30 INCREDIBLE Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Swimming with manta rays

Arguably the most popular and best thing to do on the Big Island, swimming with Manta Rays is my TOP recommendation. Why? Because it is so unique, and Kona is one of the best places in the world to swim with these gentle giants! And it is truly one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had.

There are tons of organized tours out of Kona that offer manta ray night snorkeling or scuba diving. The tours leave in the evening, and you will get into the water right around sunset after a safety briefing.

Then, you’ll be in the water for just under an hour (either at the surface or at the bottom of the sea floor, depending on which option you choose)! Neither option involves much swimming though.

Snorkelers will hang out at the surface while holding onto a large inflatable raft with lights underneath. Scuba divers descend to the bottom of the ocean and sit or kneel around a giant “campfire”, aka large lights inside of a ring of rocks.

Both of these lights attract the plankton, which in turn attract the mantas!

It sounds terrifying, but I promise it’s worth it, and extremely safe! Manta rays don’t have teeth or stingers so they can’t hurt you.

Note: Try not to book this on your last night of the trip. If you don’t see any manta rays, most tours will let you come back another night! This happened to us and we were lucky enough to see over 10 mantas on our second try.

For more details on what to expect when swimming with the mantas, make sure to read my full guide on snorkeling with the manta rays here!

Snorkel at the Captain Cook Monument

Boasted to be one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii, the Captain Cook monument definitely lives up to its expectations and is one of the top things to do on the Big Island.

There are three main ways to reach this iconic spot, each offering its own unique experience:

1. Hike: The 3.7-mile roundtrip hike starts at the trailhead near Nāpō’opo’o Road. The trail takes you downhill to the bay, passing through rugged terrain with stunning views of the coastline. Keep in mind the uphill climb back can be challenging, especially in the heat after swimming, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.
2. Kayak: Kayaking across Kealakekua Bay is how we chose to reach the monument! Rentals are available from local companies like Ehu and Kai Adventures, or you can join a guided kayaking tour for added safety and expert insights about the bay’s history and wildlife. The 20-minute paddle is moderately challenging but manageable for most people. However, you do have to account for the oceans waves!
3. Organized Tour: If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider booking a snorkeling tour that includes transportation by boat. These tours often come with the added bonus of knowledgeable guides, snorkeling gear, and snacks, making them a great option for families or those looking to maximize convenience.

Once you arrive at the Captain Cook Monument, you’ll quickly see why it’s such a sought-after destination. The bay is full of vibrant coral heads and a dazzling array of tropical fish, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, and wrasses.

The calm, clear waters offer excellent visibility, making it easy to spot marine life. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a sea turtle or a playful pod of spinner dolphins in the distance. We saw dolphins while kayaking to the monument, and a turtle while swimming!

Read my full guide on kayaking to Captain Cook Monument here!

Go Whale Watching

If you’re visiting the Big Island between November and April, whale watching is an absolute must-do activity. During these months, humpback whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm, tropical waters of Hawaii to mate, give birth, and nurture their calves.

These majestic creatures put on incredible displays, from breaching high above the waves to slapping their tails and flippers on the surface.

The best way to experience whale watching is on a guided boat tour, which offers the chance to see these gentle giants up close while learning about their behaviors from knowledgeable guides.

Popular departure points include Kona and Waikoloa, where the calm waters along the west coast provide ideal whale-watching conditions. Many tours even include hydrophones, allowing you to listen to the mesmerizing songs of the whales underwater.

If you prefer to stay on land, you can still enjoy whale watching from several scenic viewpoints. The Kohala Coast, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, and the coastline near Waikoloa are great spots to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times to spot them, as the lighting and sea conditions tend to be calmer.

If you’re visiting Hawaii in December for the Christmas holidays, whale watching is a perfect addition to your itinerary, as sightings are most frequent during this time of year. Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars for the best views and a camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

For tips on what to bring, which tours to book, and the best viewing spots, check out my full guide to Whale Watching on the Big Island!

Look for Spinner Dolphins

If you’re missing whale season, you can still look for dolphins off the Big Island year round! There are plenty of tours that sail along the Kona coast in search of the friendly Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins.

Just remember, Hawaiian law prohibits swimming with, approaching, or remaining within 50 yards of spinner dolphins!

Most of these tours are combined with snorkeling, like this tour that goes to Captain Cook!

