The Big Island of Hawaii is packed with incredible things to do, making it the perfect destination for every type of traveler. From hiking across the island’s unique landscapes, waterfall viewing, to relaxing on pristine beaches. No matter your interests, you’ll discover something here that’ll make you think “I need to visit the Big Island!”
2 years ago I solo traveled across Hawaii and lived on the Big Island for 4 months, so I feel pretty well versed when it comes to things to do on the island.
In this list you’ll of course find some iconic and more touristy places such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Mauna Kea summit, but you’ll also find a few off the beaten path gems that I never would have visited if I didn’t stay on the island for so long.
In this post I will be providing you with 20 awesome things to do on the Big Island that you don’t want to miss on your trip there.
These attractions are located all around the island. So I’ve split them up into four different regions: the eastern coast (Hilo side), the western coast (Kona side), and the northern and southern tips of the island.
Each of these regions will give you a completely different experience with different landscapes, things to do, and even different weather! (Check out Kona vs. Hilo).
So I hope you enjoy all these attractions just as much as I did and I hope you get some inspiration for your trip to Hawaii from this post.
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Things to Do on Hilo Side of Big Island (East Coast)
1. Visit Rainbow Falls
Starting off this list with the most impressive waterfall on the island: Rainbow Falls. This waterfall is located just a 5 minute drive from downtown Hilo. So it’s super easily accessible for anyone staying in Hilo.
Best of all, Rainbow Falls is completely free to visit.
The main viewpoint of the falls can easily be reached by taking a quick walk from the parking lot. No hiking required.
To the left of the falls, you’ll see a staircase which leads you to an upper viewpoint of Rainbow Falls. It only will take a minute or two to get to the top. Be careful though, these steps can be very slick especially after rain.
As its name suggests, you can often see a rainbow appear in the mist at the base of the waterfall when sunlight hits the water just right. As shown above.
2. Check Out the Hilo Farmers Market
I want to include the Hilo Farmers Market in this list because I feel like it’s something that people wouldn’t think to visit while they’re on the island.
The Hilo Farmers Market is full of local vendors selling all kinds of homegrown fruits and vegetables.
You can find all kinds of produce here such as apple bananas, rambutan, mangoes, pineapple, lychee, soursop, coconuts, papaya, bok choy, daikon, guava, and much more.
This is a great way to try different kinds of tropical fruits that you don’t get on the mainland or in other parts of the world. Plus, everything is fresh and grown locally so it tastes so much better.
It also makes me feel good to know that by shopping here I am supporting local farmers instead of big corporations.
The Hilo Farmers Market is open daily from 7 AM-3 PM. So if you’re in Hilo during the morning, I cannot recommend this market enough. It takes place underneath a shaded pavilion to shield you from both the hot Hawaiian sun and Hilo’s famous downpours.
The market is located downtown right along the Hilo Bayfront just off of Kamehameha Ave. You can type in “Hilo Farmers Market” into your Apple or Google Maps and it will take you right to it.
3. Hike Through the Kaumana Lava Caves
The Kaumana Lava Caves are another unique attraction just outside of Hilo. These caves are completely free, and a quick stop you won’t want to miss while exploring the area.
Lava caves form when the surface of a flowing lava river cools and hardens into black rock while molten lava continues to flow beneath. Once the eruption ends and the lava drains or solidifies, it leaves behind a hollow, cave-like tunnel.
You are definitely going to want to bring flashlights for each person (and a few extra) because there are no lights in the cave. Once you get far enough from the entrance it will be pitch black.
You will also be walking on rugged lava rocks the whole time through the cave so you do not want to be wearing sandals. I was wearing my hiking boots and they were perfect for the terrain.
There are two different cave entrances here. One on your left and one on your right. The cave to the left is the longest, and arguably the coolest.
The lava tube on the left runs for about half a mile one way. You will know you’re at the end when you begin to see light. There is an opening in the ceiling at the end of the tube that would take you above on top of the cave. There is no trail back and this area is very overgrown so I only suggest you go back the way you came, through the cave.
We explored the other lava tube after, but it is closed in with rocks several feet in. So there isn’t much to see in the other one.
4. Visit Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is the other popular waterfall in Hilo and it’s a little more off the beaten path. It’s about a 30 minute drive north of Hilo. It comes in at a whopping 442 feet tall!
It will cost you to see this one, but only $5 to park in the lot. It’s a small price to pay for seeing such a beautiful waterfall.
There is a short hike (0.5 mile round trip) to get to this waterfall, however the pathway is completely paved with railings. This trail also doesn’t gain much incline at all so this attraction is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
5. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Last but certainly not least, on Hilo side we have the famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is actually about a 45 minute drive from Hilo, but it’s most easily accessible from here.
