Discover Big Island
Big Island, officially known as Hawaii, is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It is a unique destination filled with natural beauty, adventurous opportunities, and a rich cultural heritage. In addition to the highlights below, Big Island offers a variety of other activities and sights, such as snorkeling in the colorful underwater world, exploring botanical gardens, discovering black sand beaches, and enjoying traditional Hawaiian culture and music.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This legendary national park is one of the most visited attractions on the Big Island. It features two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can walk along lava fields, admire crater views, and witness spectacular lava flows.
Akaka Falls State Park
This beautiful park is home to the breathtaking Akaka Falls, a 135-meter-high waterfall cascading into a lush rainforest. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that lead them through lush vegetation and several waterfalls.
Mauna Kea
With a height of over 13,800 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea is the highest mountain on the Big Island. It is an important astronomical site with observatories at the summit. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunsets, stargazing, and even exploring the lunar landscape.
Waimea - Cowboys and Ranches
In the northern part of the Big Island lies Waimea. This area differs significantly from the rest of Hawaii and is known for its cowboys and ranches. Visit the historic Kahua Ranch and get a glimpse into the life of Hawaiian cowboys. The Waimea Nature Park is a fantastic place to hike, picnic, or simply relax amidst the stunning surroundings.
Kauna'oa Bay
Located on the enchanting northwest coast of the island, Kauna'oa Bay offers two stunning beaches to enjoy. The most famous beach, Mauna Kea Beach, is informally named after the nearby hotel and has the shape of a half moon. The beach is framed by beautiful white sand and turquoise waters. Thanks to the calm waves, it is a perfect spot for snorkeling. Although the beach is publicly accessible, it is rarely crowded. We recommend arriving early in the morning (before 09:00), as parking is limited.
Another gem is Mau'umae Beach. To get there, follow the same direction as towards the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Then turn right onto Kamahoi and cross two charming wooden bridges. Parking here is also limited. To avoid parking issues, look for a spot further from the hotel and follow (part of) the historic Ala Kahakai Trail (9.6 km) along the coast to Kauna'oa Bay.
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
This historic park is a place of great significance to Hawaiian culture. It served as a sanctuary for violators of ancient Hawaiian laws. Visitors can explore the reconstruction of a sacred site and learn more about traditional Hawaiian way of life.
The Historic Center of Kailua
Kailua-Kona, located on the west coast of the Big Island, has a rich historical past. It features charming streets, historic buildings, and interesting museums, such as the Hulihee Palace, where former Hawaiian royalty stayed.
Pololu Valley Lookout
This panoramic viewpoint is located on the north coast of the Big Island. It offers a breathtaking view of the impressive Pololu Valley, one of the most picturesque valleys on the island. The Pololu Valley has been shaped by centuries of erosion and is characterized by steep cliffs, lush green landscapes, and a black sand beach along the coast. The view from the lookout is spectacular and gives you a sense of grandeur.
Waipio Valley
Located on the north coast of the Big Island, Waipio Valley offers a glimpse of old Hawaii. It is considered a sacred place and features rugged terrain, steep cliffs, and black sand beaches. You can hike, horseback ride, or take a 4WD tour to experience the beauty of this valley.
What will be your dream journey?
We craft tailor-made trips for those seeking an extraordinary experience that goes beyond the usual. Our team of talented travel designers and local guides work closely together to create the ultimate travel experience for you, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the destination.
Accommodations on Big Island
Hawaii offers countless fantastic accommodations to choose from. Here, we share some of our personal favorites, carefully selected by our travel experts:
