Things To Do On The Island Of Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii, known as the Big Island, is the largest and southernmost island of the Hawaiian archipelago. It is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, and is the only U.S. state to host an active volcano. The Island of Hawaii offers a unique and beautiful landscape ranging from black sand beaches to lush rainforests and dramatic lava fields. The Big Island is a popular destination for travelers from around the world and has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural exploration, the Big Island has it all.

A Brief History of Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii was first settled by Polynesian voyagers around 500 A.D. In 1778 Captain James Cook and his crew became the first Europeans to make contact with the Hawaiian Islands. The Hawaiian Kingdom was established in 1810, and the first Western-style government was established in 1820. In 1893, a group of business elites supported by the American and European governments overthrew the Hawaiian monarchy and declared Hawaii a republic. In 1898 Hawaii was annexed by the United States and became an official U.S. territory in 1900. On August 21, 1959, Hawaii was admitted to the union as the 50th U.S. state.

Today, Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, influenced by its native Hawaiian, Polynesian, and Asian heritage as well as its American influences. The language, music, food, art, and traditions of Hawaii all reflect its diverse history and culture.

Things To Do On The Island Of Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii offers a variety of activities for travelers looking to explore the island’s unique landscape and culture. From swimming with dolphins to exploring ancient lava fields, there are many ways to experience the Big Island. Here are some of the top things to do on the Big Island:

Visit Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island and is home to two active volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. The park offers many opportunities to explore its unique volcanic landscape, including guided hikes, ranger-led programs, and ranger-guided tours. Visitors can also explore the nearby Thurston Lava Tube and explore the steam vents at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. The park also hosts educational programs about Hawaiian culture and history as well as star-gazing events.

Go Snorkeling or Diving

The Big Island is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. From Kealakekua Bay to Puako, there are many places to explore the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can swim with dolphins, explore coral reefs, and see a variety of marine life including sea turtles and tropical fish.

Visit a Beach

The Big Island is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From black sand beaches like Punaluʻu Beach to white sand beaches like Hapuna Beach State Park, there’s something here for everyone. Visitors can relax on the beach, go swimming, or take part in activities like snorkeling or kayaking.

Explore Waterfalls

The Big Island has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii. Visitors can explore Akaka Falls, which drops 420 feet over a lush forested gorge, or Waimoku Falls, which is visible from the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park. Visitors can also take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of many of the island’s waterfalls.

Take a Helicopter Tour

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Big Island is by taking a helicopter tour. Visitors can soar above lush rainforests and rugged coastlines while taking in stunning views of sites like Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes. Helicopter tours also offer a unique view of many of the island’s waterfalls, making them a great way to experience the beauty of Hawaii from above.

Go Shopping in Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona is one of the most popular towns on the Big Island. Visitors can explore its many shops, restaurants, and art galleries or take part in activities like parasailing or stand-up paddleboarding. Kailua-Kona is also home to one of Hawaii’s most famous attractions: Hulihee Palace, a 19th century palace that was once home to Hawaiian royalty.

Take a Hike

The Big Island has some of the best hiking trails in Hawaii. From easy coastal trails to challenging mountain hikes, there’s something for everyone on the Big Island. Popular trails include Mauna Kea Summit Trail, which ascends over 4,000 feet up Mauna Kea volcano, Waiʻānuenue Trail in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and Nāpau Trail in Puu Oo Crater in Haleakalā National Park.

Visit Historic Sites

The Big Island has a rich history and is home to many historic sites that tell its story. Visitors can explore Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, which was built by Hawaiian chief Kamehameha I in 1790; Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park; Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park; and Hulihee Palace in Kailua-Kona.

Popular Tours on The Big Island

For those looking for an organized tour of Hawaii’s unique landscape and culture, there are many tours available on the Big Island that will provide an immersive experience for visitors. Here are two popular tours on the Big Island that should not be missed:

Sunset Dinner Cruise from Kailua-Kona

This popular tour takes visitors on an evening cruise around Kailua Bay while they enjoy a delicious dinner buffet with live music and entertainment onboard. The cruise offers stunning views of the island’s coastline as well as the chance to spot dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat. Visitors will also have the chance to watch a beautiful Hawaiian sunset over the horizon as they sail back to shore. Book a Sunset Dinner Cruise from Kailua-Kona here.

Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo

This full day tour takes visitors on an exploration of lava fields and other volcanic features at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park from Hilo. Visitors will have the chance to learn about local history as well as see active lava flows at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater after a hike along Kīlauea Iki Trail at night. The tour also includes stops at historic sites like Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park as well as opportunities to explore local flora and fauna along Mauna Loa Road and Chain Of Craters Road.Book a Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo here.

The Big Island offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing beach vacation, this beautiful island has something for you to enjoy. From exploring volcanoes to admiring waterfalls to taking part in cultural experiences, there are many things to do on this beautiful island paradise. With its unique mix of cultures and landscapes, it’s no surprise that the Big Island continues to attract visitors from around the world each year.