Since it’s a National Park, there will be a day-use $30 entrance fee that is charged per vehicle. However, you are able to use an America the Beautiful Pass or any other annual pass offered by the NPS here for free entry.
This National Park is so special because it is home to the most active volcano in the entire world: Kilauea.
Kilauea erupts once almost every 2 or 3 years. You are only able to see the lava glow during recent eruptions. You can check out the parks website to find out if there is visible lava when you visit.
If you are lucky enough to visit the park during an eruption, the best time to see the lava is actually at night. If you go during the day to view the Kilauea crater, it will just look like a big smoking hole in the ground.
However at night, is a completely different and jaw dropping experience. The lava makes the entire sky glow orange and you’re able to witness it bubble up out of the Earth.
Besides viewing the lava flow, there are a plethora of trails in the park that take you through rainforests, desolate areas of lava rock, volcanic craters, and even to ancient petroglyphs made by the native Hawaiians.
Things to Do on Kona Side of Big Island (West Coast)
6. Visit Hapuna Beach State Park
For the first attraction on Kona side, we are going to my absolute favorite white sand beach on the island: Hapuna Beach.
This beach is actually about a 40 minute drive north of Kona however, it is totally worth it to make the drive especially if you have a rental car.
To get into this beach, you will have to pay to park. The parking fee is $10 per car and is paid at the self service kiosks in the parking lot.
There are bathrooms on site, showers, picnic areas, water fountains, and a lifeguard as well.
Since Hapuna Beach is on the west coast, the waves are much more tame. This makes it an awesome place to swim and boogie board.
The ocean floor is completely made up of soft sand, no rocks, so you don’t have to worry about cutting your feet up as you’re walking out.
This park does tend to get crowded so it’s recommended to arrive as early in the morning as you can.
7. Captain Cook Monument Hike + Snorkeling
The next activity on this list is a hike that leads to one of my favorite places to snorkel on the Big Island: the Captain Cook Monument.
This trailhead is about a 25 minute drive south of Kona in the small town of Captain Cook.
The trail is a 4 mile round trip with over 1,200 feet of elevation gain. So this hike is quite the workout. Especially since you’ll begin descending down until you reach Kealakekua Bay.
Kealakekua Bay is known to be one of the best places on the island for snorkeling. And since it requires such a trek, it’s often not super crowded.
The hardest part is hiking back up after you’ve been snorkeling for an hour or two. So make sure to bring plenty of water and some snacks with you.
If you don’t have any snorkel gear, you can easily rent some in Kona such as Boss Frog’s Snorkel, Snorkel Bobs, or Kahaluu Surf and Sea.
The hike itself is incredibly scenic. It’s full of lava rock so I recommend wearing hiking shoes on the trail and then changing into water shoes when you get to the end for snorkeling.
The bay waters are very calm and full of so much vibrant and colorful sea life. My friend saw a small reef shark deeper out in the ocean. It is also not uncommon to see spinner dolphins here as they use the bay as a resting area.
Something else to know is that there is no designated parking lot for the trail. You will just have to find an open spot on the side of the road at the trailhead. This area does tend to fill up fast so get there as early in the morning as you can.
8. Check Out a Whale Watching Cruise
If you’re visiting the Big Island in the winter months (December- mid April) you don’t want to miss whale watching. Each winter thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and raise their calves. A cruise gives you the chance to witness these amazing creatures up close.
The calm, clear waters off Kona’s coast make for ideal viewing, and you’ll often spot other marine life along the way, like dolphins and sea turtles.
You can sometimes spot whales from the coastline, if you’re lucky, but the best way to see them is definitely on a whale watching cruise.
Here’s a few top rated whale watching companies in Kona:
9. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park gives you a glimpse into the lives of the native Hawaiians. You’ll find remnants of traditional Hawaiian fishponds, house sites, and religious structures.
This park is free to visit, and there is a very informative Visitor Center right by the parking lot. There are also several educational signs around the park to help you better understand how this land was used by the Hawaiians.
There is a 3 mile loop trail that runs throughout the park which will take you across lava rock, a white sand beach, and along the structures seen above which were used as boat storage and shelter.
This park is also known to have green Hawaiian sea turtles resting on the lava rock and swimming in the waters. Remember to stay at least 10 feet away from them at all times.
10. Snorkeling with Manta Rays
One of the top things to do in Kona is snorkel with the manta rays. You do need to book a tour to do this activity, which go for around $130 per person. It’s pricey, but so worth it.
How the tour works is you, the tour guide, and your tour group will head out on a boat to the snorkeling site out away from the coast. You will be given snorkel equipment and a wet suit.
