Big Island Hawaii, USA Travel Guide
Hawaii's Largest Island has two main airports. Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) is on the west side, near Kailua-Kona. It serves as the main entry point for most tourists. Hilo International Airport (ITO) is on the east side, serving Hilo and providing access to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Direct flights to KOA typically come from principal U.S..S. West Coast hubs (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle) and some East Coast cities (Chicago, Dallas, Denver). Non-stop flights to ITO are less common. International travelers usually connect through Honolulu (HNL) or a mainland U.S. City.
Open-air design, convenient access to Kona/Kohala resorts. Car rental, restaurants, shops for gifts, taxi, ride-share services on offer.
Smaller, closest to Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Similar services: car rental, dining, souvenir shops, taxi, ride-share.
Rental car (highly recommended), taxis, ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), some hotel transport. Hele-On Bus has limited service.
Unique open-air terminals, car rental counters on-site, different eateries and shops for gifts, taxi stands, ride-share pick-up areas.
Smaller than KOA, similar conveniences including car rental, dining options, souvenir shops, taxi services, ride-share pick-up points.
Arrive 2 hours prior for domestic, 3 hours for international. Agricultural inspection required for all departing passengers to mainland U.S.
The Hele-On Bus is the county-run municipal bus service. It provides limited routes circling the island, including inter-city connections between Hilo and Kona via Waimea and Saddle Road. Service is infrequent, often slow, and might not suit all travel needs, especially those with tight schedules.
Self-driving is highly recommended for exploring the Orchid Isle. Its large size and the limited nature of public transport make a rental car almost necessary for a comprehensive visit. To rent a car, you must have a valid U.S. Driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home country driver's a license for international visitors.
Road conditions vary across the island. Main highways are generally well-maintained, but side roads can be narrower, winding, or unpaved. Speed limits are generally lower (25-55 mph). Be aware of driving hazards like frequent rain, fog on Saddle Road, wild animals (feral pigs, nēnē), and vog which can reduce visibility.
No inter-island car or passenger ferry services connect the Big Island to other Hawaiian islands; all inter-island travel occurs by air. The Orchid Isle does not feature any significant navigable rivers that support passenger transportation services.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply beyond the standard airline ticket taxes already an element of your fare. Arrive at the airport 2 hours prior for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. This allows sufficient time for check-in, luggage drop-off-off, and security screening.
This step is needed for all departing passengers. Before boarding your flight out of Hawaii to the main landmass U.S. Or international destinations, you must pass through an agricultural inspection checkpoint. This process ensures no invasive species or prohibited plant or animal matter leaves the islands.
Restaurants and refreshment stands for last-minute meals prior to your flight.
Shops for gifts for last-minute souvenirs or forgotten items.
KOA's open-air design means some zones have limited air conditioning.
The Hele-On Bus system offers an affordable method of transportation, but plan ahead due to infrequent service and limited routes. It is best for specific point-to-point travel and not comprehensive sightseeing, especially with large luggage.
Taxis and ride-sharing services offer more flexibility and direct routes in contrast with public buses, especially in urban areas like Kona and Hilo. They are more readily available in these populated zones.
Most popular choice, offering freedom. Major companies at KOA/ITO. Book well in advance because of high demand. Minimum age often 21, with surcharge under 25.
Motorcycle/scooter rentals limited, mainly in Kona. Bicycle rentals available from local shops in Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Waimea. Jeep Wranglers/SUVs popular for higher clearance.
Alii Drive (Kona) plus The central area Hilo are pedestrian-friendly. Designated trails in parks. Limited dedicated bike lanes; caution on narrow roads without shoulders. Avoid Saddle Road for walking/cycling.
