniversary and they’re some of my favorite photos of us. If I could shout her name from every rooftop, I would!!

Restaurants & Eateries on The Big Island

Kuleana Rum Shack - Waikoloa
We discovered the Kuleana Rum Shack during our most recent trip to Hawaii and it quickly became one of our new favorite spots. Arturo and I both LOVED the Hale Kuleana Greens; the sweet maui onion vinegarette was the star of that salad! We also split the Mochiko Chicken and the Big Island Burger (it’s probably safe to say that this is the hamburger I enjoyed most on that trip).

Lava Lava Beach Club - Waikoloa
Arturo and I love coming here for a delicious meal and cocktails just as the sun is setting. Dinner and a view? Yes, please!

Foster’s Kitchen - Kona & Waikoloa
Arturo and I enjoyed a meal on our trip to the Big Island in 2019, and we were pleasantly surprised. We ordered the Whipped Goat Cheese Bruchetta for an appetizer, and my oh my was that delicious! I don’t eat seafood, but Arturo had the Po’ Boy sandwich and loved it.

Ultimate Burger - Kona
There are several ranches in Hawaii, and some of the best hamburgers I’ve ever eaten have been on the Big Island! They use fresh, local ingredients, and always choose organic when possible. Arturo and I usually order a side of fries to share— the seasoning and sauce they’re served with are amazing!

Punalu’u Bake Shop - Naalehu
If you’ve never tried a malasada (simply put, a Portuguese donut), this is the place to try one! We make it a point to go here EVERY time we visit the island. Arturo and I love every flavor we’ve tried, but the lilikoi (passion fruit) ones are probably our favorite!

Café Pesto - Hilo
Arturo and I both agree that this place has THE BEST mai tai on the island! If you like sweet cocktails, you’ll love their mai tai. I also loved their pineapple mojito. Their caesar salad was fresh and delicious, and the pizza is wonderful too! The crust is just slightly chewy, and incredibly flavorful.

Hilo Town Tavern - Hilo
My niece who lives just outside of Hilo brought us here during our most recent visit to the Big Island, and it was one of the best burgers I had during our trip. It’s a spot that’s definitely enjoyed by the locals, so you know it has to be good!

Tex Drive-In - Honakaa
Tex is another one of our favorite spots for malasadas. What I absolutely LOVE about theirs is that they’re so fresh, they’re still warm when they’re served! You can eat your malasada plain (YUM!) but there are also always different flavors to choose from if you want it filled. If you stop at Tex, be sure to check out Waipio Valley Lookout, about 15 minutes away!

Kohala Burger & Taco - Kawaihae
This little spot is the home of another one of our all-time favorite burgers. Arturo has also tried their fish tacos, which were probably some of his all-time favorites too!

We hope you’ve found this blog post helpful! Comment below with places you’ve visited or your favorite things to do in Hawaii!