Once you get in the water, you and everyone else in the group will hold onto a bar attached to a large floatation device. You essentially will just be holding onto the bar and floating near the surface of the water while looking down below.
The tour guides shine bright lights into the water which attract plankton, which in turn attracts the manta rays. The manta rays will swim and feed around you, often coming very close. You will be in awe as these gentle giants perform graceful somersaults and barrel rolls.
This tour typically takes place at night since that’s when the manta rays are most active. You can expect this experience to be about 2-3 hours long from start to finish. This would be an amazing activity to try out one evening on your trip to the Big Island.
11. Snorkel at Two Step Beach
Known by the locals as Two Step, this snorkeling spot is located in Honaunau Bay just south of Kona.
This spot gets it’s name from the natural lava rock steps creating an easy entry point into the water. You just step down on the first lava rock step, put your snorkel gear on, and then hop into the water.
Again, if you don’t have any snorkel gear, you can easily rent some near Kona in places such as Boss Frog’s Snorkel, Snorkel Bobs, or Kahaluu Surf and Sea.
Honaunau Bay offers calm and crystal clear turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. You’re able to see so much beautiful underwater life here. Very similar to Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) just without the hiking.
I recommend wearing water shoes to swim in and while walking on the lava rocks because sea urchins are known to be hiding in between crevices in the rocks.
This is a popular spot for visitors so I recommend arriving as early as possible to find a parking space because they are limited. You are able to park along any side streets across from the beach, and it will be just a short walk away. Make sure to be cautious of private property and any signs that say “no parking”. There is also a $5 parking lot right next to the beach so choose whichever you are most comfortable with.
12. Experience a Luau
A luau is more than just dinner and a show. It’s an evening of Hawaiian culture, storytelling, and tradition brought to life.
The night typically begins with the imu ceremony, where a whole pig is unearthed from an underground oven, filling the air with the smoky aroma of kalua pork, one of Hawaii’s most beloved dishes.
The food alone is worth the experience, but what makes a luau unforgettable is the entertainment. Dancers in colorful costumes share the history of Polynesia through hula, chants, and song, while fire-knife performers light up the night.
If this sounds like the kind of Hawaiian culture you were eager to see on your trip to the Big Island then you will definitely want to check out a luau while you’re in Kona.
Most luau’s take place at a hotel or resort and you do not have to be staying at the resort to attend.
A few of the most popular and highly rated luau’s in Kona are the following:
12. Snorkel at 49 Black Sand Beach
49 Black Sand Beach is one of the only black sand beaches you’ll find on the west coast of the island. That makes it a unique find in the Kona area, plus, it’s usually crowd-free!
This beach is a hidden gem on the west coast. Not many people know about it, but it became one of my favorite beaches to snorkel at. The waters at this beach are very calm, and the underwater life here is breathtaking.
I saw an eel for the first time while snorkeling here. One of my friends actually saw a small octopus too but she was much further out in the water than I was. Eels and octopi are both common to see in the waters at this beach.
This is a public beach but it’s actually inside of the Mauna Lani Beach Resort. You are required to get a beach pass from the guard at the entrance gate. This is completely free.
Things to Do on South Side of Big Island
14. Visit Punalu’u Beach
Now heading to the southern side of the island. One of the top attractions here is the beautiful and free Punalu’u Beach.
Punalu’u Beach is located on the east coast of the island between the towns of Naalehu and Pahala.
This is arguably the best black sand beach on the entire island. It is known for it’s soft sand and sea turtles resting on the shore.
Since it is a popular beach in the area, you may find some crowds here enjoying the Hawaiian sunshine on the soft sand. There are beautiful palm trees lining the shoreline which make for an unforgettable scene.
The waves here are mostly mild but depending on the weather, they can be more intense.
When I went swimming here sea turtles were swimming all up around me. You’re likely to see people snorkeling here as well to see the turtles, just beware of the lava rock in the shallow waters.
If you do decide to get into the water, there is a lifeguard on duty which is a nice to have.
15. Hike to Papakōlea (Green Sand) Beach
Papakōlea Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the Big Island because of it’s striking green colored sand. Definitely one of the most unique places to see on the island. It’s one of four green sand beaches in the entire world!
The green sand beach is found right near the southern tip of the island and it is free to visit. However, you are only able to get there by hiking trail or by a 4×4 vehicle.
I know you can either do a tour with some of the locals to see the beach or you can even bring your own off roading vehicle here. In recent years it has been brought to the public’s attention that the use of vehicles here has had terrible effects on the landscape. Plus, there is no specific path to get there so if you don’t know exactly where you’re going, it could be hard to find. So I encourage you to hike instead.
