Explore Volcanoes National Park

Two of the World’s Most Active Volcanoes

The Big Island wouldn’t exist without its volcanic past and present. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is home to Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube and appreciate the sacred Puʻuloa Petroglyphs featuring carvings made by indigenous Hawaiians of yore. Last but not least, active volcanoes mean they’ve erupted in the current geological era or have the potential to erupt again soon!

Local tip: Bookmark www.nps.gov for fee-free days and current Kīlauea conditions. When it's glowing and tremors are detected, summit access closes but you can catch stunning views from Uēkahuna.

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Snorkel and Swim at Pristine Beaches

Where Lava Meets the Sea

Hawaiʻi Island is one of the few places in the world where you can see dramatic black sand beaches teeming with wildlife. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is the most visited beach featuring 

sand made of fragments of block lava rock formed when molten lava poured into the ocean. The beach is also one of the best places to spot basking green sea turtles, or honu. The newest black sand beach can be found at Pohoiki Beach at Isaac Hale Beach Park, formed by the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. The powerful waves here attract experienced surfers so it’s a great place to watch the pros and stay close to shore. 

Local tip: We know it’s tempting but please don’t take any black sand or lava rocks from the beach. Leave everything where you found it so visitors and locals can continue to enjoy the black sands for years to come.

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Visit Kona Coffee Farms

The World’s Most Prized Coffee

A cup of 100 percent Kona coffee is a dream come true for coffee lovers. It’s a robust medium-bodied coffee with a multi-faceted taste that’s painstakingly hand harvested and sun-dried at its peak. Tour one of the Kona district’s coffee farms to brew your own cup and learn why it’s one of the most expensive and luxurious coffees in the world.

Local tip: Many local cafes and roasters brew with Kona coffee. You can take home some beans to wake up your tastebuds long after you leave Hawaiʻi.

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Discover Waterfalls and Natural Pools

Spectacular Water Formations

Near Hilo, two of the island’s most impressive waterfalls reign supreme. The 422-foot Akaka Falls is only a few miles north of Hilo at Akaka Falls State Park, while Rainbow Falls is located right in town. The best part? Both waterfalls can be accessed without hiking in. If you’re lacing up your hiking boots, a 2-mile loop near Waikoloa Village will take you to the Golden Pools of Keawaiki where a golden algae blooms (no dipping here please but take as many photos as you like).

Local tip: To catch its namesake, visit Rainbow Falls in the early morning and face the falls with the sun behind you. ROYGBIV may pay a visit.

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Experience Mauna Kea Views

The Tallest Mountain in the World

Did you know that Mauna Kea is technically the tallest mountain in the world? That’s measuring from the seafloor to its peak coming in at a whopping 33,500+ feet. Driving up the slopes of Mauna Kea is one of the most memorable things to do on Hawaiʻi Island. Even if you don't make it to the summit, the visitor center halfway up the 13,796-foot mountain is well worth the trip. The best times to visit are sunrise, sunset, and for evening stargazing. That’s when it feels the most magical, perched on the highest point in Hawaiʻi.

Local tip: Mauna Kea is a sacred mountain of cultural importance to Native Hawaiians. We appreciate following the “Leave No Trace” policy and following the signs and rules during your visit.

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Enjoy Local Culture and Cuisine

Food Trucks to Fine Dining

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in island culture is through its local cuisine. Companies like Kona Brewing Co. and King’s Hawaiian got their start on the Big Island before expanding to the Mainland—and the island today is packed with good eats. Craft beer fanatics can check out our island brewery guide, while foodies can hop from weekly food truck events with live music to oceanfront restaurants serving pūpū (shareable bite‑sized appetizers) and surf‑and‑turf specials with creative cocktails. Farmers’ markets also dot the coastline, offering fresh produce and homemade treats to take home.

Local tip: Loco moco, a beloved Hawaiʻi breakfast staple, was reportedly first served on the Big Island. It traditionally includes rice topped with a hamburger patty, egg, and brown gravy. Cafe 100 in Hilo has been serving it since 1946 and offers it 30 different ways with eggs cooked your way.