The Big Island remains my favorite Hawaiian island — there is SO much to do and yet it is surprisingly the second least visited island, receiving barely more visitors than Kauai. Volcanoes, black sand beaches, rain forests, tropical gardens, and some of the best snorkeling of any island. Are you convinced to visit yet? Here are the 17 best things to do on Big Island of Hawaii.
Note: The Island of Hawaii is nicknamed the Big Island to differentiate it from the State of Hawaii.
17 Best Things to Do on Big Island of Hawaii
1. Visit Akaka Falls State Park
Seeing a gorgeous waterfall like Akaka Falls should be number one on everyone’s list when visiting the Big Island. It will take about 25 minutes to drive out here from Hilo, but it’s well worth it (the drive itself is gorgeous, too).
Once at Akaka Falls State Park, it’s a short walk (about a half mile) to the falls on a paved walkway with handrails. There are also some stairs, but it’s overall pretty easy. You’ll walk through beautiful rainforest foliage and have so much to admire until you reach Akaka Falls. I loved this visit, so that’s why I put it first.
Cost: $5 per person plus $10 for parking; pay at kiosks upon arrival
Hours: Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Drink Coconut Water at Mana’s Aloha Fruit Stand
This fruit stand is in front of Akaka Falls State Park; it was an impulse to stop here, and I’m so glad we did! The coconut water was the best I’ve ever tasted, and the pineapple was very ripe and juicy. There are signs, so don’t miss this! They’re open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., perfect for a treat after visiting the falls.
3. Wander the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens
On your way back to Hilo from Akaka Falls, stop at the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens if you didn’t get enough of that tropical nature. Here you’ll be able to stroll along many nature trails, through various tropical gardens and see all the different plants, flowers, and trees that make Hawaii so beautiful.
4. Walk around Hilo Bay
Stroll downtown Hilo and eat some treats such as an acai bowl in a pineapple bowl from Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack. Pick up some mochi from Two Ladies Kitchen. Grab a few chocolate-dipped cookies from Big Island Candies. And don’t forget to hit up Hilo Farmers Market; they’re open daily. Hilo Bay is pretty walkable, so who knows what else you’ll discover!
5. Visit Coconut Island
You must explore Coconut Island, a small island park that’s connected to the main island by a footbridge. There’s grass, palm trees, a few sandy beaches, and lots of great views.
6. Swim at and Explore a Few Beaches
Head to Carlsmith Beach Park or Richardson Ocean Park as both these beaches have lava rocks and calm, clear blue waters. Perfect for wading and/or snorkeling.
7. Walk around Lili’uokalani Gardens
Before leaving Coconut Island, don’t miss Lili’uokalani Gardens, a large, authentic Japanese garden named after Hawaii’s last reigning queen, Queen Liliʻuokalani. It’s free and open 24/7. There are bridges, fish ponds, a tea house, lanterns, and more. It’s one of the biggest Japanese gardens outside of Japan, built to commemorate the Japanese immigrants to the island.
8. Visit Rainbow Falls
Check out Rainbow Falls near Hilo, HI, in the Wailuku River State Park. It’s a scenic viewpoint, so no hiking required, and some mornings you may even see a rainbow above the falls. This is one of several waterfalls on the island, perhaps one of the most accessible.
9. See a Cave
Visit Kaumana Caves, a 25-mile lava tube created by the 1881 Mauna Loa eruption. You can’t explore much more than the cave entrance as the lava tube crosses into private property. But it’s free and just off the highway 200, so bring a flashlight and good shoes if you’re curious about this site.
10. Take a Day Trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a full-day excursion. There is SO much to do at this national park! I had so much fun here, and I know you will, too.
This national park is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes! Even if you don’t see any flowing lava, there is so much cooled lava around the park, especially along the Chain of Craters Road, and that was just as fascinating to see. This park quickly rose to the top of my list of favorite national parks.
Check out my complete guide to doing a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including all the things you must do.
11. Explore Volcano Village
After your day in the national park, I hope you’ll spend time in the Village of Volcano. It’s a gorgeous village with several restaurants and stores. In addition to a tea farm, Volcano Village also has wine tastings at Volcano Winery and an art gallery at the Volcano Art Center.
