Attractions & Sightseeing: Big Island

Iconic Landmarks

These sites are central to the island's identity and offer unique insights into its natural and cultural heritage.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park showcases active volcanoes and unique ecosystems. Mauna Kea Summit is the highest point in Hawaii and a leading astronomical observation site. Waipiʻo Valley is a culturally significant and sacred place with lush landscapes.

Visitor Information

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Open 24/7. Kīlauea Visitor Center: 9 AM to 5 PM. Vehicle entry $30 (7 days). Check Nps.gov/havo for current conditions.
Mauna Kea Summit: Onizuka Center (VIS) at 9,200 feet for acclimatization. 4WD vehicle required beyond VIS; most rental agreements prohibit summit drive. Public stargazing at VIS.
Waipiʻo Valley: Vehicle access to valley floor strictly limited to 4WD due to steep road. Many rental car companies prohibit this road. Horseback or shuttle tours available.
Best Waipiʻo Valley experience for most visitors: Waipiʻo Valley Overlook at end of Highway 240.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Major Museums

Imiloa Astronomy Center (Hilo): Explores connections between Hawaiian culture, navigation, and modern astronomy.
Lyman Museum & Mission House (Hilo): Comprehensive look at Hawaiian culture, natural history, and missionary history.
Huliheʻe Palace (Kailua-Kona): Former vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, now a museum with artifacts from the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (Hilo): Focuses on marine ecosystems of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm (Kona): Living history museum depicting a 1920s coffee farm.
Pacific Tsunami Museum (Hilo): Educates about tsunami history, notably in Hilo, and promotes preparedness.

Art & Performance Spaces

Art Galleries: Numerous galleries in Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Volcano Village, Hawi, and Honokaʻa showcase local Hawaiian artists.
ʻImiloa Astronomy Center: Hosts cultural events and performances blending science with Hawaiian traditions.
Hula Hālau (Schools): Look for public performances at shopping centers or hotels to witness traditional hula.
Palace Theater (Hilo): Screens movies and hosts live performances. Kahilu Theatre (Waimea): Presents diverse music, dance, and theater.

These venues deepen your connection to the island's rich artistic and performance heritage.

Historical Sites

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site (Kohala): One of the largest and last ancient Hawaiian temples.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (South Kona): "Place of Refuge" with restored temples and royal grounds.
Lapakahi State Historical Park (Kohala): Well-preserved ancient Hawaiian fishing village.
Mokuaikaua Church (Kailua-Kona): First Christian church in Hawaii.

Historical Context

Historic Kailua Village:
Explore Huliheʻe Palace and Mokuaikaua Church for insights into missionary and royal past.
Downtown Hilo:
Charming historic architecture and storefronts for a self-guided walking tour.
Honokaʻa:
Historic sugar plantation town with a preserved Main Street.
Heiau (Ancient Temples):
Scattered across the island; approach these sites with deep respect for their cultural and spiritual significance.
Captain Cook Monument:
In Kealakekua Bay, marking where Captain James Cook died. Accessible by boat tour or strenuous hike.

Natural Attractions

The Big Island's natural attractions are diverse and awe-inspiring, ranging from dramatic waterfalls to unique geological formations and stunning beaches.

Scenic Views & Wildlife

Akaka Falls State Park:
Two stunning waterfalls via a paved loop trail through lush rainforest.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden:
Thousands of tropical plants, waterfalls, and ocean views. A paradise for nature lovers.
Liliʻuokalani Gardens (Hilo):
Authentic 30-acre Japanese garden on Hilo Bay, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Mauna Kea Summit:
Spectacular sunrise/sunset views and unparalleled stargazing (from the VIS).
Wildlife Viewing:
Kona Coast for dolphins and manta rays. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach for green sea turtles (Honu).
Whale Watching:
Humpback whales visible Dec-May (peak Jan-Mar) along Kona/Kohala coasts. Whale watching tours are available.

Volcanic & Caves

Explore lava tubes (Thurston Lava Tube, Kaumana Caves) and steam vents in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Kula Kai Caverns offer guided tours.

Unique Beaches

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach (often with sea turtles). Papakōlea Green Sand Beach (one of four in the world, hike or shuttle access). White sand beaches at Hapuna and Mauna Kea.

Archaeological Finds

Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve near Waikoloa showcases ancient rock carvings.

General Attractions

The island has a diverse range of public and private attractions for all interests.

Waipiʻo Valley Overlook: Panoramic views of the majestic valley, a sight that truly captures the island's grandeur.
King Kamehameha I Statue (Kapaʻau, North Kohala): A prominent landmark representing the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.
Kealakekua Bay: Known for spinner dolphins and abundant tropical fish, a prime spot for snorkeling and kayaking.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, the Big Island holds many hidden gems, providing unique and less-crowded experiences.

These spots offer a chance to discover the island's quieter, more secluded beauty, perfect for those seeking to explore beyond typical tourist routes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Discover places that offer solitude and raw natural beauty.

Secluded Spots

Pololū Valley Overlook and Trail (North Kohala): Stunning views with a steep trail to a black sand beach.
Kiholo Bay (South Kohala): Secluded bay with tidal pools, frequent green sea turtle sightings, and a black sand beach.
Pāhoa Village (Puna): Bohemian town with an "old-Hawaii" feel, unique shops, and relaxed atmosphere.

Local Favorites & Emerging Spots

Places less frequented by tourists, providing authentic glimpses of island life and evolving landscapes.

Authentic Experiences

Kaumana Caves (Hilo): Accessible lava tube system just outside Hilo; bring a flashlight for exploration.
Puʻuʻōʻō Trail (near Hilo): Off-road trail with views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, 4WD vehicle needed.
Honokaʻa Town: Charming historic sugar plantation town with local shops and eateries.

Post-Eruption Landscapes

Areas demonstrating the island's resilience and continuous creation of new land.

Puna Coast

Pohoiki Beach and newly formed lava flows.
A stark, dramatic landscape.
A powerful, unique experience of recovery.

Always check local conditions and accessibility.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture unforgettable images of the Big Island's diverse scenery.

Scenic Shots

Sunrise at Mauna Kea Summit (requires early start).
Black Sand Beaches (Punaluʻu for unique backdrops).

Always respect natural environments and posted signs during photography.

Lesser-Known Natural Wonders

Discover tranquil spots and scenic areas away from the crowds.

Quiet Retreats

Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park (Hamakua Coast): Scenic park with powerful ocean views.
Starry Skies: Incredibly clear night skies from areas with minimal light pollution, especially Mauna Kea VIS.
Waterfalls (Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls) for lush, picturesque settings.

These locations offer peaceful moments and beautiful scenery.

Booking Your Attractions

Online Platforms

Utilize platforms like GetYourGuide for booking attraction tickets and tours.

Direct Booking

Many attractions and tours allow direct bookings through their official websites.

Advance Reservations

For popular tours, especially whale watching or manta ray dives, book well in advance.

Essential Sightseeing Tips

Always check the official National Park Service website for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park for current conditions and closures.

For Mauna Kea Summit, spending at least 30 minutes at the Visitor Information Station (VIS) for acclimatization is a standard recommendation to prevent altitude sickness.

Attractions & Sightseeing