Things to Do on the Big Island - Top Hawaii Adventures | Outrigger

Hawaii's Big Island lives up to its name in every way. At 4,028 square miles, it's larger than all other Hawaiian islands combined and offers an equally impressive range of adventures. From snow-capped Mauna Kea to black sand beaches, from active lava flows to lush rainforests, Hawaii Island delivers experiences you won't find anywhere else in the Hawaiian chain. Whether you're swimming with manta rays in Keauhou Bay or stargazing from the world's premier astronomical observation site, things to do on Hawaii Island span from sea level to summit.

The island's sheer size means planning matters more here than on other Hawaiian islands. Driving from Kona to Hilo takes about 90 minutes without stops, and reaching Waipi'o Valley from the Kohala Coast requires a full morning. But that scale also means you can experience multiple climates and landscapes in a single day. Start your morning snorkeling in 80-degree waters, spend your afternoon hiking through cool cloud forests, and end your evening bundled up for sunset at 9,000 feet. This diversity makes the Big Island perfect for travelers who want variety in their Hawaiian vacation.

Ocean Adventures: Things to Do in Hawaii Island

The Big Island's waters offer some of Hawaii's most unique marine experiences. Unlike other islands where reef snorkeling dominates, here you'll find yourself swimming with manta rays after dark, watching dolphins play in deep blue waters, and exploring underwater lava tubes. The Kona Coast's calm, clear waters make it ideal for beginners, while the dramatic drop-offs create perfect conditions for seeing pelagic species you won't encounter in shallow bays.

Night snorkeling with manta rays stands out as the island's signature ocean experience. These gentle giants, with wingspans reaching 16 feet, gather nightly in Keauhou Bay to feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights. Tours depart from nearby harbors, providing all equipment including wetsuits and flotation devices. Most operators run 90-minute trips costing $89-129 per person, with the actual water time lasting 30-45 minutes. The experience works for ages 7 and up, though younger children might find the dark water intimidating.

Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay offers the island's best snorkeling during daylight hours. The protected marine sanctuary hosts over 100 species of fish, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. You can kayak there yourself (2-hour paddle each way, kayak rentals $40-60) or join a snorkel tour ($80-150). The spinner dolphins that frequent the bay add magic to the experience, though federal law requires maintaining a 50-yard distance from these protected mammals.

Volcano Exploration: Essential Hawaii Island Things to Do

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park showcases the raw power that created these islands. The park encompasses two of the world's most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. While lava viewing depends on current volcanic activity (check the USGS website for updates), the park offers fascinating experiences regardless of whether lava is flowing. Entry costs $30 per vehicle, valid for seven days.

The Kilauea Visitor Center makes an essential first stop. Rangers provide current conditions, safety updates, and suggested routes based on volcanic activity. The nearby Volcano House restaurant offers views into Kilauea Caldera while you dine. Chain of Craters Road descends 3,700 feet over 19 miles to the coast, passing recent lava flows, steam vents, and the Thurston Lava Tube. Budget 3-4 hours for this drive with stops.

For a different volcanic experience, visit Punaluu Black Sand Beach on the southern coast. This jet-black beach formed when hot lava hit cold ocean water, creating the distinctive sand. Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently bask on the warm black sand, though touching or disturbing them violates federal law (maintain 10-foot distance). The beach has restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas, making it a good lunch stop when exploring the southern route.

Cultural Experiences: What to Do on Hawaii Island

The Big Island preserves Hawaiian culture more authentically than any other island in the chain. From ancient temples to working coffee farms, cultural experiences here connect visitors with both ancient traditions and modern island life. These aren't tourist recreations but living practices that continue to shape local communities.

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (Place of Refuge) offers profound insight into ancient Hawaiian society. This sacred site once provided sanctuary for defeated warriors and those who broke kapu (sacred laws). Self-guided tours cost $20 per vehicle and take 1-2 hours. The reconstructed temple, royal grounds, and coastal trail bring pre-contact Hawaii to life. Rangers often demonstrate traditional crafts like coconut fiber rope making.

Coffee farm tours in the Kona district reveal why this region produces some of the world's most expensive coffee. The volcanic soil, elevation (1,000-3,000 feet), and climate create ideal growing conditions. Most farms offer free tours with tastings, though some charge $10-20 for more extensive experiences including roasting demonstrations. Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation rank among the most informative, explaining everything from cherry picking to processing methods.

Family Adventures: Things to Do on Big Island Hawaii with Kids

The Big Island excels at multigenerational travel, offering activities that engage toddlers through grandparents. Unlike some Hawaiian islands where kid-friendly activities cluster in resort areas, here they're spread across the island, turning drive time into part of the adventure as landscapes shift dramatically between destinations.

Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm in Kona stands out as a uniquely Big Island experience. This working seahorse conservation facility offers 1-hour tours ($42 adults, $28 children 4-12, under 4 free) where kids can actually hold seahorses. The knowledgeable guides explain seahorse biology, conservation efforts, and the farm's role in reducing wild collection. Tours run Monday through Friday at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm, with reservations required.

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden near Hilo showcases the island's lush Hamakua Coast. The 40-acre preserve features over 2,000 plant species along wheelchair-accessible trails. The main loop takes 90 minutes at kid pace, passing waterfalls, streams, and massive tropical trees. Admission runs $25 adults, $5 children 5-12, free under 5. The garden provides umbrellas for Hilo's frequent rain showers, turning potential weather problems into rainforest adventures.

For active families, Hapuna Beach State Park offers the Big Island's largest white sand beach with generally calm summer conditions. Lifeguards patrol daily, and facilities include restrooms, showers, and covered picnic areas. Parking costs $10 per vehicle. The beach's gradual slope creates a large shallow area perfect for young swimmers, though winter months bring larger waves requiring extra caution.

Summit Adventures: Unique Things to Do on the Big Island

Hawaii Island's volcanic peaks create opportunities found nowhere else in Hawaii. Mauna Kea rises 13,803 feet above sea level (and 33,000 feet from the ocean floor, making it technically taller than Everest). This dormant volcano hosts the world's premier astronomical observation site, with 13 telescopes operated by 11 countries. The summit experience combines adventure, science, and spirituality in a landscape that feels more like Mars than tropical Hawaii.

Sunset and stargazing tours to Mauna Kea rank among the island's most memorable experiences. Tours typically cost $200-250 per person and include warm clothing, dinner, and transportation in 4WD vehicles. Operators stop at the Visitor Information Station at 9,200 feet for acclimatization and early evening stargazing through provided telescopes. The summit sunset often features a sea of clouds below, with views stretching to Maui and beyond. Note: children under 13 and pregnant women cannot visit the summit due to altitude concerns.

For a self-drive option (4WD required past Visitor Center), plan to reach the Visitor Information Station by 4pm for their free nightly stargazing program. Dress warmly—temperatures drop below freezing at summit even in summer. The drive from sea level to summit takes 2 hours each way. Fill up with gas in Waimea or Hilo, as no services exist on the mountain.

Hidden Gems: What Locals Do on the Big Island

Beyond the famous attractions, the Big Island harbors lesser-known spots where locals spend their weekends. These places rarely appear in guidebooks but offer authentic island experiences without the crowds or tour buses. Finding them often requires local knowledge or a willingness to explore beyond the main highways.

Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo exemplifies local-style beach going. This collection of protected lagoons features crystal-clear water filtered through lava rock, creating perfect conditions for young children and nervous swimmers. Sea turtles regularly cruise the calm pools. Locals set up for the day under coconut palms with coolers and portable grills. The park has restrooms and showers but no concessions—bring everything you need.

The weekend Hilo Farmers Market (Wednesday and Saturday, 6am-4pm) dwarfs typical tourist-oriented markets. Over 200 vendors sell everything from exotic fruits to fresh flower lei to prepared Filipino, Thai, and Hawaiian foods. Arrive before 8am for best selection. Try rambutan, dragon fruit, or apple bananas. Prepared food vendors offer plate lunches for $8-12, making this an affordable breakfast or lunch option.

South Point (Ka Lae) marks the southernmost point in the United States. While tourists stop for photos, locals come here to fish and cliff jump. The constant wind powers one of the state's largest wind farms. Local fishermen haul their catches up the 40-foot cliffs using ladders and ropes. Experienced jumpers leap from the same height, though this requires strong swimming skills and calm conditions—definitely not recommended for visitors unfamiliar with ocean conditions.

Scenic Drives: Big Island Things to Do by Car

The Big Island rewards road trippers with some of Hawaii's most diverse scenic drives. Unlike smaller islands where you can circle the perimeter in a few hours, here each route offers distinct landscapes and experiences. Pack snacks and water—services can be sparse between towns.

The Hamakua Coast drive from Waimea to Hilo ranks among Hawaii's most beautiful routes. The 55-mile journey passes through former sugar plantation lands now reclaimed by tropical forest. Stop at Waipio Valley Overlook for views of the sacred valley's 2,000-foot waterfalls and black sand beach. The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve makes an excellent halfway break. Small towns like Honokaa offer local-style plate lunch spots and antique shops. Allow 2-3 hours with stops.

Saddle Road (Highway 200) crosses between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, connecting Hilo to Waimea through the island's volcanic interior. The 55-mile route climbs to 6,600 feet, passing from tropical rainforest through misty ohia forests to barren lava fields. Most rental car companies now allow travel on the much-improved road. Stop at Mauna Kea State Recreation Area for restrooms and picnic tables at the halfway point. The elevation change and curves can trigger car sickness—drive slowly and take breaks.

Big Island Scenic Drive Comparison