Big Island

Lava fields, black sand, and a sky full of stars

Region

Hawaii · United States

Best time to go

The Kona and Kohala coasts are dry and sunny most of the year, while Hilo is rainy in every season. Summit areas can be cold, so pack layers for the volcano and Mauna Kea.

Getting there

Nonstop flights from some West Coast cities into Kona, plus connections through Honolulu or the mainland, and service into Hilo as well.

Why go to Big Island

The Big Island, officially Hawaii Island, combines black-sand beaches, coffee country, rainforest, and high volcanic landscapes. Its size makes this a destination for travelers who are comfortable planning drives between distinct regions rather than staying in one compact resort area.

Golfers Anglers Divers and snorkelers Hikers

Things to do in Big Island

NatureHawaii Volcanoes National ParkThis national park protects Kilauea and Mauna Loa landscapes, including crater overlooks, lava fields, and native forest. Check current conditions before leaving, because volcanic activity and weather can close roads or change what is safe to see.Explore related tours

AdventureKilauea Iki TrailThis loop trail descends through rainforest and crosses a solidified lava lake inside Kilauea Iki crater. Wear shoes with grip and carry water, since the crater floor is exposed and the trail can be uneven after rain.Explore related tours

BeachPunaluʻu Black Sand BeachPunaluʻu is a black-sand beach on the island's south coast where green sea turtles are often seen resting near shore. Keep a legal distance from wildlife, and expect strong surf rather than dependable swimming conditions.Explore related tours

CulturePuʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical ParkThis coastal historical park preserves temple platforms, royal grounds, and a place of refuge that explains an important part of Hawaiian history. Arrive earlier in the day for quieter paths, and bring sun protection for the open shoreline.Explore related tours

AdventureKealakekua BayKealakekua Bay is a marine-rich bay known for clear water, sea cliffs, and the Captain Cook Monument across the water. Conditions can change with wind, so choose a permitted boat or kayak option that matches your experience.Explore related tours

AdventureManta ray night snorkelAfter dark off the Kona coast, snorkelers float near lights that attract plankton and, often, manta rays. Go only with a safety-focused operator, follow the briefing closely, and treat wildlife sightings as likely but never guaranteed.Explore related tours

NatureAkaka Falls State ParkA paved loop through tropical vegetation leads to viewpoints for Akaka Falls and smaller Kahuna Falls near Hilo. The path can be slick in wet weather, so a light rain layer and shoes with traction make the visit easier.Explore related tours

FoodHilo Farmers MarketThis central Hilo market is a useful stop for local fruit, prepared snacks, flowers, and small crafts. Go with an appetite and bring a reusable bag, while checking the market's current operating days before building your route around it.Explore related tours

FoodKona coffee countryCoffee farms on the slopes above Kailua-Kona show how elevation, rain, and volcanic soil shape this well-known Hawaiian crop. Farm visits vary by season and setup, so confirm access in advance and allow time for winding hillside roads.Explore related tours

NatureMauna Kea visitor areaMauna Kea's high elevation and dark skies make the visitor area a popular place to learn about astronomy and see the stars. Temperatures drop sharply after sunset, and altitude can affect visitors, so bring warm layers and take it slowly.Explore related tours

BeachHapuna Beach State Recreation AreaHapuna Beach is a broad white-sand beach on the Kohala Coast with room to swim, walk, and watch the changing ocean. Lifeguard coverage and surf conditions vary, so use posted guidance and avoid the water when waves are high.Explore related tours

NatureWaipio Valley LookoutThis overlook above the Hamakua Coast looks toward a steep green valley, taro fields, and the ocean beyond. Access rules for the valley change, so enjoy the public viewpoint and verify current restrictions before making further plans.Explore related tours

Where to stay in Big Island

Kailua-Konasunny, walkable, active waterfrontKailua-Kona is the practical west-side base for ocean excursions, coffee-country drives, and evenings by the waterfront. It suits first-time visitors who want services close by and a central starting point, though the town can feel busier than quieter coastal areas.first visitsocean activitieswalkable evenings

Kohala Coastsunny, spacious, beach focusedThe Kohala Coast is the dry northwest stretch known for lava landscapes, wide beaches, and access to golf and resort facilities. It works well for travelers prioritizing sunshine and relaxed beach time, but major sights on the east and south sides require long drives.beach stayscouplesfamilies

Hilolush, local, rainy, historicHilo is the island's east-side town, close to waterfalls, gardens, markets, and the route toward the volcano. It is a better fit for travelers who enjoy a lived-in town and rainforest scenery than those seeking consistently dry beach weather.rainforestwaterfallsvolcano access

Volcano Villagecool, forested, quiet, ruralVolcano Village sits in a cooler forest near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and makes early park starts straightforward. Choose it for nature, hiking, and a quieter pace, with the understanding that dining and beach access are more limited than on the Kona side.national parkhikingquiet stays

Waikoloa Villagedry, convenient, residential, openWaikoloa Village is inland from the Kohala Coast and offers a lower-key base with road access to beaches and the northwest coast. It can suit longer stays and travelers with a rental car, but it is not the place to stay for a walkable waterfront.longer staysrental carsKohala access

When to go

Drier west-side season

April through October

Weather: Warm, sunnier weather is common along Kona and the Kohala Coast.
Crowds: Summer and school breaks bring more visitors.
Value: often higher rates

Winter whale season

December through March

Weather: The west coast remains pleasant, while north and east areas can be wetter and cooler.
Crowds: Holiday weeks are especially busy.
Value: highest rates around holidays

Shoulder periods

April through May and September through November

Weather: Conditions are generally warm, with regional rain patterns still important.
Crowds: Visitor levels are usually lighter outside holiday periods.
Value: usually the best value

Getting the best value

Late spring and fall generally offer more moderate demand than holiday weeks and peak summer travel. Winter holidays and popular school-break periods commonly bring the highest rates, while weather differs significantly between the dry west side and wetter east side.

