Best Activities on Big island Hawaii
This tropical paradise is full of adventures waiting to be explored. From hiking through lush rainforests to snorkeling with manta rays, the Big Island offers a plethora of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or a relaxing escape, you will find it all here. Join us as we explore the best activities to experience on the Big Island Hawaii. Explore some great activities in Hawaii.
Most Popular Big Island Activities
Big Island: Voyagers of the Pacific Luau with Buffet
The island-inspired buffet will tantalize your taste buds while the exhilarating Samoan fire-knife dancing and luau show transport you to ancient Hawaii. Experience the magical ambiance and learn about Hawaiian culture in this enchanting setting.
Big Island, Hawaii: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Experience
Witness the mesmerizing sight of giant manta rays feeding and interacting with other ocean creatures up close on a must-do Manta Ray night snorkel in Hawaii.
Big Island: South Kona Snorkeling and Coastline Exploration
Experience an extraordinary snorkeling adventure on a rigid-hull inflatable boat with a canopy for shade. Explore three spectacular snorkeling sites and marvel at the magnificent coastline with its diverse marine life and sea caves.
Maui: Circle Island Helicopter Flight with Road to Hana
Experience Maui from a breathtaking bird's eye perspective with a narrated flight tour along the island's stunning coastline. Catch glimpses of notable landmarks like the Hana Rainforest and Haleakala National Park while soaring above the picturesque island scenery.
Family Activities in Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for families with a variety of outdoor and educational activities that cater to all ages. Here are some family-friendly activities to enjoy on the Big Island:
- Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Witness the power of nature at the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea. Walk through lava tubes, explore craters, and learn about the geology of the island at the visitor center.
- Swim with dolphins: Take a boat ride to the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay where you can swim with wild spinner dolphins and snorkel in crystal clear waters.
- Stargaze at Mauna Kea: Visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for an unforgettable stargazing experience. Learn about the constellations and use telescopes to see the night sky up close.
- Explore botanical gardens: The Big Island is home to some of the world’s most diverse flora and fauna. Visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden or the World Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls to see exotic plants and flowers up close.
- Learn about Hawaiian culture: Take a tour of the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, a sacred place of refuge for Hawaiians in ancient times. Attend a luau and experience traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly activities available on the Big Island of Hawaii. With its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.Â
Big Island: 3-Hour Kohala Canopy Zipline Adventure
Experience a thrilling family-friendly adventure with a ziplining tour in the lush private nature reserve of the Big Island. Glide along eight exhilarating ziplines and cross six sky bridges with picturesque views of Hawaii’s natural beauty. As you take in the stunning scenery, challenge yourself with a rappel descent to the ground. This ziplining tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced zipliners, making it the perfect outdoor activity for the whole family.
Big Island: Voyagers of the Pacific Luau with Buffet
The island-inspired buffet will tantalize your taste buds while the exhilarating Samoan fire-knife dancing and luau show transport you to ancient Hawaii. Experience the magical ambiance and learn about Hawaiian culture in this enchanting setting.
Big Island: Private Volcano Tour - Volcanoes Nat'l Park
Experience the ultimate private tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with a knowledgeable guide. Marvel at breathtaking views from the Halem'uma'u Crater and with a bit of luck, witness the extraordinary sight of active lava flows.
Big Island: Kona Private 2-Hour Surf Lesson
Indulge in a personalized surfing experience with private lessons! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, a 2-hour lesson in Kona with your own instructor will help you learn new skills and techniques.
Big Island: 3 Hour Waikoloa Snorkeling & Sailing Adventure
Cruise in comfort and snorkel in style aboard the Spirit of Aloha catamaran, an iconic vessel that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you opt for a morning or afternoon excursion.
Water Activities in Big Islands
When it comes to water activities on the Big Island, there are plenty of unique options to choose from. One exciting option is night snorkeling with manta rays. This experience takes place after sunset and allows you to witness these graceful creatures up close as they feed on plankton. Another popular water activity is a black sand beach snorkeling tour, where you can explore the unique underwater environment and see a variety of marine life. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are options for ocean kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding to secluded coves and beaches. Whatever your preference, there is something for everyone when it comes to water activities on the Big Island.
