Things To See On The Big Island Of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest of all of the Hawaii islands and is an amazing destination for tourists looking for an unforgettable beach vacation. With its fascinating history, diverse culture, and breathtaking beauty, the Big Island has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beachside retreat or an adventurous exploration of the island’s hidden gems, there are plenty of incredible sights to see and activities to enjoy. Here is a comprehensive guide of the most popular and thrilling things to do in Big Island of Hawaii.

History and Culture

The Big Island has a rich history and culture dating back centuries, and this can be seen in many places around the island. Those looking to explore the culture, history, and art of the Big Island can take a tour of the many museums and cultural centers located around the island.

The Lyman House Memorial Museum in Hilo is a great place to start. The museum was built in 1839 and showcases historical artifacts from the Lyman family and other early settlers. Visitors can learn about the history of the Big Island and get an up close look at artifacts like furniture, tools, and clothing.

The Moku’aikaua Church is another great way to explore the Big Island’s culture. This church was built in 1837, making it the oldest Christian church in Hawaii and a symbol of Christianity on the island. Here visitors can learn about the history of Christianity on the Big Island and view artifacts from early missionaries.

The Imiloa Astronomy Center is another great place to visit. The center is located at the foothills of Mauna Kea and offers interactive exhibits about Hawaiian culture and astronomy. Here visitors can get a close look at astronomy-related artifacts, learn about traditional Hawaiian navigation techniques, and explore the history of astronomy on the island.

Natural Beauty

The Big Island is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Hawaii, offering breathtaking views and stunning scenery for those looking to explore nature. The island has many popular beaches, including Hapuna Beach which is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters.

The Kohala Coast is another popular spot for nature lovers. Here visitors can explore miles of tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic cliffs. The coast also offers plenty of opportunities for water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing.

Kilauea Volcano National Park is another must-see spot for those looking to explore nature. Here visitors can get an up close look at one of Hawaii’s most active volcanoes. The park offers plenty of hiking trails, guided tours, and breathtaking views of the volcano.

Adventure Activities

The Big Island offers plenty of opportunities for those looking for an adventure. From kayaking down rivers to swimming with dolphins, there are plenty of exciting activities to try.

The Waipio Valley is a popular spot for those looking for a more adventurous experience. Here visitors can go horseback riding, explore waterfalls, and take in breathtaking views of the lush valley.

For those looking for a water-based adventure, there are plenty of options on the Big Island. From snorkeling to kayaking, visitors can explore the island’s stunning waters while spotting colorful fish, dolphins, and turtles.

Popular Tours

One way to experience as much as possible on the Big Island is to take a tour. From guided hikes through tropical forests to boat tours around the island, there are plenty of tours that offer an unforgettable experience. Here are two popular tours on the Big Island:

Volcano Adventure Tour

The Volcano Adventure Tour is a great way to explore the stunning Kilauea Volcano National Park. The tour begins with a drive up Mauna Loa Road, offering stunning views of Kilauea Volcano’s summit caldera and its active vents. Then visitors will explore Kilauea Iki Crater while learning about the history and geology of the area. After that, visitors will hike through Thurston Lava Tube and have lunch at a nearby picnic area before heading back down Mauna Loa Road with spectacular views of Kilauea’s summit caldera once again. Visitors can book this tour here.

Big Island Snorkel Cruise

The Big Island Snorkel Cruise offers visitors an up close look at some of Hawai’i’s most stunning coral reefs and sea life. The cruise begins with a drive along Kona Coast to Kailua-Kona Pier where visitors board a boat for a two hour tour of Kailua Bay. Along the way visitors can spot dolphins, sea turtles, colorful fish, manta rays, and more while snorkeling and learning about the local marine life from a certified guide. Visitors can book this cruise here.

Conclusion

The Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing destination for those looking for an unforgettable beach vacation full of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. With its fascinating history, diverse culture, and breathtaking beauty, the Big Island has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beachside retreat or an adventurous exploration of the island’s hidden gems, there are plenty of incredible sights to see and activities to enjoy on The Big Island of Hawaii.