The Big Island has a way of leaving a lasting mark. Even with its massive landscapes and endless sights, it somehow remains the second least visited island, receiving only a touch more visitors than Kauai. That quiet charm is part of what makes it so appealing.
This island isn’t just about size — it’s a blend of volcanic power, lush rain forests, black sand beaches, and tropical gardens that feel almost surreal. Add in water so clear you can spot every ripple while snorkeling, and you get a destination that feels both bold and peaceful at the same time.
If you’re wondering whether it deserves a spot on your travel list, consider this your sign. The Big Island delivers variety, depth, and experiences that stay with you long after you leave.
Below are the 15 best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii, each offering a different side of this extraordinary place.
Note: The Island of Hawaii is called the Big Island simply to distinguish it from the State of Hawaii.
15 unforgettable experiences to enjoy on the Big Island of Hawaii
1. Explore Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls is the kind of sight that stays with you long after you’ve left. A towering ribbon of water dropping into a lush valley, it easily earns the top spot for visitors exploring the Big Island. The 25-minute drive from Hilo feels smooth and enjoyable, with scenery that keeps you looking out the window the whole way.
The walk to the waterfall is short and comfortable—roughly half a mile on a paved loop with handrails. You’ll pass through layers of tropical foliage, thick greenery, and sweeping leaves that frame the path like a natural walkway. A few stairs appear along the route, but they don’t make the journey demanding. Instead, they add a small rhythm to the walk before the view opens up to the falls.
Standing before Akaka Falls feels like witnessing a grand natural moment. The sound, the height, and the mist rising from below create an atmosphere that feels almost cinematic. This stop became a personal favorite, which is why it holds the first spot on this list.
Cost: $5 per person + $10 for parking (paid at onsite kiosks)
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Sip Fresh Coconut Water at Mana’s Aloha Fruit Stand
This little fruit stand sits right outside Akaka Falls State Park, and stopping here felt like one of those spontaneous choices that ends up being the highlight of a day. We pulled over without much thought, and it turned out to be an excellent call.
The coconut water tasted incredibly fresh—easily the best I’ve had—and the pineapple was soft, sweet, and bursting with juice. Everything felt straight from the source, simple and full of flavor.
You’ll see the signs as you approach, so keep an eye out and make time for a quick break. It’s the perfect spot to recharge after exploring the falls.
Hours: Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., ideal for a mid-day or late-afternoon treat.
3. Walk Through the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens
As you make your way back to Hilo after visiting Akaka Falls, this garden stop offers a refreshing shift in scenery. If you still crave more lush, tropical surroundings, it’s an easy addition to your route.
Inside the Bioreserve, winding trails guide you through layers of greenery. You’ll pass through garden sections filled with striking plants, bold flowers, and towering trees that thrive in Hawaii’s climate. Each path gives you something different to look at, creating a calm, immersive experience that feels unhurried and full of quiet detail.
It’s a great follow-up stop for anyone who enjoys slow, nature-focused moments.
4. Pend an Easy Afternoon Exploring Downtown Hilo
Wandering through downtown Hilo feels relaxed, lively, and full of small surprises. One moment you’re passing local shops, and the next you’re stepping into a spot serving treats you didn’t even know you were craving.
Start with an acai bowl served inside a pineapple at Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack—it’s colorful, refreshing, and a fun way to kick off your stroll.
Then make your way to Two Ladies Kitchen for their well-known mochi. Their creations are soft, chewy, and filled with flavors that make each bite feel special.
If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, swing by Big Island Candies for chocolate-dipped cookies. They’re easy to pack, easy to nibble, and honestly hard to resist.
And, of course, check out the Hilo Farmers Market, open every day. You can find fruit, small goods, and handmade items while moving at your own pace.
Hilo Bay is pleasantly walkable, so take your time. You might stumble into a café, shop, or viewpoint that becomes your new favorite stop.
5. Take a Slow Walk Out to Coconut Island
Coconut Island is a small, easy-to-reach park connected to the Big Island by a simple footbridge. It feels like a tiny escape sitting just off the shoreline, offering a gentle change of scenery without much effort.
Once you cross over, you’ll find open grassy areas, tall palms swaying overhead, and a couple of sandy spots where you can sit, rest, or dip your feet in the water. The views around the island stretch across Hilo Bay and make the whole place feel calm and open.
It’s a quick stop, but absolutely worth the short walk for a peaceful break and a fresh angle of the coastline.
6. Relax at Carlsmith Beach Park or Richardson Ocean Park
Both Carlsmith Beach Park and Richardson Ocean Park offer a calm, inviting shoreline shaped by dark lava rock and stunning blue water. These spots feel gentle and open, making them great for spending an easy hour—or an entire afternoon.
