Top 10 Things To Do On Hawaii Big Island

The Island of Hawaii, or the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its stunning natural beauty and plentiful activities, it’s no wonder why so many visitors flock to the Big Island each year. From the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea, to the black sand beaches of the Kohala coast, there is something for everyone to enjoy on Hawaii’s Big Island.

A Brief History of Hawaii Big Island

The island of Hawaii was first inhabited by Native Hawaiians about 1,500 years ago. These Polynesian settlers brought with them their culture, traditions, and language, which remain a vital part of life on the Big Island today. In 1778, Captain James Cook became the first European to set foot on Hawaiian soil. He named the island “Sandwich Islands” in honor of the Earl of Sandwich. This name was later changed to “Hawaii” and eventually “Hawaii Big Island” to differentiate it from the other islands in the archipelago.

The Big Island is home to many volcanoes, of which Mauna Loa and Kilauea are the two most active. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory was established in 1912 to monitor volcanic activity on the island and has since become a leading authority in the field of volcanology. Today, the Big Island is home to nearly 200,000 people and is a popular vacation destination for people from all over the world.

Top 10 Things To Do On Hawaii Big Island

1.

Witness the Incredible Volcanoes

No trip to the Big Island would be complete without witnessing one of its incredible volcanoes in action. The most popular destination for viewing volcanic activity is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Here, you can marvel at the lava flows, steam vents, and other volcanic features. To take your experience to the next level, consider taking a guided tour of the park or a helicopter tour for an aerial view of the volcanoes.

2.

Explore Hawaii’s Beaches

Hawaii is famous for its stunning beaches and its Big Island is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a white sand beach to relax on or an exciting spot for watersports, you’ll find it here. The most popular beach on the Big Island is Hapuna Beach State Park on the Kohala coast. Here you’ll find some of Hawaii’s most beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

3.

Take a Tour of a Coffee Farm

The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most renowned coffee farms. A tour of one of these farms will give you an inside look at how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed in Hawaii. You can even sample some of the freshly brewed coffee from the farm’s roaster. One of the most popular coffee farms on the Big Island is Mamalahoa Kona Coffee Farm in Captain Cook.

4.

Visit a Black Sand Beach

One of the most unique beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island is Punaluʻu Beach. It is famous for its black sand beach which is created by lava flows from nearby volcanoes. Here you can swim in the crystal clear waters and spot honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) sunbathing on the beach. Don’t forget your camera as this beach provides some of the most photogenic scenery in all of Hawaii.

5.

Explore Waipio Valley

The Waipio Valley is one of the most spectacular sites on the Big Island. This deep valley is home to several waterfalls and streams that are surrounded by lush rainforest. There are several ways to explore Waipio Valley including a guided horseback ride, a 4-wheel-drive tour, or simply take a hike down into the valley. Whichever you choose, be sure to take time to admire this stunning valley and its natural beauty.

6.

Go Snorkeling

The clear waters surrounding Hawaii’s Big Island are home to an abundance of marine life including brightly colored corals and tropical fish. There are numerous snorkeling spots located around the island where you can explore this underwater world with your own eyes. Some popular spots include Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, and Anaehoomalu Bay.

7.

Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour

For an unforgettable experience, take a scenic helicopter tour over Hawaii’s Big Island! From your aerial vantage point, you’ll be able to see lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, black sand beaches, and much more! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a tour that includes a landing on one of Hawaii’s volcanoes for an up-close experience with these natural wonders!

8.

Experience Hawaiian Culture

No trip to Hawaii would be complete without experiencing Hawaiian culture first-hand. There are numerous cultural activities available on the Big Island including hula dancing classes, lei making workshops, luau dinners, and more! Or take a guided tour to learn more about Hawaii’s rich history and traditions.

9.

Go Whale Watching

The waters around Hawaii’s Big Island are home to several species of whales including humpback whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, and more! From December through April you can join a whale watching boat tour and get an up-close view of these majestic creatures as they migrate through Hawaiian waters.

10.

Visit Mauna Kea Observatory

Standing at nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is not only one of the highest mountains in Hawaii but also one of the world’s premier astronomical sites! Take a tour of Mauna Kea Observatory where you’ll learn about astronomy from knowledgeable guides as you gaze through powerful telescopes at galaxies far beyond our own!

Popular Tours & Activities

Private Volcano Exploration Tour from Hilo

Experience Hawaii’s volcanoes up close with this private Volcano Exploration Tour from Hilo! With your own private guide you will experience some of Hawaii’s most incredible volcanoes including Kilauea, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea! On this full-day tour you will learn about Hawaiʻi’s unique geology and history as you explore lava tubes, steam vents, lava flows and more! You’ll even have time to stop for lunch at a local restaurant in between exploring two volcanoes! Book your Private Volcano Exploration Tour here.

Manta Ray Night Dive from Kona

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Hawaii then don’t miss out on this Manta Ray Night Dive from Kona! On this 2-hour tour you’ll explore beautiful Kealakekua Bay at night in search of manta rays! With your experienced guide you’ll be able to observe these gentle giants up close as they feed off plankton attracted by bright lights! Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience in Hawaii! Book your Manta Ray Night Dive here.

Big Island Helicopter Tour & Volcano Adventure

Experience a unique adventure like no other with this Big Island Helicopter Tour & Volcano Adventure! On this 4-hour tour you’ll soar above some of Hawaii’s most remote locations including waterfalls, valleys, beaches and more! You’ll also have an opportunity to land near two active volcanoes for an up-close experience with these incredible natural wonders! Enjoy stunning aerial views as your experienced pilot provides commentary about each location you fly over! Book your Helicopter Tour & Volcano Adventure here.

From exploring active volcanoes to swimming with manta rays, there are countless activities for visitors to enjoy on Hawaii’s Big Island! Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax on one of its beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone here! So don’t wait any longer – book your trip today and experience all that Hawaii Big Island has to offer!