Volcano National Park
Walk the rim of Kīlauea, hike through lava tubes, and witness the raw creative power of Pele. The most dramatic landscape on Earth.
Full day
From $35
Visitors Welcome
The Big Island Awaits
One island. Eleven climate zones. Infinite adventures. Here's everything you need to make the most of Hawaiʻi Island.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Slip into the warm Kona waters after dark and float alongside gentle 10-foot manta rays drawn to the lights. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2–3 hours
From $85
Helicopter Lava Tour
Soar over active lava flows, black sand beaches, and the dramatic Kohala coastline. The best way to see the Big Island's scale.
45–60 min
From $250
Green Sand Beach Hike
Trek 2.5 miles across a windswept lava plain to reach Papakolea — one of only four green sand beaches in the world.
Half day
Free
Mauna Kea Stargazing
Ascend to 13,796 feet and gaze at the clearest night sky on Earth. The summit hosts the world's most powerful telescopes.
Evening
From $0 (tours from $200)
Spinner Dolphin Snorkel
Join a morning boat tour to swim alongside wild spinner dolphins in their natural resting bay off the Kona coast.
3–4 hours
From $95
Kona Coffee Farm Tour
Walk the rows of a working Kona coffee farm, learn the harvest process, and taste some of the world's most prized coffee.
1–2 hours
From $20
Akaka Falls State Park
A short jungle walk leads to one of Hawaii's most spectacular waterfalls — 442 feet of cascading water through lush rainforest.
1–2 hours
$5 per vehicle
Drive & Stay
Everything else for your Big Island trip — getting around and places to stay.
Rental Cars
You'll want your own wheels on the Big Island. Compare deals at Kona and Hilo airports — from compact cars to 4WD trucks for Mauna Kea and Green Sands.
Compare rental carsEconomyBookings deals by airport:
Places to Stay
Hotels, condos, and vacation rentals across the island — from Kona beaches to Volcano rainforest. Free cancellation on most rooms.
Browse stays on the Big IslandSearch by area:
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Big Island Travel Tips
Rent a Car
The Big Island is huge — 4,028 sq miles. Public transit is minimal. Renting a car is essential to explore beyond your resort.
Pack for All Climates
From tropical beaches to snow-capped Mauna Kea, the Big Island has 11 of Earth's 13 climate zones. Layers are your friend.
Book Tours Early
Manta ray snorkels and helicopter tours fill up fast, especially in peak season (Dec–Mar, Jun–Aug). Book at least 2 weeks ahead.
Kona vs. Hilo
Kona side = sunny and dry. Hilo side = lush and rainy. Plan your itinerary accordingly — most resorts are on the Kona coast.
Ready to explore?
Browse local deals and discounts while you're here — kama'āina prices aren't just for locals.
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