Discover the Big Island of Hawaii: Top 10 Must-Do Activities

Why SHOULD YOU VISIT THE BIG ISLAND?

Welcome to the enchanting Big Island of Hawaii, a paradise that offers a lot of exciting activities and breathtaking landscapes. From active volcanoes to pristine beaches, this travel guide will unveil the top 10 must-do experiences that will make your Hawaiian adventure unforgettable.

Wondering where to stay on the Big Island? Check out this blog post here.

BEST HOTEL ON THE BIG ISLAND:

Looking for the best hotel and place to stay when visiting the Big Island? Here are some great options below depending on your budget!

• Luxury: Fairmont Orchid- Hawaii

• Best overall: Mona Kea Beach Hotel

Top 10 Things To Do- Big Island of Hawaii:

1) Visit the amazing Akaka Falls State Park

Embark on a scenic hike through lush rainforests to reach the majestic Akaka Falls. Cascading from a height of 442 feet, this waterfall offers a stunning sight worth capturing on your camera!

2) Have a fun zipline experience with Hawaii Zipline Adventure

We decided to do this adventure at the last minute and were so glad we did! I booked it a day in advance and it was one of my favorite things we did while visiting the Big Island.

3) Visit Rainbow Falls and marvel at the beautiful waterfall there!

We did a quick stop at this waterfall and it did not disappoint! It’s right by the town of Hilo so if you are going up there for anything else, that would be the perfect time to visit Rainbow Falls. Note this is a drive up waterfall, no hiking is required.

4) Visit the Honomu Goat Farm to feed adorable baby goats

This goat farm is a few minutes away from the Zipline tour. I highly recommend stopping here to feed the goats and get some caramels from the shop even if it’s for a few minutes!

5) Snorkel with Manta Rays:

Dive into the crystal-clear waters and experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with gentle manta rays. Guided night snorkeling tours offer a surreal experience as these graceful creatures glide through the ocean.

Unfortunately, during my trip there no manta rays came but the tour company I went with gave us a lifetime warranty so the next time we come to the island, we can get the chance to swim with them! Either way, we saw this beautiful sunset (picture below) during the boat ride.

6) Visit Waipio Valley overlook

This is one of the most beautiful overlooks on the entire island in my opinion.

7) Have lunch at Mauna Kea Resort and enjoy the beach there after

This is one of the most beautiful resorts on the Big Island. Highly recommend staying here or getting lunch down by the beach.

8) Discover the Green Sand Beach at Papakolea

Embark on an adventurous hike to Papakolea Beach, also known as the Green Sand Beach. Marvel at the unique olive-green sands and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Sadly, I didn’t get to this beach when I was on the Big Island last, but hope to go there in the future!

9) Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as you visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Walk along volcanic craters, witness flowing lava, and discover the unique flora and fauna thriving in this volcanic wonderland.

10) Visit the Waimea Farmers Markets on Saturdays
This is a must-do if you are staying close to Waimea. The food is amazing at these farmer’s markets and there is also great souvenirs to purchase.

Summary:

Overall, no matter what you do on the Big Island of Hawaii, you will not be disappointed! The Big Island of Hawaii is a true haven for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection with Hawaiian culture. With this top 10 list, you're equipped to immerse yourself in the best of what the Big Island has to offer. Embrace the Aloha spirit and create cherished memories that will stay with you forever.

Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Oahu, Hawaii: Your Ultimate Guide

Top 10 Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii:

I have visited the island 4+ times and all of these recommendations are unique and amazing in their own ways. If you can do just a few things on this list, I can promise you will have a great time!

1. Spend a day at Lanikai beach and get a picnic lunch at Kalapawai Market which is within walking or biking distance from the beach

2. Visit the North Shore and go to the Dole Whip Plantation for a classic Dole Whip, get a bowl at the Sunrise Shack, try a slice of pie at Ted’s Bakery, and grab lunch or dinner at the pool/ocean side restaurant at Turtle Bay Resort

3. Do a Booze Cruise Catamaran Tour in Waikiki beach (there’s a lot of tour companies that do this and you can pick whatever works best for your schedule). Basically, this is unlimited drinks on a catamaran cruise— what an awesome concept!

4. Do the Crouching Lion Hike on the east side of the island (park across the street and cross the street to get to the trailhead.) Make sure you wear good hiking shoes and don’t go right after it rains or it will be very slippery!

5. Hike the Lanikai pillbox during sunrise (the views are incredible and it is a fairly easy hike to do when it isn’t super light outside). This is a must-do during your visit to Oahu, the views are incredible and it is a family-friendly hike for sure.

6. Spend a day at Makapuu Beach Park (soak up the incredible views and take a dip in the magnificent blue water if it’s not too rough).

7. Try warm Malasadas at Leonards Bakery they have multiple locations and always taste amazing!) This is one of the best foods to try in Oahu, and you must add it to your list when you go!

8. Hike Manoa falls to see a beautiful waterfall (it’s a super short and easy hike).

9. Go to the Kailua farmers market which is on Sundays and has wonderful food

10. Do the Likeke Falls hike which is moderate and features a beautiful waterfall at the end (did I mention it also lets you walk through ancient bamboo forests?!)

Overall, Oahu is a beautiful destination and there are so many incredible things to do while you are there!