Check tour dates

Getting there and around

Getting there

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, KOA, is the main west-side airport, while Hilo International Airport, ITO, serves the east side.
Nonstop service is available from select West Coast cities, and many other travelers connect through Honolulu or a mainland hub.
US citizens traveling from the mainland do not need a passport for Hawaii. Travelers arriving from outside the United States should check current entry rules before booking.
Rental cars, prearranged shuttles, taxis, and ride services connect the airports with major visitor areas, but long island distances make advance planning important.

Getting around

A rental car is the most practical choice for seeing more than one region, because attractions are spread far apart.
Taxis and ride services are most useful around Kailua-Kona and Hilo, but may be limited in rural areas.
Public transit exists for local trips but is not designed for sightseeing routes or tight vacation schedules.
Use marked parking areas at beaches and parks, and do not leave valuables visible in a vehicle.

Eat and drink

Kona coffeeTry locally grown coffee and ask about roast styles or farm processing when visiting the Kona side.PokeFresh fish seasoned and served in small portions is a common casual meal, often paired with rice or local sides.Plate lunchesA casual plate lunch usually combines a protein, rice, and macaroni salad, making it an easy road-day meal.Hawaiian shave iceFinely shaved ice with flavored syrup is especially welcome after a warm beach or town walk.Tropical fruitLook for papaya, mango, pineapple, and other seasonal fruit at markets and farm stands.Loco mocoThis hearty local comfort dish layers rice, a hamburger patty, gravy, and egg, and is best shared if you want room for more later.

Day trips from Big Island

Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkSet aside a full day for crater overlooks, lava tubes, and short walks in this changing volcanic landscape. Check the park website and road conditions before departure, and pack layers for wind and rain.Explore related tours

Hilo and Akaka FallsThis east-side route pairs a market or waterfront walk in Hilo with rainforest scenery at Akaka Falls State Park. It is a long drive from Kona, so leave early and plan for wet conditions.Explore related tours

South Point and PunaluʻuA south-island drive reaches windswept coastline, lava fields, and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Bring food, water, and sun protection because services are limited along parts of the route.Explore related tours

Kealakekua Bay by waterA boat or permitted kayak excursion offers a close look at Kealakekua Bay's cliffs and marine environment. Choose based on the day's wind and your comfort in open water, rather than assuming calm conditions.Explore related tours

Sample itineraries

5 days on the Big Island

Day 1Settle into Kailua-Kona or the Kohala Coast, then visit a nearby beach and walk the Kailua waterfront.
Day 2Spend the morning at Hapuna Beach, then drive through Kona coffee country for a farm visit and a relaxed evening.
Day 3Make a full-day visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including Kilauea Iki Trail if conditions and ability allow.
Day 4Drive the Hilo side for Akaka Falls State Park and Hilo Farmers Market, then return before dark.
Day 5Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau and Kealakekua Bay, or choose a final beach morning before departure.

Browse activities for this itinerary

7 days on the Big Island

Day 1Arrive on the Kona side, pick up a car, and keep the first afternoon for a local beach and groceries.
Day 2Explore Kailua-Kona and coffee country, with time for a coastal stop along the way.
Day 3Spend a beach day at Hapuna Beach or another Kohala Coast beach, following posted ocean guidance.
Day 4Drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and stay near Volcano Village or return to the west side.
Day 5See Hilo, Akaka Falls State Park, and the Hamakua Coast, allowing extra time for rain and road conditions.
Day 6Visit Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, then consider a manta ray night snorkel.
Day 7Use a final morning for Mauna Kea visitor area or an easy coastal walk before your flight.

Browse activities for this itinerary

Good to know

Plan by region, not by map distance, because island drives can be slow and roads cross different climates.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on coral or touching marine life when snorkeling.
Bring a rain layer for Hilo and Volcano Village, plus warm layers for high elevations and evening stargazing.
Check ocean conditions at every beach, because a calm-looking shoreline can still have strong currents.
Reserve national-park lodging, rental cars, and popular ocean activities early for school-break periods.
Keep your fuel level up when heading south, north, or into the park, where services can be widely spaced.

Questions people ask

How many days do I need on the Big Island?

Five days gives you a useful introduction, while seven days allows time for both coasts, the volcano, and slower beach days.

Do I need a car on the Big Island?

For most visitors, yes. Major sights and visitor areas are too far apart for taxis or public transit to be practical.

What is the best month to visit?

Shoulder periods in spring and fall often balance warm weather and lighter crowds, though the best choice depends on the region you plan to explore.

Can I see lava on the Big Island?

Volcanic activity changes. Check Hawaii Volcanoes National Park conditions close to your trip and never enter closed or restricted areas.

Is the Big Island good for families?

Yes, especially for families who enjoy beaches, easy walks, wildlife viewing, and road trips. Build in downtime because driving days can be long.

Can I swim at every beach?

No. Surf, currents, rocks, and seasonal conditions vary considerably, so use lifeguarded beaches when possible and obey all warning signs.

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