Swim in a Tidal Pool

Kinda random, but there are so many beautiful tidal pools on the Big Island of Hawaii – I had to add it to the list!

The best one we visited was on the east side of the island at Carlsmith Beach Park. I’ve never seen just beautiful, clear water (although it was very cold!) This is certainly one of the top things to do in Hilo!

There’s also tidal pools at the Royal Kona Resort, Onekahakaha Beach Park, and a few more around the island!

Watch (or try) surfing

If you’re feeling adventurous, taking a surf lesson is one of the most epic things you can do on the Big Island! Even if you’ve never surfed before, there are plenty of spots on the Kona coast with beginner waves.

For those that don’t want to try surfing but still want to watch, grab a blanket and head down down to one of the many beaches to watch the locals do their thing!

We did this at Honoli’i Beach Park on the Hilo side, and it was such a relaxing way to spend an evening!

Snorkel at Two Step Beach

Two Step Beach at Honaunau Bay is another one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island, famous for its clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundant marine life.

The site gets its name from the natural lava steps that make entering the water easy, even for beginners. As you snorkel, you’ll encounter tropical fish, vibrant coral, and possibly sea turtles, all set against the dramatic backdrop of underwater lava formations.

Located next to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, you can combine snorkeling with a visit to this sacred site rich in Hawaiian history.

Arrive early to beat the crowds, bring reef-safe sunscreen, and enjoy one of the island’s most memorable snorkeling experiences, all free of charge!

Cliff Jump at the Southernmost point

You may have heard of the Southernmost Point in Key West.. well this is the REAL southernmost point of the USA (non-contiguous, that is!). Called South Point or Ka Lae, this spot on the south end of the Big Island boasts cliffs that drop straight into the sea.

If you’re bold enough, there are even spots along the cliffside where you can jump off into the ocean! Make sure to only do this where there are others taking part! There are specific spots that are safe, and others that are not.

Visit Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, located on the island’s southern coast, is one of the most iconic black sand beaches in Hawaii. Its jet-black sands are formed from lava that cooled rapidly as it hit the ocean.

We visited this beach after our day at Volcanoes National Park, and it was definitely worth the stop, even if it was a bit crowded!

The beach is framed by swaying green palm trees, making it a photographer’s dream. Beyond its beauty, Punaluʻu is a great place to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), which often bask on the warm sands. We saw at least 10 during our visit, both on the beach and swimming offshore!

The beach is easily accessible by car and has amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, making it a great spot for families or a scenic lunch stop. While swimming here is possible, it’s best to stay cautious as the currents can be strong.

Even if you don’t get in the water, simply walking along the shore and marveling at the contrast of black sand against the turquoise ocean is unforgettable.

Visit Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is a rare gem—one of only four green sand beaches in the world! The unique green hue comes from olivine crystals, a mineral found in volcanic rocks.

Visiting Papakōlea requires more effort than Punaluʻu, as the beach is located at the southern tip of the island and involves a 2.5-mile hike (one way) over rugged terrain.

For those up for the challenge, the hike offers stunning coastal views, and the reward is stepping onto a surreal green shoreline. If the hike seems daunting, local shuttles are often available for a fee, but they operate unofficially, so keep that in mind.

The beach itself is secluded and pristine, but there are no facilities, so come prepared with water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes!

Hike to a volcano

There’s not many places in the world you can hike an active volcano.. well the Big Island is one of them! So of course this makes the list of best things to do on the Big Island.

The Big Island of Hawaii is actually made up 5 different volcanoes!

Kohala (extinct): The oldest of the five volcanoes, offering lush, eroded landscapes.

Kīlauea (active): Known for its frequent eruptions, Kīlauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

Mauna Loa (active): The largest volcano on Earth, Mauna Loa covers nearly half the island.

Mauna Kea (dormant): Famous for its stargazing and snow-capped peaks during winter.

Hualālai (dormant): Visible from Kona, with its last eruption in the early 19th century.

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are located within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, which boats 150 miles of hiking trails. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the top thing to do for hikers on the Big Island, and it’s even great for families! There are beginner friendly trails, driving routes, and an awesome visitor center.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, the park has something for everyone. Its network of trails winds through lava fields, rainforests, craters, and steam vents.

