If you’re thinking about a Hawaii vacation, you’ve probably been wondering: Is Big Island worth visiting? Hawaii’s Big Island is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. The island is home to a variety of terrain, including colorful sand beaches and lush rainforest. Volcanoes National Park, which contains two active volcanoes, is located in the south of the island. In the west, you’ll find Kahalu’u Beach Park, a popular snorkeling spot.
Volcanoes National Park
If you’re a fan of volcanoes, you may want to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is part of the National Parks System and is open 24 hours a day. Its entrance fee is $30 for private vehicles and $15 for bicycles. The park also features several hiking trails and other attractions. If you have the time, plan to spend more than one day at the park.
Black sand beaches
You can visit a black sand beach on the Big Island of Hawaii without going to the ocean. There is a well-marked hiking trail that takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on your speed. Wear sensible shoes to make the journey easier. If you visit this beach in the morning, you may be lucky enough to see a humpback whale. The beach is relatively secluded, so no facilities are available. Parking may be a long drive.
Volcanoes
Visit the mighty volcanoes on the Big Island. Visit Kilauea for the dazzling view of glowing lava. Then, take a short road trip to Hilo, the capital and largest city of the Big Island. Spend the day exploring the surrounding area or camp overnight. While on the Big Island, be sure to take time to visit Volcanoes National Park. Here’s what you should do while you’re there:
Hilo
While you’re in Hilo, you’ll definitely want to try some of the island’s delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a gourmet dining experience, the town has many excellent restaurants. In addition to the many popular chain restaurants, Hilo is also home to several excellent local spots. The following are some of the best places to dine in Hilo. After you’ve soaked in the city’s beautiful scenery, you’ll need to fuel up with some local fare.
Kona coast
The Kona coast of Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The town is the closest to the airport, but it’s also more crowded than its sister city, Hilo. Unlike Hilo, Kona enjoys sunny weather almost the entire year. Rain tends to stay on the east side of the island, trapped in the mountainous region. The town is a good place to experience Hawaiian culture and get a taste of the island’s food and lifestyle.
Kailua-Kona
There are several reasons why Kailua-Kona on the Big Island is worth visiting. For one thing, the town is home to many notable landmarks. You can find the Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive, the main thoroughfare in the city. These buildings are both worth visiting, and a visit here will allow you to learn about the city’s history. Originally, fishing was the main occupation for locals, but today, it is a thriving cultural hub.
Hawi
Hawi is a small town in the midst of the Kohala Coast of the island of Hawai’i, and it’s a great place for a day trip from Kailua-Kona. If you’re looking for an adventure, head out to the Ho’okena Beach Park, which features a little beach and camping area along with several trails that can take you deep into the local jungles, where you’ll be rewarded by beautiful views of waterfalls, streams, and other natural sights. If you’re looking to stay closer to civilization, visit the Maniniowali Beach Park.
It’s also home to beautiful coastal sunsets. The pristine beaches are perfect for snorkeling and observing the local marine life. If you like hiking, you can also enjoy a short hike to see the sights. If you’re a foodie, Hawi has several restaurants and a farmer’s market that sells local produce and crafts.
Makalawena beach
The secluded nature of Makalawena Beach on the Big Island makes it worth a visit for snorkelers. This beautiful stretch of beach is located on the west side of the island. It is accessible by hiking, or by driving through a rough rock road. The best snorkeling is found in the middle and outer inlets. There are also several great places for swimming and tanning.