Big Island Travel Guide

Discover the Big Island: Hawaii's Land of Fire and Ice
Apr–May Best Time
23 Attractions
7 Categories
9 Guides
9 Cities in United States

Things to do in Big Island

The Big Island's most iconic sights are shaped by fire, from active lava fields to sacred summits that anchor Hawaiian culture…
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Small but rich collections preserve Hawaiian royal history, natural science, and the island's volcanic and astronomical…
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Sacred Hawaiian heiau (temples) and places of refuge reflect centuries of native spiritual and legal tradition predating Western…
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From tropical botanical gardens to a volcanic national park spanning sea level to summit, the Big Island's green spaces showcase…
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The Big Island's two coasts have distinct characters — a historic port town on the wet, green east side and a resort-lined sunny…
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The Big Island's volcanic terrain and clear coastal waters support some of Hawaii's most distinctive outdoor experiences.
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The Big Island's size (larger than all other Hawaiian islands combined) rewards full-day loop drives connecting its volcanic,…
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The Big Island is a year-round destination with warm coastal temperatures averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C). April-May and September-November offer the best mix of…
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  • Hele-On Bus
  • Driving distances
  • 4WD recommended
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Kona coffee is the signature souvenir — buy directly from farm stands along the Kona coffee belt for the freshest beans and best prices. Other local buys…
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The Merrie Monarch Festival (March/April, Hilo) is the world's most prestigious hula competition, drawing visitors from across the Pacific — book…
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Day 1: Kona Coast Morning snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, afternoon exploring Kailua-Kona town and Kona coffee farms, evening manta ray night snorkel. Day 2:…
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The Kilauea Overlook at blue hour captures the crater's steam glowing orange if there's active lava. Mauna Kea summit at sunset offers a rare above-the-clouds…
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Hawaii uses the standard US electrical system: 120V, Type A/B plugs (two flat pins, or two flat pins plus a round ground pin). No adapter is needed for US…
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Must-try dishes include poke (fresh raw fish salad, best from local grocery stores and fish markets), loco moco (rice, hamburger patty, egg, gravy), malasadas…
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  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Annual Pass
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More about Big Island

Landmarks & Monuments Museums & Galleries Religious Sites Parks & Gardens Neighborhoods & Districts Tours & Activities Day Trips & Excursions Best Time to Visit Getting Around Tourist Passes Shopping Guide Festivals & Events Day Itineraries Best Photo Spots Food Guide Electricity & Plugs