• For Beginners: The Kīlauea Iki Trail is a perfect introduction to volcano hiking. This 4-mile loop descends into a lava lake crater formed during the 1959 eruption of Kīlauea. Walking across the hardened lava field is surreal and provides a close-up view of the volcanic power that shaped the island. This was our favorite thing we did inside the park!!! And you don’t need to be an expert hiker.
• For Experienced Hikers: Longer trails like the Napau Trail or Mauna Loa Summit Trail offer a deeper dive into the island’s volcanic landscapes. These treks take you past lava tubes, volcanic cones, and breathtaking vistas but require preparation and endurance.
• Driving and Walking Options: If hiking isn’t your thing, the Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road provide incredible views of volcanic landscapes with opportunities for short walks to viewpoints and historical sites.

The cost to enter the park is $30 for a private vehicle, which is valid for up to 7 days. Be sure to check the latest updates with regard to eruptions and road closures before visiting on the NPS website. Which brings us to our next section..

See Lava

Seeing lava up close (but safely) is one of the most thrilling and unforgettable experiences the Big Island has to offer! Unfortunately, we didn’t see any active lava on our trip, but here’s how you can!

Depending on the timing of your visit, you might be lucky enough to see molten lava flowing in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. These displays of glowing red lava are insane, especially at night when the fiery glow lights up the darkness.

To stay updated on current lava activity, check the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park website or stop by the park’s visitor center for real-time information.

Popular spots to see active lava flows include designated viewing areas within the park, such as the Kīlauea caldera overlook. Or, if you’re looking to splurge, you can book a helicopter tour over the park!

However, if the volcanoes aren’t erupting on your visit, don’t fret! You can still see plenty of old lava fields all around the island, including along the Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road in the NP!

Go Ziplining

Another heart-pumping adventure you can tackle on the Big Island: ziplining! Who doesn’t want to soar through the lush Hawaiian rainforest and then jump into waterfalls? This tour allows you to check both these things off your bucket list.

In fact, the waterfalls that you’ll get to visit on this specific zip lining tour is one of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. It’s also private, which means visiting on a tour like this one is the only way to legally swim here!

TOP TOUR

Umauma Falls Zip N Dip Adventure

• Price: Starting at $300 per person
• Duration: 4 hours
• TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐
• Includes: Zip lining, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and lunch!

book it here!

Visit ‘Akaka Falls State Park

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Hilo, ‘Akaka Falls State Park is one of the most stunning natural attractions on the Big Island thanks to the iconic 442-foot-tall ‘Akaka Falls!

We were pleased to find out there’s no strenuous hiking required to see Akaka falls. Instead, it’s a leisurely stroll along paved walkways and stairs that guide you through the park.

The short, well-maintained loop trail winds through a vibrant rainforest filled with tropical plants, towering bamboo groves, and ferns. Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller waterfalls and hear the calls of native birds echoing through the lush surroundings.

It was even raining during our visit, which just added to the magic! Make sure to pack a rain jacket, as this is very common for this area of the Big Island.

There is a $10 parking fee per vehicle on top of the $5 per person fee to enter the park!

Pssst: ‘Akaka Falls State Park is a great stop along the drive from Kona to Hilo! Make sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Driving from Kona to Hilo!

Take a helicopter Tour

If it fits within your budget, taking a helicopter tour is one of the most incredible ways to see the Big Island! You’ll get to see the island from a whole other perspective that not many people get to see. Soar past waterfalls, over volcanoes, and through lush rainforests.. how incredible is that!

Helicopter tours typically range from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the route and company. Many operators offer specialized tours, such as “Circle of Fire” tours focused on volcanoes or full-island tours that showcase the Big Island’s varied landscapes.

Your pilot doubles as a guide, offering fascinating insights about the geology, history, and ecosystems of the island.

Helicopter tours are a splurge, with prices generally ranging from $300 to $600 per person, depending on the duration and route. While it’s an investment, many visitors consider it a once-in-a-lifetime experience well worth the cost. 

If I were to choose one, it would be this Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure, which takes you over the incredible landscapes of the Waipi’o Valley, with its dramatic sea cliffs and insane waterfalls!

Stargaze at Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea volcano is one of the most renowned stargazing locations in the world, and for good reason. At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, the summit rises above much of the Earth’s atmosphere, offering unparalleled clarity and darkness in the night skies.

The combination of its high altitude, dry air, and minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for observing stars, planets, and galaxies in breathtaking detail. There’s a reason there’s an Observatory and Astronomy Center at the top!

In fact, the summit of Mauna Kea is home to some of the most advanced telescopes and observatories in the world, operated by leading astronomy organizations. Scientists and researchers travel from across the globe to use these facilities to study the universe.

