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Bucket List | Book Manta Tour | Best of Hilo | Family Friendly | Thrill Seekers
Things to Do on the Big Island
The Big Island offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. From snorkeling with Manta Rays to hiking through lush rainforests, to getting up close to a volcano, there's something for everyone. Experience the island's rich cultural heritage by visiting ancient Hawaiian temples, attending a traditional luau, or learning about the island's history at the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Visit Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park featuring Tiki statues (Ki'i), representing ancestral spirits and deities.
The Bucket List
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, ranked the #1 thing to do on the Big Island. Witness the majestic Kilauea Volcano, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Discover volcanic caves, steam vents, and lava tubes. Hike through lush rainforests and desert landscapes, and experience stunning sunsets. With over 500 square miles of unique geological wonders, this park is an unforgettable adventure.
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Mauna Kea Observatory
Experience stargazing at one of the world's best astronomy sites, with panoramic views from 13,796 ft. Witness breathtaking sunsets and explore the visitor center, featuring interactive exhibits and educational programs. Discover cutting-edge telescopes, including the Keck Observatory and Subaru Telescope. Guided tours take you to the summit, offering stunning stargazing opportunities and insights into ancient Hawaiian astronomy. Dress warmly, as temperatures drop significantly at high elevations, often below 40°F (4°C).
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Akaka Falls State Park
Marvel at 442-ft. Akaka Falls and 100-ft. Kahuna Falls amidst lush tropical rainforests. Hike the 0.4-mile Akaka Falls Loop Trail, suitable for all ages. Spot tropical birds, flowers, and ancient trees along the way. The park's unique ecosystem supports rare plant and animal species. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Nighttime Manta Ray Excursions
Experience the magic of Hawaii's underwater world on a nighttime manta ray excursion, a truly unforgettable adventure. As the sun sets over the Pacific, board a guided boat tour and head to the island's premier manta ray viewing locations, where these gentle giants congregate to feed on plankton. Don your snorkeling gear and slip into the warm waters, surrounded by the inky blackness of the night. Suddenly, the darkness is illuminated by the soft glow of underwater lights, revealing the majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly beneath you. Watch in awe as these gentle creatures, with wingspans reaching up to 12 feet, swoop and dive in a mesmerizing ballet.
Book a Manta Ray Tour
Getting up close and personal with majestic Manta Rays gliding effortlessly beneath the ocean's surface is one of the Big Island’s most popular experiences. This magical encounter promises lifelong memories. We organized over 20 of the most popular tours to choose from.
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Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Witness unique volcanic black sand and spot sea turtles and monk seals. Punalu'u Beach is one of the few black sand beaches in the world. Take a short walk to nearby lava tubes and volcanic landscapes. Be cautious of strong currents and respect wildlife habitats. Enjoy stunning coastal views and scenic lookout points.
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Hapuna Beach
Relax on white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Hapuna Beach is consistently ranked among Hawaii's best beaches. Enjoy scenic views, picnic areas, and nearby resorts. Snorkelers can spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours.
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Discover Secluded Makalawena Beach
Escape to a tropical paradise north of Kailua-Kona, where Makalawena Beach awaits. This hidden gem boasts soft, pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a serene atmosphere. Unwind and recharge in this secluded haven, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Waipio Valley
Explore ancient Hawaiian temples, waterfalls, and scenic lookout points. Take a guided horseback ride or hike down into the valley. Witness traditional Hawaiian farming and taro cultivation. Visit the Waipio Valley Lookout for breathtaking views. Learn about the valley's rich cultural and historical significance.
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Kona Coffee Farm
Learn about coffee production and taste local flavors. Visit a working coffee farm and explore lush surroundings. Discover the history of Kona coffee and its unique growing conditions. Sample various coffee blends and purchase local products.
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Pacific Tsunami Museum
Discover Hawaii's tsunami history through interactive exhibits. Learn about the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis that affected the Big Island. Explore personal stories, artifacts, and photographs. Understand the science behind tsunamis and disaster preparedness.
Rainbow Falls State Park
Hike to 80-ft. Rainbow Falls and explore lush tropical surroundings. Spot tropical flowers, birds, and ancient trees along the way. Visit early morning or late afternoon for best viewing. The park's unique ecosystem supports rare plant and animal species.
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Pololu Valley
Hike through scenic valleys and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. Explore ancient Hawaiian temples and historical sites. Witness traditional Hawaiian farming and taro cultivation. Take a guided tour to learn about the valley's rich cultural significance.
