Things to Do on
the Big Island

Our favorite adventures — from right here in Waikoloa to the far edges of the island. Experience Hawaiʻi the way we do.

The Big Island is the most geologically and climatically diverse island in the Pacific. You can genuinely go from beach to rainforest to snow in a single day. This is our personal list — built from years of living here — to help you make the most of your time. Links go to official sites or trusted booking pages. Questions? Just reach out. We love helping guests plan!

Land & Adventure

One of the most extraordinary places on Earth — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk across ancient lava fields, peer into Kīlauea crater, and witness the raw power of the planet. About 2–2.5 hours from Waikoloa. Open 24 hours, $30/vehicle (7-day pass). Always check current eruption status before you go.

At the far northern tip of the island, this lookout delivers one of the most dramatic views anywhere in Hawaiʻi — a sweeping panorama of the lush Pololū Valley and black sand beach far below. The 0.7-mile hike down is steep and can be muddy, but the payoff is stunning. Pair it with the scenic Akoni Pule Highway drive through old plantation towns like Hāwī and Kāpaʻau. About 1.5 hours from Waikoloa — make a full day of the north coast.

Explore Lava Tubes

Descend into ancient underground lava tunnels formed by flowing magma. Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) inside the National Park is the most accessible — a short paved walk through a cathedral-like tunnel. Other tubes around the island offer more adventurous guided experiences.

Hiking

From coastal lava walks to misty rainforest trails to the summit of Mauna Loa — Big Island hiking is world-class. Trails range from easy 30-minute strolls to multi-day backcountry adventures for all skill levels.

Horseback Riding

Ride through lush rainforests, upcountry pastures, and along dramatic Kohala cliffs. Guided trail rides for all skill levels — a deeply Hawaiian experience you’ll carry home.

ATV Off-Road Adventures

Get muddy exploring backcountry terrain on guided ATV tours through Kohala Mountain. Fun for beginners and thrill-seekers alike — just be ready to get dirty!

Zipline Through the Treetops

Soar through lush upcountry canopies above the Kohala forest. Kohala Zipline is a local favorite — breathtaking views and great guides make this one genuinely fun for all ages.

Rappel Down Waterfalls

One of the most unique experiences on the island — rappel down thundering waterfalls in the lush Kohala valleys with skilled guides. Unforgettable for adventurers who want something truly different.

Camping

Sleep under volcanic skies inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes NP, beachside at Spencer Park, or deep in the jungle. Reservations fill quickly — plan well ahead.

Cycling & Biking

Rent a bicycle and explore at your own pace. Upcountry roads around Waimea offer gorgeous rolling scenery. Ali’i Drive in Kona is scenic for experienced cyclists, especially early morning before traffic builds.

Ocean Adventures

Named one of the top-10 things to do in a lifetime by the Travel Channel — and we completely agree. Float above giant Pacific manta rays with wingspans up to about 14–16 ft as they barrel-roll through clouds of plankton in the dark ocean off Kona. 90%+ success rate year-round. Snorkeling and scuba diving options available nightly. Book well ahead — this sells out weeks in advance.

We can’t recommend this one enough. Do it on your first or second night while the excitement is fresh.

Beach Hopping

The Big Island has beaches unlike anywhere else — black sand, green olivine sand, white sand, and hidden coves. Hapuna, Mauna Kea Beach, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach are all must-visits. Green Sand Beach (Papakolea) is extraordinary and unique — access requires a 2.5-mile hike each way across rugged terrain, but it’s worth every step.

One of the best-kept secrets on the Kohala Coast. Puako has some of the most vibrant tide pools on the island — teeming with sea urchins, eels, octopus, and colorful reef fish. Come at low tide and stay for the sunset, which turns the lava shelf brilliant gold and orange. Quiet, rarely crowded, just 20 minutes from Waikoloa. Bring water shoes.

Snorkeling

Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) is world-famous for crystal-clear water and spectacular marine life. Two-Step at Hōnaunau and Kahaluu Beach Park offer shallower, easier access. Some of the finest snorkeling in the entire Pacific.

