The Big Island Tour’s most famous and popular place to visit is certainly Volcanoes National Park.
You’ll want to allow a full day here, and make sure to see the most active volcano on the planet: Kilauea. Driving the full length of the Chain of Craters Road is highly recommended, dropping 4,000 feet of elevation to ocean level. Along the way there are fascinating stops and short walks at places like Devastation Trail, the Pu’u Loa Petroglyph Trail and Holei Sea Arch.
Discover the sun-drenched beauty of the Kohala Coast, a haven of luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and ancient Hawaiian history. This leeward side of the island boasts calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Explore historical sites like Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, an important ancient temple. Indulge in world-class dining and shopping, or simply relax on the golden sands and soak up the Hawaiian sunshine. The Kohala Coast offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination. Its drier climate ensures plenty of sunny days to enjoy its many charms
Embark on a scenic drive along the lush Hamakua Coast, a verdant paradise of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tropical rainforests. This windward side of the island receives ample rainfall, creating a vibrant and fertile landscape. Discover charming small towns, explore botanical gardens, and marvel at the numerous waterfalls that plunge down the steep cliffs. The Hamakua Coast offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells, showcasing the island’s incredible natural beauty and its rich agricultural heritage
Experience the vibrant energy of Hilo, the largest town on the Big Island and the gateway to the windward coast. Explore its historic downtown, browse local shops and farmers’ markets, and visit cultural attractions like the Lyman Museum and Mission House. Discover the beauty of Wailuku River State Park, home to Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe Falls. Hilo offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders, with a distinctly local and welcoming atmosphere. Its proximity to both the rainforest and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park makes it a significant hub on the island
Witness the enchanting beauty of Rainbow Falls, or Waiānuenue, located in Hilo. This stunning 80-foot waterfall cascades into a clear pool below, often creating a vibrant rainbow in the mist on sunny mornings. Lush tropical foliage surrounds the falls, creating a picturesque setting. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave behind the falls is home to Hina, the mother of the demigod Maui. This easily accessible natural wonder is a must-see when exploring the Hilo side of the island
Experience the vibrant energy and historical significance of Kona, the bustling hub of the island’s west coast. Explore the historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona), browse its shops and restaurants, and learn about its royal past at sites like Mokuaikaua Church and Huliheʻe Palace. Enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters, go deep-sea fishing, or simply relax on its beautiful beaches. Kona offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, making it a popular destination for visitors
Discover the charming and artistic town of Hawi, located at the northern tip of the Big Island. This quaint community is known for its art galleries, boutiques, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also the turnaround point for the Ironman World Championship triathlon. Explore the local shops, enjoy a meal at a local eatery, and soak in the small-town vibe. Hawi offers a glimpse into a more rural and artistic side of the Big Island, with beautiful coastal views nearby
Be captivated by the breathtaking vista from the Pololu Valley Overlook. This dramatic viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of a deep, green valley flanked by towering cliffs that plunge down to a black sand beach. Hike down the steep trail to explore the valley floor and experience its secluded beauty firsthand (note: the hike is challenging). The contrast between the lush valley and the rugged cliffs is truly spectacular, making Pololu Valley a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
One of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls, stunning Akaka Falls on the Big Island Tour plummets a sheer 440 feet into a gorge.
The trail is an easy, paved half-mile loop with slight elevation through incredibly lush rainforest, bamboo, ferns and wild orchids, so it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The verdant jungle will amaze you, and along the way you’ll get glimpses of the payoff: the stunning Akaka Falls cascading down into a picturesque pool.
Find serenity and beauty at Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo. This stunning 30-acre Japanese-style garden, gifted by Queen Liliʻuokalani, offers a tranquil escape with its meticulously landscaped grounds, koi ponds, pagodas, and arched bridges. Stroll through the gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the beautiful views of Hilo Bay and Coconut Island. Liliuokalani Gardens is a testament to the island’s cultural diversity and offers a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection
Discover the historical and natural significance of Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. This is the site where Captain James Cook first arrived in Hawaii and where he ultimately met his demise. Snorkel or kayak in the bay’s clear waters, exploring the underwater paradise. Visit the Captain Cook Monument located across the bay (accessible by boat or a challenging hike). Kealakekua Bay offers a blend of historical importance and exceptional natural beauty.
