Big Island Hawaii, USA Travel Guide
The Big 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 major U.S. West Coast hubs (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle) and some East Coast cities (Chicago, Dallas, Denver). Direct 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, gift shops, taxi, ride-share services available.
Smaller, closest to Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Similar services: car rental, dining, gift shops, taxi, ride-share.
Rental car (highly recommended), taxis, ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), some hotel shuttles. Hele-On Bus has limited service.
Unique open-air terminals, car rental counters on-site, various restaurants and gift shops, taxi stands, ride-share pick-up areas.
Smaller than KOA, similar conveniences including car rental, dining options, gift 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 public bus system. It provides limited routes around 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 Big Island. 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 need a valid U.S. Driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home country driver's 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 Big Island 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 part 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, baggage drop-off, and security screening.
This step is required for all departing passengers. Before boarding your flight from Hawaii to the mainland 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 snack bars for last-minute meals before your flight.
Gift shops for last-minute souvenirs or forgotten items.
KOA's open-air design means some areas have limited air conditioning.
The Hele-On Bus system offers an affordable way to get around, 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 than 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 due to 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) and Downtown Hilo are pedestrian-friendly. Designated trails in parks. Limited dedicated bike lanes; caution on narrow roads without shoulders. Avoid Saddle Road for walking/cycling.