The water stays fairly clear, and the protected areas make wading feel comfortable. If you enjoy snorkeling, you’ll find pockets of marine life drifting through the shallow sections, giving you a laid-back look at the underwater scenery.
Whether you prefer to float, wander, or sink your toes into the sand, these beaches provide a simple, refreshing break.
7. Wander Through Liliʻuokalani Gardens Before You Head Out
Right next to Coconut Island sits Liliʻuokalani Gardens, an expansive Japanese-style garden created in honor of Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaii’s last reigning monarch. It feels peaceful, spacious, and full of small details that draw your attention as you move along the pathways.
The garden is free and open around the clock, so you can stop by whenever it fits your day. You’ll come across arched bridges, still fish ponds, stone lanterns, and a traditional tea house tucked among the pathways. Each section adds its own character, making the garden easy to enjoy at a slow pace.
As one of the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan, it stands as a tribute to the island’s early Japanese immigrants. It’s a meaningful and visually rich stop that pairs perfectly with a visit to Coconut Island.
8. Make a Quick Stop at Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls sits just outside Hilo in Wailuku River State Park, offering an easy viewpoint you can enjoy without stepping onto a trail. You simply park, walk a few steps, and the waterfall comes into full view with its wide cascade and steady mist. On certain mornings, sunlight hits the spray just right, creating a soft rainbow overhead.
Out of all the waterfalls on the Big Island, this one is among the simplest to reach, making it a convenient stop whether you’re exploring nearby or passing through the area. It’s a short visit with a big payoff.
9. Take a Look Inside Kaumana Caves
Kaumana Caves offer a striking look at the island’s volcanic past, formed by the massive 1881 Mauna Loa eruption. The entrance drops you straight into a cool, shadowy lava tube that instantly reminds you how powerful these eruptions once were.
While the tube stretches for miles, most of it crosses into private land, so visitors can only explore the section near the opening. Even so, the visible portion gives you a strong sense of the tube’s size and texture, with ridged rock walls and a floor that shifts between smooth and uneven.
It’s free to visit and sits right off Highway 200, making it an easy detour. If you stop by, bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes—the ground can be slippery, and the dim light adds to the atmosphere while still calling for caution.
10. Spend a Full Day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park easily fills an entire day, offering a mix of geology, scenery, and experiences that feel unlike anything else on the island. I had an incredible time here, and it’s the kind of place that leaves you energized from start to finish.
The park contains one of the planet’s most active volcanoes, giving the entire area a dramatic, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Even if molten lava isn’t visible during your visit, the cooled flows spread across the landscape tell their own story. Driving along Chain of Craters Road reveals fields of hardened rock stretching in every direction, shaped by different eruptions over the years.
The scale, textures, and history make this park stand out quickly. It became one of my personal favorite national parks after just one trip, and it’s easy to see why once you explore its viewpoints, trails, and volcanic features.
11. Pause for a Bit in Volcano Village After the Park
Once you’ve wrapped up your day inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, spending some time in Volcano Village is a great way to wind down. The village has a calm, welcoming feel, with a handful of restaurants and small shops that give it plenty of character.
There’s more here than meets the eye. You can visit a local tea farm, enjoy a relaxed wine tasting at Volcano Winery, or walk through the Volcano Art Center, which highlights work from island artists. Each stop adds a different layer to the village’s charm.
One tip: plan your meal early. Most places shut their doors around 2 p.m., so grabbing lunch before then will save you from finding everything closed. It’s a quiet spot, but that’s part of what makes it such a pleasant ending to a day of exploring.
12. Enjoy a Private Tea Tasting at Tea Hawaii
One of the standout moments of our time in Volcano Village was the tea tasting and farm tour at Tea Hawaii. The experience felt personal from the start, as all tours are private and need to be booked ahead of time. It adds a sense of anticipation that makes the visit even more enjoyable.
The exact location of the farm is shared only after your reservation is confirmed. It keeps the setting quiet and helps protect the privacy of the growers and the land they care for.
If tea is something you truly enjoy—or even if you’re just curious about how it’s grown and crafted—this tour will feel incredibly rewarding. It blends flavor, storytelling, and a slow-paced walk through the farm in a way that stays with you long after the visit.
13. Take a Break at This Striking Black Sand Beach
This beach is absolutely stunning—one of those places that immediately grabs your attention. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to linger, sit for a while, and just take in the scenery around you. When we visited, the waves were on the stronger side, so I’d skip swimming if the conditions look similar.
The black sand itself is a standout feature. Formed from finely crushed lava rock, it creates a dark, textured shoreline that feels unlike typical beaches. Keep in mind that the sand heats up quickly under direct sun, so stepping lightly is a good idea.
When we stopped by, the beach was quiet with just a handful of visitors, which made the experience even better. Hopefully your visit feels just as peaceful and spacious.