Recently reopened, the free stargazing program at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station (VIS) is a great thing to do on the Big Island for all ages! You’ll meet at the VIS just before sunset and then make your way to a private stargazing location!

You can read more about this incredible activity on the University of Hilo website here!

Go Horseback Riding

Did you know there are dozen working cattle ranches operate on the Big Island?! These ranches not only offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich paniolo (cowboy) history but also make the island a fantastic destination for horseback riding. 

Hawaii’s paniolo culture dates back to the early 19th century when King Kamehameha III brought Mexican vaqueros (cowboys) to the islands to help manage cattle. These vaqueros introduced horseback riding, roping, and ranching techniques, which became deeply ingrained in Hawaiian traditions.

Today, the Big Island remains at the heart of Hawaii’s ranching heritage, with sprawling cattle ranches like the famous Parker Ranch in Waimea.

Nearby, you can book a public or private horseback riding adventure with Paniolo Adventures.

Or, another incredible place to experience horseback riding on the Big Island is in the lush and sacred Waipi’o Valley. Known as the “Valley of the Kings,” this area features stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and dense rainforests.

The only way for foreigners to experience the valley is through guided tours, which allow you to learn about the history and cultural significance from knowledgeable guides. And horseback riding is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the valley’s serene beauty and learn more about the working ranch!

Book your horseback riding experience in Waipi’o here! 🐴

Hike the Onomea Bay Trail

If you’re staying a few days on the Hilo side of the island, I highly recommend checking out the Onomea Bay Trail. This half-mile trail can be found just off the Old Mamalohoa Highway outside Hilo and takes you through lush tropical vegetation, leading to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Onomea Bay Trail is relatively short and manageable for all fitness levels, making it ideal for families or those looking for a light hike.

As you descend toward the ocean, the trail winds through a dense canopy of tropical plants, including towering palms, ferns, and colorful flowers. The trail is located right next to the Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, which is a paid experience (keep reading for more info on this spot!).

At the end of the trail, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Onomea Bay, where waves crash against black lava rock formations surrounded by vibrant greenery.

Make sure to pack and wear bug spray!

Visit the Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Gardens

If you decide to hike the Onomea Bay Trail, you’ll also come across the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Gardens. This breathtaking 20-acre garden is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants from around the world, including vibrant orchids, towering bamboo, and exotic palms.

As you wander along the well-maintained pathways, you’ll also encounter cascading waterfalls, peaceful streams, and hidden alcoves bursting with vibrant flora. The garden’s dramatic ocean views and unique plant displays make it a photographer’s paradise.

Tickets are a bit pricey, however, starting at $32 for adults! We personally decided to skip it, but saw some portions of it while hiking the Onomea Bay Trail.

Experience Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls, located just a few minutes from downtown Hilo, is one of the Big Island’s most iconic and accessible natural attractions.

A short drive and an even shorter walk from the parking lot will lead you to this breathtaking 80-foot waterfall, which cascades into a tranquil pool surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. I literally couldn’t believe this was right off the road!

The falls get their name from the rainbows that often appear in the mist created by the cascading water. The best time to catch it is early in the morning when the sunlight hits the mist at just the right angle!

Rainbow Falls, or Waiānuenue in Hawaiian, also holds cultural and historical significance. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave behind the falls is said to be the home of Hina, the mother of the demigod Maui. There is a plaque in front of the falls that explains the whole story!

The falls are part of Wailuku River State Park, and the area around them is beautifully maintained, with paved paths, railings, and viewing platforms that provide excellent vantage points. If you’re up for a bit more exploration, you can follow the short trail to the top of the falls for a different perspective. 

With the tropical plants around it, and the Hawaiian history of the area, Rainbow Falls is a spot you don’t want to miss on your trip to the Big Island!

Pssst: For a list of other falls, make sure to check out my guide to the Best Waterfalls on the Big Island!

Visit a Kona Coffee Farm

Have you heard of Kona coffee before?! If not, you are in for a treat! The southwest side of the Big Island is home to a unique strip of land named the Kona Coffee Belt, where conditions from the volcanic activity are perfect for growing coffee!

Even if you don’t like coffee, a trip to a coffee farm still makes the list of best things to do on the Big Island. Some farms, like Greenwell Farms, offer free tours of the plantation and factory, making it one of the best free things to do in Kona!

