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Hello Beautiful Soul!
The Big Island of Hawai‘i is a world unto itself. It’s the only place where you can hike across a volcanic crater, sunbathe on a black sand beach, and sip world-class coffee—all in the same trip! As someone who called this island home for 14 years, I know that planning a trip here requires balancing the sunny, dry Kona side with the lush, adventurous Hilo side.
This guide cuts through the noise to give you the absolute must-see highlights, ensuring your restorative trip is packed with the island’s most powerful and beautiful experiences.
Ready to explore the island of fire and ice? Let’s dive into the Big Island’s top highlights!
1. Volcanoes National Park: The Earth’s Power
This is the Big Island’s crown jewel and a non-negotiable stop. Home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the park is a powerful reminder of the earth’s constant creation.
- The Experience: Drive the Crater Rim Drive, walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, and witness steam vents. For the ultimate experience, stay until dark to see the glow of the caldera.
- Book Your Adventure: The best way to experience the park is with a guide who knows the history and the best viewing spots: Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour.
2. Kona Coffee Culture: From Bean to Cup
The slopes above Kona are famous for producing some of the world’s finest coffee. The rich volcanic soil and perfect climate create a unique, smooth flavor.
- The Experience: Visiting a coffee farm is a light, restorative activity. You can walk the fields, learn about the harvesting process, and, of course, enjoy a fresh cup.
- Book Your Tour: Combine your coffee fix with history: Kona Tour: Bee Farm, Kona Coffee, and National Historical Parks.
3. Black Sand Beaches: Punalu‘u & Beyond
The Big Island is constantly being reshaped by lava, resulting in stunning, unique black sand beaches.
- Punalu‘u Beach: This is the most famous black sand beach. It’s a must-see for its dramatic contrast of black sand against turquoise water, and it’s a favorite spot for the endangered Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu) to bask in the sun.
- The Experience: This is a perfect spot for quiet reflection and photography. Remember to keep a respectful distance from the turtles!
4. Ocean Adventures: Snorkeling & Mantas
The calm, clear waters of the Kona Coast offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world.
- Kealakekua Bay: This bay is a marine life conservation district and home to the Captain Cook Monument. It offers incredible visibility and abundant fish.
- Book Your Snorkel Trip: Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay.
- The Ultimate Thrill: For a truly unforgettable experience, book the Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona.
5. Hilo Waterfalls: Lush & Powerful
The Hilo side is defined by its lush, tropical landscape, fed by consistent rainfall. This means stunning, powerful waterfalls are everywhere.
- Akaka Falls State Park: A short, easy walk through a rainforest leads you to the viewing point for this magnificent 442-foot cascade.
- Rainbow Falls: Easily accessible right outside Hilo town, often displaying a rainbow in the mist on sunny mornings.
- Book Your Tour: Combine your waterfall viewing with other highlights: Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History.
The Big Island is waiting to offer you a journey of discovery and restoration. Which highlight will you visit first?
Stay stylish, stay adventurous, and keep chasing those sunsets.