The Big Island of Hawaii boasts a diverse range of attractions, from lush rainforests to volcanic landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Our 4 day trip to the Big Island took us from the charming town of Kona to the scenic wonders of Hilo, uncovering an array of captivating experiences along the way.
We highly recommend downloading Shaka Guide tours for at least a couple of trips!
Our journey began in Kona, where we flew from Honolulu. This coastal town is known for its breathtaking sunsets and vibrant nightlife. One of our first stops was Huggos, a seaside restaurant and bar with a fantastic ambiance, especially during sunset and the twilight hours. Sipping cocktails by the ocean is a perfect way to unwind and start your vacation. In the evening, we walked along the boulevard next to the ocean which had many restaurants and also a small shopping centre, a quintessential Hawaiian town experience.
One of the highly recommended activity here is Manta Ray night snorkeling. It is deemed as one of the best wildlife experiences in the world. Unfortunately, we were did not make reservations beforehand so had to skip it (which we now regret) but this is something we would want to go back for. Just a callout that some people we know did go for the experience but didn't see anything, so it could be a hit or a miss, like most wildlife activities. Finally, Kona surprised us with a food truck specializing in South Indian cuisine - Swami Dosa grill. The food was so so amazing and definitely shouldn't be missed.
The second day our adventure took us on a road trip to the northern part of the island. As you drive along, check out the enormous lava fields on the way and some nice viewpoints like Kekaha kai state beach. Then we kept driving North on 270 around the top of the island to Polulu valley lookout. It is a picturesque spot where you can hike down to a black sand beach or simply enjoy the panoramic views.
Next we stopped at Lava Lava Beach Club at Waikoloa which is the perfect location for lunch. We definitely recommend this place with beautiful views and delicious food. On the return journey, take an alternative route by driving down Highway 250 from Hawi. This route offers a very different landscape, showcasing the Big Island's famous microclimates and scenery. You can stop by Waimea for a coffee break before heading back to Kona.
Our third day on the island, we started our journey to explore the southern part of the Big Island, completing a semi-circle to eventually reach Hilo. Along the way, we stopped for coffee with breathtaking views at The Coffee Shack. Then we stopped and marveled at the beauty of Kealakekua Bay. The water is so clear that we could see 40 feet deep with lots of fish and corals. If you are lucky you can also spot dolphins. We kept driving to Pu'uhouna o Hōnaunau national historical park on the way down to the southern tip. On the way we had lunch at Ka Lae Garden where we had super tasty Thai food. Hands down we had the BEST pineapple fried rice till date which was made with fresh ingredients from their garden behind the small shack style restaurant (you can also spot some cool lizards hanging out!)
Next we headed to Papakōlea Beach is a rare olive-green sand beach, the green colour is a result of the high concentration of the mineral olivine in the volcanic rocks surrounding the area. You can access this beach by a somewhat challenging 2 hour one way hike or a four-wheel-drive vehicle. We chose to take a ride from the drivers available who take you in a Jeep for $25 and the journey to this secluded beach is an adventure in itself!
Then we reached the South Point Cliff Dive which is almost the southernmost point of the island. It is one of the renowned cliff diving spots in the world, perched on the edge of dramatic cliffs that drop into the Pacific Ocean. We saw many thrill seekers taking the dive which was scary but exhilarating. Check out our drone footage below!
Continuing our journey towards Hilo, we visited Volcano National Park, where we walked the rim to witness the breathtaking crater and even caught a glimpse of glowing orange lava in the evening sky. We also did the scenic Chain of Craters drive through lava fields in the National Park which went to the ocean. One of the highlights along the Chain of Craters Drive is the remarkable Sea Arch, a natural rock formation that has been sculpted by the forces of erosion and volcanic activity over millennia.
Next day we started from Hilo and went towards Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano known for its unparalleled stargazing opportunities. While we missed the chance due to cloudy weather, but booking a tour to the summit is highly recommended for those interested in the night sky on a clear day. This is another activity we would like to come back for.
Heading to Waikoloa, we did a helicopter tour over Pu'u Omi Natural Reserve which treated us with awe-inspiring views of valleys and landscapes too beautiful to describe in words. The tour is an unforgettable experience and an excellent way to appreciate the island's natural beauty.
We wrapped up our journey as we took the northern route back to Hilo, the next day we were flying out to Oahu from there.
Check out our blog post for planning your Oahu itinerary!
Exploring Hawaii's Big Island from Kona to Hilo is a journey filled with natural wonders, cultural delights, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you're captivated by the scenic landscapes or intrigued by the rich culture and cuisine, the Big Island has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, embark on this incredible journey, and create memories that will last a lifetime on the island of Hawaii.
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