Kona coffee is the perfect souvenir to bring home to your family and friends, and on a tour, you can learn about exactly what makes it Kona coffee!

Watch the Sunset

It’s no surprise that the Big Island has some amazing sunsets! I think we made a point to watch the sunset every single night, but you should make sure to catch at least one.

And by this I mean, doing nothing but watching the sun dip down into the ocean! Keep your eyes peeled and you might even see that famous green flash, which we saw on the first night of our trip!

Our two favorite spots to watch the sunset on our trip were from our hotel, the Royal Kona Resort, or while eating dinner at On the Rocks, right down the road!

Here are some other places on the island to watch the sunset!

Eat tuna poke and fish tacos

The Big Island has some incredible seafood, and you can’t leave without trying two things: poke bowls and fish tacos! Luckily, I have two perfect recommendations for you.

Visit Da Poke Shack for the most incredible poke bowls of your life, and Shaka Tacoz for the most incredible fish tacos of your life!! Don’t leave the island without trying both – you can thank me later!

Golf and Spa Day at a Resort

After two days of full on adventure, we decided to treat ourselves to a day of relaxation. My husband booked a tee time at the Hapuna Golf Course. While he was golfing, I booked a spa treatment at the fabulous Westin Hapuna Beach Resort.

Afterwards, we swam in the beautiful pools, had lunch, and enjoyed a day at the white sand Hapuna Beach!

This was the perfect way to get a taste of the luxurious Kohala Coast resorts without having to pay to stay there 😉

If you’re looking for an even more luxurious experience, you can check out the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Mauna Kea Golf Course!

Drink a mai tai (or two or three)

Rum, rum, and more rum! Oh and a little Curaçao and lime juice.

The Big Island is a paradise for mai tai lovers, offering this classic Hawaiian cocktail in endless variations across its many bars, restaurants, and resorts. The mai tai is the perfect drink to sip on as you take in a stunning sunset or relax by the beach.

Here are some great places to get a mai tai on the Big Island!

• Huggo’s on the Rocks (Kailua-Kona): Huggo’s serves up a mai tai with a stunning oceanfront view, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. Their “Huggo’s Mai Tai” adds a touch of guava for extra tropical flair.
• Lava Lava Beach Club (Waikoloa): Known for its laid-back vibe and beachfront location, this is the perfect spot to sip on a mai tai while digging your toes into the sand. Their mai tais are strong and flavorful.
• Royal Kona Resort (Kailua-Kona): Famous for their award-winning mai tais, the Royal Kona’s Don’s Mai Tai Bar is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. You can even sample different varieties, including traditional and modern takes on the drink. My husband loved them here!!
• Big Island Brewhaus (Waimea): For a twist, try the “Mai Tai PA,” a beer inspired by the classic cocktail. It’s a fun, local spin that’s worth checking out.

Stroll through Historic Kailua Village

If you’re staying in Kona, it’s impossible to miss the historic Kailua Village!

This charming seaside town is the heart of the Kona Coast and is home to tons of restaurants, condos, and shops.

Ali’i Drive is the heart of Kailua Village, lined with shops, cafes, and art galleries. Spend an evening walking along this scenic road, browse local boutiques for souvenirs, or stop at a roadside vendor for handmade crafts and jewelry.

You can also head to the sand courts near the pier to watch locals and visitors battle it out in beach volleyball.

We loved grabbing an ice cream, walking through the village, and enjoying the epic Kona sunsets!

Visit Kona Brewing Company

If you’re a fan of craft beer, no trip to Kona is complete without visiting the famous Kona Brewing Company!

Known for its iconic Hawaiian-inspired beers like Longboard Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale, the brewery also offers exclusive small-batch “backyard” brews that you can only taste at the brewery itself!

The brewery features a spacious outdoor beer garden with a laid-back island vibe. We found the food to be just okay, and the vibes were a bit touristy, but we loved getting to try some Kona beers in Kona!

And don’t forget to check out the gift shop for Kona Brewing merch and growlers to take back!

Attend A Luau

Did you even go to Hawaii if you didn’t go to a luau? But in all seriousness, attending a luau is a great way to learn more about Hawaiian culture and history through dance and storytelling (there’s much more than just the hula!).

A luau typically begins with a lei greeting and pre-dinner activities, such as arts and crafts demonstrations or imu (underground oven) ceremonies, where you can watch the unearthing of a pig that has been slow-roasting all day.

Dinner is usually a buffet featuring Hawaiian classics like kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, poi, and fresh tropical fruits.

The highlight of the evening is the live entertainment, which may include traditional Hawaiian hula, Polynesian fire knife dancing, and chants that tell the stories of the islands.

Each performance will help you better understand Hawaii’s unique blend of Polynesian influences and cultural history.

We personally visited the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau, which took place at our resort! It was a fun evening and we definitely enjoyed it. However, if you’ve been to larger luaus on Maui or Oahu, you might be a little disappointed.

Read more about the Best Luaus on the Big Island here! 🔥🌺

Visit the Waipi’o Valley Lookout

If you are driving from Kona to Hilo, it’s worth going slightly out of the way to stop at the Waipi’o Valley Lookout!

Known as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipiʻo Valley is considered sacred in Hawaiian culture. It was once a thriving community and home to aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty), with taro fields and temples scattered throughout.

The valley remains a symbol of Hawaiian heritage and spirituality. Visitors are encouraged to treat the area with respect and avoid entering restricted zones.

You can admire the Valley from the designated look out spot, which is a quick walk down the stairs from the parking area. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the valley, along with a few waterfalls, the stunning black sand beach, and vast seaside cliffs.

If you’d like to go into the valley itself, you have to visit with an organized tour like the Waipio Valley Shuttle, as the Waipiʻo Valley Road leading into the valley is closed to non-residents for safety and preservation reasons.

Learn about Hawaiian History and Culture

Last but not least, I highly recommend dedicating some of your visit to learn about the rich history of Hawaii and the Hawaiian Islands. The Big Island offers a unique perspective as the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands.

Some places on the Big Island you can visit are Lapakahi State Historical Park, Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and Huliheʻe Palace.

• Lapakahi State Historical Park
  Located along the Kohala Coast, this park preserves the remnants of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. As you wander through the restored hale (houses) and fishponds, you’ll get a glimpse into the daily life of Hawaiians from centuries ago. Informational signs and self-guided tours make it easy to learn about the significance of the site.
• Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii
  This center in Hilo is where Hawaiian culture meets cutting-edge science. Imiloa explores the connection between ancient Hawaiian navigation, using the stars, and modern astronomy. The exhibits include interactive displays, a planetarium, and insights into how Hawaiians view the cosmos as a part of their identity and heritage.
• Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: A sacred place of refuge where those who broke ancient Hawaiian laws could find safety. Explore restored temples, royal fishponds, and wooden carvings that offer a glimpse into early Hawaiian spiritual practices.
• Huliheʻe Palace: Once a summer retreat for Hawaiian royalty, this historic home in Kailua-Kona is now a museum showcasing artifacts, furniture, and royal memorabilia.

Final Thoughts

And that’s a wrap on my list of the 30 BEST things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii! From exploring the lush rainforests of Hilo to walking across hardened lava fields in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, to snorkeling with manta rays along the Kona Coast, this island truly has something for everyone.

Its diverse landscapes and activities make it a destination that feels like several vacations rolled into one.

We managed to check off (almost) all of these incredible experiences during our week on the Big Island, but there’s so much more to see and do that it’s impossible to cover it all in just one trip.

If you’re short on time, focus on the activities that align with your interests, whether it’s outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing on one of the island’s unique beaches.

Can’t fit everything in? Don’t worry—that’s just an excuse to come back again!

Now that you know about my favorite things the Big Island has to offer, check out my guide on the Best Snorkeling on the Big Island for even more spots to check out!

Read More Big Island Blog Posts Below! ⬇️🌺
The Perfect ONE WEEK Big Island Itinerary For First Timers
Where To Stay On The Big Island (+ Big Island Hawaii Map)
30 INCREDIBLE Things To Do On The Big Island Of Hawaii
Whale Watching On The Big Island: Tours, Best Time, & More
Best Snorkeling On The Big Island Of Hawaii: A Detailed Guide
How To Kayak To Captain Cook Monument On The Big Island
A Guide To Night Snorkeling With Manta Rays In Kona, Hawaii
10 FREE Things To Do In And Near Kona, Hawaii
Best Luaus On The Big Island: A Complete Guide
Kona To Hilo: A Complete Guide To Driving Across The Big Island
20 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Hilo, Hawaii (& Nearby)
A Guide To Exploring The Best Waterfalls On The Big Island

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!