Get lunch before 2 p.m. as everything closes down early here!
12. Tour a Tea Farm
One of the highlights for us was doing a tea tasting and tea farm tour at Tea Hawaii in Volcano Village. The tours are private, and you’ll need to make a reservation in advance. The location of the farm will be disclosed once your reservation is confirmed. If you love tea, you’ll find this tour fascinating!
13. Visit the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Oh wow is this beach GORGEOUS. This is a beach you’ll want to spend some time on. The waves might be rough (they were when we were here) so if they are I wouldn’t recommend swimming.
The black sand is quite fascinating — it’s made up of tiny pieces of lava rocks and can get hot in the sun. There weren’t many people here when we went so hopefully you’ll be just as lucky.
See my full guide to visiting the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach with tips on how to make the most of your visit.
14. Eat Hawaiian Sweet Bread at Punalu’u Bake Shop
While you’re near the black sand beach, be sure to stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop for their famous Hawaiian sweet bread and malasadas. Yum!
15. Visit the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
So what is this place and why MUST you come? It is a place of refuge and burial grounds of Hawaiian royalty.
You’ll learn about ancient Hawaii culture and customs and see preserved and reconstructed ancient structures, such as the hale poki (a royal mausoleum) and the great wall.
Plus, the area’s natural beauty is simply stunning. This stop was a highlight for us!
This historical park is maintained by the National Park Service so you can use your NPS annual pass if you have one.
16. Snorkel at Two Step
Two Step is a snorkeling spot that gets its name because the area has no beach, only lava rocks, and you have to take two steps down to reach the clear, blue water. Fish and coral are in abundance, so you’re bound to see a variety of wildlife (remember to keep a safe distance).
This is one of the most popular snorkeling spots, so come early to avoid crowds (it opens at 7 a.m.). It’s actually located right next to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (but NOT IN the park, they’re separate)!
Bring flip-flops or water shoes to safely walk on the lava rocks, which get hot in the sun; and don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen.
17. Tour a Kona Coffee Farm or Two
While you’re in Kona, visiting a coffee farm is a must! Kona coffee is known worldwide and it’s only made here in the Kona District. What makes it so special? Well, visit a Kona coffee farm to find out.
We visited Greenwell Coffee Farms and did a free coffee tasting (several varieties were available to taste). We didn’t have time for the free tour, which is a bummer because we loved the coffee. I’ve heard good things about the other coffee farms listed below, so if you’d like to visit more than one farm, those are your best bets!
- Greenwell Coffee Farms (Free)
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation (Free)
- Hala Tree Coffee Farm (Free)
- Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee ($15)
- Kona Coffee Living History Farm ($20)
If you visit Kona in February or March, you’ll be treated to Kona snow — that is, you’ll be able to see the coffee trees covered in white flower blossoms! How magical.
Map of Things to Do on the Big Island
Why Visit the Big Island of Hawaii?
You want to see volcanic activity. The Big Island is probably most famous for its five volcanoes — Kīlauea, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Hualālai, and Kohala. Four of these volcanoes are active, and two are extremely active, erupting every few years or even every few months.
You love coffee. If you’re a coffee lover, you will love the Kona coffee belt. The Big Island’s fertile volcanic soil helps produce some of the finest coffee in the world. Visit a Kona coffee farm or two to sample the coffee for yourself.
You want to see some of the most beautiful landscapes. The Big Island has a diverse range of landscapes. You’ll find tropical rain forests, lava fields, black sand beaches, and even deserts.
Interesting Facts About the Big Island of Hawaii
- The Big Island is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea, which last erupted in 2023. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory closely monitors Kīlauea to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to the Big Island.
- The Big Island of Hawaii is 4,028 square miles and still growing. The Big Island, home to five volcanoes, expands with nearly every volcanic eruption as the lava flows out and cools, adding more acreage.
- There are about 800 coffee farms in Kona, Hawaii. Most are small, family farms, less than 5 acres.
- The Big Island is about 1 million years old, and yet it is the youngest Hawaiian island.