The hike to Papakōlea Beach is a 6 mile round trip but it’s mostly flat so it really doesn’t feel that bad. Although there is no shade here, so the sun can get intense by midday. I would recommend starting this hike as early in the morning as possible to beat the crowds and heat.
Trust me you will not want to leave the Big Island without seeing the famous green sand beach. Bonus points that hiking there is free!
16. Visit South Point (Kalae)
Kalae is located right on the very bottom edge of the island. The actual southernmost point in the entire United States!
This is a popular spot for visitors to watch the sunset since you get such an awesome view of the setting sun over the ocean.
All around this is an awesome place to hangout, you can walk and explore on all the lava rock and take in the beautiful views of the coastline.
Plus, it’s pretty cool to say that you’ve been to the southernmost point in the US!
17. Check Out Punalu’u Bake Shop
While you’re around Naalehu, I’d recommend stopping in at the Punalu’u Bake Shop.
This shop is famous all around the island for their Hawaiian Sweet Bread. This sweet bread you’ll find in stores across Hawaii, but it is sure to taste the best right from the shop that makes it.
They also have coffee, cookies, and various other pastries to try. The shop has outdoor seating which makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some sweet treats on the way to Papakōlea Beach or South Point.
Things to Do on North Side of Big Island
18. Visit the Mauna Kea Summit
Visiting the summit of Mauna Kea is one of the best things to do on the Big Island.
Mauna Kea is one of the volcanoes that formed the island. It stands at 13,800 feet which is the highest point in Hawaii.
This volcano is now dormant and today we can actually visit the summit for some stunning views.
Due to the high elevation, this mountain peak is no stranger to frigid temperatures and even snow and ice.
How to Get to Mauna Kea Summit
There are a few different ways you can go about getting to the summit, by tour, hitchhiking, or by driving your own 4×4 vehicle.
If you want a more in depth guide on getting to the summit of Mauna Kea, check out this post. For now I’ll briefly summarize the main things to know before visiting the summit.
Booking a tour to the summit of Mauna Kea is definitely the most popular way to get there. Here’s a few of the top rated companies:
If you are thinking of renting your own 4×4 vehicle and taking it to the summit, you need to check the rental car agreements beforehand. Many rental car companies do not allow their renters to drive to the summit.
If you aren’t able to drive yourself to the summit, you can however drive to the Visitor Center (before the off-roading begins) and try to hitchhike to the summit.
Once you do make it to the summit, you’ll be treated to some gorgeous views of the surrounding cinder cones and even snow if you go during the winter months (December-April).
I definitely recommend visiting in the evening hours so you can watch the sunset from the summit. Since you’re so high up, you are actually standing above the clouds.
Watching the sun set from Mauna Kea was a surreal experience I will never forget. You will not want to miss it on your trip!
19. Hike in Pololu Valley
Pololu Valley is a gorgeous place to hike to view the rugged beauty of the north eastern coast of the island.
The drive to Pololu Valley is very scenic as well so you are sure to enjoy every moment on the way there. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by a gorgeous overlook of the coastline. Seen below
Many people come here just for this view but I do recommend taking the short hike (1 mile round trip) that leads you down to the beach.
The path isn’t paved but it’s not filled with too many rocks so it’s pretty easy to walk on. However, it is very steep! Going down is easy and quick but coming back up can be challenging.
You will be in awe of the beautiful lush green mountains and the jagged rocks along the coastline.
However, the beach at the end is not a beach you want to swim in. The surf is rough and there is no sand, only black lava rock. However, it is still very beautiful and worth the hike down.
This is an awesome easy to moderate level hike to do on the Big Island with the most stunning views. If you find yourself exploring the northern tip of the island, then Pololu Valley is a must visit!
20. View Waipi’o Valley
The Waipi’o Valley Overlook is another gorgeous overlook located on the north eastern coast of the island. This is a pretty famous overlook and there will most likely be several other tourists there taking photos and taking in the view.
Waipi’o Valley describes an entire area of land, similar to Pololu Valley. Unfortunately you aren’t able to visit the actual valley anymore unless you are a resident of Hawaii or you are part of a Waipi’o Valley tour.
The road that goes down to the valley from the overlook is 4×4 only and they have it gated off with rangers standing in front making sure no one passes without showing their ID as a Hawaii resident.
I only visited the overlook because I did not have the time or funds for a tour. But it is something I’d love to do someday. I can only imagine what kind of beauty is hidden down in Waipi’o Valley.
Luckily visiting the overlook is completely free! It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.
Alright and that will complete my bucket list of the top 20 things to do and see on the Big Island of Hawaii! I hope you got some inspiration and ideas for fun things to add to your Hawaii itinerary.
The Big Island will forever be one of my favorite places on Earth. And after visiting, I’m sure it will be yours too! Thank you so much for reading!
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