admin Map Of Big Island Hawaii
Introduction
Big Island Hawaii is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and offers an abundance of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food. This comprehensive travel guide will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit attraction on the Big Island. The park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and offers visitors a chance to witness the power and beauty of nature up close. You can take a hike through a lava tube, see the glowing lava at night, and learn about the history of the park at the visitor center.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. The garden is a peaceful oasis and a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the island.
Hidden Gems
Papakolea Beach
Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sand Beach, is a hidden gem on the Big Island. The beach is only accessible by a 2.5-mile hike or by hiring a local guide. The green sand is caused by the presence of olivine, a volcanic mineral, and the beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a remote valley on the north shore of the Big Island and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. The valley is home to waterfalls, lush greenery, and black sand beaches. You can hike down into the valley or take a guided tour.
Food Scene
The Big Island has a diverse and delicious food scene that is influenced by Hawaiian, Asian, and American cuisine. Some must-try dishes include poke (raw fish salad), loco moco (rice, hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg), and shave ice (flavored shaved ice topped with syrup and condensed milk).
Budget-Friendly Tips
The Big Island can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. Some budget-friendly tips include staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel, cooking your own meals, and taking advantage of free activities like hiking and visiting beaches.
Outdoor Adventures
The Big Island is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise and offers a wide range of activities like hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and horseback riding. Some popular outdoor destinations include Akaka Falls State Park, Kealakekua Bay, and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Big Island is a great destination for families and offers many activities that kids will love. Some family-friendly activities include visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, going on a whale watching tour, and taking a helicopter tour of the island.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences on the Big Island, consider visiting the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve, taking a chocolate farm tour, or going on a stargazing tour on Mauna Kea.
Natural Wonders
The Big Island is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Some must-see natural attractions include Rainbow Falls, Waipio Valley, and the Mauna Kea Observatory.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Big Island may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a night out. Some popular nightlife destinations include Huggo’s on the Rocks, Kona Brewing Company, and Lava Lava Beach Club.
Local Markets
The Big Island has many local markets where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Some popular markets include the Hilo Farmers Market, the Waimea Town Market, and the Keauhou Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
The Big Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in Hawaii. Some popular beaches include Hapuna Beach, Kua Bay, and Waialea Beach. Some popular mountains include Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Kohala.
Cultural Immersion
The Big Island has a rich and vibrant culture that is influenced by Hawaiian and Asian traditions. Some cultural experiences include attending a hula performance, visiting a traditional Hawaiian village, and learning about the history of the island at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Art and Music Scene
The Big Island has a thriving art and music scene that is influenced by Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions. Some popular art and music venues include the Palace Theater, the Kahilu Theatre, and the Donkey Mill Art Center.
Walking Tours
The Big Island is a great destination for walking tours and offers many walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the island. Some popular walking tours include the Kona Historical Walking Tour, the Hilo Historic Walking Tour, and the Akaka Falls State Park Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
The Big Island is home to many architectural marvels that showcase the unique history and culture of the island. Some popular architectural attractions include the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, the Kamehameha Statue, and the Hawaii County Building.
Historical Sites and Biking Routes
The Big Island is rich in history and offers many historical sites and biking routes that are worth exploring. Some popular historical sites include the Captain Cook Monument, the Lapakahi State Historical Park, and the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Some popular biking routes include the Old Mamalahoa Highway, the Hawaii Belt Road, and the Kohala Mountain Road.
Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports
The Big Island is a great destination for wellness retreats and adventure sports. Some popular wellness retreats include the Kalani Oceanside Retreat, the Hawaii Island Retreat, and the Yoga Hale. Some popular adventure sports include ziplining, ATV tours, and parasailing.