A City Guide to Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii is an iconic destination for tourists looking for some sun, sand, and surf. With its stunning landscapes, diverse attractions, and amazing activities, it’s no wonder why Big Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. From its beautiful beaches to its bustling towns, Big Island has something for everyone – from the casual sightseer to the adventurous explorer. Here’s a comprehensive guide to all of the activities and attractions the Big Island has to offer.

A Brief History of Big Island

Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and one of the most geographically diverse. It is home to five of the world’s climate zones, ranging from tropical rainforest to arid desert. It is also home to two volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, which are the most active volcanoes in the world.

Big Island was first inhabited by Polynesians in around 300AD, who arrived in outrigger canoes and established villages in the area. Following its discovery by Captain James Cook in 1778, Big Island was incorporated into the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1810, becoming the capital of the new kingdom. In 1898, it was annexed by the United States and remains part of the US today.

Today, Big Island is a major tourist destination with a population of around 200,000 people. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and active volcanoes, as well as its unique culture and rich history.

Things to Do on Big Island

From its stunning black sand beaches to its active volcanoes, Big Island offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of our favorites:

Visit Volcanoes National Park

No trip to Big Island would be complete without a visit to Volcanoes National Park. Home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, the park offers visitors a range of activities and attractions.

Take a guided tour with a park ranger to learn more about the volcanoes, their history, and their impact on the island. Or take a guided hike to explore more of the park’s stunning landscapes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a helicopter tour over the park for breathtaking views of lava flows and crater lakes. Or take a night hike up Mauna Loa for an unforgettable experience under the stars.

Surf on Some of the World’s Best Beaches

Big Island is home to some of the best surfing spots in the world. From beginner-friendly surf spots like Kahalu’u Beach Park to more challenging ones like Pohoiki Beach, there are plenty of options for surfers of all levels.

Experienced surfers can take on some of Big Island’s more challenging waves like Pe’ahi (known as “Jaws”) or Makena (“The Wall”). Or take a beginners surfing lesson and learn how to ride your first wave.

Explore Hilo Town

No visit to Big Island would be complete without a visit to Hilo Town. Located on the east coast of the island, Hilo is home to some of the island’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Take a stroll through the town’s historic market, where you can find everything from local produce and craft items to souvenirs and snacks. Or head to Richardson Beach Park for some sunbathing and swimming.

For an unforgettable experience, take a guided tour of Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Located just outside of Hilo, this stunning garden offers breathtaking views and a chance to see rare tropical plants up close.

Take a Cruise Around Big Island

One of the best ways to explore Big Island is from aboard a cruise ship. Whether you choose a short day trip or an extended tour, you’ll be able to explore some of the island’s most stunning sights from the sea.

Cruise along the Kona Coast and explore its dramatic cliffs and white-sand beaches. Or cruise around Hilo Bay and take in its lush landscapes and rainforest-covered mountain peaks.

On your cruise, you’ll be able to spot dolphins and sea turtles, as well as plenty of colorful fish and coral reefs. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of whales or other marine life.

Book an Example Tour on Viator

Visit one of Big Island’s top attractions with this all-day Example Tour. This tour begins with an air-conditioned bus ride around the island before stopping at Volcano National Park for a guided tour and an up-close look at some of its active volcanoes. Then you’ll be taken on a hike through some of the park’s lush rainforest before stopping for lunch at an authentic Hawaiian restaurant. After lunch, you’ll be taken to Mauna Kea Summit for some incredible views of Big Island before returning to your hotel later in the afternoon. This tour provides an unforgettable experience for those looking to explore all that Big Island has to offer in one day.

Book Another Example Tour on GetYourGuide

Explore Big Island’s desert side with this all-day Another Example Tour. This tour takes you on a four-wheel drive adventure along some of Big Island’s most rugged terrain where you’ll get up close and personal with lava flows before stopping at Kona Coffee Farm for a delicious cup of locally grown coffee. You’ll then be taken to Pu’u O’o Crater for some amazing views before stopping at Pu’u Wa’awa’a State Park for lunch and some time to explore its rugged lava fields and scenic trails. After lunch you’ll be driven to Waipio Valley Lookout where you can take in some incredible views before heading back to your hotel later in the evening. This tour is perfect for those looking to explore Big Island’s more rugged side and get off-the-beaten path.

Conclusion

Big Island Hawaii is an unforgettable destination for any traveler looking for sun, sand, surf, and adventure. From its stunning beaches and lush landscapes to its active volcanoes and diverse attractions, Big Island has something for everyone – from casual sightseers to adventurous explorers. Whether you choose to explore Volcanoes National Park or take a cruise around Hilo Bay, you’re sure to find plenty of activities and attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Book your ticket today and start planning your trip to Big Island Hawaii!