Hawai'i (Big Island)

Island
Hopper
GUIDES

Hawaii’s Nocturnal Adventures Shine Brighter Than Ever

Hawaii’s islands have always been known for their daytime beauty, but lately, something magical happens after the sun goes down. Across the archipelago, a new kind of travel is unfolding, turning Hawaii into an after-hours obsession that might just leave the rest of the United States in the shadows. It’s not just about nightlife; it’s about a deeper connection with the islands, from the celestial wonders above to the fascinating creatures beneath the waves, all experienced under the moonlit sky. Each island, and even specific towns within them, offers a unique nocturnal adventure, weaving together history, nature, and culture

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Discover the Big Island’s Maunakea stargazing program

My sister and her family are planning a trip to Hawaii next year, and as we offer our recommendations and reminisce about our trip to the Big Island last October, I wanted to share a few of my favorite things we did outside of the resort. The Big Island of Hawaii offers so much to explore beyond the typical vacation spots, from stargazing on a dormant volcano to finding the best local eats and experiencing traditional Hawaiian culture. Maunakea Observatory Road Maunakea is a truly remarkable place, known as the tallest mountain in the world when measured from base

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Your Big Island family adventure

Hawaii’s Big Island offers a unique vacation experience distinct from its more frequented neighbors. While O’ahu and Maui draw many visitors, this island provides a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking relaxation without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. It’s the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and its size means you’ll want to focus on one side of the island for shorter trips to avoid feeling rushed. Island Sides Explained The island is broadly divided into two main areas for visitors: the west side, known for its sunny weather and resorts, and the east side, closer to natural attractions. Most

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Fun for kids on the Big Island includes nature’s wonders

Things for kids to do on the Big Island are as diverse as the island itself. Theme parks and water parks are absent on the Big Island, but nature comes through in providing lots of fun for youngsters. From fun waves, to wonderful sandy beaches, to swimming with tons of fish and looking through telescopes on a volcano, children will have plenty of fun things to do on Hawaii’s biggest island. I’m here to guide you to them. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park The sheer scale of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is impressive, covering over 500 square miles. It’s a

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Explore Hawaii’s Scenic Drives Through History and Nature

Hawaii’s islands offer a stunning combination of natural beauty and deep cultural history, best experienced through its many scenic drives. These routes not only showcase the breathtaking landscapes but also guide you through significant historical sites and offer insights into local preservation efforts. While many visitors explore on foot, a car unlocks the ability to traverse longer distances and discover hidden gems across the islands. Hamakua Coast The Hamakua Coast, located on the Big Island, is a region steeped in legend and natural splendor. The name itself is tied to Hawaiian folklore, highlighting the area’s rich cultural heritage. Driving

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Explore Hilo’s Merrie Monarch Festival events and arts.

The 4,000-seat Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium sells out every year for the Merrie Monarch competition nights, a measure of how far the festival has come since its 1964 start as a community economic recovery effort. The Merrie Monarch Festival is named for King David Kalākaua, who ruled Hawaiʻi from 1874 to 1891 and earned the nickname “Merrie Monarch” for reviving music, dance, and celebration in public life after decades of missionary suppression of hula. What began in 1964 as a Hilo community effort to boost the local economy after a devastating tsunami swept the downtown waterfront has grown into the

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Swim with Manta Rays: Your Guide to Kona’s Magical Night Dive Experience

Swimming with manta rays in Kona, Hawaii, is an unforgettable and profound experience. Imagine descending into the dark ocean, lights cutting through the water, and then, graceful, giant manta rays appearing, swooping and gliding as they feed on plankton. It’s a night etched in memory. This guide shares everything needed to plan your own manta ray night dive or snorkel adventure in Kona. Why Kona is Special Kona, on Hawaii’s Big Island, is world-famous for its manta ray night dives and snorkeling. This reputation stems from a unique combination of natural elements. The waters here are rich with plankton,

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Island Hopping Hawaii: The Absolute Best Itinerary for Unforgettable Adventures

Inter-island flights in Hawaii run $80–$200 per flight, so the order you visit the islands makes a real difference to both your budget and your time. This 7-day itinerary links Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai in a loop that cuts down on backtracking and gives you a solid taste of each island’s best features without the frantic pace that burns most people out by day four. Inter-island flights run $80–$200 per flight — planning your island order saves both time and money. I’ve run this route twice with Michael and the kids (Lily and Ethan), and the

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Conquer the Waves: Expert Guide to Hawaii’s Best Surf Spots for Every Level

Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, a place where the sport isn’t just an activity but a deep-rooted cultural practice. The same Pacific swells that deliver gentle, rolling waves perfect for a first lesson also produce 30-foot barrels over razor-sharp reefs that challenge the best in the world. Navigating this contrast is the key to an unforgettable surf trip. The same Pacific swells that deliver gentle,rolling waves perfect for a first lesson also produce 30-foot barrels over razor-sharp reefs that challenge the best in the world. Emily’s Take You can find world-class waves for every level in Hawaii, but

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Volcano Hike to Lava Flows: An Unforgettable Adventure in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hiking to see active lava flows in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is an absolutely epic experience. It’s not just a walk; it’s a journey to the raw, untamed power of creation. Witnessing molten rock oozing from the earth, painting the landscape with fiery hues, is something you’ll never forget. This article dives deep into how you can make this unforgettable adventure a reality, covering everything from planning and safety to what to expect and how to make the most of your trip. Before You Go: Planning Your Lava Hike Planning is absolutely key to a

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