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Google Map Big Island Hawaii
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the Big Island is a must-visit destination. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone on this island paradise. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know about the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most iconic attractions, including:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and boasts stunning hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the island’s volcanic landscape.
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
This site was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians who had broken a law. Today, it’s a beautifully preserved piece of Hawaiian history, with restored temples, fishponds, and other cultural landmarks.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
This gorgeous white-sand beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with crystal-clear waters, great snorkeling, and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and discover some of the island’s lesser-known treasures, check out these hidden gems:
Pololu Valley Lookout
This breathtaking overlook offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the valley below, and is a great spot for hiking or just taking in the scenery.
Kalapana Lava Viewing Area
If you’re lucky enough to catch it during an eruption, this spot offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see molten lava flowing into the sea.
Kekaha Kai State Park
This secluded park boasts some of the island’s most pristine beaches, as well as great snorkeling, hiking, and picnicking spots.
Food Scene
The Big Island is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with everything from traditional Hawaiian dishes to fusion cuisine. Some must-try spots include:
Da Poke Shack
This tiny restaurant in Kailua-Kona serves up some of the best poke on the island, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
Merriman’s
This upscale eatery specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that showcase the best of Hawaii’s culinary traditions.
Punalu’u Bake Shop
This beloved bakery in Naalehu is famous for its sweet bread and other baked goods, as well as its delicious sandwiches and coffee drinks.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re looking to save money on your trip to the Big Island, try these budget-friendly tips:
Visit during the off-season
The island is busiest during the winter months, so consider planning your trip for the spring or fall, when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
Stay in a vacation rental
Renting a condo or house can be more affordable than staying in a hotel, and also gives you the flexibility to cook your own meals and save on dining expenses.
Take advantage of free activities
The island offers plenty of free activities, from hiking and beachcombing to attending cultural events and festivals.
Outdoor Adventures
The Big Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide variety of activities to choose from, including:
Hiking in Waipio Valley
This lush valley is home to some of the island’s most spectacular hiking trails, with stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and forests.
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay
This pristine marine preserve is home to an abundance of colorful fish and other sea life, and is a great spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Ziplining at Akaka Falls
This thrilling adventure takes you soaring over lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls, with breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, the Big Island has plenty of fun and educational activities to keep everyone entertained, including:
Visiting the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
This beautiful garden is home to thousands of exotic plants and flowers, as well as waterfalls, streams, and scenic walking trails.
Exploring the Imiloa Astronomy Center
This interactive museum offers a fascinating look at the science and culture of astronomy, with hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and more.
Taking a snorkeling cruise
Many tour companies offer family-friendly snorkeling cruises, where you can see dolphins, whales, and other marine life up close.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a more unique and immersive travel experience, try these off-the-beaten-path activities:
Attending a traditional Hawaiian cultural event
The island is home to a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to experience traditional music, dance, and other customs.
Taking a helicopter tour
For a bird’s-eye view of the island’s natural wonders, try a helicopter tour, which can take you over volcanoes, waterfalls, and other scenic landmarks.
Visiting a coffee plantation
The Big Island is known for its delicious Kona coffee, and many plantations offer tours and tastings where you can learn about the history and process of coffee production.
Natural Wonders
The Big Island is home to some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, including:
Akaka Falls
This towering waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers, with a 442-foot drop and a lush rainforest setting.
Mauna Kea Observatory
This world-renowned observatory offers stunning views of the stars and planets, and is a great spot for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.
Papakolea Beach
This unique green-sand beach gets its color from olivine crystals, and is a rare and beautiful natural wonder.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the Big Island may be known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, it also has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from.
Huggo’s
This popular restaurant and bar in Kailua-Kona offers live music, great drinks, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
Gertrude’s Jazz Bar
This intimate jazz club in Hilo features local and national musicians, as well as a great selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.
Don’s Mai Tai Bar
This iconic bar in Waikoloa offers delicious tropical drinks and a fun, tiki-themed atmosphere, with live music and entertainment on weekends.
Local Markets
To get a taste of the island’s local flavor and culture, be sure to check out these vibrant markets:
Hilo Farmers Market
This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, crafts, and other local goods, as well as live music and entertainment.
Kona Farmers Market
This popular market in Kailua-Kona features over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade crafts and jewelry.
Waimea Town Market
This charming market in Waimea offers a unique blend of local and international flavors, with vendors selling everything from Hawaiian poke to Thai curries.
Beaches and Mountains
The Big Island is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and mountains, including:
Mauna Kea Beach
This stunning beach boasts crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Mauna Loa
This towering volcano is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks, with hiking trails, scenic drives, and fascinating geological features.
Hualalai
This dormant volcano offers stunning views of the island’s coastline and interior, as well as hiking trails, scenic drives, and other outdoor activities.
Cultural