Big Island Hawaii, USA Travel Guide
Morning (6-11 AM): Begin with a Kona coffee farm tour (e.g., Greenwell Farms) to learn about the famous local brew and taste.
Afternoon (11 AM - 4 PM): Venture to Kahaluʻu Beach Park for easy snorkeling or visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to explore a place of ancient refuge.
These short itineraries offer a concentrated experience of the Big Island's attractions.
This itinerary suggests flying into Hilo International Airport (ITO) for ease.
In the afternoon of Day 2, explore Hilo town, visiting Rainbow Falls, strolling through Liliʻuokalani Gardens, and the Hilo Farmers Market (if Wednesday or Saturday).
Day 1 (Arrival Kona): Arrive at KOA, pick up your rental car, and check into your Kona accommodation. Relax on a nearby beach.
A two-week itinerary permits extensive exploration of each region, more hiking, multiple water activities, and ample relaxation time.
For stays beyond two weeks, consider vacation home rentals.
Rent a vacation home or condo with kitchen facilities for self-catering, which can be more economical.
Consider basing yourself in Kailua-Kona, Hilo, or Waimea for amenity access.
Explore volunteering opportunities with local conservation groups to immerse yourself.
Tailor your itinerary to your main interests, focusing on specific experiences the Big Island has.
Kailua-Kona: Explore Huliheʻe Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, which offer insights into Hawaiian royalty.
Kona Coffee Belt: Take multiple coffee farm tours and tastings.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Hike diverse trails like Kīlauea Iki or the crater rim trails.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Focus on easy trails, the Kīlauea Visitor Center, and safe viewpoints.
Holualoa Village: Explore its numerous art galleries.
Yoga/Meditation Retreats: Seek programs offered by various centers on the island.
For stays beyond two weeks, renting a vacation home or condo with kitchen facilities can be more economical.
Consider basing yourself in Kailua-Kona, Hilo, or Waimea for convenient access to amenities and community activities.
Explore volunteering opportunities with local conservation groups or community organizations to immerse yourself.
The Big Island welcomes various budgets with careful planning, offering options for every traveler.
Accommodation: Stay in hostels or camping with proper permits.
Accommodation: Mix stays in mid-range hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.
Stay at luxury resorts on the Kohala Coast or in high-end vacation rentals.
For stays exceeding two weeks, renting a vacation home with kitchen facilities can be economical.
Travel during Shoulder Season (May, September, early December) often offers better rates and fewer crowds.
Taking lava rocks from national parks and state lands is illegal.
This practice is considered culturally disrespectful and subject to "Pele's Curse."