Pay homage to King Kamehameha the Great at the iconic statue located in Hilo. This impressive bronze sculpture commemorates the powerful aliʻi (chief) who united the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom. Learn about his significant role in Hawaiian history and admire the regal depiction of this important figure. The statue stands proudly in front of the judiciary complex and serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the islands
Indulge your senses along the scenic Kona Coffee Coast, a fertile region renowned for producing some of the world’s finest coffee. Drive through rolling hills dotted with coffee farms, learn about the coffee-growing process from bean to cup, and sample the rich, aromatic brews. Many farms offer tours and tastings, providing a delightful and educational experience. Beyond coffee, the Kona Coast also boasts beautiful beaches, historical sites like Mokuʻaikaua Church, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities
Discover the charming upcountry town of Waimea, also known as Kamuela, nestled in the rolling green hills of North Kohala. This paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country offers a refreshing change of pace from the coastal areas. Explore its art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries. Learn about the town’s rich ranching history and enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning views of Mauna Kea and the surrounding landscape. Waimea provides a glimpse into a different facet of the Big Island’s diverse character and offers a chance to experience its paniolo heritage
Witness the dramatic beauty of the Hōlei Sea Arch, a natural arch carved by the relentless power of the Pacific Ocean against the volcanic coastline within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This iconic landmark stands as a testament to the constant interplay between land and sea. Feel the spray of the waves and marvel at the rugged cliffs and black sand beaches that surround it. The Hōlei Sea Arch marks the end of the Chain of Craters Road and offers a stunning photo opportunity. Its dramatic setting and the constant roar of the ocean create a powerful and memorable experience.
Explore the stark and dramatic landscape of the Devastation Trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This paved path winds through a once-thriving ʻōhiʻa forest that was blanketed by ashfall from the 1959 eruption of Kīlauea Iki crater. Witness the resilience of nature as new plant life slowly begins to reclaim the barren ground, creating a fascinating contrast between destruction and regeneration. The trail offers poignant views of the Kīlauea Iki crater and provides a tangible reminder of the powerful impact of volcanic eruptions on the environment
Journey back in time at the Puʻu Loa petroglyph field, located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This significant cultural site contains thousands of ancient Hawaiian rock carvings, etched into a vast expanse of solidified lava. These petroglyphs, or kiʻi pōhaku, represent a rich tapestry of Hawaiian history, culture, and beliefs. While their exact meanings are often debated, they offer invaluable insights into the lives and spiritual practices of the early inhabitants of the island. Walking among these ancient carvings is a powerful and humbling experience, connecting you to the deep history of this land.
Step into the incredible, cavernous depths of Thurston Lava Tube, a remarkable geological formation within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This large lava cave was created centuries ago when a river of molten lava flowed through the area, its outer layers cooling and solidifying while the hot lava drained away. Walk through this natural tunnel, marveling at the smooth, sculpted walls and the lush rainforest vegetation that thrives at its entrance and exit. The tube offers a unique perspective on volcanic processes and the fascinating underground world they create. Keep an eye out for native Hawaiian birds that sometimes take shelter within its cool interior.
Witness the dynamic heart of Kīlauea volcano at Halemaʻumaʻu crater, located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This sacred site has undergone significant changes in recent years, with periods of intense volcanic activity and the formation of a vast lava lake. Depending on current conditions, you may witness steam plumes rising from the caldera or even the glow of molten rock at night. Learn about the cultural significance of this area to Native Hawaiians and the scientific monitoring efforts that track the volcano’s behavior. Experiencing the raw power emanating from Halemaʻumaʻu is a humbling reminder of the Earth’s dynamic forces.
Embark on a dramatic drive along the Chain of Craters Road, a winding journey through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This scenic route showcases the powerful and ever-changing volcanic landscape, offering breathtaking views of past lava flows that have reshaped the coastline. Witness the stark contrast between the black, solidified lava fields and the vibrant green vegetation that stubbornly reclaims the land. Keep an eye out for steam vents and explore overlooks that provide insights into the park’s geological activity. The road culminates at the Hōlei Sea Arch, a testament to the relentless power of the ocean against volcanic rock. This drive is a visceral experience, allowing you to witness the raw energy and creative destruction of Kīlauea volcano
One of Hawaii’s most significant cultural sites, the sanctuary at the Place of Refuge on the Big Island Tour was a safe haven for those that broke Kapu – the cultural system from pre contact Hawaii that governed lifestyle, class structure and religion.
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is located on the rugged Kona coast and is perhaps the best preserved and restored Place of Refuge anywhere in Hawaii, and is both poignant and stunning.
Located on the Hamakua Coast on the Big Island Tour, Waipio Valley is a stunning and not-to-be-missed lookout atop a 2,000 foot sea cliff.
Located just a short walk from the parking lot, from the lookout you’ll see where a 5-mile long canyon finds its way to the ocean from the mountains behind, as well as extended views to more sea cliffs. The lookout is great for taking pictures of the stunning coastline, so make sure you bring a camera. Look across the channel and try to spot neighboring Maui.