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: A Land of Fire and Wonder
Delve into the park's unique geological features, including the Halema'uma'u Crater and the Mauna Ulu volcanic cone. Observe the dynamic volcanic processes shaping the landscape. Take a guided tour or venture on your own through the park's 500 square miles of diverse terrain. Spot rare Hawaiian honeycreepers, Hawaiian hawks, and other endemic species. Witness the mesmerizing glow of volcanic activity at night.
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Discover Big Island Candy Company
Indulge in the sweetness of Hawaii at the Big Island Candy Company, a local favorite since 1977. This iconic candy shop crafts handmade treats using island-grown ingredients like macadamia nuts, Kona coffee, and Hawaiian honey. Visit their Hilo factory to sample island-made delights and take home a sweet reminder of your Hawaiian adventure.
Authentic Hawaiian Breakfast Favorites
Indulge in Hawaii's beloved breakfast classics, cherished by locals for generations. For a hearty start, try Loco Moco, featuring a fried egg stacked on a juicy hamburger patty, smothered in rich gravy over sticky white rice. Alternatively, savor Saimin noodles or Spam, rice, and eggs for an authentic Hawaiian breakfast staple.
Insider Travel Tips
- Pack layers for varying climate zones (from beach heat to chilly high elevations).
- Book guided tours in advance for unique insights into the island's geology.
- Visit during shoulder season (April–May or Sept–Nov) for smaller crowds.
- Respect Native Hawaiian sites, kapu restrictions, and sacred traditions.
- Take a stargazing tour on Mauna Kea.
- Always wear reef-safe sunscreen to preserve Hawaii's delicate ocean ecosystem.
National Tropical Botanical Gardens
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens, a 2,000-acre oasis showcasing Hawaii's lush flora. Discover Allerton Garden, McBryde Garden, and Limahuli Garden with over 5,000 plant species, rare native varieties, and historic Hawaiian archaeological sites.
The Best of Hilo: Top Adventures
Nature and Outdoors:
- Akaka Falls State Park: Lush rainforests and stunning 442-foot falls.
- Rainbow Falls State Park: 80-foot falls and tropical gardens.
- Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm: Learn about Hawaii's macadamia nut industry.
Beaches and Water Activities:
- Hapuna Beach: Snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Snorkeling or kayaking in Hilo Bay: Explore vibrant marine life.
Culture and History:
- Hilo Farmers Market: Local culture, fresh produce, and Hawaiian cuisine.
- Pacific Tsunami Museum: Hilo's history and resilience.
- Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: Beautiful Japanese gardens along Hilo Bay.
Merrie Monarch Festival: Celebrating Hawaiian Culture
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a beloved Hawaiian tradition honoring King David Kalākaua. Held annually in Hilo after Easter, this week-long celebration features hula dance competitions, traditional music, art exhibits, and craft fairs, attracting visitors worldwide.
Hilo Farmers Market: Fresh Island Flavors
Every week, the Hilo Farmers Market comes alive with local growers, artisans, and food vendors. Located downtown, sample poke bowls, fresh tropical fruits (like dragon fruit and rambutan), and local Hawaiian coffee.
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Big Island's Breathtaking Beaches
Explore Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Kaimu Beach, or head to Papakolea Green Sand Beach—one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The unique olivine crystals create an incredible geological phenomenon.
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Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Experience serene beauty honoring Queen Liliuokalani's connection with Japan. Featuring winding trails, tranquil ponds, stone lanterns, and bamboo thickets right along Hilo Bay.
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The Ever-Changing Landscape of Lava Flows
Did you know that lava flows on the Big Island have added over 500 acres of new land since 1983? Kilauea's ongoing eruptions continuously shape new coastlines and volcanic glass fields.
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Big Island Family-Friendly Activities
Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Immerse yourself in tropical paradise at Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens, Hawaii's only rainforest zoo. Spread across 12 acres, this unique attraction features exotic animals including monkeys, lemurs, and tropical birds, along with a petting zoo for kids. Located in Hilo, it's a fantastic hidden gem with free admission!
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Akaka Falls Loop Trail
An easy 0.4-mile paved loop walking path suitable for kids and seniors alike, offering scenic rainforest footbridges and striking waterfall views.
Thrill Seekers & Extreme Adventures
Doors-Off Helicopter Lava & Waterfall Tours
Experience an adrenaline rush as you soar over Kilauea's active volcanic craters, dramatic ocean cliffs, and cascading waterfalls with no doors between you and the elements.
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Ziplining Canopy Adventures
Fly above lush tropical valleys and river gorges along Kohala and Hilo coasts on some of Hawaii’s longest and highest ziplines.
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Off-Road ATV & Lava Tube Exploration
Power through rugged volcanic trails, hidden rainforest paths, and private waterfalls on an all-terrain vehicle adventure.
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