14. Grab a Treat at Punaluʻu Bake Shop
If you’re already near the black sand beach, make sure to swing by Punaluʻu Bake Shop—it’s a favorite for good reason. Their Hawaiian sweet bread is soft, slightly sweet, and perfect to enjoy on the spot or take with you for later. The malasadas are another highlight: warm, fluffy, and coated lightly in sugar, they’re the kind of treat that disappears faster than you expect.
The shop has a small outdoor seating area where you can relax for a moment before continuing your drive. It’s a simple stop, but one that adds a fun flavor-filled break to your Big Island day.
15. Explore Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
So what exactly makes this place stand out—and why should it be on your Big Island itinerary? Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau is a historically significant refuge site, once considered a sanctuary for those seeking safety, and it also holds burial grounds for Hawaiian royalty. The moment you arrive, the weight of its past becomes clear.
As you walk through the grounds, you’ll learn about traditional Hawaiian customs, beliefs, and daily practices. Several structures have been preserved or thoughtfully reconstructed, including the hale poki, a royal mausoleum, and the great wall, an impressive stone barrier that reflects the engineering skill and cultural strength of early Hawaiians.
Beyond the history, the landscape here is striking. The mix of palms, lava rock, and ocean views gives the area a quiet power that stays with you long after you leave. This stop quickly became one of our favorites.
The site is overseen by the National Park Service, so if you have an NPS annual pass, you can use it here.
Where to Stay on the Big Island
Finding the right place to stay can shape your entire experience, and the Big Island offers a range of spots that fit different travel styles. Whether you prefer ocean views, resort comforts, or smaller properties with a personal touch, you’ll find solid options on both the Hilo and Kona sides.
Recommended Hotels in Hilo, Hawaii
- Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
- Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast (this is where we stayed)
- SCP Hilo Hotel
- Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo: DoubleTree by Hilton
These Hilo stays place you close to waterfalls, gardens, and relaxed coastal views, with easy access to the island’s lush eastern side.
Recommended Hotels in Kona, Hawaii
- Royal Kona Resort
- Outrigger Kona Resort
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- Aston Kona by the Sea
- Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kailua-Kona
The Kona area offers sunnier weather, long coastlines, coffee farms, and great snorkeling. These hotels give you convenient access to beaches and day-trip routes while offering comfortable places to unwind at night.
What to Pack for Hawaii
Packing for Hawaii is all about keeping things simple, useful, and comfortable. A few well-chosen items can make your trip smoother, especially with the island’s mix of sun, water, and outdoor activities.
Essentials for Hawaii
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and help preserve Hawaii’s marine life. If you plan on spending time at beaches or snorkeling spots, having your own snorkel set is incredibly convenient. A waterproof phone pouch is also helpful, giving you the chance to take underwater photos without worry.
For bug protection, make sure you pack EPA-registered insect repellent. Hawaii does have mosquitoes, and while the risk of illness is low, bites can still be annoying. The CDC recommends repellents with one of five approved active ingredients, and the EPA’s search tool can help you find an effective option. A natural choice I like is Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Spray, which uses oil of lemon eucalyptus and still meets EPA requirements.
Favorite Travel Gear
Compression packing cubes have been a game changer for me. They’re sturdy, hold far more than expected, and help keep clothing organized throughout the trip. My travel backpack is another must-have—it opens like a suitcase, fits almost as much as a carry-on, has multiple pockets, and includes a strap that attaches easily to a luggage handle. It fits neatly under airplane seats, which makes airport travel much easier.
For long flights, I always bring my AirFly receiver so I can connect my AirPods to the plane’s entertainment system. It’s small, dependable, and keeps me from using uncomfortable airline headphones.
And I never board a long-haul flight without my Sockwell compression socks. They genuinely help reduce leg cramps and swelling during hours of sitting. I have the lotus pattern, but they come in plenty of fun designs, from floral prints to the cute cat pattern. You can see all options in the Sockwell storefront.
These items don’t take up much space, but they make a huge difference throughout the trip.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering what rises to the top on the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park easily claims the No. 1 spot. It’s an extraordinary chance to stand near two active volcanoes and witness landscapes shaped by fire and time.
As for the places you absolutely shouldn’t miss, make sure Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach are on your itinerary. Each one delivers its own style of beauty and leaves a deep impression.
Here are some of the best free things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii:
- Coffee tasting and a tour at Greenwell Coffee Farm
- A walk along Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
- A quick visit to Coconut Island
- A relaxed stroll around Hilo Bay
- Snorkeling at Two Step
If you’re deciding how long to stay, three to four days will let you see quite a bit. But for a fuller experience that covers both sides of the island, a week gives you the time and flexibility to enjoy everything without rushing.
