Big Island
Everything you need to know before you go.
The Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian islands and is dominated by volcanoes. Kilauea erupts nearly constantly in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea rise inland. The windward side near Hilo receives about 180 inches of rain each year, creating lush rainforest and waterfalls, while the leeward Kona coast stays dry and is famous for coffee farms.
Stay in Hilo for easy access to botanical gardens and the waterfall circuit, or base yourself in Volcano Village if you want to be right at the park entrance; rooms there typically run $180 to $250 per night. Honokaa serves as the gateway to the Hāmākua Coast and the dramatic Waipio Valley, and the town of Naalehu claims the title of the southernmost community in the United States. In Kailua‑Kona you’ll find a strip of tourist‑focused shops and restaurants where a plate of fresh fish tacos costs around $15 and a cup of Kona coffee is usually $4.
The island’s vibe is relaxed and rural; you’ll drive on narrow roads with low speed limits and you won’t find any freeways. If you love stargazing, head to the Mauna Kea summit after sunset, but be aware that the observatory is a sensitive site for many Native Hawaiians. The mix of dramatic volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches where leatherback turtles bask, and quiet inland towns makes the island a good fit for travelers who prefer low‑key exploration over crowded resort scenes.
Sightseeing
Liliuokalani Gardens - A peaceful seaside park with lava rock pathways. $0, 0h.
Rainbow Falls - A waterfall framed by jungle, short walk from parking. $0, 0h.
Food & Drink
Pineapple jam from Hilo Farmers Market - Sweet spread made from locally grown fruit. $8, 8h.
Tropical fruit platter at a small town farm stand - Assorted mango, papaya, and lychee served chilled. $5, 5h.
Outdoor Nature
Guava farm stand in a nearby small town - Pick fresh guava while driving the scenic route. $3, 3h.
Hilo Bay shoreline walk - Gentle path with ocean views and tide pools. $0, 0h.
Cultural
Hula performance at Hilo Civic Center - Traditional dance shown on weekend evenings. $10, 10h.
Shopping
Bamboo jewelry at Hilo Craft Market - Hand crafted necklaces and earrings made from island bamboo. $25, 25h.
Day Trips
Historic Hilo Wharf tour - Walk the waterfront and see old cargo ships. $0, 0h.
Budget Stays
- Hilo International Hostel - Hilo. $35-$55/night. Simple dorms close to downtown, good for exploring Hilo’s waterfalls.
- Pololū Valley Campground - North Kohala. $15-$25/night. Basic sites with ocean views, perfect for early hikes.
Mid-range Stays
- Volcano House - Volcano. $180-$250/night. Historic lodge steps from the park’s rim, easy access to lava fields.
- Kona Village Hotel - Kailua-Kona. $250-$350/night. Beachfront rooms with kitchenettes, close to historic Kailua town.
Luxury Stays
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai - Kona. $600-$800/night. Private villas with ocean views, world-class dining, near coffee farms.
- Mauna Kea Beach Hotel - Waikoloa. $400-$600/night. Iconic oceanfront property with private beach, high-end service.
Restaurants
- Da Poke Shack - poke. Hilo. $10-$15 per plate.
- Cafe Pesto - Italian. Kailua-Kona. $12-$18 per entrée.
- Hilo Bay Cafe - Hawaiian fusion. Hilo. $20-$35 per entrée.
- Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill - seafood. Kailua-Kona. $15-$25 per entrée.
- Merriman's Waimea - farm-to-table. Waimea. $30-$50 per entrée.
- The House of the Sun - fine dining Hawaiian. Kailua-Kona. $40-$70 per entrée.