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Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls
Discover the breathtaking Kohala Waterfalls on a group or private tour and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hawaii. Take a leisurely stroll through picturesque countryside and enjoy stunning ocean views, all while cooling off in the refreshing mountain streams.
Most Popular Water Activities in Big Hawaii
Big Island, Hawaii: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Experience
Witness the mesmerizing sight of giant manta rays feeding and interacting with other ocean creatures up close on a must-do Manta Ray night snorkel in Hawaii.
Big Island: Captain Cook Sightseeing & Snorkel Expedition
Join a half-day excursion to the stunning marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay and discover the rich underwater world of Hawaii.
Big Island: Snorkel with Manta Rays - Manta Guarantee
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim and snorkel with gentle giant manta rays in the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. This unique adventure takes you to Manta Ray Village, a world-renowned spot where you can witness the graceful movements of these majestic creatures up close.
Big Island: Kealakekua Bay, Captain Cook & Marine Life Tour
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii's coastline as you cruise along and search for marine life. Explore the hidden sea caves and discover the historical locations where ancient Hawaiians created legends that are still shared with Hawaiian children and visitors today.
Big Islands Activities for Couples
Big Island of Hawaii is an idyllic destination for couples to experience romance, adventure, and relaxation. From scenic drives to romantic sunsets, here are some of the best activities for couples to enjoy on the island:
Stargazing: Big Island is one of the best places on Earth for stargazing, with clear skies and low light pollution. Take a romantic stargazing tour and marvel at the Milky Way, constellations, and shooting stars.
Sunset Cruise: Experience the magic of Hawaiian sunsets on a romantic cruise along the coast. Sip champagne, nibble on appetizers, and watch the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of colors.
Visit a Spa: Treat yourselves to a pampering spa treatment at one of the island’s luxurious spas. Indulge in couples massages, hot stone treatments, and rejuvenating body wraps.
Hike to a Waterfall: Take a romantic hike to one of Big Island’s picturesque waterfalls, such as Akaka Falls or Rainbow Falls. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take a dip in the refreshing pools.
Helicopter Tour: Soar above the island’s majestic volcanoes, valleys, and coastlines on a thrilling helicopter tour. Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whatever activity you choose, Big Island is sure to provide an unforgettable romantic experience for you and your partner.
Mauna Kea: Stellar Explorer Tour from Hilo
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with an incredible Big Island star tour that features nighttime astronomical observing suitable for all ages. Get ready to be amazed by the stunning beauty of the night sky as you discover fascinating celestial objects with the help of expert guides.
Most Popular Couples Activities on Big Island
Big Island: 1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Sail from Waikoloa
Board a luxurious sailing catamaran with your partner and set sail for a romantic 1.5-hour sunset cruise. Sip on delicious drinks and revel in the enchanting ambiance as the sun dips below the horizon.
Big Island: Hilo Doors-Off Lava and Rainforest Adventure
Experience an unrivaled vantage point with a helicopter tour and add a new level of excitement by removing the doors between you and the incredible sights below. This breathtaking scenic flight takes you over some of Hawaii's most iconic waterfalls and allows you to witness the mesmerizing lava flows up close.
Big Island: Tiki Carving Workshop
Experience the unique art of tiki carving with a Master Carver of Tonga in Kona. This one-of-a-kind activity allows you to create your own personalized tiki and learn about the history and culture behind this ancient Polynesian art form.
Big Island: Volcanoes & Winery Tour with Breakfast & Lunch
Embark on a unique adventure and discover the diverse landscapes of Hawaii's Big Island, from volcanic craters to black sand beaches. This guided tour takes you to the impressive Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the power of active volcanoes. Savor local coffee and wines, as well as a delicious breakfast and lunch.
Outdoor Activities on Big Island
There are a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy on the Big Island of Hawaii, from hiking and biking to stargazing and horseback riding. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to try on the island:
- Hiking: The Big Island boasts some of the best hiking trails in Hawaii, including the popular Waipio Valley Trail, Pololu Valley Trail, and Kilauea Iki Trail.
- Biking: For a unique way to explore the island, consider a bike tour. Cycle through lush rainforests, past scenic vistas, and even down the slopes of a volcano.
- Stargazing: With its clear skies and lack of light pollution, the Big Island is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Join a tour or venture out on your own to spot constellations and marvel at the Milky Way.
- Horseback riding: Take in the island’s scenic beauty on horseback. Explore lush valleys, trot along the beach, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
- Ziplining: Get your adrenaline pumping with a zipline tour through the rainforest canopy. Soar above waterfalls and valleys while taking in breathtaking views of the island.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to enjoy the great outdoors, the Big Island offers a variety of activities to suit all interests and skill levels.
Big Island: Circle Island Helicopter Tour from Kona
Discover the Big Island’s stunning natural beauty from a new perspective on a thrilling 2-hour helicopter tour. This exclusive experience takes you beyond the beaten path to explore the island’s southern regions, including towering waterfalls and dramatic black sand beaches. With panoramic views from above, you’ll witness the island’s unique landscapes and hidden gems from a bird’s-eye view.
Most Popular Adventure Activities in Big Island
Big Island: Off the Beaten Path Volcano Crater Hike
Explore the upper slopes of Kona's Hualalai volcano through locked gates on private land, for a unique and intimate adventure that provides access to the site of multiple volcanic eruptions.
Big Island: Rainbow Falls & Volcano Park Private Tour
On this exclusive private tour, immerse yourself in the tropical rainforest and be mesmerized by the towering waterfalls in the Wailuku River State Park. Additionally, witness the impressive active volcanoes at the UNESCO Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This tour offers an intimate experience of Hawaii's natural beauty and guarantees personalized attention from your guide.
Mauna Kea: Summit Sunset & Stargazing Trip with Photo
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable stargazing experience at Mauna Kea's peak, where you can witness the majestic sunset and learn about the stars and planets. Savor snacks and drinks while you gaze at the sky, and capture the memories with complimentary photos.
Big Hawaii: Private Guided Van Tour
Create a personalized itinerary and uncover the most fascinating attractions on the Big Island in the privacy and comfort of your own rental car. Explore top destinations like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and Rainbow Falls at your own pace,
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Brief History of Hawaii's Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. It is believed that the first Polynesians arrived on the island around 1,500 years ago and established small, self-sustaining communities. Over time, these communities grew and expanded, forming powerful chiefdoms with complex social structures and systems of governance.
One of the most important events in the history of the Big Island occurred in the late 18th century, when the island was unified under the rule of King Kamehameha I. Kamehameha was a skilled warrior and diplomat who succeeded in unifying all of the Hawaiian islands into a single kingdom. His rule brought peace and stability to the region, and paved the way for the development of a unique Hawaiian culture and identity.
In the decades that followed, the Big Island became an important center of trade and commerce, with bustling ports and a thriving agricultural economy. The island was also home to a number of important historical events, including the arrival of Captain Cook in 1778 and the devastating eruption of the Kilauea volcano in 1959.
Today, visitors to the Big Island can explore a rich and vibrant cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in the island’s unique history and traditions. From ancient Hawaiian temples and artifacts to modern museums and cultural centers, there are countless opportunities to learn about and experience the island’s rich history firsthand.
Activities on Big Island Hawaii FAQs
Some of the top outdoor activities on Big Island Hawaii include helicopter tours, hiking to the Kilauea volcano, snorkeling with manta rays, and exploring the island’s waterfalls.
Some fun activities for families on Big Island Hawaii include visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, going to the beach, taking a ziplining tour, and snorkeling with dolphins.
Some of the best water activities to do on Big Island Hawaii include snorkeling with manta rays, taking a sunset cruise, exploring sea caves, and going on a whale-watching tour.
Some of the most romantic activities for couples on Big Island Hawaii include taking a sunset sail, stargazing at Mauna Kea, enjoying a couples massage, and having a private dinner on the beach.
Some of the must-see attractions on Big Island Hawaii include the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm.