Big Island: A Diverse and Dramatic Addition to Beach Getaways
Experience a coastal escape where volcanic peaks meet the Pacific Ocean.
When you think of a beach getaway, you might imagine a single stretch of white sand. The Big Island challenges that idea by offering a collection of entirely different coastal environments on one piece of land. Because this is the largest of the Hawaiian islands, the geography varies wildly. You can spend your morning on the dry, sunny Kona coast and your afternoon in the rainy, tropical atmosphere of Hilo. This contrast makes it one of the strongest choices in the Beach Getaways cluster, as it provides a full spectrum of ocean experiences in a single trip.
Why This Destination Fits the Theme
The Big Island belongs in a Beach Getaways collection because it treats the coastline as a dynamic boundary between fire and water. The island is dominated by volcanoes, including Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, which means the beaches here are often the result of ancient lava flows. You will find that the coastal experience depends entirely on which side of the island you are visiting.
On the leeward side, the Kona coast is famous for its dry climate and coffee farms. This is where you go for the classic, sunny beach experience. On the windward side, Hilo receives about 180 inches of rain each year. This creates a lush, jungle-like environment where the beaches are framed by rainforests and waterfalls. The sheer variety of the shoreline, from the tide pools of Hilo Bay to the private stretches in Waikoloa, ensures that you never get bored of the water.
What to Do Along the Coast
Your time here should be split between the two main hubs to get the full experience. In Hilo, you can start with a Hilo Bay shoreline walk, which is a gentle path that leads you past ocean views and tide pools. If you want a bit of culture, visit the Liliuokalani Gardens. This is a peaceful seaside park where you can walk along lava rock pathways. For those who prefer the jungle, Rainbow Falls is a short walk from the parking area and offers a dramatic view of water framed by greenery.
If you are looking for local flavor, spend some time at the Hilo Farmers Market to pick up some pineapple jam made from locally grown fruit. You can also browse the Hilo Craft Market for bamboo jewelry, specifically necklaces and earrings. For a more structured experience, the Historic Hilo Wharf tour allows you to walk the waterfront and see old cargo sites.
When you move over to the Kona side, the pace slows down. You will find a strip of tourist-focused shops and restaurants in Kailua-Kona. This is the perfect place to grab a cup of Kona coffee, which usually costs around $4, and watch the activity along the shore. If you have a car, drive the scenic routes and stop at a guava farm stand or a small town farm stand for a chilled tropical fruit platter of mango, papaya, and lychee.
Where to Base Yourself
Depending on your budget and your priorities, you have several distinct options for where to stay. If you want a luxury experience with direct ocean access, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Waikoloa is an iconic oceanfront property with its own private beach. Similarly, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Kona offers private villas with ocean views and is located near the coffee farms.
For a mid-range stay, the Kona Village Hotel in Kailua-Kona provides beachfront rooms with kitchenettes. If you want to step away from the beach for a night to see the volcanic interior, the Volcano House in Volcano is a historic lodge located steps from the rim of the park. Rooms in Volcano Village generally range from $180 to $250 per night.
Budget travelers have a few great options. The Hilo International Hostel is a simple choice close to downtown Hilo, making it easy to reach the waterfalls. If you prefer the outdoors, the Pololū Valley Campground in North Kohala offers basic sites with ocean views, which is ideal for those who want to start their morning hikes early.
| Region | Vibe | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilo | Lush and Tropical | Very Wet | Waterfalls and Gardens |
| Kailua-Kona | Sunny and Relaxed | Dry | Coffee and Beachfront |
| Volcano | Rural and Quiet | Cool | Lava Fields and Hiking |
| North Kohala | Remote and Natural | Variable | Camping and Early Hikes |
Where to Eat
The food scene reflects the island's agricultural roots and its connection to the sea. In Hilo, you should visit Da Poke Shack for a fresh plate of poke, typically costing between $10 and $15. For something more refined, the Hilo Bay Cafe serves Hawaiian fusion dishes with entrées ranging from $20 to $35.
In Kailua-Kona, the seafood is the main draw. Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill is a top pick for seafood entrées priced between $15 and $25. You will also find plenty of casual spots along the main strip where a plate of fresh fish tacos costs around $15. If you are craving something different, Cafe Pesto offers Italian dishes with entrées between $12 and $18.
More in this guide
If you are looking for other coastal escapes, you might also enjoy these destinations: