After much thought and some great feedback on our initial plans, we’ve fine-tuned our Big Island itinerary. We, a group of late 20s friends, are heading to the Big Island for Veterans Day. Most of us land in Kona at 1 PM on Friday and depart at 2:30 PM on Tuesday. One of our friends arrives later on Friday at 4 PM and leaves earlier on Monday at 8 AM. We’re all enthusiastic about nature, so our trip balances hiking, snorkeling, and breathtaking views. We’re not really into just lounging on beaches; our goal is to be up before sunrise and out until sunset every day, with a rotating driving schedule to manage longer journeys.
Friday: Kona Arrival and First Ventures
Our adventure began on Friday afternoon as our flight landed around 1 PM. It was a quick 20-minute drive into Kona, where our first order of business was lunch and picking up our snorkel gear rentals. Having our equipment ready meant we wouldn’t have to scramble later for these essentials. Post-lunch, we made a beeline for the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park visitor center, eager to explore before it closed. The park, with its ancient fishponds and rich history, offered a serene introduction to the island’s natural and cultural heritage. Shortly after, one of us had to make a quick trip back to the airport to pick up our friend who was arriving at 4 PM. He could have just Ubered to us, but it was just as easy to grab him. We then continued our exploration of Kaloko-Honokohau, staying until sunset, which painted the sky with incredible hues. After a relaxed dinner, we settled into our Airbnb in Alii Kai. There was a thought about doing a manta ray snorkeling tour that evening. On the one hand, it would allow our late-arriving friend to join in right away, and it would give us another chance to see the mantas if our planned later tour didn’t pan out. However, we also considered the slight risk of potential exhaustion and the fact that we wouldn’t be fully “warmed up” to snorkeling after a day of travel. Ultimately, we decided to push it off to later in the trip.
Saturday: From Kona to Hilo and Mauna Kea
Before the sun even thought of rising on Saturday, we were up and heading to Kahalu’u Beach Park for sunrise and some early snorkeling. The water was surprisingly clear, and the marine life was abundant, a fantastic start to the day. After our refreshing dip, we checked out of our Airbnb before 9 AM and began our drive along Highway 19 toward Hilo. The drive, a scenic 2.5 hours without stops, offered plenty of opportunities for detours. We had to pick only a few from a list of fascinating spots. Our first stop was the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a powerful ancient temple complex, where we spent about an hour absorbing the history. We then made our way to the Waipi’o Valley Lookout, where we paused for a quick 10-minute breathtaking view of the valley below. The sheer scale and beauty of it were incredible. We considered Kalopa State Park for a hike, Akaka Falls for its impressive cascade, and the Onomea Bay Trail, but time constraints meant we had to stick to our chosen two. By lunchtime, we arrived in Hilo and immediately headed to the Hilo Farmers Market, a vibrant hub of local produce and food. We grabbed lunch there and picked up some takeout for dinner. After dropping our luggage at our Hilo Airbnb, our next big adventure was Mauna Kea. We knew reaching the summit was contingent on time and our rental car’s capabilities. If we had managed to leave Hilo by 2:30 PM (which, admittedly, was doubtful given our earlier explorations) and our rental car was suited for the ascent, we would have gone all the way to the summit. Otherwise, the visitor center was our destination—still a remarkable experience. Watching the sunset from the slopes of Mauna Kea, even from the visitor center, was an otherworldly experience, a truly humbling view of the vastness of space and the island below. Finally, we made our way back to Hilo, ready for a well-deserved rest.
Sunday: Hilo’s Charms and Kīlauea’s Power
Sunday began with another stunning sunrise, this time at Richardson Ocean Park, followed by some fantastic snorkeling. The park’s unique black sand and clear waters provided another memorable morning experience. We returned to our Airbnb to change and then set off to explore more of Hilo. Our first stop was Rainbow Falls, a quick 10-minute visit to admire the powerful waterfall. We considered exploring the Kaumana Caves, a lava tube formation, for about an hour if we found ourselves ahead of schedule. Choosing to be efficient, we opted for an early lunch in Hilo and grabbed takeout for dinner again, ensuring we wouldn’t waste precious daylight. Our plan was to leave Hilo by 11 AM to make the most of our time at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Kīlauea Iki trail was a must-do, offering a unique opportunity to hike across a solidified lava lake. This was followed by a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road, an incredible journey through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. The raw power of nature was palpable here. We timed our visit perfectly to catch the sunset at Kīlauea, witnessing the mesmerizing glow of the caldera as day turned to night. It was an absolutely unforgettable experience. That night, we stayed in Volcano, allowing us to be right on the doorstep of the national park.
Monday: Volcanic Sunrise to Kona’s Coast
Monday morning started with another sunrise, this time over Kīlauea, ensuring we didn’t miss any final photo opportunities or views we might have overlooked the previous evening. By 9 AM, we were packed and leaving Volcano, embarking on the 3-hour drive along Highway 11 back to Kona. This route offered its own set of unique attractions, and we planned for one or two longer stops. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach was a strong contender, a quick 20-minute stop usually, but we considered snorkeling there if the conditions appealed to us. Another exciting option was the challenging 2.5-hour hike to Green Sand Beach, combined with a quick stop at South Point, the southernmost tip of the U.S. Or, we could visit the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, known as the Place of Refuge, a serene historical site where we could spend an hour or more, especially if we decided to snorkel at Two Step, a renowned snorkeling spot nearby. A lighthearted alternative was a Mountain Thunder Coffee Tour, a 30-minute educational experience, with the potential for an additional two hours of hiking in the surrounding area. We decided to stop for lunch in Ocean View along the way, splitting our drive. Our friend’s departure for the airport meant we had to factor in time to drop him off, either before or after catching a final sunset in Kona. Dinner was planned back in Kona. We also kept open the option for another manta ray snorkeling tour that evening, perhaps because of the slightly warmer previous night’s air or sea conditions or simply for another chance to witness these magnificent creatures. We returned to our Airbnb in Alii Kai for our final night.
Tuesday: Captain Cook’s Memorial and Farewell
Our final day, Tuesday, began early with a sunrise hike and snorkel at the Captain Cook Monument. This iconic spot, accessible by a short hike or boat tour, promised fantastic snorkeling and historical significance. We aimed to check out of our Airbnb by 11 AM. If we managed to be out by 10 AM, we thought about squeezing in a quick coffee tour beforehand. A rapid lunch followed, and by 12:30 PM, we were on our way to the airport for our 2:40 PM flight. Our departure marked the end of an incredible journey across the Big Island, filled with unforgettable natural beauty and adventurous experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around the Big Island?
Having a rental car is absolutely essential for exploring the Big Island. Public transportation is limited, and many of the most scenic and remote spots are only accessible by car. We found that having a reliable vehicle with good ground clearance was beneficial, especially if considering drives to places like the Mauna Kea summit or some of the unpaved roads. We also rotated drivers, which made covering long distances much easier.
What should I pack for a trip to the Big Island?
Given the diverse landscapes, layering is key! We packed light clothing for warm coastal areas, swimwear, and snorkeling gear. For higher altitudes like Mauna Kea, warmer layers, including jackets and hats, were crucial. Sturdy hiking shoes were indispensable for exploring trails, and reef-safe sunscreen is a must to protect both your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and minimize plastic waste.
Are there any particular environmental considerations when visiting the Big Island?
Yes, absolutely! The Big Island’s natural environment is precious. Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life. When hiking, stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and disturbance to local ecosystems. Do not take rocks or sand from the beaches, as it’s disrespectful to local culture and illegal in many cases. Be mindful of your waste and always pack out whatever you pack in. Supporting local businesses and respecting local customs also contributes to sustainable tourism.
Is it necessary to plan activities around sunrise and sunset?
While not strictly necessary, planning activities around sunrise and sunset significantly enhances the experience on the Big Island. We found that these times offered the most magical lighting for photography and often cooler temperatures for hiking. Popular spots like Mauna Kea, Kīlauea, or coastal parks like Richardson Ocean Park become even more spectacular during these golden hours. Plus, starting early allowed us to beat some of the crowds at popular snorkeling and hiking spots.
What are the challenges of driving on the Big Island?
The main challenges we encountered were the long driving distances between various attractions, which meant a lot of time in the car. Roads leading to certain points of interest, like the Mauna Kea summit access road past the visitor center, can be unpaved and require a 4×4 vehicle, and some rental car agreements prohibit taking vehicles on these roads. Always check the capabilities of your rental and review your rental agreement. Also, be aware of winding roads, especially on the Hilo side, and watch out for wildlife, particularly nēnē (Hawaiian geese).
References List
National Park Service: Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
National Park Service: Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
National Park Service: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
National Park Service: Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Google Maps for general distances and travel times
Embark on Your Own Big Island Adventure!
Inspired by our journey? The Big Island of Hawaii offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From active volcanoes and lush rainforests to pristine beaches and clear waters teeming with marine life, this island is a playground for the adventurous spirit. Don’t just dream about it—start planning your own unforgettable Big Island escape today! Whether you’re seeking exhilarating hikes, mesmerizing sunsets, or close encounters with marine wonders, the Big Island awaits your exploration. Book your flights, secure your accommodation, and prepare for an incredible adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. Make this your year to discover the magic of Hawaii’s biggest island!