Scuba Diving

The Kona Coast is a world-class dive destination — lava arches, walls, and abundant marine life including turtles, eels, and reef fish. Multi-tank charters depart daily from Honokohau Harbor.

Whale Watching (December–April)

Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters each winter. They’re often visible right from the Kohala Coast shore at sunrise. A boat tour brings you much closer for a truly unforgettable encounter.

See Spinner Dolphins

Spinner dolphins are common along the Kona coast and a joy to see. Federal law requires staying at least 50 yards away to protect their rest cycles, so always choose operators who follow NOAA guidelines — responsible, memorable encounters are absolutely possible.

Surfing

The Big Island is the birthplace of surfing. Banyans and Lymans in Kona are popular local breaks. Beginner lessons are available for first-timers wanting to try.

Stand Up Paddleboarding

The calm, clear waters along both the Kohala and Kona coastlines are perfect for SUP. Rent a board and glide over the reef, or join a guided tour at sunrise — quietly magical.

Nature & Scenery

At nearly 14,000 feet — above 40% of Earth’s atmosphere — Maunakea offers the clearest, darkest skies on the planet. The free Visitor Information Station at 9,200 ft hosts nightly laser-guided stargazing and no 4WD is needed to reach it. For the full summit: summit access requires a 4WD vehicle and good weather conditions, and rangers may turn visitors away due to altitude risk. A guided tour departing from Waikoloa is the easiest way to experience the summit. Bring very warm layers — it gets genuinely cold up there.

Scenic Road Trips

The Big Island is made for road trips. The Hamakua Coast highway, Saddle Road between the two volcanoes, and Chain of Craters Road inside the National Park are all breathtaking. Pick a direction and drive.

Botanical Gardens

The lush Hamakua Coast is home to spectacular tropical gardens. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is breathtaking — 40 acres of tropical plants cascading above a dramatic coastal valley near Hilo.

Waterfalls

Akaka Falls (422 ft!) and Rainbow Falls near Hilo are the most famous. The Hamakua Coast is lined with dozens of cascades, many accessible from the highway with a short walk. Always best after rain.

See Active Lava

Witnessing active lava is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences on Earth. Kīlauea erupts episodically — always check USGS for current activity and the National Park for best viewing access.

Pack a Picnic

Grab fresh poke from a local spot and head to Hapuna Beach, the Waipio Valley overlook, or Kohala Mountain summit park. The Big Island has some of the most breathtaking picnic spots imaginable.

Local Experiences

Attend a Luau

A traditional Hawaiian feast and cultural show — hula, fire dancing, and incredible food including whole roasted kālua pig. Fairmont Orchid’s Gathering of Kings is right here on the Kohala Coast.

Cacao & Chocolate Plantation Tour

The Big Island grows some of the world’s finest cacao. Tour a working farm, learn the bean-to-bar process, and taste single-origin chocolate you won’t find anywhere else.

Farm Tours

Visit working farms growing Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, tropical fruit, and vanilla — most include tastings. The Kona coffee belt is just 45 minutes away and some farms are absolutely beautiful.

Volunteer & Give Back

Join a beach cleanup, coral reef restoration, or native plant project. The Hawaii Wildlife Fund hosts regular volunteer days open to visitors — a meaningful way to connect with the island.

Sky Adventures

Helicopter Tour

Seeing the Big Island from above is unforgettable — volcanic craters, hidden waterfalls, dramatic lava coastlines, and the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea. Blue Hawaiian and Sunshine Helicopters both fly from Waimea-Kohala Airport, just minutes from here.

Golf

The Kohala Coast has some of the world’s most scenic courses — oceanside fairways on lava fields with Mauna Kea as a backdrop. Waikoloa Beach and King’s courses are just minutes from the house.

A little planning goes a long way

Book the manta ray snorkel and any helicopter tours as early as you can — both routinely sell out weeks ahead. Visiting in winter (December–April)? Humpback whale sightings are nearly guaranteed from Kohala Coast beaches at sunrise. Everything else can usually be arranged a day or two before. We’re always happy to point you in the right direction — just ask!

Mahalo for staying with us 🌺

 Honua Living · Waikoloa Village, Big Island, Hawaiʻi