Big Island Hawaii

If you're desperate to start planning your next vacation, and can't wait to discover somewhere new - then why not consider the Big Island of Hawaii?

With so much local history, a spellbinding natural landscape, and unforgettable local cuisine - it's the perfect place to make holiday memories that you're sure to cherish for years to come.

If you're considering making Big Island your next vacation spot, then this guide has everything you need to know about spending time in Hawaii. From must-see attractions to the answers to key FAQs - we've got you covered!

Big Island Hawaii Vacation

Things To Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Tropical Rain Forest of Hilo

If you're keen to experience Hawaii's breathtaking landscape - the Hilo region rain forest is the best place to start!

Explore local hiking trails, and discover beautiful flora and fauna - including Big Island's official flower, the Ohi'a. Your experienced guide will take you to the best sightseeing spots - and you might even encounter birds and other wildlife as you go!

The Hilo Rain Forest is also home to fantastic waterfall parks - including the Rainbow Falls Park and Wailuku River Park - where you can marvel at the bubbling water in the famous 'Boiling Pots'.

If you start to feel hungry, why not stop by the Hilo Farmers Market, where you can enjoy local specialties and home-grown produce, and even shop for local crafts!

Big Island Hawaii Vacation

Waterfalls

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to so many hidden gems - and the waterfall formations are no exception!

Visit the falls in the rain forests of Hilo, and then travel along the Hamakua coast towards Hawaii's renowned botanical gardens and Akaka Falls State Park. Visit the 100 ft Kahuna Falls, which emerges straight from the forest itself, or marvel at the Akaka Falls, which are nearly 450 ft tall!

If you decide to stop at the World Botanical Gardens, don't forget to visit the Umauma Falls which cascade over three separate levels! If you're feeling daring, you can even tour the falls via a zipline!

Kona's Upland Hillsides

The Kona region and its Kealakekua Bay Historical Park are the perfect spots to uncover local history, with locations like the awe-inspiring Hulihee Palace - or the nearby Kailua village.

If you're in the area, coffee lovers won't want to miss a visit to Kona's extensive coffee farms. With over 600 farms, there's a lot to choose from - but the village of Holualoa is the perfect place to start.

Travelers will be able to wander the coffee groves, before watching beans be harvested and turned into freshly ground coffee - and of course sampling some, too!

Mauna Kea

If you're a fan of hiking - why not visit the beautiful Mauna Kea Mountain? Never mind Everest - Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from beneath sea level.

The mountain offers unparalleled views of Big Island in all directions, and you can even take a nighttime trip to stargaze! Hawaii's evening sky is free from light pollution, allowing you to see the stars in a whole new way!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Some of Big Island's most enticing traveler attractions are its mighty volcanoes! Hawaii has several active sites that are safe to visit and explore - but one of the best spots is the Volcanoes National Park.

The park includes some spectacular volcanoes, with Mauna Loa being the largest on Earth, and Kilauea being one of the most active! Despite this, it's an incredibly secure site, with the welcoming Kilauea visitor center, guided drives around the craters, and even the historic Volcano House Hotel!

The entire region is now a protected World Heritage Site, with picturesque hiking trails and must-see natural features for all Big Island visitors.

Travelers should make sure to visit the bubbling Pu'u Oo vent, the Pu'u Pua'i cinder cone, and wander inside the awe-inspiring Thurston Lava Tube - an ancient tunnel originally created by lava flow, which is now home to beautiful rain forest wildlife.

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the Hawaiian islands, and was even the site of the Hawaiian Kings' palaces - and it's easy to see why!

This ancient valley has been carved out by the Waipio River, which has its very own black sand beach, and multiple breath-taking waterfalls. Despite being so popular, the area is incredibly peaceful, with several walking trails to suit all ability levels!

Hike down to the quiet river beaches and take photos of the volcanic sand, trek all the way to Waimanu Valley, or climb the Waipio Valley Lookout for unforgettable views of the Hawaiian coast.

Water Adventures in Kona

If you're a water lover, visiting the Kona coast should be at the top of your activity list.

Soak in the sun on the idyllic Big Island beaches, and make the most of the gentle Hawaiian ocean! Choose from dolphin-watching experiences, diving trips, or the opportunity to spot rare green sea turtles!

You'll even have the chance to snorkel with majestic sea creatures, including friendly manta rays!

Big Island Hawaii Vacation

Food and Drink

Sharing food and drink is a huge part of Hawaiian culture-making Big Island the perfect spot to sample delicious traditional cuisine, and local specialties.

Big Island Hawaii Vacation

The Big Island has a variety of foodie events, which are ideal for people who want to try a bit of everything! Visit one of several foods and wine festivals, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, or simply wander local markets and take your pick of fresh produce!

The Big Island has a range of mouth-watering local crops, including taro, sweet potato, and breadfruit - and with the local volcanic soil being incredibly nourishing, you can be certain that anything grown and cooked on the island will be truly delicious!

If you are thinking of visiting the Hawaiian Islands, be sure and ask for the curated Restaurant List from Seven Seas Travel.
This Hawaiian restaurant list has over 95 restaurants that specialize in:

* Local Hawaiian food products
* Cater to local Hawaiians
* Charge reasonable prices

This list can be shared via a convenient Google map and is available to clients who book with Seven Seas Travel.
You are sure to avoid expensive tourist traps and enjoy an authentic Hawaiian dining experience.

See Oahu section of Google Map below:

The Big Island of Hawaii FAQs

1. Why is Hawaii called the Big Island?

The Hawaii Island Chain is made up of several islands - and some are bigger than others!

Hawaii, the Big Island, is the largest in the chain and the biggest island off the coast of the US - which is where it got its nickname!

2. What is the history of Hawaii and Captain Cook?

In 1779, Captain Cook visited Hawaii and attempted to kidnap Kalani'ōpu'u, who was the Big Island Chief at the time.

Kalani'ōpu'u was rescued by his people, and Cook was killed in the struggle.

3. When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

Hawaii has a variety of climate zones, with some being arid and others fairly humid. Therefore, the best time to travel to the Big Island is during the months of March-September, as this is when temperatures are perfect for spending days on the beach, and you won't have to worry about rain.

Big Island Hawaii Vacation