What to Know Before Traveling to the Big Island
There are four main islands where people live and visit in Hawaii — the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. I’ve heard the wonders of Hawaii all my life but never understood it until I visited for myself. The first island I went to was the Big Island, a stunning tropical paradise with active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and famous coffee farms.
Every island is unique and beautiful in its own right. No matter which one you visit, you will leave inspired and in awe. Here are some things to know before you go in order to be a respectful traveler.
Is Hawaii Suffering from Overtourism?
Yes, quite simply. There’s been numerous articles recently about how Hawaii is suffering from overtourism due to a post-pandemic travel boom, affecting its residents.
Some ways to help are to postpone your travel plans to Hawaii, visit one of the less-visited islands (such as the Big Island or Kauai), and/or visit during the low season (avoiding the summer and any school breaks).
You can also help by supporting local Hawaiian businesses (not corporations) and taking part in cultural classes or activities while in Hawaii.
How Do I Respect Hawaii as a Visitor?
Hawaii is a beautiful place — and the Hawaiian government and citizens do an amazing job at preserving the beauty. Did you know billboards are banned in the state of Hawaii in order to maintain natural beauty? As a visitor, please help contribute to these preservation efforts.
- Before traveling to any Hawaiian island, become familiar with how to be a respectful and responsible traveler to the islands and pledge to travel pono.
- Learn about the Hawaiian history and culture.
- Protect the oceans by not littering, reducing plastic use, and wearing reef-safe sunscreen (Hawaii is the first U.S. state to ban coral-harming chemicals in sunscreen).
- If hiking, don’t go off the trail and follow all signs and rules in place.
- And most importantly, be kind! Have your best attitude when interacting with other people on the island, both locals and travelers alike. It’s actually a law in Hawaii — the law of aloha “is the coordination of mind and heart” and each person must “think and emote good feelings to others.” So while in Hawaii, do as the locals do, and live aloha.
What’s the Weather Like in Hawaii?
Pack your summer clothes as Hawaii’s temperatures are around 80 degrees year-round. The only exceptions are in the higher elevation areas of Volcano, HI on the Big Island and Haleakala in Maui where it does get chilly. Otherwise, there isn’t a need for a jacket. Rain comes in and out but usually doesn’t last long. Still, try to check your weather app before arrival for more specific information.
Will I Need to Rent a Car?
Yes, definitely. There are buses in Hawaii but public transportation overall isn’t very effective, especially if you’re trying to go as many places as possible in a limited amount of time. Book a rental car as far in advance as possible as each of the islands are fairly small and many rental car companies had to consolidate during the pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in the Big Island
What is the #1 thing to do in Big Island Hawaii?
The top attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can get up close and personal with two of the island’s most active volcanoes.
What is the Big Island of Hawaii best for?
The Big Island is best for viewing active volcanoes in a tropical climate.
What not to miss on the island of Hawaii?
Don’t miss Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. All these stops are incredibly beautiful and amazing, a must see.
How many days in Big Island is enough?
With three or four days, you can see and do a lot on the Big Island, but I’d recommend at least a week to fully explore both sides of the island.
Best free things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii?
- Coffee tasting and tour at Greenwell Coffee Farm
- Walk along the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
- Visit Coconut Island
- Walk around Hilo Bay
- Snorkel at Two Step
Is the Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting?
Yes, the Big Island is definitely worth visiting. I strangely had low expectations before arriving but was absolutely blown away by the beauty and uniqueness of the Big Island.
How large is the Big Island in Hawaii?
The Big Island of Hawaii is 4,028 square miles and still growing. The Big Island, home to five volcanoes, expands with nearly every volcanic eruption as the lava flows out and cools, adding acreage.
Other Posts to Help You Plan Your Trip to Hawaii
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, Big Island of Hawaii
7 Day Big Island Itinerary: How to Spend a Week on the Big Island of Hawaii
Day Trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary
Ultimate 2 Weeks in Hawaii Itinerary: Visit Multiple Islands
How to Follow the Blackpink Hawaii Summer Diary Itinerary
3 Day Maui Itinerary: What to Do in Maui, Hawaii
5 Day Oahu Itinerary: What to Do on the Most Popular Hawaiian Island