Imagine yourself surrounded by lush green valleys, black sandy beaches, and active volcanoes. The Big Island of Hawaii offers a mesmerizing blend of nature’s wonders, cultural treasures, and thrilling adventures. In this article, we will explore the best way for you to immerse yourself in the island’s diverse offerings. From hiking through volcanic landscapes to snorkeling with vibrant marine life, get ready for an unforgettable journey that will capture your heart and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a culture seeker, the Big Island holds the key to an extraordinary experience like no other. Let’s begin this exhilarating exploration together!
Explore the Volcanoes National Park
The Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit destination on the Big Island of Hawaii. This unique park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park offers a variety of hiking trails and breathtaking sights. One of the most popular trails is the Kilauea Iki Trail. This four-mile loop takes you through lush rainforests, across a barren lava lake, and offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape. The Thurston Lava Tube is another highlight of the park. This underground cave was formed by flowing lava and now offers visitors a chance to explore its unique terrain. The Steam Vents are another must-see attraction within the park. Here, you can witness the steam rising from cracks in the earth’s surface, a truly mesmerizing sight. Lastly, don’t miss the Chain of Craters Road, which stretches 19 miles and offers panoramic views of the coastline and volcanic activity.
Visit the Waipio Valley
The Waipio Valley is a hidden gem on the Big Island, known for its lush beauty and breathtaking views. One of the best ways to experience the valley is by hiking down into it. The hike can be steep and challenging, but the reward is well worth it. As you descend into the valley, you’ll be surrounded by cascading waterfalls, dense foliage, and towering cliffs. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, a horseback tour is a great option. Riding through the valley on horseback allows you to take in the scenery at a slower pace, while still enjoying the beauty of the surroundings. No visit to the Waipio Valley would be complete without experiencing its stunning waterfalls. Whether you choose to swim in them or simply admire their beauty from a distance, the waterfalls are a sight to behold.
Discover the Mauna Kea Observatories
For astronomy enthusiasts, a visit to the Mauna Kea Observatories is a must. Located at the summit of Mauna Kea, one of the tallest mountains in the world, these observatories offer unparalleled views of the night sky. One of the best ways to experience the observatories is through a stargazing tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will provide you with a wealth of information about the stars and planets visible from the observatories. Another option is to visit the Visitor Information Station, where you can learn more about the observatories and view exhibits on astronomy. Lastly, watching the sunrise or sunset from the summit of Mauna Kea is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The colors of the sky and the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make for a captivating and unforgettable sight.
Snorkeling and Diving
The Big Island is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. Honaunau Bay is a popular destination for snorkelers, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Here, you can swim among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Kealakekua Bay is another snorkeling hotspot, known for its calm waters and impressive underwater biodiversity. Keep an eye out for the iconic Captain Cook Monument, located near the bay. Kahaluu Beach Park is another must-visit spot for snorkelers. This protected cove is teeming with tropical fish and offers easy access to the water. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, exploring the underwater world of the Big Island is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Explore the Hilo Town
Hilo Town is the largest city on the Big Island and offers a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The Hilo Farmers Market is a must-visit attraction, where you can sample fresh, local produce and handmade crafts. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of tropical fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as unique crafts and souvenirs. The Lyman Museum and Mission House is another must-visit destination in Hilo. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on Hawaiian culture, natural history, and geology. The Rainbow Falls is another Hilo icon, known for its majestic 80-foot waterfall and lush surroundings. The falls are especially beautiful after a heavy rain, when the water flows with even more force. Exploring Hilo Town is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and history of the Big Island.
Experience the Coffee Farms
The Big Island of Hawaii is famous for its coffee, and no visit to the island would be complete without a trip to a coffee farm. Greenwell Farms is one of the most popular coffee farms on the island. Here, you can take a tour of the farm and learn about the entire coffee-making process, from planting to harvesting and roasting. You’ll also have the chance to sample a variety of their delicious coffees. Hula Daddy Kona Coffee is another must-visit coffee farm. This family-owned farm offers guided tours that take you through their coffee fields and production facilities. You’ll learn about the cultivation and processing of their award-winning coffee and get to taste some of their specialty coffees. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is another great option for coffee enthusiasts. Their farm tours provide a fascinating insight into the world of coffee production, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste their organic, shade-grown coffee.
Witness the Manta Rays at Night
One of the most magical experiences on the Big Island is witnessing the manta rays at night. These gentle giants can be seen near the shoreline, where they congregate to feed on plankton. There are several ways to witness this incredible natural spectacle. One option is to join a night snorkeling tour. These tours take you out to the manta ray feeding grounds, where you’ll have the opportunity to swim with these graceful creatures. Another option is to book a manta ray boat cruise. These cruises allow you to observe the manta rays from the comfort of a boat, while still providing an up-close and personal experience. If you prefer to stay on land, you can also watch the manta rays from the shoreline. Many hotels and resorts offer manta ray viewing platforms, where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.
Take a Helicopter Tour
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies on a helicopter tour of the Big Island. These tours offer a unique perspective of the island’s diverse landscapes and breathtaking beauty. One popular option is the Circle Island Tour. This tour takes you on a scenic flight around the entire island, allowing you to see everything from lush rainforests to active volcanoes. Another option is the Waterfall Adventure Tour. This tour takes you over the island’s stunning waterfalls, giving you a bird’s-eye view of their cascading beauty. If you’re interested in witnessing the volcanic activity up close, a lava viewing tour is a great choice. These tours take you over the Kilauea volcano and give you a chance to witness the molten lava flowing into the ocean. No matter which tour you choose, a helicopter ride is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Explore Uncharted Hawaiian Destinations
Explore the Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Located on the southernmost tip of the Big Island, the Papakolea Green Sand Beach is a truly unique and beautiful natural wonder. The beach gets its distinctive green color from the presence of a rare mineral called olivine, which is found in the surrounding volcanic rock. To reach the beach, you can either hike or take a guided tour. The hike to the beach can be challenging, as it is about three miles each way, but the reward is well worth it. As you approach the beach, you’ll be mesmerized by its vibrant green hues and the contrast with the deep blue ocean. Once you arrive, take the time to relax, swim, and soak in the stunning beauty of this one-of-a-kind beach.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
No visit to the Big Island is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The island offers a wide range of culinary delights, from freshly caught seafood to traditional Hawaiian plate lunches. When it comes to seafood, there is no shortage of options. Whether you prefer poke, grilled fish, or lobster, you’ll find a variety of delicious seafood dishes to satisfy your cravings. For a true taste of the island, be sure to try a Hawaiian plate lunch. This traditional meal usually consists of a portion of meat, such as kalua pork or lau lau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), served with rice, macaroni salad, and a side of poi (a starchy taro root dish). Lastly, don’t forget to sample the famous Kona coffee and macadamia nuts. These local specialties are the perfect way to end a delicious meal.
In conclusion, the Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. From exploring the volcanoes and lava tubes in the Volcanoes National Park to snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you choose to witness the manta rays at night, take a helicopter tour of the island, or indulge in the local cuisine, each experience will leave you with lasting memories of the beauty and diversity of the Big Island. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii.